• May 2 (Wed)  Quilt Judging
• May 5-6 (Sat-Sun)  Quilt Show!  Click here for schedule
• May 7 (Mon)  Workshop: Bonnie Hunter
• May 12 (Sat)  Longarm SIG at Karen Carlson’s house
• May 15 (Tue)  Board Meeting
• May 15 (Tue)  Annual Meeting - Speaker: Barbara Barrick McKie
• May 19 (Sat)  The Sticklers SIG
• May 30 (Wed)  Kids can Quilt! Knot Party at KES

President’s Letter | Notice of Annual Meeting | Nominating Committee | Candidate Bios   Programs | Red-White Roadtrip | Quilt Show | Education | Hospitality
Charitable Activities | Guild Challenge | Sunshine
Members’ Marketplace | Area Shows | Advertisers

Here it is May already!   With the quilt show only days away, we’re all ready to do our part to make this a wonderful event.

We truly are blessed to be surrounded by so much talent and friendship.  Thank you to all who have helped to make our show attractive to the area quilters.

Please take a minute to read through the bios of our nominated slate of officers.  We will vote for approval of the slate at our Annual Meeting on May 15.

I’m already looking forward to fall and the beginning of our 2012-2013 guild year!  As we think ahead, please let me know what you’d like to see happen in our Guild.

For example, I’d like to propose is that  we set a date in the fall simply to meet and quilt together.  I know I personally would love to have a day set aside, without distractions, to cut out a quilt and have it ready to sew.  Perhaps someone else would use the day to complete a UFO, or another member would like to seek advice and suggestions on a tricky project.  Please let me know if you’d be interested in such a day.

Next year’s Membership Form will be available this month…please use the opportunity to share your ideas!
P.S.  June is our “Salad Supper” meeting.  Set the quilting books aside and start digging through those recipe books looking for your favorite one. I look forward to sharing a wonderful dinner together!

Patti Calautti, President
President@Northernstarquilters.com

Back to Top

The Annual Meeting of the Northern Star Quilters’ Guild will take place on Tuesday, May 15 at 7 pm in the JFK Cafeteria.   At the meeting, a vote will be taken on the proposed slate of Officers for the 2012-13 year.

The Annual Meeting of the Northern Star Quilters’ Guild will take place on Tuesday, May 15 at 7 pm in the JFK Cafeteria.   At the meeting, a vote will be taken on the proposed slate of Officers for the 2012-13 year.

We look forward to seeing you at the meeting.

April Russell, Secretary

Back to Top

The following slate of candidates was approved at our April meeting:

President: Patti Calautti
Secretary: April Russell
Treasurer: Peggy Morgan
Vice President, Membership: Christine Ruggieri
Vice President, Communications: Carolyn Finn
Vice President, Programs: Barbara Sferra
Vice President, Education: Meg Mooar
Vice Presidents, Quilt Show: Diane Linker and Judy Gignesi

A brief statement by each of the candidates appears in this newsletter.

Again, I’d like to thank each of the members of the Nominating Committee who have done a terrific job developing this year’s slate: Patti Calautti, Mary Cannizzaro, Vicki Romaine Cohn, and Carol Sterk. It’s been a pleasure working with this team.

Fran Osinoff, Chairperson

Back to Top

President: Patti Calautti

Hello, I am Patti Calautti, your current NSQG President and am honored to be nominated for a second term in my current position.

Over the past year as President, I have learned much regarding the operations of the guild and the responsibility of the board to its members. We have begun to streamline processes and will continue to make the NSQG an environment that is transparent and inclusive.

I hope to continue my pledge to the Guild: to make it a place were we can each come to enjoy one another’s company, share a laugh or two and most of all have fun doing what we enjoy!  We all have different strengths in different areas of our craft and each should be shared and celebrated.

So let’s make the next year, a yearlong retreat!

Back to Top

Secretary: April Russell

I was introduced to sewing at an early age through my Aunt Pearl. She was a seamstress for a factory in Bridgeport, Connecticut.  I loved spending time with her and had many overnights playing games and making yo-yos!  Templates were made of cardboard and came in various sizes.  I had yo-yos on everything.  I loved them and still do.  I love where those cardboard templates have taken me.

Last year was a busy year for the Board.  We had a lot to cover.  I learned to navigate my way through the busy Board meetings and keep afloat!  I am honored again to be candidate for this Board position and look forward to serving the Guild in the coming year.

Back to Top

Treasurer: Peggy Morgan

Although learning to sew at a young age on my mother’s old Singer treadle machine, I knew nothing of quilts or quilting until the late 60’s when I saw some lovely old treasures at a museum.  I was instantly drawn to the warmth and comfort they exuded and admired the precision and artistry the makers had put into them.  Deciding to try this wonderful art form and having a few failed self-teaching attempts I found Country Quilter and took my first class in 2001 and my quilting life began.  I am still learning — there is far more diversity and skill involved than I ever thought, and I enjoy it all.

I joined the Guild in 2009 to be more involved in the quilting process.  I have met many wonderful and talented people and expanded my knowledge into different areas of quilting, through the appliqué and long arm groups, the many lectures and classes.  I participate in Comfort Quilts, for me the giving and sharing spirit of all the ladies there exemplifies the Guild purpose.

Having spent over 40 years in the accounting field and wanting to give back to an organization I get so much from, I am honored to be nominated as treasurer.  I would strive to continue the excellent work Linda [Ostrander] has done over the past two years and maintain financial accuracy and viability through sound accounting practices.

Back to Top

Vice President, Membership: Christine Ruggieri

I fell in love with sewing as a young girl after taking a course offered by the Singer Sewing Company at my grammar school.  Prior to that my mom had purchased a used Singer for mending and to try her hand at sewing.

When my children were born, I made their Halloween costumes, clothing for my daughter, and various items for the home.  Fast-forward to 1991 when my husband and I moved to Pennsylvania and I was introduced to quilts.  I joined the quilt guild there and was involved in a quilt harvest, held to uncover old and loved quilts that we then photographed and dated for publication.  It was an exciting project.

When we moved to Westchester in 1999, I immediately joined Northern Star.  I’m also a member of the Comfort Quilters and have been since first joining the guild.  In the past I have held positions as Hospitality Chairman and Quilt Registrar and Admissions chair for the show.  As time went on, however, I was unable to devote much time to quilting, as my husband needed care.  I continued to go to Comfort Quilts and to my mini group when I could, as I never lost my love of quilting.

As life changes, I again have time to devote to the Guild and was pleased and honored when I was invited to run for membership Chairman.  I look forward to taking on this new task to the best of my abilities.

Back to Top

Vice President, Communications: Carolyn Finn

I’m currently serving as VP, Communications and am honored to receive your nomination to continue in this capacity for 2012-13.

Over the past year, I’ve tried to highlight our Guild’s extraordinary and diverse talent while keeping our communications fresh and accessible.  I believe that Northern Star’s diversity distinguishes us from other organizations, and that our collective commitment to sharing has made us all better quilters.  On a personal note, I’m continually inspired by our members’ talent, willingness to try new things, and commitment to one another.

A few words about me: I joined the Guild in 2009.  I’m a member of the “Kids can Quilt!” Team and have served as this year’s Challenge Quilt Coordinator.  Since 2011, I’ve served as facilitator for “The Sticklers,” the newly renamed “Dear Jane” special-interest group founded by Diane Linker.

Back to Top

Vice President, Programs: Barbara Sferra

I have been a member of the Guild since probably the early 1990s; I don’t remember the exact year I joined.  I learned to use a sewing machine at eleven and started quilting a few years before I joined the Guild.  Like many quilters I took classes, read books and tried traditional patterns.  After a few years I branched out into new colors, fabrics and variations. When I joined Northern Star I discovered a world of wonderful lectures, workshops, and people right here in my backyard.

