|
Author Spotlight
Questions for
Ilene Bartos author of
Maple Leaf Quilts
Meet Ilene Bartos
Home: Urbandale, Iowa
Where did you get the inspiration for your book Maple Leaf Quilts?
I wanted to come up with an idea that would work with different triangle techniques. I was actually walking on a beach in Florida when the idea first came to me to combine the Maple Leaf block, one of my favorites, with triangle techniques. Once the idea gelled, I easily came up with a number of sketches for the book.
What motivated you to become a quilter?
I’ve always loved quilts and sewing. In 1995 I was invited to a local guild meeting by a friend, and it opened my eyes to a world I’d never dreamed of. Since that day I’ve been enjoying the journey and have never looked back. I’ve enjoyed taking classes to learn techniques, but joining a small quilt group was what really allowed me to grow, experiment, and gain the confidence to share my work with others. I wouldn’t be quilting today without the support of my small quilt groups (I’m now in a number of them!).
How would you describe the process of creating your book?
Well, designing and making the quilts was the easy part. Writing out the instructions was more difficult because math is NOT my second language. It was a new experience to me to write in a “how to” voice, and I want to thank my editor, Ellen Pahl, for working so nicely with me and making the book come together as a consolidated whole. Many kudos to her!
Do you have a favorite quilting tip that you can share with our Web site audience?
My favorite tip would be that you don’t have to always follow the instructions. I would love to have you use one of my patterns as a jumping-off point to create your own designs.
What is the key tip quilters could take away from your book?
Have fun with your quilting and use colors you love! There are a variety of ways to accomplish any task, so try some different techniques—or adjust the pattern to use the technique you enjoy most.
What else can you tell us about the groups you belong to?
I belong to several small quilt groups and local guilds and absolutely cannot say enough positive comments about the effect these friends have had on my life. The three local small groups I belong to meet once a month, with an occasional road trip for shopping or quilt-show viewing. Two of my groups drive and meet halfway at a quilt shop twice a year for a one-night retreat. I also belong to two Web-based groups and we share our progress via email—sometimes on a daily basis—and try to gather together at least once a year.
In creating my book I had a lot of help from my quilting friends—sewing, cutting, and even proofreading. They were a big help and I can’t imagine life without them!
Who is your favorite musical artist?
I enjoy an eclectic blend of music, from Michael Bolton and Celine Dion to Christina Aguilera. I even enjoy a little country every once in a while.
Favorite food?
Italian, Chinese, Thai; I love almost all foods as long as I don’t have to cook them!
Most recent movies or televison shows watched?
I like romantic comedies, action shows, and science fiction—anything that’s NOT a reality show. I sew a lot at night and play television shows in the background. My all-time favorite show would have to be Dr. Who.
What is one thing about you that most people don’t know?
We were foster parents for over 10 years and had 23 children live with us for a time. We ended up adopting two of them, Jessica and Ben, to complete our family.
Win a copy of Maple Leaf Quilts!
Click
here for your chance to win.
|
AMERICA'S BEST-LOVED CRAFT & HOBBY BOOKS®
AMERICA'S BEST-LOVED QUILT BOOKS®
