Well, back in 2003, I bought an old sewing machine from a local pond shop. I had a friend of mine who made photo memory quilts and I couldn't afford to purchase one so I decided to try to make one myself. I became discouraged because an advanced seamstress saw how crooked my lines were and how my machine was not of the best quality and discouraged me.
Well, last year my Mom turned 80 and I wanted to give her a photo memory quilt with all her kids and grandkids on it....I spoke to my niece who quilts, Akita , who encouraged me greatly by saying, "Aunt Tara if you can sew a straight line then you can quilt." Out of the mouth of babes,...I tell you! I was so happy to hear such encouragement that I dug out all of my quilt supplies and books ...I spoke to my daughter who told me that if I wanted to learn how to do anything just go to You Tube! These kids know EVERYTHING! So, I watched a beginner's quilting video series over and over until I got the process down....the rest is history!
You can see Tara making a photo memory quilt for her great niece, Mikelle. I think its marvelous that Tara didn't let the negative words of others discourage her forever. Happy Sewing Tara! Enjoy!
11 comments:
I think this is awesome! Quilting is a lost art, so for Tara to be 'self-taught' is wonderful. Way to go Tara, pass this on to your daughter!
Thanks for sharing Tara's story. It's an inspiration to see such simple lines and creative patterns and the smiling face of her generations in the center of her quilt. Great work!
Very nice. I am enjoying this blog and it was fun to see a Nebraska quilter featured!
A lovely quilt and inspiring journey! Thank you! I never stop being amazed at how much people are willing to give of their knowledge on the internet at places like YouTube and on blogs such as these. Anything you want to do, you can find assistance and encouragement from others online.
You find the most interesting
people, stories, and quilts, Kyra!
Kyra, it was a pleasure to meet you yesterday! You are an excellent quilt historian and what an honor it was to learn of African American Quilting-a dream come true!
Kyra, thanks for introducing Tara. The quilt is beautiful and congratulations Tara. What a wonderful gift. Continue stitching, as I am looking forward to seeing more.
Diana
Thank you for this Kyra and Tara you go girl! What a blessing to learn about your courage and to see the beauty that unfolded. I am inspired and cannot wait to make my first quilt - on my own :)
Angie, I am so glad to hear of you planning on making your first quilt!
Kyra, thanks again! So glad that my story is helping others to step out and try quilting. Thanks all for your wonderful posts...
So glad folks are enjoying Tara's quilts and her various YouTube videos. I'm happy to feature your quilts as well - just email me.
Best, Kyra
Kyra,
Thank you for encouragement and for this blog. I was featured on the front page of the Gretna Guide Newspaper,Gretna, Nebraska recently...boy, who would have thought that my love for quilting could bring me this far...so thankful!
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