Tradition

Quilting is an age-old traditional craft. Quilts have long been seen as necessary, functional items, as well as works of handmade art. Participating in this craft, in whatever form, connects us to history, ancestors, and tradition.

Lately, though, it seems that contemporary quilters have moved away from traditional forms. This is a shame to me, because traditional quilt blocks are what first interested me in the craft. I love the sense of geometry and order that traditional quilts present. The calculated angles and symmetry appeal to me. At the same time, I love the look of modern quilts. Their irregular sense of space and inventive use of shape and color intrigue me.

This project idea was born out of my appreciation for both traditional and modern quilts. I wanted to marry my love for the traditional with the form and method of the modern. In this blog, Crystal and I will attempt to modify tradition-- that is, we'll each be using traditional patterns to create a modern quilt.

Interested in the experiment? Sew with us! We'll be posting tutorials for two different blocks each week, as well as discussing modern color and layout choice.

This ain't your grandmother's quilt sampler!