Colorful Pillow - Cindy Grisdela Art Quilts

Colorful Pillow in Process – Cindy Grisdela

I’m working on a new project this week that’s a little different from my usual routine–a commission for 20 quilted pillows to be used in the guest rooms at a lodge in Vermont. A couple of years ago I made about 75 pillows for them, and they contacted me again last month for more to go in new cabins they’ve just opened.

They’re 18″ square throw pillows, so they won’t be slept on, I don’t think, but they need to be sturdy. I’m using commercial batik prints for the tops and the backs, and stitching them very simply with wavy lines.  I’m having fun using prints again and just cutting into the color to make shapes and then stitching them together.

Wavy Line Stitching - Cindy Grisdela Art Quilts

Simple Wavy Line Stitching for Pillows – Cindy Grisdela

There’s a lot to be said for simple curves and angled stripes in various configurations–mostly the fabric does the work in these compositions and I just get out of the way!

I have 14 tops pieced, two pillows quilted, and 6 more to go. It’s been therapeutic to work on something completely different for a few days and I’m having a lot of fun with this.

If you’re in the Great Falls, VA area this evening, my studio at the Artists’ Atelier will be open for a First Friday Art Walk in the Village Center from 6 – 8 PM. There are three studios with showing the work of 27 artists on the Village Green now–imagine that! I’ll be at 756 Walker Rd. and I’ll be working on some of the pillows. You can also visit Artists on the Green at 776-B Walker Rd. and the Artists’ Loft at 766 Walker Rd. We love to talk about our process and inspirations. Start in any location and pick up a map of the Art Walk stops.

The Great Falls Creamery will be open for the event, as will Pio Pio Pollo, Wild Ginger Pan Asian, and The Brogue. Enjoy dinner and ice cream before or after your stroll. Live music will begin at The Brogue at 9 PM, so you can make an evening of it.

I hope to see you there!

 

 

1 Comment

  1. Rachel Biel on August 5, 2016 at 4:24 pm

    Cool that you got that commission, Cindy! And, I had to smile when I looked at the photos. I have several of those batiks, too. 🙂 Someday I will sew again!