I have worked for the Guild for a number of years.  I was on the Show Committee for about six years, before becoming co-chair in 2007-08.  For two years I was part of the Education Committee as moderator of the Art Quilt Group.

I have served for one year as VP of Programs, and have been nominated for a second year.   I hope to continue to provide an interesting, varied and balanced selection of speakers for the Guild next year.

Back to Top

Vice President, Education: Meg Mooar

I was introduced to quilting about 35 years ago. I still recall the excitement of finding a craft that merged my love of sewing with my favorite high school subject – geometry. Back then there were few books, magazines or classes available.  So with basic sewing skills, graph paper and So Fro fabrics down the street, I taught myself and found like-minded people to share my projects with.

This excitement is renewed as I slip sideways into the realm of art journaling and mixed media collage.

As Education chair, I will strive to develop programs to inspire all of us to take our work to the next level.

Back to Top

Co-Vice Presidents, Quilt Show: Diane Linker and Judy Gignesi

Diane Linker:

I joined the Guild in September 2007. I have learned most of what I know about quilting from Guild programs. Participating in the Special Interest Groups and spending time at Comfort Quilts has added greatly to my enjoyment of the Guild and has taught me much about the generosity of spirit of so many of our members.

This year, I served as Vice President—Membership of the Guild.  Prior to that, I served as Vice President—Education for two years. In that capacity, I was able to start our Dear Jane and Longarm Special Interest Groups and had the pleasure of seeing participation in our Special Interest Groups increase substantially.

For the past two years, I have also served as the Quilt Registrar for the NSQG Quilt Show. With the help of Deirdre Abbotts, I have instituted electronic registration and have helped to make our quilt show a little greener. Working on the Quilt Show Committee under the leadership of Caryl Castellion has been a wonderful learning experience for me.

I am honored to be nominated to be the Vice President – Quilt Show for next year. Each year the Quilt Show changes and evolves, but it is always the sum total of all the efforts put forth not just in the prior year, but for many years running. It is a privilege to continue in that tradition and to be given the opportunity of working to make the Quilt Show, once again, a highlight of the Guild year.

Back to Top

Judy Gignesi:

I have been sewing for many years: Pillows, curtains, clothes for my daughters.

In 1997 we moved to Somers and I was introduced to the wonderful world of quilting and the Country Quilter.  I joined the Guild shortly thereafter and a whole new world opened up.  Meeting many new friends, taking classes with so many wonderful teachers, and being part of some of our special programs has been a great experience.  Like all of us, I have enjoyed the opportunities that the Guild, the members and volunteers have provided.

I have held minor roles on the Show Committee every year since joining the Guild. There are so many people and parts involved in putting together a successful show.  Each year we seem to be able to hold onto the original traditions while improving different areas in making it better.

I look forward to joining Diane Linker in chairing our Guild’s 2013 show.

Back to Top

Lectures and Workshop

Bonnie Hunter – May 5-7
Bonnie Hunter will be the main speaker at our quilt show on May 5th and 6th.  Bonnie will show us lots of her quilts as she enlightens us with her-high energy lectures.

Sat, 5/5 – “Scrap User’s System”
Bonnie will describe how she organizes her scraps (so that they’re handy when she needs them)!  Bonnie also will describe some of the tools she finds useful when making her quilts.  (JFK Auditorium; 11 am)

Sun, 5/6 – “Scraps and Shirttails”

In this lecture (based on her books of the same name), Bonnie will discuss recycling clothing into quilts, and how to “slice and dice” cotton clothing to combine it with fabric scraps for beautiful quilts.  (JFK Auditorium; 11 am)

Mon, 5/7 – “Jared Takes a Wife” (class)
This class is full with a waiting list.  Please note that some pre-work is required.  Check Bonnie’s site for the supply list and basic instructions.  I recently sent an email to all class participants; please let me know if you haven’t received it.  (North Salem Ambulance Corps, 9 am)

Tom Hennes: Sat, 5/5
Also at the Show on Saturday will be Tom Hennes of Thinc Design.  His installation of Infinite Variety:  Three Centuries of Red and White Quilts was the inspiration for our own Red and White Invitational at this year’s show.   Please join us Saturday to hear Tom talk about the exhibit.  (JFK Auditorium; 2 pm)

Tue, May 15 — Barbara Barrick McKie: “Tips and Techniques from my Trunk”
Barbara makes extraordinary quilts using her own photographs, printing them on fabric and stitching them heavily.  As our May speaker, Barbara will describe her process and how she creates her beautiful work.  (The May speaker does not give a workshop.)

We’ll all have an opportunity to see Barbara’s work beforehand in in her special exhibition at our show.
 

Barbara Sferra, VP Programs
Programs@Northernstarquilters.com

Back to Top

Road Trip for the NSQG’s
Invitational Red and White Exhibit!

At the April meeting, we announced that our Red and White Invitational Exhibit will travel to the Greater Philadelphia Area for display at Mancuso’s Pennsylvania National Quilt Extravanga from September 13-16.   Our exhibit will be titled, “A ‘Small’ Tribute in Red and White.”  Only the small quilts will be going; not the large red and white quilts hanging near them at our show.

Because we do not meet in the summer there is no way to collect the quilts again in time to ship them, so they will not be returned after our show.  Instead, Joyce and Nancy will keep them and use the time to remove the stitches used to pair them up for the hanging method used for our show.

There is no expense involved for the Guild or our members. Mancuso provides UPS pick-up and return shipment.  Each quilt is covered by their insurance from the time of UPS pick-up until their return to us by UPS (excluding earthquake and flood).

If for some reason you DO NOT want your quilt to be a part of this special exhibit please notify Nancy Mirman or Joyce Sullivan by email or in writing.   We will return your quilt at the May NSQG meeting.

By virtue of the fact that the rest of you do not request return of your quilt in May we will assume that you are granting permission to be a part of the Mancuso show.  We have already photographed all the quilts for our records and can match them up with the names on our list.

These are all such great little quilts that they deserve to be seen by a larger audience.  We’re absolutely delighted and hope you share our excitment!

 - Nancy Mirman and Joyce Sullivan

Caryl Castellion, VP Quilt Show
QuiltShow@Northernstarquilters.com

Back to Top

Last-Minute Reminders

NSQG Members have a special opportunity to see our show before the crowds arrive…..The World of Quilts XXXIII opens for all NSQG members on Saturday at 9:00 am. (Doors open to the public at 10 am.)

In addition to viewing nearly 400 quilts — including a special exhibit of works by Barbara Barrick McKie — visitors will have the opportunity to hear lectures by Bonnie Hunter and Tom Hennes, and to see demonstrations conducted by NSQG members and friends of the Guild.  Click here for a complete schedule.

Judging Day

The quilt judging will take place on Wednesday, May 2nd at the First Presbyterian Church in Stamford.  Directions are printed below and also available online.

From North Stamford:

* Coming south on Rte 137 (High Ridge Road) or Rte 104 (Long Ridge Road), drive to the major intersection (just past Lord & Taylor) and go straight on Summer Street
* At the 10th traffic light (~ one mile), turn left onto Hoyt Street

* Church driveway will be the third driveway on your right (past a small row of shops, but just before the church grounds). Follow the driveway around to the right to the parking lot behind the buildings
* Walk back to Fellowship Hall on the driveway just before the parking lot

From Westchester (via I-95):

* From I-95 coming from Westchester, take Exit 8 (Atlantic Street)
* Turn left onto Atlantic Street and go straight  – the road becomes Bedford Street.
* After the Police Station at the Hoyt intersection, the road bends slightly to the left. The third driveway on right will bring you to the church. Take the circle drive to the right-hand turn. Parking lot will be on the left, just beyond Fellowship Hall.

