From traditional bed covers to fabric art displayed in galleries, quilts embody the very essence of creativity. The 9th-annual Quilt Expo — Sept. 5-7 in the Exhibition Hall at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison — invites attendees to discover, explore and embrace the art of quilting.
Everyone, even non-quilters, will enjoy viewing hundreds of quilts on exhibit. Along with several special exhibits, the event’s 10-category quilt contest showcases the unique talents of quilters from all across the country and world. Attendees will marvel at the diverse ideas, array of designs, color combinations, fabric choices and embellishments that complete these inspiring works.
Quilt Expo’s lectures, given by notable quilting authorities, offer an opportunity to acquire tips from quilting experts. Sit & sew workshops are designed to teach attendees new techniques while creating a project on a state-of-the-art sewing machine, while hands-on workshops focus on teaching hand-stitching methods.
The extensive vendor mall is a shopper’s paradise with all the latest machines, kits, fabrics, threads, notions and more. Free stage demonstrations by industry leaders present quilting products and practical procedures. A raffle for prizes, a “Quilt to Give” Community Service project, and appearances by Nancy Zieman of public television’s Sewing With Nancy series are all part of the activities. A special pre-release of Zieman’s autobiography “Seams Unlikely” will be available at the event.
Quilt Expo also offers two evening events. At 6 p.m. Thursday, David Taylor presents “The Reluctant Journey of an Art Quilter.” Taylor chronicles how his lifelong love affair with fabric would eventually revolve around appliqué. His humorous presentation includes stories and an overview of his hand-appliqué technique from pattern drawing to binding. At 6 p.m. Friday, Amy Ellis presents “A Creative Journey: Everyone Should Have One!” Ellis shares how she found her creative voice and went from frazzled mom to fulfilled quilter, designer, author and mom. She will show quilts from her books and tell how quilters can find creative fulfillment even when life seems too busy.
Pre-registration for lectures, workshops and evening events is recommended and begins the week of July 8. For complete Quilt Expo information and to pre-register, visit wiquiltexpo.com on the Web or phone 866-297-6545.
Quilt Expo is a partnership of Wisconsin Public Television and Nancy Zieman Productions LLC.
Funding for Quilt Expo is provided by Nancy’s Notions, Baby Lock, Elna, Janome and Quilters Club of America.
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