Diane has always stitched and enjoyed traditional quilting, she was hugely influenced by Kelly Cline who first planted the idea of using vintage fabrics and was her mentor. Kelly’s influence led Diane to explore ways of using the vintage fabrics she loved so much to do things differently. She wanted to preserve the beautiful embrioderies found on old table linens that so often just languish in a cupboard or trunk once Granny has died so she began to put her mind to repurposing these old treasures. Traditionally embroidered table cloths often have five large pieces of stitching, one in each corner and one in the middle and matching napkins have a smaller version of the same design. By cutting out each piece and appliqueing them onto another fabric Diane can begin to create a new treasure.
Before scissors are applied or a stitch is set, each piece of vintage fabric or linen is washed, ironed and spray starched. Diane then carefully cuts around the pieces she wants to use avoiding cutting in straight lines which are so much more difficult to hide when they are appliqued. Wiggly lines disappear into quilting and are often almost impossible to see. When she is happy with the new design Diane backs the fabric with wadding and a backing sheet and quilts it ready to be used for cushions, bags, runners, tea cosies, table mats or wall hangings. Larger pieces become bed quilts or throws but nothing gets wasted. Small gifts can be made from doilies, tray cloths or hankerchiefs, our predecessors embroidered such a wide range if items there is plenty of choice!
Diane then went on to describe her working methods explaining how she approaches each project from planning, cutting, applique and quilting and where she finds her materials. Charity shops can be a good source of vintage table linens and Diane is always on the look out to add to her collection. She has exhibited her work at the Malvern Festival of Quilts