Caryl Castellion, VP Quilt Show
QuiltShow@Northernstarquilters.com

Longarm – The Longarm Group will meet on Saturday, May 12 from 10 am to noon at the home of Karen Carlson.  Please contact Diane Linker for more information.

Art Quilters –  Alert: The May meeting is our last regular meeting this year — and time to pick up your “Forms of Address” quilt!  We also will enjoy a demonstration by Norma Schlager on a neat  ”Sew as you Go” technique. (This might be of interest to traditional quilters, as well….We have lots of room in the library so come on down!)  We’ll also have a sign-up for our Fabric Painting Workshop (date TBD) in June.  Please contact Debbie Bein for more information.

Hand Appliqué - In May, we’ll show you how to use simple tools to design your own appliqué – even if you’re not an artist!  Also bring Show and Tell.  For more information, please contact Denise Isherwood or Kathy Kaplan.

Landscape –  In April we had another great meeting with two demos: one on making sky fabric with paint and water and one showing various fusing methods. Next month, we’ll cover three topics:

1. How to create a realistic 3D look using shading, thread painting and quilting;
2. Fixing mistakes; and
3. How to get started on a landscape quilt (quick review)

Questions?  Please contact Don Gough.

The Sticklers  -  Rona Spar surprised us in April by bringing her completed quilt top!  Rona chose a lively, Provence-inspired palette to make her “Dear Jane” quilt truly her own.

In addition, Pat Julian and Diane Linker each conducted a terrific demonstration on her preferred paper-piecing technique.  I believe I speak for everyone in saying that we each gained helpful hints and tips from both presentations.

We have two great topics on deck for our next meeting (Sat, May 19). First, we’ll have a “Seam Ripper Smackdown,” in which we each bring (and demonstrate) our preferred tools for removing unwanted stitches.  Second, Diane Linker will provide a refresher on EQ’s “Dear Jane” software.  All are welcome!  Please contact Carolyn Finn for more information.

Kids Can Quilt – Save the Date!  Katonah Elementary School Knot Party, at which the first graders finish their quilts, will be Wednesday, May 30 at 1:00 pm.  (Please check-in at the office at 12:45 pm; we should be done by 1:30 pm.) Click here for directions to the school.  Knotting demo will be done before the NSQG May meeting at the “Kids Can Quilt” table. Contact Melanie Darensod for more information.

Jane Eyes, VP Education
Education@Northernstarquilters.com

If your last name begins with the initials V through Z, it’s your turn to bring in a snack to share with the members.  In return you’ll receive a ticket for the monthly raffle.

Reminder: It’s not too early to think about preparations for our June salad supper.  We need help with set up, serving and clean up. If you can lend a hand, please let me know. Your help is much appreciated!

Meg Mooar, Hospitality

Back to Top

2013 Raffle Quilt – Charity Partner

I am pleased to announce that the proceeds from the 2013 raffle quilt will be donated to the sole nominee, the Pound Ridge Fire Department.  This is an all-volunteer team of men and women who give countless hours to help keep our communities safe. Members are trained in all areas of firefighting; each is assigned a position on either the truck or engine and given a specific task. They hold meetings and drills each week to keep current on weather conditions, techniques and new procedures.

The Pound Ridge Fire Department volunteers are also first responders. They respond to any request for help.  They have assisted New Canaan, Stamford, Greenwich, Bedford, Somers, North Salem, South Salem, Vista and beyond if necessary.  The Department was mobilized on 9/11 and, in the aftermath, raised and donated $10,000 to people impacted by the tragedy.

Not only do they help keep their community safe, they also help to make it a better place to live. They established a Junior Corps to get youth actively involved. Each Fall, the department hosts an open house during which they provide homeowners with advice and safety tips and distribute smoke detectors.  They bring in a special trailer called “The Smoke House” and  teach everyone about the importance of fire safety with the “Stop, Drop and Roll” class.

The Pound Ridge Fire Department is always there to lend a hand when it’s needed.  Whether a fire call, the smell of smoke, a car accident, or a natural weather disaster, they cover it all.  They are devoted and committed and the only form of payment is the satisfaction of a job well done.

They are deeply grateful for this opportunity.

Comfort Quilts
Quilt Kits will be available at Show Boutique

Now you can purchase one of our popular quilt kits for yourself!  These specially designed, all inclusive, ready to sew kits will be for sale at the NSQG show boutique.  Treat yourself or make a quick and easy gift at a great price.  Several sizes are available.  Proceeds support guild activities such as Comfort Quilts.

Summer Scrap Bag Treats at the June Salad Supper
Buy a coordinated bag of small pieces for a dollar!

Upcoming Meetings:

May 9
North Salem Volunteer Ambulance Corps (14 Daniel Road, North Salem)

June 6 (and every summer Wednesday thereafter, except for July 4)
Congregation B’nai Yisrael (2 Banksville Road, Armonk)

Please come along and join the fun every Wednesday during the summer months!
Dates are subject to change. Please verify the date with Carol Auer or Karen Carlson.

Barb Tatera, Charitable Activities

Back to Top

p style=”text-align: center;”> 

Eleven beautiful quilts were submitted for the Guild’s 2012 Challenge, “Push the Limits in London: Reach for the Stars.”  All of the submissions reflected exceptional workmanship, creativity and vision — which was reflected in the voting results, which were very close.

At the end of the day, the five ribbons were awarded to two quilts: Don Gough’s Star Power  and Susan Wilterding’s Dreaming of London.  (Susan’s quilt received ”Best Depiction of the Place – London, UK.”)

Many thanks to Helen Boland who took the lead on the installation at April’s meeting and handled photography, and to Kelly Lockwood and Kim Hyde, who assisted with the voting process.

And of course a huge thanks to the talented NSQG members who submitted quilts: Pooa Bloomberg, Patti Calautti, Terri Gavin, Judy Gignesi, Don Gough, Joanne Lubchenko, Barbara Sferra, Joyce Sullivan, and Susan Wilterding.

This small, but exceptionally strong collection nicely represents Northern Star’s diverse range and depth of talent.  The quilts will be on view at the Mahopac Public Library from June 2.

Carolyn Finn, Challenge Coordinator
Kelly Lockwood, Special Events

Back to Top

Goodwill is part of our fellowship — let’s share it amongst ourselves!  Please let me know when a Guild member needs a little sunshine!

Whether it’s an illness, condolence, marriage, baby, or just a need for encouragement, please drop me a note.

April Russell, Guild Secretary

Back to Top

Call for Entries!
For “Things with Wings: Planes and Quilts,” a special exhibit for the New England Air Museum in September 2012.  ”Wings” can imply birds, insects, angels, architectural features (e.g., the West Wing), etc., in addition to aircraft!  This special exhibition is part of a larger exhibition of over 200 quilts, including 30 World World II-era quilts.  The quilts will be displayed in the same rooms as the airplanes in the museum, so there will be something of interest for everyone!

Applications due August 26.  Please contact Don or Eunice Gough, both NSQG members and avid pilots involved in the exhibition, for additional details.

Handi Quilter frame for Sale
Original Handi Quilter frame works on the same principle as a longarm system.  Poles hold your quilt while your sewing machine rides along a track.  Designed to be used with any domestic sewing machine (not included).  Can quilt up to king size.  Easy set-up, take-down, and storage.  $200.  Contact Deirdre Abbotts.

Sewing Machine for Sale
Janome Memory Craft 6500 in excellent condition; has all necessary feet.  Asking $850; table available separately.  Please contact Barbara Howard for more information.

Quilters Needed!
To demonstrate our craft on “Colonial Day” (Sat, Jun 16) at Keeler Tavern in Ridgefield, CT.  Slots available from 11 am to 5 pm.  Please contact Angela Liptack, Associate Director, Keeler Tavern Museum.  NSQG Contact: Linda Ostrander.

