When Do Adams first discovered quilting in the mid-90s, she was immediately drawn to the creativity and calm it offered. Over the years, her passion for fabric and design grew from following patterns to developing her own distinctive style, inspired by artists such as Gloria Loughman and Ricky Tims. Yet despite her growing experience, Do felt she was missing a sense of direction and wanted to take her creativity to the next level.
That’s when she discovered the School of Stitched Textiles and enrolled on our accredited advanced Patchwork and Quilting course (Skill Stage 4 course). Through structured learning, expert guidance and the encouragement to explore her own artistic voice, Do found the confidence to create original pieces that reflect her love of colour, form and experimentation. Her journey is a wonderful reminder of how transformative this course can be, helping experienced quilters push creative boundaries and rediscover the joy of making.
Read on to hear more about Do’s story and see some of her beautiful, inspiring work.
“I’ve learnt that I am no longer afraid to ‘do my own thing’, exploring different techniques, media and styles without worrying about what others think of it. I now have confidence in my ability to create something original and to enter it into exhibitions even when the other exhibits are likely to be largely traditional.”
Do Adams
My quilting journey began in 1995 when I learned to make a sampler. I particularly enjoyed the applique blocks and went on to design my own quilt which I appliqued and quilted by hand. For some time, all my quilts were quilted by hand, a process that I found quite meditative and relaxing and a welcome break from work, though I now largely do machine quilting.
In the early years, my quilts were variations on an existing pattern. However, increasingly, I began to develop my own designs. I have never been tempted to do a kit where the pattern and fabrics are all provided. I feel that it would be too restrictive.
Quilting has gradually replaced my other hobby – drawing and painting – as I found I could apply those skills to fabric. This led me to explore more adventurous techniques such as a Ricky Tims’ convergence technique, where the design is more unpredictable and spontaneous. I am also a great fan of Gloria Loughman. Both her landscapes and her abstract designs and have produced a number of art quilts.
Motivation for Studying
I really felt I was lacking direction and that I needed guidance on how to further develop both my design skills. I also wanted confidence in my own abilities. I would look at my stash and think ‘what can I do with this fabric?’ rather than coming up with a design first and then deciding how to approach it.
A local quilter made a presentation about her experience with the School of Stitched Textiles and I was impressed by the sheer variety of samples shown and her enthusiasm. I was inspired! I liked the idea of being led through the maze of possibilities.
From Patterns to Personal Expression
I’ve learnt that I am no longer afraid to ‘do my own thing’, exploring different techniques, media and styles without worrying about what others think of it. I now have confidence in my ability to create something original and to enter it into exhibitions even when the other exhibits are likely to be largely traditional.
I am continuing to research techniques to try. I will likely concentrate on smaller works such as art quilt wall hangings and 3-D pieces, including the use of mixed media. I would also like to colour my own fabric through paints and dyes.
Advice for new students
I would definitely recommend this course. Especially if you are prepared to be challenged and to explore and learn from other quilters’ and textile artists’ work. You will also develop an appreciation of how techniques and media not normally associated with patchwork and quilting can be used to great effect.
My advice to new students would be to give it a go! Open your mind to possibilities, look at what quilters and textile artists in different cultures have done, and be prepared to contribute to that rich history yourself. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new techniques and media. Above all, have fun!
