Last week, Colleen Wise spoke to our Guild at the June meeting.   She talked about her journey into quilting, some of the “cheats” she has developed over time, and how perfection isn’t exactly our friend when it thwarts our creativity.  This was followed by an inspiring trunk show of quilts.

The next day she led nine MPS members in a workshop.  Due to an unfortunate misunderstanding, some of the participants were prepared to learn her “Boxes and Beyond” technique and others were ready to learn her “Emerald City” block method.  The quilts featured above are hers.  Colleen graciously offered to teach both techniques that day; and before long, some beautiful blocks began to appear on the design walls.

Carol B. came prepared to work.  Her strips were cut and arranged according to color before she came to class and she was able to hunker down and finish several blocks before the end of the day.  Look at how her Emerald City blocks seem to lift off of the background.  Such pretty blocks on their way to becoming an outstanding quilt.

As you peek at the other design walls around the room, you can see that many students were on their way to making some great quilts. (Click on the images for a larger view) Because your “reporter” is unqualified and inexperienced, the creators of these blocks are unknown.  If you recognize your blocks, please claim them in the comment section below.  If you were in the workshop and your blocks aren’t represented here, please feel free to post them on our Facebook Page.

Colleen was a fabulous instructor and everyone seemed to leave the workshop very inspired to finish what they had started.

This workshop rounded out the workshops offered for the MPS 2016-2017 year.  But we have several workshops in the works for 2017-2018.  Be sure and keep an eye on our Workshops page.  Information on the upcoming classes will be posted as it becomes available.