Help a Breast Cancer Survivor!  
Make a heart pillow, as part of the Heart Pillow Project, to ease recovery post-surgery.  NSQG Contact: Nancy Hantman.

Carolyn Finn, VP Communications
News@Northernstarquilters.com (news stories and photos)

Back to Top

Shows Featuring NSQG Members

“Fantastic Fibers 2012.”  Paducah, KY: Yeiser Art Center.  Through May 5.

“Nature in Fiber: A Contemporary Art Quilt Exhibit by Nike Cutsumpas.”  Danbury, CT: Danbury City Hall.  April 16 – May 24, 2012.

“Art Squared.”  An exhibition of FiberArt Northeast (FANE).  New York: Mahopac Public Library.  May 1 – 29, 2012.

“Push the Limits in London: Reach for the Stars.”  An exhibition of the Northern Star Quilters’ Guild’s 2012 Challenge Quilts.  Mahopac, NY: Mahopac Public Library.  June 2 – 29, 2012.

Pennsylvania National Quilt Extravaganza XIX.  Oaks, PA: Greater Philadelphia Expo Center.  September 13-16, 2012.

“Things with Wings: Planes and Quilts.”  Windsor Locks, CT: New England Air Museum.  September 17-23, 2012.

Other Shows of Interest

“Kaleidoscope Quilts: The Art of Paula Nadelstern.”  Beverly, MA: Endicott College.  March 26 – June 15, 2012.

“Stars of the Valley.”  An exhibition of the Warwick Valley Quilters’ Guild.  Warwick, NY: Sanfordville School.  May 19-20, 2012.

“Fenway Park Centennial Quilts.”  Lowell, MA: New England Quilt Museum.  March 29 – July 8, 2012.

Hannah Dustin Quilters’ Guild: 2012 Quilt Show.  Hudson, NH: Hudson Community Center.  May 4-5, 2012.

Colonial Quilters’ Guild: Quiltfest 2012.  Palmer, PA: Charles Chrin Community Center.  May 5-6, 2012.

Quilters Unlimited of Northern Virginia: 39th Annual Quilt Show.  Chantilly, VA: Dulles Expo and Conference Center.  June 1-3, 2012.

“Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Quilting.”  Eastern Long Island Quilters’ 31st Annual Peconic Quilt Show.  Riverhead, NY: Suffolk Community College.  June 2-3, 2012.

Cape May Quilt and Fiber Show.  Cape May, NJ: Museum Village Welcome Center.  June 23 – 24, 2012.

Vermont Quilt Festival.  Essex Junction, VT: Champlain Valley Exposition.  June 29 – July 1, 2012.

Kutztown Folk Festival (Includes quilt display and auction).  Kutztown, PA: Kutztown Fairgrounds.  June 30 – July 8, 2012.

“New Quilts from an old Favorite 2012: Baskets and Antique Basket Quilts.”  Paducah, KY: National Quilt Museum.  Through July 10.

“Quilt Odyssey 2012.”  Hershey, PA: Hershey Lodge and Convention Center.  July 26-29, 2012.

“Red, White, and Quilted.”  Bayberry Quilters of Cape Cod’s 31st Annual Show.  Harwich, MA: Cape Cod Regional Technical High School.  August 2-4, 2012.

“Images: The Lowell Quilt Festival.”  Lowell, MA: New England Quilt Museum.  August 9-11, 2012.

“Jean Ray Laury: Getting it all Together.”  Lincoln, NE: International Quilt Study Center.  Through September 2.

19th Annual Bennington Quilt Fest.  Bennington, VT: Mount Anthony Union Middle School.  September 15-16, 2012.

Eleventh Annual “Harvest of Quilts.”  Evening Star Quilters.  Mineola, NY: Mineola Community Center.  Nov 3-4, 2012.

Many Thanks to Nancy Hantman for researching and compiling this list!

Back to Top

Back to Top

• Apr 4 (Wed) Comfort Quilters
• Apr 10 (Tue)  Board Meeting
• Apr 17 (Tue) Workshop: Froncie Quinn
• Apr 17 (Tue) General Meeting: Froncie Quinn
• Apr 18 (Wed) Comfort Quilters
• Apr 20 (Fri) Newsletter submissions due
• Apr 21 (Sat) The Sticklers SIG
• Apr 28 (Sat) Quilt Drop-off
• May 2 (Wed) Quilt Judging
• May 5-6 (Sat-Sun) Quilt Show!

President’s Letter | Nominating Committee | Sunshine | Programs | Boutique | Quilt Show Education | Hospitality | Library | Charitable Activities | Guild Challenge   Members’ Marketplace | Find us Here | Area Shows | Advertisers

Quilt Show Countdown!

Hello Everyone,

Spring is here and I’m trying to keep up.  I keep hearing how busy everyone else is — so I know I’m not alone!

The trip to Lancaster was a wonderful time. Yes, we spent an exorbitant amount and brought back many, many yards of fabric. The quilts were beautiful and the vendors were very friendly.  AQS has made some nice changes since I was there two years ago.

Jen Cannizzaro coordinated a flawless two days and I am sure each “tripper” joins me in a heartfelt “Thank You.”

The April meeting will be extra special because Froncie Quinn will join us and our 2012 raffle quilt will be on display.  The 2012 quilt pattern is Froncie’s adaptation of Florence Peto’s Calico Garden Quilt.  I am sure Froncie will be very impressed with our Guild’s efforts.  Please remember to sell your raffle tickets and return them at the meeting.

Another important agenda item for the April meeting is the announcement of the nominees for NSQG’s 2012-13 officers. The nominees will be introduced by Fran Osinoff, Nominating Committee Chair.

In looking forward to next year, please let us know if you have found a speaker or class to be particularly informative.  Your feedback and recommendations help keep the Board abreast of what you, our members, are most interested in.

We’re now in the final countdown to our quilt show.  At this point, I’d like to ask everyone to consider doing just one additional thing to help the Show Committee and all of us host another spectacular show.  Please sign up to volunteer and — most importantly — invite your friends and family to visit us on May 5th and 6th.

All the best to each of you!

Patti Calautti, President
President@Northernstarquilters.com

On behalf of the Nominating Committee, I’m pleased to announce the following slate of candidates for our 2012-13 Officers:

President: Patti Calautti
Secretary: April Russell
Treasurer: Peggy Morgan
Vice President, Membership: Christine Ruggieri
Vice President, Communications: Carolyn Finn
Vice President, Programs: Barbara Sferra
Vice President, Education: Meg Mooar
Vice Presidents, Quilt Show: Diane Linker and Judy Gignesi

You will have an opportunity to meet the candidates at our April meeting, then to read their personal statements in May’s newsletter.  Elections take place at the Guild’s Annual Meeting in May for terms that commence July 1st.

Please join me in thanking the Nominating Committee members for their hard work over the past three months: Patti Calautti, Mary Cannizzaro, Vicki Romaine Cohn, and Carol Sterk.

Respectfully submitted,

Fran Osinoff, Chairperson

Goodwill is part of our fellowship — let’s share it amongst ourselves!  Please let me know when a Guild member needs a little sunshine!

Whether it’s an illness, condolence, marriage, baby, or just a need for encouragement, please drop me a note.

April Russell, Guild Secretary

Froncie Quinn – Tue, April 17

Froncie Quinn will teach a hand appliqué class called “Florrie’s Posies.” She has based this class on a quilt from the Shelburne Museum, and adapted her patterns from the 3″ blocks in a quilt called “Florrie’s Garden Extraordinaire.”

Froncie will concentrate on hand appliquéing one (or more) of these small flower blocks (you choose the design). Some hand piecing will be covered in the afternoon. Come and learn hand appliqué, or improve your skills, under the guidance of an expert.

