I love designs that look complicated but are easy to make.
My approach is to create unique designs that are more contemporary than traditional in style. I develop my patterns with the goal of keeping the construction method as simple as possible and incorporating versatility so that you can bring your own creativity into play.
Prairie Queen patterns emphasize layout options, diagrammed in color, and they include tips for selecting colors and fabrics that will be effective in each design. I assume that you have learned the fundamentals of quilting along the way, but I provide detailed, illustrated instructions for any techniques required by the design that I feel go beyond the beginner level or may be confusing to some.
I test my design concepts by making a sample quilt of each pattern I develop. In that way, I’m able to discover the simplest way to construct the design as well as anticipate any steps that may require more detailed instructions. I also think it’s nice to show the design made up in fabric in addition to the diagrams I include in each pattern.
When you purchase any of my patterns, you’ll also receive my free tool for calculating yardage. The Yardage Calculator will not only guide you in determining your yardage requirements, but it will also guide you in cutting pieces for your quilt from strips. You can use this tool with any quilt pattern, not just with my designs.
In keeping with my appreciation for simplicity, I want you to know that you don’t have to have a state-of-the-art sewing machine and studio to enjoy quilting. I use a 40-something-year-old Elna Super sewing machine that works great for piecing, machine embroidery and simple quilt stitching. My other quilting equipment includes cutting mats, quilting rulers, and a rotary cutter. I cut fabric on the floor or my small dining table using my larger mat, and I sometimes place my smaller mat on the smooth-top range in my kitchen, which makes a perfect surface for cutting smaller pieces as well as for pinning and trimming.
Thanks for visiting my shop, and please let me know if I can be of service to you.
