About Me
I love to do patchwork- but not only ordinary patchwork. I love to play with colour, shapes and illusions and to stretch the boundaries. This has led me on a journey, searching out the world's most interesting and talented fabric artists who make inspiring quilts. My journey continues and I hope it always will.
I've always sewn bits of fabric together. My earliest childhood memories are of just that.
My first formal course was an external course in Dressmaking, Pattern Drafting & Design in my early twenties. Motherhood filled the next ten years, but during that time I learnt much from books and from all the talented sewers I came in contact with.
I then spent several years working with the Aboriginal communities of Inverell and Tingha teaching general sewing and living skills for the College of TAFE. I then moved over into the School of Fashion as both a student and teacher.
In 1984 I started a Sewing School for young people. This grew very fast and expanded to include adults. At first this was teaching dressmaking skills but soon included the creative pursuits. After 18 years, I have recently closed my Sewing school and now travel to teach quiltmaking, from basics to advanced- traditional bed quilts, wall hangings and into art quilts. Students range from 8 to 80 years old. I love to teach and share my knowledge with others.
I have moved through many types of work as a fabric artist, experimenting with paints and dyes, fabrics and threads- even paper. As a quiltmaker, I have explored every type of patchwork I can find and then created my own types of work. I love to use the computer in my design work. Quiltmaking has become my passion!
I have been privileged to win many prizes in competitions and to have my work published in magazines and books.
I would love to work with your group and develop their skills and creativity. I am happy to teach any of the workshops listed below, or to develop a workshop especially for your group if these don't meet your needs. I am also happy to teach 2 different workshops in the same room, with up to 20 students- space permitting. Please contact me if you have any queries.
My fee for 2007, in Australia, is $450 per day plus all expenses, travelling expenses and accommodation. When travelling by car, my rate is $0.75 per km. My workshops are based on a 6 hour day, but I am happy if they go a little longer than that.