Participants will need to purchase a small pattern, one of Froncie’s “Posie Packets,” at a reduced rate.  (Froncie will bring extra packets with her for purchase.)  The supply list has been sent via email; please let me know if you haven’t received it.   (North Salem Ambulance Corps - 9 am)

Bonnie Hunter – May 5 – 7

Bonnie Hunter will be the main speaker at our quilt show on May 5 and 6.  Bonnie will show us lots of her quilts as she entertains us with her-high energy lectures.

At 11 am on Saturday, Bonnie will describe how she organizes her scraps (so that they’re handy when she needs them) in her “Scrap User’s System” talk.  She’ll also mention several tools that she finds useful when making her quilts.

On Sunday (also at 11 am) Bonnie will give her “Scraps & Shirttails” talk based on her books by the same name.  In this lecture Bonnie will focus on recycling clothing into quilts, and how to “slice and dice” cotton clothing to combine it with fabric scraps for beautiful quilts.

On Monday, May 7 Bonnie will teach “Jared Takes a Wife” in her full-day workshop.  Click these links for basic instructions and a supply list.  This workshop is full with a waiting list.  I recently sent an email to all class participants.  Please let me know if you haven’t received it.

Looking Ahead, please contact me with any suggestions for next year’s speakers.  I’m especially looking for traditional quilters and am eager to hear your ideas!

Barbara Sferra, VP Programs
Programs@Northernstarquilters.com

Boutique News

It’s that time of year again!

Please let me know if you’d like to participate in the Show Boutique.

I will be available in the cafeteria prior to the April meeting (and during the break).  Please come see me, or send me a note, if you have questions or would like further information.

Stephanie Santangelo, Boutique Coordinator

In addition to a fabulous display of about 185 quilts by NSQG members and friends, nearly 100 red-and-white quilts, challenge quilts, the Boutique, Silent Auction, and Lectures, visitors to our show will be treated to a special display of 20 beautiful quilts by renowned fiber artist Barbara Barrick McKie.  (Barbara will be the guest speaker at our Guild meeting on May 15.)

Here’s an excerpt from our show catalogue:

Art Quilts Inspired by Nature
made by Barbara Barrick McKie

In this beautiful collection Barbara combines her life-long interests in travel, nature, photography and experimentation. She fearlessly creates art quilts using her Photoshop-manipulated images, personally hand-dyed fabrics and techniques of her own invention.  The finished work often includes trapunto, thread painting and free-motion quilting accomplished on her home machine.  A whimsical twist in her unique art quilting adds a special interest.  Barbara will give an in-depth lecture on the process behind her work at the regular NSQG meeting on May 15, 2012.

Barbara’s works have won national and international awards and are included in numerous public and private collections as well as in over 80 publications from 1974 through 2012. She is a featured artist with 8 quilts, including the cover quilt, in a book: Art Quilts: the Natural World, which came out in April of this year. In 2013 look for Designs in Art by Mary Kerr in which Barbara will again be a featured artist. We are pleased that she has shared her work with the viewers of our show.

 – Joyce Sullivan

Quilt Drop-Off – Saturday, April 28

Quilt drop-off day is Saturday, April 28th from 12 noon to 4 pm in the JFK High School cafeteria.

All quilts should have

• A sewn-on sleeve for hanging
• A covering over your name (on the back of the quilt)
• Registration ID number in the lower right corner (of the quilt back)
• No animal hairs

This last point, in particular, can slow down the drop-off process considerably. Hair removal will be your responsibility either at home or at the school. (And I know all about pet hair given our dear Australian Shepherd!)  Click here for full guidelines.

Judging Day

The quilt judging will take place on Wednesday, May 2nd at the First Presbyterian Church in Stamford.  Directions are printed below and also available online.

From North Stamford:

• Coming south on Rte 137 (High Ridge Road) or Rte 104 (Long Ridge Road), drive to the major intersection (just past Lord & Taylor) and go straight on Summer Street

• At the 10th traffic light (~ one mile), turn left onto Hoyt Street

• Turn left onto Bedford Street at the next light

• Church driveway will be the third driveway on your right (past a small row of shops, but just before the church grounds). Follow the driveway around to the right to the parking lot behind the buildings

• Walk back to Fellowship Hall on the driveway just before the parking lot

From Westchester (via I-95):

• From I-95 coming from Westchester, take Exit 8 (Atlantic Street)

• Turn left onto Atlantic Street and go straight  – the road becomes Bedford Street.

• After the Police Station, the road bends slightly to the left. The third driveway on right will bring you to the church. Take the circle drive to the right-hand turn. Parking lot will be on the left, just beyond Fellowship Hall.

Caryl Castellion, VP Quilt Show
QuiltShow@Northernstarquilters.com

Art Quilters – We are pleased to have so many new faces in our group this year!  For our April meeting, we’ve lined up a MYSTERY DEMO.  Also, please bring your  “Show and Tells” for us to see.  See you there!  Contact Debbie Bein for more information.

Hand Appliqué – Due to the Froncie Quinn workshop, there will be no Hand Appliqué meeting on April 17th.  We’ll meet again in May.  Contact Denise Isherwood or Kathy Kaplan for more information.

Landscape – Our SIG grew a little larger in March.  We discussed fusing, thread painting, spray basting, quilting with poly mono thread, and needle selection. We also discussed a possible “Travel Poster” project.  (Details will follow at a later date.)

In April, we’ll have two demonstrations: Evelyn Kipp will demonstrate creating sky fabrics and we’ll also revisit fusing procedures with a demo.  In addition, we’ll discuss alternates to landscape fabrics, repairing mistakes, and final quilt clean-up.  Contact Don Gough for more information.

The Sticklers – Our next meeting is Saturday, April 21.  We’ll demonstrate various methods of paper-piecing.  Please bring samples – including the sort of paper you use — to show the group.  A sewing machine, iron, and cutting surface will be available.  We’ll also compare our progress on “those” five blocks.  Newcomers always welcome!  Please contact Carolyn Finn for more information.

Kids Can Quilt – Save the Date!  Katonah Elementary School Knot Party, at which the first graders finish their quilts, will be Wednesday, May 30 at 1:00 pm.  (Please check-in at the office at 12:45 pm; we should be done by 1:30 pm.) Click here for directions to the school.  Knotting demo will be done before the NSQG May meeting at the “Kids Can Quilt” table. Contact Melanie Darensod for more information.

Longarm – The next meeting of the Longarm SIG will be on May 12th at Karen Carlson‘s house.  Contact Diane Linker for more information.

Jane Eyes, VP Education
Education@Northernstarquilters.com

Thanks so much to those who brought treats to the March meeting!

If your last name begins with the initial S, T or U, it’s your turn to bring something to share with the members.

Please cut cakes and bars into individual serving sizes – and remember to bring your travel mug for coffee or tea.  (Thanks to your help, we’ve successfully reduced our use of paper products this year!)

 
Meg Mooar, Hospitality

I’m pleased to announce that several new books will be available in April:

• Surface Treatment Workshop: Explore 45 Mixed-media Techniques by Darlene Olivia McElroy and Sandra Duran-Wilson
• Quilt Blocks Around the World: 50 Appliqué Patterns for International Cities and More by Debra Gabel (with DVD)
• Skinny Quilts: 15 Bed Runners, Table Toppers & Wallhangings by Kim Schaefer (bed runners, table toppers & wallhangings)
• English Paper Piecing: Fresh New Quilts from Bloom Creek (That Patchwork Place) by Vicki Bellino

We also plan to have a book sale again this year at the Quilt Show — so please plan to stop by the Boutique to peruse our selections.

A special thank you to Cathy Jankus, Chris Roche and Joan Weth for setting up and running the Library last month!

See you in April — and please remember to return your borrowed Library items!

