QUILTS: More than a Blanket

With the way the world is today, we all just want to get under the blankets and hide. It is our most comfortable place to be, not only as an baby, but as a child and onwards into old age. We all have some Linus in us. It seems as though our household purchases mirror our stock purchases, short lived and quickly turned over. When something breaks, falls apart, or gets old, we discard it. We do not hold handcrafted items dear to our hearts anymore because they are not the newest thing out. Remember, the hottest article for sale is usually made in a factory by underpaid workers who had no input in its design. Not so with a quilt: it is a comforter.

Quilt making has always made resurgence in the marketplace when economic times were low. The last time quilting revived itself was in the 70's; it shows no evidence of ebbing soon. The rotary cutter, self-healing mat, and fabulous new fabrics in specialty shops have made quilting easier and more accessible then ever. Quilting as an art form is the newest kid on the block. Quilters are freer to make more interesting choices now that the quilt police are gone.

Each quilt starts with an idea and continues with an intricate and purposeful series of steps, resulting in a masterful conclusion. The end use of a quilt is no longer utilitarian. An art quilt can sheathe a wall, a quilted runner can grace a table, or a purse made with fine quilted material can be the ultimate accessory. The quilt a baby receives from a shower can be treasured into adult hood. Likewise, a wedding quilt handmade by a grandmother is cherished long after the maker is gone. A quilt becomes an object of affection rather than a commercial article.

There are a few basic entities necessary for humans to exist. However, to make life enjoyable, we want our investments to grow. What is better than to invest in a quilt. It will bring a larger return over a longer amount of time than most stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. Furthermore, what is more satisfying than giving a quilt to someone and watching the thrill on their faces. These pictures tell it all.