Quilting in the Modern Age: A Tapestry of Tradition and Innovation

By: Christine Flohr

In today’s fast-paced world, quilting captivates both sewers and collectors with its blend of tradition and innovation. Contemporary quilters embrace advanced techniques and vibrant designs, creating functional art that honors heritage while showcasing personal expression. The team at Visit Wabash County recently spent time with three local quilting enthusiasts—Diane Morris, Christine Paul, and Nancy Jacoby—to delve into their unique journeys in this beloved craft.

How long have you been quilting?

Diane:
I’ve been quilting for about 10 years.

Christine:
I have been quilting for over thirty years, though I took breaks to raise my kids and focus on writing.

Nancy:
In my tenth year of Wabash County 4-H, I made a ‘quilt’ for my arts and crafts project. It was stitched completely by machine using all the wrong types of fabric! That was back in 1973.

How did you get into quilting?

Diane:
I’ve always sewn, mostly clothes. As a child, I made outfits for my Barbies. For my daughter’s 21st birthday, I wanted to make a quilt. My mom, Norma McVicker, and I took a class together, and I got hooked!

Christine:
My mother, Mary Lengel, an artist, introduced me to quilting when I was eight. One day, she handed me an envelope as a template and some leftover fabric. I made a doll quilt, then a cover for my twin bed. In 1990, a friend convinced me to join a quilting class at Nancy J’s called ‘It’s Okay if You Sit on My Quilt.’ That opened my eyes to the many possibilities in quilting.

Nancy:
Years after my 4-H project, I entered it in ‘the Ugly Quilt Contest!’ In 1980, after the local fabric shop opened, I was asked by what is now Heartland Career Center to teach a quilt class through their Adult Education program. ” “In 1983, I attended a workshop on quick quilting techniques, which transformed my approach from clothing to quilting.

Do you have a favorite pattern?

Diane:
No particular favorite pattern but I am drawn to the more modern style with bright colors.

Christine:
I don’t have a favorite pattern, but a churn dash or any pattern with stars would probably top the list.

Nancy:
If I were to pick a favorite…I would say the quilt block I find most interesting is known as “Jacob’s Ladder.” It’s a simple block pattern, but when repeated, manipulated, and set side-by-side, the design possibilities and coloring options are fascinating!

How many quilt projects have you sewn?

Diane:
I would say I’ve made around 75 quilts.

Christine:
I have no idea how many quilts I have made. I’m sure it’s close to 100. I’ve never kept track.

Nancy:
I have not counted. Most likely, hundreds started …a lot less actually finished! Most projects were intended as samples of patterns available or class projects happening at the fabric shop. Most recently, I stitched a quilt for our grandson which I gave to him for a previous Christmas.

The Heart of Quilting

Quilting is more than just a craft; it’s a means of fostering community, creativity, and a deep connection to history. Each quilt tells a story, weaving together memories and artistry that become cherished heirlooms for generations. Wabash County is home to two notable quilt shops: Nancy J’s Fabrics and Heaven on Earth.