In 2016, when I was getting close to retiring from my job with the Department of Justice, I was wondering what I was going to do with all my “free” time. A friend encouraged me to try quilting. She showed me some of her quilted projects and I was instantly drawn to her colorful, lovely, cozy, practical works of art! She opened a door to a whole new world, and I readily entered. At that time, I did not know how to sew and I did not own a sewing machine. Yikes! Was I crazy? No! I was exhilarated to learn all there is to know about this new craft.
Turns out there is so much to learn – it’s endless! I purchased a sewing machine, I learned how to use it, I bought some fabric and thread, and I made my first quilt. I was determined. And I fell in love! Since then, I’ve purchased numerous machines including an embroidery machine, a serger, and a longarm. I’ve made many quilts, wall hangings, stuffed toys, handbags, a quilt jacket, and more. I even started a side business doing longarm quilting for customers and for charities like homeless shelters and quilts for veterans. Sewing is fun, but if you always sew alone, it can be lonely! One of the unexpected joys of quilting is the camaraderie shared within the quilting community.
What I have learned, is that quilters love to share their enthusiasm for their craft. They also like to gather together to sew for the day or over a long weekend. People packing up their sewing machines, fabric, and pajamas and heading out for a weekend of stitching, chatting, sharing ideas, and lots of laughing.
For the past few years, I have been dreaming of establishing a quilt retreat house. My vision is a cozy, comfortable, light filled home, with space to sleep small groups of quilters (6-8). I just love the idea of sharing space with other quilters as a true retreat – a quiet place to spend time watching the birds and other woodland creatures – a place to reflect, to be inspired, to create, to be quiet, and to recharge.
I’m so pleased to announce the creation of Maker’s Retreat House, a little haven where not just quilters, but artists of all types can come to be inspired, to connect with nature and like-minded people, and create. I cannot wait to open the doors and see what you make here.