The quilter selected for our September showcase is Beth Carlson.
Always planning her next masterpiece,
Beth is truly a fantastic and talented quilter.

1.  How did you get started in quilting?

I was about 5 years old when I learned to knit. Some little sewing projects came soon after, including making doll clothes and items for church bazaars. Junior high and high school level Home Economics classes followed, along with earning Girl Scout badges (none for cooking).

I helped my mom make our first quilt when I was 17 years old. It was hand-pieced diamond stars from the cover of a women’s magazine. Mom wanted a king-size quilt and we used the scissor-cardboard-pattern method. It took a couple of years to complete, but I still have the quilt.

When we moved back to Chico in 2004, I joined Annie’s Star Quilt Guild and have been hooked on quilt making ever since.


2.  What is one quilting notion that you can’t do without?

My most used notions would be a rotary cutter and a good cutting mat. A sewing machine is the other thing I can't do without, especially my Singer Featherweight for piecing.

3.  If you’re willing, please share a funny quilting experience that taught you a memorable lesson.

About two years ago, I purchased some fabric at a quilt shop in Vacaville. When I started using it, it was clear that I would not have enough of the fabric to complete the quilt. I set the project aside and took time to explore other solutions, never finding another fabric that I was truly happy with.

Last March, my husband and I were in North Carolina and I decided to stop at a quilt shop. In their sale section, I was delighted to find the exact same fabric... and it was discounted! It must be true that patience is a virtue.


4.  If it’s possible to choose just one, what is your favorite quilt that you’ve made?

I have several favorites. But, there is a blue and green Double Irish Chain quilt that is very special to me.

In 1996, my two sisters, my mom, my aunt (my dad’s sister), and I were on our first trip to the outdoor quilt show in Sisters, Oregon. We stopped at a small quilt shop that a lady had opened in her garage, a few blocks from the highway. I bought a small green and blue print, to which I later added a mini gingham check and a white-on-white fabric. Those were the fabrics I used to make that Double Irish Chain quilt. It always brings me fond memories of that trip.



5.  What do you do with your quilts?

Though I have made and given away quite a few quilts, I usually keep most of the quilts that I make. I've also been involved with several group projects that had an end goal of making a quilt as a donation to a local or regional charity.


6.  Have you ever received a quilt as a gift? If so, please share a bit about the experience.

My mom has made and given me several wall hangings and table runners. I've also received a few antique and vintage quilts (and quilt tops) to add to my collection. My fellow quilt guild members gave me a large set of hot air balloon themed blocks after my first term as president. I assembled them into another of my favorite quilts.

7.  What type of quilting do you most enjoy?

Hand worked, needle-turn appliqué and machine piecing are my two favorites. I particularly like adding contemporary features to vintage patterns and designs. Adding updated colors and prints to an older pattern can have amazing results! I really like hand quilting, but realized several years ago that I need to finish my quilts in a more timely manner.






8.  We would love to include some personal details about you (anything you’d like to share) such as your profession, interests outside of quilting, future plans, etc.

I am a 50 year member of the Embroiderers’ Guild of America, a national organization that is dedicated to Embroidery education and sharing the passion for needlework in our communities. In 1993, I completed EGA’s two-year Judging Certification program and have had the privilege of evaluating thousands of entries at regional, national and local fairs and exhibitions.

About a year ago, the members of Annie’s Star Quilt Guild selected me to be the Featured Quilter at our upcoming Quilt Show. The event will be held at the Silver Dollar Fairgrounds on November 7th & 8th of this year.

In addition to needlework and quilt making, I enjoy gardening and activities with my family.