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Martha Walker of Wagons West Designs
* * * Trunk Shows and Workshops

Lectures

"Yesterday’s Stories, Today’s Quilts”

Stories from yesteryear inspire me to design quilts around themes which are unique to nineteenth century life in America. I’ll share my quilt and needlework designs such as patriotic works inspired by our War for Independence, to quilts and projects inspired by the humble prairie life of the early Midwest settlers.I'll bring around 50 quilts and projects to share!

"100 Years of Quilts:  1840 - 1940”

My lecture will begin with a viewing of a collection of quilts spanning the years from 1840 to 1940. You’ll see great examples of quilt styles of the various periods, as well as the fabrics used in those quilts.

Next, I’ll discuss restoring antique quilts, such as what to consider when considering restoring a quilt and techniques you can use to repair the quilt. I’ll show the quilts that I’ve personally restored, and how I approached the restoration of each quilt.

Last, I’ll share creative ideas and examples for using vintage fabrics in new quilt creations.

I’ve created a “Fabrics Through the Years Swatch Book” for optional purchase for a nominal fee, which includes actual examples of fabrics of “fabric through the years”.



Hand Applique Workshops

During my years of entering my quilts in juried competitions, some of the judges comments include the following:  "Applique circles are perfect", "Wonderful applique techniques", "Excellent applique techniques. Stuffed berries are perfect", "Piecing and applique techniques are Excellent!", "Excellent applique and hand piecing stitch." I offer a variety of hand applique workshops using different techniques that will help you do your best work, including beginner and advanced workshops.

Machine Applique Workshops (also available as a Zoom class)

One of the most frequent comments I hear when people examine my machine applique is "It looks like it's done by hand". I'll show you an heirloom technique for achieving the look of hand applique, but done with your machine. A variety of projects are offered.

Wool Applique

I'll teach you everything you need to know about wool applique, including the properties of wool, how to felt wool, preparing shapes, threads and the basic embroidery stitches to complete the project and beyond. I'll also show you the technique I developed for marking the wool for the application of embroidery designs and lettering.

And More!

To receive a brochure with the complete and most current workshops Martha offers, please contact us by email at wagonswestdesigns@gmail.com