My Journey Into Modern Quilting
When I first started sewing, I didn’t even think I wanted any quilts. All the quilts I had in my mind were fussy designs, with brown and maroon fabrics, and they just felt too traditional.
I have always loved bright colors and graphic design reminiscent of the mid-century modern aesthetic. My first quilts were simple 5” square patchwork quilts in primary colors. As I started to learn more about quilting, I saw modern quilts on Instagram and instantly realized this was the quilting I wanted to do. Some of my early favorite designers were Joel Dewberry and Tula Pink.
So what is modern quilting? It is not easy to define.
The Modern Quilt Guild was established in 2009, and they have a great way to describe modern quilting: “As the modern quilting movement started to gain broader recognition, quilters began to expand their knowledge and practice in this craft. Now, with more experienced and curious modern quilters than ever, the boundaries of what can be created with fabric and thread continue to evolve. Thus, modern quilters often define for themselves what modern quilting is.”
Characteristics of Modern Quilting
Check out these Pinterest boards with examples of these concepts.
Bold use of color, high contrast & graphic areas of color
Modern quilts may have many or just a few of these characteristics.
In modern traditionalism, traditional quilt blocks are reimagined using the characteristics described above. A Log Cabin block can be made with bold colors and asymmetrical piecing to create a modern block.
Modern quilts are often described as “functional” quilts. The idea of a functional piece may mean it is a bed quilt, a comfort item, or even a way to convey a message to its viewer.
Some modern quilters want a strong definition, and some rebel against constraints on their creativity.
There are a few characteristics I have noticed about modern quilters that make me happy to be part of this community.
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Modern quilters are open to new ideas and concepts.
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We are welcoming to all kinds of makers, whether they are experienced quilters or just learning about a ¼” seam.
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We reject the idea of the "quilt police" who shame or admonish others for their lack of knowledge or skill. Modern quilters embody the opposite of that thinking.
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We are here to support, help, and encourage each other.
Each year in February, the largest modern quilt show is hosted by the Modern Quilt Guild, where we see just a few of the amazing modern quilts that have been created by this community.
QuiltCon has become a gathering place all over the world for modern quilters to learn, trade ideas, and get inspired.
Check out these Modern Quilters on Instagram:
Check out this Facebook group where a lot of modern quilters are members:
Young and Millennial quilters on FB
I am a member of our local modern quilt guild, Central Iowa Modern Quilt Guild, and invite you to join us.