Jackie Fowler, Library Chair

Comfort Quilt Kits available at Show Boutique

Now you can purchase one of our popular quilt kits for yourself!  These specially designed, all-inclusive, ready-to-sew kits will be available at the NSQG show boutique.  Treat yourself, or make a quick and easy gift at a great price.  Several sizes are available.  Proceeds support Guild activities, including Comfort Quilts.

Upcoming Meetings:
April 4 and 18
May 9

Comfort quilts meets at North Salem Volunteer Ambulance Corps at 14 Daniel Road in North Salem.   These dates are subject to change.  If you have a question, please check with Carol Auer or Karen Carlson.

2012 Raffle Quilt

The 2012 Raffle Quilt, “Flower Patch,” will be the Grand Prize at our show in May.  Thank you so much to Denise Isherwood who artfully coordinated the quilt’s construction.  Also thanks to the many NSQG members who participated in its construction and assembly.  Finally, the quilt was professionally quilted by Roxanne Lasky at Quilter’s Alley.

Our quilt pattern is Froncie Quinn’s adaptation of “Calico Garden,” a 1950 quilt made by Florence Peto.  That quilt is now in the collection of the Shelburne Museum in Shelburne, Vermont. The pattern is available at www.hooplapatterns.com.

The first prize will be an Apple iPad.  What a great tool to use to search quilting websites, watch a quilting tutorial or even share photos of your own lovely quilts with friends!

Finally, thank you to The Quilt Shop in Danbury for donating our second prize, a Go! Baby Fabric Cutter with Carrying Tote.  This will help to make cutting shapes fun and easy.

The drawing will take place Sunday, May 6th.  All Raffle proceeds will support the Sudden Arrhythmia Death Syndromes Foundation.

Barb Tatera, Charitable Activities

2013 Challenge – Submit your Idea!

If you have never participated in a challenge, here’s your opportunity to submit an idea that will get your creative stitches running.

Any guild member can submit a proposal. Your proposal should include

• Your idea
• Challenge name
• Challenge rules
• Categories for which ribbons will be awarded

Submit your proposal to Kelly Lockwood – either electronically or on paper.

Next Steps:

1. Kelly will present all Challenge proposals to the Board (without the submitters’ names) for a vote

2. The author of the winning idea will be selected as next year’s Challenge Coordinator

3. The Coordinator gathers a committee to collect the Challenge entries, hang the quilts at the April 2013 meeting, count ballots, award ribbons, and hang the quilts on Friday night before the NSQG show in May 2013

Please contact me if you have any questions.  I plan to present the proposals at May’s board meeting, so submit your idea (or ideas) before April 30!

The Challenge will be announced in June….and Guild members can begin stitching their Challenge Quilts over the summer.

Kelly Lockwood, Special Events

Artist’s Reception – April 18 (Wed
Reception for Nike Cutsumpas in celebration of her one-person show, “Nature in Fiber: A Contemporary Art Quilt Exhibit” at the Danbury City Hall.  Contact Nike Cutsumpas for more information.  (Wed, April 18 from 4-6 pm; Danbury City Hall, 3rd Floor; 155 Deer Hill Avenue, Danbury) 

Annual Quilt Day at the Folk Art Museum – April 28 (Sat)
Demonstrations of quilt techniques by local guild members and Artist Talk by Luke Haynes, architect and quiltmaker, whose works unite traditional quilt patterns with bold photo-based images. The monumental scale of Haynes’s quilts is made possible by his mastery of  long-arm quilting. The artist will show some of his quilts and discuss his interest in utility, aesthetics, nostalgia, reuse, and gender bias.  Members of local guilds will perform demonstrations beforehand.  Contact Susie Andersen for more information or if you’d like to volunteer to demonstrate quilting techniques. (April 28 at 2pm at the Folk Art Museum; guild demonstrations from 11-1:30 pm)

Call for Entries!
For “Things with Wings: Planes and Quilts,” a special exhibit for the New England Air Museum in September 2012.  ”Wings” can imply birds, insects, angels, architectural features (e.g., the West Wing), etc., in addition to aircraft!  This special exhibition will accompany 30 World World II-era quilts.  Applications due August 26.  Please contact Don or Eunice Gough, both NSQG members and avid pilots involved in the exhibition, for additional details.

Handi Quilter frame for Sale
Original Handi Quilter frame works on the same principle as a longarm system.  Poles hold your quilt while your sewing machine rides along a track.  Designed to be used with any domestic sewing machine (not included).  Can quilt up to king size.  Easy set-up, take-down, and storage.  $200.  Contact Deirdre Abbotts.

Sewing Machines for Sale
Two sewing machines available.  Both are in excellent working condition and have all necessary feet.  Please contact Barbara Howard for more information.

• Janome Memory Craft 6500 — $850 (table also available)
• Bernina 153QE  - $725

Call for Entries 
IMAGES is a juried and judged show, and the heart of the Lowell Quilt Festival.  Ribbons and prizes will be offered in several categories.  Participation is open to all quilters, from seasoned masters to talented newcomers. Entries due June 1, 2012.  Click here for more information.

Quilters Needed!
To demonstrate our craft on “Colonial Day” (Sat, Jun 16) at Keeler Tavern in Ridgefield, CT.  Slots available from 11 am to 5 pm.  Please contact Angela Liptack, Associate Director, Keeler Tavern Museum.  NSQG Contact: Linda Ostrander.

Help a Breast Cancer Survivor!  
Make a heart pillow, as part of the Heart Pillow Project, to ease recovery post-surgery.  NSQG Contact: Nancy Hantman.

Carolyn Finn, VP Communications
News@Northernstarquilters.com (news stories and photos)

Nike Cutsumpas is delighted to announce her upcoming one-person show, “Nature in Fiber: A Contemporary Art Quilt Exhibit,” at the City Hall in Danbury.  The showfeatures art quilts inspired by nature and representing a variety of techniques. Three works are shown here.

My art is a creative expression of nature and all the inspiration that surrounds us everyday.”   - Nike Cutsumpas

Cathie Billings is among the NSQG members whose work is included in the Connecticut Piecemakers’ show later this month.  Two of Cathie’s works are shown here.

Finally, Nancy Hantman‘s letter in support of the Folk Art Museum was published in the April/May issue of Quilters Newsletter.

Congratulations, All!

Have news to share?
Send your info and photos to News@Northernstarquilters.com!

Shows Featuring NSQG Members

“Fabric of America: Quilting our History”  (The Pelham Quilters).  New Rochelle, NY: Rotunda Gallery and Media Loft Gallery.  March 11 – April 27, 2012.

“Fantastic Fibers 2012.”  Paducah, KY: Yeiser Art Center.  March 21 – May 5, 2012.

“Nature in Fiber: A Contemporary Art Quilt Exhibit by Nike Cutsumpas.”  Danbury, CT: Danbury City Hall.  April 16 – May 24, 2012.

“A Spring Shower of Quilts XIV” (Guild show of the Connecticut Piecemakers).  Southbury, CT: Crowne Plaza.  April 21-22, 2012.

Other Shows of Interest

“Kaleidoscope Quilts: The Art of Paula Nadelstern.”  Beverly, MA: Endicott College.  March 26 – June 15, 2012.

“Fenway Park Centennial Quilts.”  Lowell, MA: New England Quilt Museum.  March 29 – July 8, 2012.

International Quilt Festival.  Cincinnati, OH: Duke Energy Convention Center.  April 13-15, 2012.

AQS Quilt Show and Contest.  Paducah, KY: Paducah Expo Center.  April 25-28, 2012.

“Synchronicity.”  Philadelphia, PA: Highwire Gallery.  Through April 27.

“Sue Benner: Walking through Time.”  New York: The Art Quilt Gallery.  Through April 28.

Hannah Dustin Quilters’ Guild: 2012 Quilt Show.  Hudson, NH: Hudson Community Center.  May 4-5, 2012.

