My weekend at the South Carolina State Retreat

Each fall, the Quilters of South Carolina has a very special retreat at the White Oak Conference Center in Winnsboro, SC. This year I taught 2 classes--Los Flores de Sol (a machine applique class) and a Drunkard's Path class. The Drunkard's Path class was only 3 hours long this morning and there just wasn't enough time to get any pictures, but I did get pictures of my students' quilts in the applique class. They were such a great group of women who worked with zest and generosity. They tried new techniques and each came away with a quilt top that was close to completion and reflected their own personalities.

First, here is a picture of my class sample: In this class, the students learned how to make a circular insert, how to use--and fall in love with--fusible 1/4" bias binding, how to use tracing paper in the placement of appliques and, most of all, just how wonderful a teflon pressing sheet can be. They also made the checkerboard border--and not one of them opted to leave it out! Great work girls! And now, here are the pictures of THEIR work:

Isn't it great? I always get such a thrill when my students--and new friends--take one of my patterns and turn it into a quilt that is uniquely their own. I think they were quite successful, don't you?