About Java House Quilts

As a pattern designer and illustrator for over 20 years, I specialize in animal themes with both pieced and appliquéd blocks. My quilts are unique, lively, and happy with a subtle sense of humor. I create animals with personality over realism.

My work has appeared in national magazines, books, calendars, and catalogs, and at AQS, Quilt market, Quilt Festival, Pacific international, and Road To California shows. Currently, I am working on a line of fabrics with Hoffman California with whom I regularly collaborate for quilt models and new designs.

Color balance (makes a quilt “sing!”) is a concept I teach rather than color wheel theory. I find this is a less mathematical and more accessible way for many of us to think about quilt colors. My students also learn to create dramatic movement with images running over, under, and through blocks and borders. I believe in using the right pieces instead of the most pieces when it comes to appliqué and creating designs with inventive construction and surprises which enhance the beauty and success of any piece.

Lecturing and teaching workshops for over twelve years at guilds and conferences across the US, throughout California, and on cruise ships has been a joy. I so relish the company of other quilters and work enthusiastically to make classes interesting, informative, and enjoyable, with individual attention and encouragement for students of all skill levels.

Education & Work:

With a BA from Michigan State University, I have worked as a professional graphic designer, cartoon illustrator, and Communications Specialist for the MSU College of Agriculture before quilting “arrested” me in 1995. A year later, I began authoring patterns under the name of Java House Quilts and today have over 60 designs in publication.

If the above is relevant to your guild, please pass it to your program coordinator. Thank you!