Colonial Quilters’ Guild: Quiltfest 2012.  Palmer, PA: Charles Chrin Community Center.  May 5-6, 2012.

Quilters Unlimited of Northern Virginia: 39th Annual Quilt Show.  Chantilly, VA: Dulles Expo and Conference Center.  June 1-3, 2012.

“Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Quilting.”  Eastern Long Island Quilters’ 31st Annual Peconic Quilt Show.  Riverhead, NY: Suffolk Community College.  June 2-3, 2012.

Cape May Quilt and Fiber Show.  Cape May, NJ: Museum Village Welcome Center.  June 23 – 24, 2012.

Vermont Quilt Festival.  Essex Junction, VT: Champlain Valley Exposition.  June 29 – July 1, 2012.

Kutztown Folk Festival (Includes quilt display and auction).  Kutztown, PA: Kutztown Fairgrounds.  June 30 – July 8, 2012.

“New Quilts from an old Favorite 2012: Baskets and Antique Basket Quilts.”  Paducah, KY: National Quilt Museum.  Through July 10.

“Quilt Odyssey 2012.”  Hershey, PA: Hershey Lodge and Convention Center.  July 26-29, 2012.

“Red, White, and Quilted.”  Bayberry Quilters of Cape Cod’s 31st Annual Show.  Harwich, MA: Cape Cod Regional Technical High School.  August 2-4, 2012.

“Images: The Lowell Quilt Festival.”  Lowell, MA: New England Quilt Museum.  August 9-11, 2012.

“Jean Ray Laury: Getting it all Together.”  Lincoln, NE: International Quilt Study Center.  Through September 2.

“Things with Wings: Planes and Quilts.”  Windsor Locks, CT: New England Air Museum.  September 17-23, 2012.

Eleventh Annual “Harvest of Quilts.”  Evening Star Quilters.  Mineola, NY: Mineola Community Center.  Nov 3-4, 2012.

Many Thanks to Nancy Hantman for researching and compiling this list!

• Mar 3 (Sat)  Longarm SIG meets
• Mar 7 (Wed) Comfort Quilters
• Mar 10 (Sat)  The Sticklers SIG
• Mar 13 (Tue)  Board Meeting
• Mar 16  (Fri)  Lancaster Trip
• Mar 20 (Tue) General Meeting: Jane Dávila
• Mar 21 (Wed) Comfort Quilters
• Mar 23 (Fri)  Newsletter submissions due
• Mar 24 (Sat)  Workshop: Jane Dávila
• Mar 31 (Sat) Longarm SIG meets
• Mar 31 (Sat) Quilt Registration closes

President’s Letter | Sunshine | Programs | Quilt Show | Education | Hospitality
Library | Charitable Activities | Guild Challenge | Members’ Marketplace
Find us Here | Area Shows | Advertisers

Spring has Sprung!

The yellow crocus and winter pansies are blooming at my house and providing me with a new sense of energy.  We have a busy two months ahead of us at the Guild so I need all the energy I can find!  

This month we will collect the completed 2013 Raffle Quilt blocks and the 2012 “Reach for the Stars” challenge quilts.

Nominations for the 2013 charity also are due at our March meeting.

Our quilt show is less than two months away and everything is falling into place nicely.  Please be sure to sign up to volunteer your time and talent at the quilt show. The quilt registration is on-line and open until the end of the month.

Cathie Billings will be available at our meeting to sell tickets for the Connecticut Piecemakers’ beautiful raffle quilt, “Grandmother’s Poppies.” Cathie also will travel to the Connecticut Piecemakers to sell tickets for our own 2012 Raffle Quilt.

Jane Dávila will share her talents with all of us and also teach a class on Saturday, March 24 at JFK.  Please take advantage of this rare Saturday class.

As I reflect on February, I find myself being amazed at the talents of our members. Many thanks to all who assisted with the program at February’s meeting, those who coordinated Super Saturday, and those who taught the wonderful classes.  ”Thank you” seems like a very short phrase — but please know that the depth and breadth of its meaning is endless.

On another note, I’ve learned that Quilts: Masterworks from the American Folk Art Museum, a companion book to the Museum’s 2010-2011 exhibit, is now available. Click here for more information.

Have a wonderful month! I look forward to seeing some of you on the bus to Lancaster — and everyone else on March 20.

 

Patti Calautti, President
President@Northernstarquilters.com

Goodwill is part of our fellowship — let’s share it amongst ourselves!  Please let me know when a Guild member needs a little sunshine!

Whether it’s an illness, condolence, marriage, baby, or just a need for encouragement, please drop me a note.

 

 

April Russell, Guild Secretary

 

Workshops

Sat, March 24

Jane Dávila will teach a “Surface Design Sampler.” Come and learn some new techniques or just enjoy a day “playing.”

You can explore and experiment with a
variety of surface design methods including Paintstiks, water-soluble pencils and pastels, TAP, heat moldable stamps, color remover, glitter sprays, and more.

There are still a few seats available.  All quilters, including beginners and experienced quilters, art quilters, and interested newcomers are welcome!

Additional $20 materials fee required.  The supply list has been e-mailed – please let me know if you haven’t received it.  (JFK High School – Room 122 – 9 am)

 

 

 

Tue, April 17 – new date!

Froncie Quinn will teach a hand appliqué class called “Florrie’s Posies.” She has based this class on a quilt from the Shelburne Museum, and adapted her patterns from the 3″ blocks in a quilt called “Florrie’s Garden Extraordinaire.”

Froncie will concentrate on hand appliquéing one (or more) of these small flower blocks (you choose the design). Some hand piecing will be covered in the afternoon. Come and learn hand appliqué, or improve your skills, under the guidance of an expert.

Participants will need to purchase a small pattern, one of Froncie’s “Posie Packets,” at a reduced rate.  Please contact me if you did not order one at the February meeting.   The supply list will be mailed in late March.  (North Salem Ambulance Corps - 9 am)

Bonnie Hunter‘s class is still full – with a waiting list. More info to come.

All workshops are $50 – cash or check payable to NSQG. To register, please contact me.

 

Barbara Sferra, VP Programs
Programs@Northernstarquilters.com

A Heartfelt Welcome to
Mrs. Joanna S. Rose!

We are delighted to announce that Mrs. Joanna S. Rose and her husband have accepted our invitation to view our Red and White Members’ Invitational Exhibit at this year’s quilt show.

As you’ll recall, our Invitational honors “Infinite Variety: Three Centuries of Red and White Quilts,” Mrs. Rose’s generous birthday gift to the people of New York at the Park Avenue Armory last March.

In response to our invitation which included six photos, Mrs. Rose wrote, “…the quilts look absolutely extraordinary and I am eager to see them. You are an amazing and talented group and I feel honored by your honoring me. Cordially, Joanna S. Rose.”

We’re thrilled to welcome Mr. and Mrs. Rose to Northern Star and Somers!

There’s still time to create your own small red-and-white quilt for the NSQG members’ invitational…and if you like, you can create more than one! Quilts will be collected at our March meeting.  Click here for details.

Show Pins are Here!

The 2012 NSQG Quilt Show Pins are here and they are beautiful, thanks to our Show Pin Designer Vicki Romaine Cohn.  Vicki’s modern design interprets one of the traditional appliqué blocks of our raffle quilt.  Bring $5 to the March Guild meeting if you’d like to add one to your collection.  Pins will be on sale at the April Guild meeting as well.

Quilt Drop-Off
Saturday, April 28

Quilt drop-off day is Saturday, April 28th from 12 noon to 4 p.m. in the JFK High School cafeteria. All quilts should have

• A sewn-on sleeve for hanging
• A covering over your name (on the back of the quilt)
• Registration ID number in the lower right corner (of the quilt back)
• No animal hairs

This last point, in particular, can slow down the drop-off process considerably. Hair removal will be your responsibility either at home or at the school. (And I know all about pet hair given our dear Australian Shepherd!)  Click here for full registration guidelines.

