Arlene has been quilting for more than 50 years and remembers using cereal boxes to make templates; she appreciates all the special materials and tools now available to quilters! Since the beginning, Arlene has been drawn to applique designs, choosing to create them with hand applique techniques. This year marks the 30th year of her pattern company, Arlene Walsh Designs, for which she has designed more than 100 patterns, many featuring images of the Southwest.
When Arlene returned to quilting after a break due to illness, she found that quilters were more interested in machine work instead of hand. She became friends with her sewing machine and embraced using it for her one-of-a-kind applique designs. Arlene’s current passion is collage.
Program
“Applique Through the Years”
Join Arlene as she takes you on her quilt journey, shown with lots of vibrant quilts, all featuring applique and beaded motifs created in her signature style. She’ll share how the Southwest has inspired her designs, from chile ristas to saguaros to Eagle Dancers, one of her popular Block of the Month patterns. Newer pieces will showcase Arlene’s passion and talent for collage.
Workshop (1/2 Day)
“Beading on the Run”
Learn the secrets of adding beads to your quilts for dimension and sparkle! See how to add beads to a finished quilt and make the back as pretty as the front. You’ll discover the best threads, needles, and beads to use and practi five different beading stitches.