Tip for Visitors and Guests

When telling friends about our quilt show, please be sure to mention that the JFK School is listed by GPS systems in a variety of ways, including “Kennedy Catholic” and the “John F. Kennedy Catholic High School.”For those more numerically inclined, the GPS coordinates are 41.3054, -73.6884.  (No need to memorize this; the information is available on our website.)

Judging Day

The quilt judging will take place on Wednesday, May 2nd at the First Presbyterian Church in Stamford. Directions are printed below and also available online.

From North Stamford

• Coming south on Rte 137 (High Ridge Road) or Rte 104 (Long Ridge Road), drive to the major intersection (just past Lord & Taylor) and go straight on Summer Street
• At the to 10th traffic light (~ one mile), turn left onto Hoyt Street
• Turn left onto Bedford Street at the next light
• Church driveway will be the third driveway on your right (past a small row of shops, but just before the church grounds). Follow the driveway around to the right to the parking lot behind the buildings

From Westchester (via I-95)

• From I-95 coming from Westchester, take Exit 8 (Atlantic Street)
• Turn left onto Atlantic Street and go straight  – the road becomes Bedford Street.
• After the Police Station, the road bends slightly to the left. The third driveway on right will bring you to the church. Take the circle drive to the right-hand turn. Parking lot will be on the left, just beyond Fellowship Hall.

 

Build-a-Block

Many thanks to everyone who contributed fabric for our Build-a-Block project! At this point, we have more than enough materials and no further donations are necessary. Thank you for your generosity!

 

Caryl Castellion, VP Quilt Show
QuiltShow@Northernstarquilters.com

Thank you!

Kudos and many thanks to Susie Anderson, Debbie Bein, Mary Cannizzaro, Nike Cutsumpas, Meg Mooar,  Margaret Phillips, Carol Sterk, and Maria Weinstein – the generous and creative members who shared their journals and notebooks at February’s meeting. It was so interesting to see the variety of notebooks/journals and hear how each member uses her notebooks to inform her work.  Thank you!

Kids can Quilt
Volunteers Needed!

There are still two opportunities to participate in the very rewarding Kids can Quilt! project:

(1) Assemble the children’s decorated blocks, sashing, and border;
(2) Assemble and quilt the quilt sandwich; attach the binding

This is a great opportunity to share your love of quilt-making with the next generation while teaching important life-lessons in the process.  Please contact Melanie Darensod for more details.

Special Interest Groups

Longarm – The Longarm group met on March 3 at Kelly Lockwood‘s home and included a demonstration by Kim Hyde.   The group next meets on March 31.  Please contact Diane Linker for more details.

The Sticklers– Our next meeting is Sat, March 10.  We’ll compare the blocks we created and discuss which approaches worked best.  (For quick reference, the blocks are D-11, H-11, I-10, J-5, and M-3….but don’t worry if you haven’t completed them all.) Newcomers always welcome!  Please contact Carolyn Finn for details.

Art Quilts — Our “Forms of A Dress” is looking GREAT!  Thanks to all who participated and to Melanie Hulse for the idea and pulling it together into a great exhibit for our guild show.  Thanks also to Maria Weinstein for another of her fabulous demonstrations.

In March, Lynda Long will demonstrate Painted Fusible Web.  All are welcome to join us, this is a very handy technique to know — even for traditional quilters.  See you in March!   Please contact Debbie Bein for more information.

                              

Landscape – In February, we continued discussing the construction process. We spoke about selecting, cutting and fusing fabrics.

One of the group members brought in a small quilt that she created using the same picture used for the January demo quilt using a combination of appliqué and painting.

Eunice Gough talked about Accidental Landscapes by Karen Eckmeier. This could be a good choice if a quilter does not have a large selection of landscape fabrics.

In March, we will discuss thread painting, choice of threads and needles, spray basting, batting, and quilting.  Please contact Don Gough for more information.

Hand Appliqué - In March, Susan Fasnacht will demonstrate how to embellish appliqué blocks using embroidery techniques.  Please note: Due to the Froncie Quinn workshop, there will be no Hand Appliqué meeting in April.  Please contact Denise Isherwood or Kathy Kaplan for more information.

 

Jane Eyes, VP Education
Education@Northernstarquilters.com

Debbie Bein is thrilled to announce that three of her works have been accepted into the Fantastic Fibers 2012 exhibit at the Yeiser Art Center in Paducah, Kentucky.

This all-art quilt venue runs concurrent with “the” Paducah quilt show each year.  Debbie’s three works, Broken Promises, Generation Gap, and Patch of Posies, are shown here.

Mayann Weinberg has just learned that her ”Red and White,” an embellished red and white quilt, has received the 2012 William Arthur Grupe Award from the Greenwich Art Society.  The work is included in the Greenwich Art Society’s 95th Annual Juried Exhibition and on view at the Bendheim Gallery through April 1st.

NSQG members Mary Anne Ciccotelli, Renee Fleuranges-Valdes, Nancy Mirman, and Claire Oehler are represented in “Fabric of America: Quilting our History,” an exhibition of the Pelham Quilters co-curated by Renee Fleuranges-Valdes.(See “Members’ Marketplace” for notices of related events.)

The exhibition highlights the evolution of quilting and celebrates its stature as an art form.  The works shown here reflect the striking diversity and talent within our Guild.

Congratulations, All!

Shows Featuring NSQG Members

“Fabric of America: Quilting our History”  (The Pelham Quilters).  New Rochelle, NY: Rotunda Gallery and Media Loft Gallery.  March 11 – April 27, 2012.

“Fantastic Fibers 2012.”  Paducah, KY: Yeiser Art Center.  March 21 – May 5, 2012.

Greenwich Art Society’s 95th Annual Juried Exhibition.  Greenwich, CT:  The Bendheim Gallery.  Through April 1, 2012.

Other Shows of Interest

AQS Quilt Show and Contest.  Lancaster, PA: Lancaster County Convention Center.  March 14-17, 2012.

“Piecing It Together.”  White Plains, NY: Arts Westchester.  Through March 17.

“Campaigns and Commemoratives: Quilts for Presidents.”  Lowell, MA: New England Quilt Museum. Through March 24, 2012.

“Quilting Long Island” (2012 show of the Long Island Quilters’ Society).  Garden City, NY: Garden City Field House.  March 24-25, 2012.

“Kaleidoscope Quilts: The Art of Paula Nadelstern.”  Beverly, MA: Endicott College.  March 26 – June 15, 2012.

“Off the Wall: Rochester Area Fiber Artists.” Rochester, NY: The Gallery at the Arts and Cultural Council.  Through March 29.

“Fenway Park Centennial Quilts.”  Lowell, MA: New England Quilt Museum.  March 29 – July 8, 2012.

International Quilt Festival.  Cincinnati, OH: Duke Energy Convention Center.  April 13-15, 2012.

“A Spring Shower of Quilts XIV” (Guild show of the Connecticut Piecemakers).  Southbury, CT: Crowne Plaza.  April 21-22, 2012.

AQS Quilt Show and Contest.  Paducah, KY: Paducah Expo Center.  April 25-28, 2012.

Cape May Quilt and Fiber Show.  Cape May, NJ: Museum Village Welcome Center.  June 23 – 24, 2012.

Vermont Quilt Festival.  Essex Junction, VT: Champlain Valley Exposition.  June 29 – July 1, 2012.

Kutztown Folk Festival (Includes quilt display and auction).  Kutztown, PA: Kutztown Fairgrounds.  June 30 – July 8, 2012.

Many Thanks to Nancy Hantman for researching and compiling this list!