Captain’s Log: Astoria Quilt Retreat Recap
March 6th - 9th, 2025 — what a voyage it was! Our third annual quilt retreat at the Astoria Crest Motel was a whirlwind of stitches, snacks, and seafaring camaraderie.
Thursday, the ship set sail early as Sara and Debbie arrived to transform our gathering space—stocking the snack station, setting up the prize table, goodie bags, and the ever-beloved FREE table. One by one, our crew of quilters docked, claiming seats, unpacking machines, and digging through their goodie bags like kids on Christmas morning. Sandwiches, snacks, and a pint or two carried us through the first day of sewing and settling in.
Friday brought a flurry of fabric play. Some voyagers went ashore for sushi, while two lucky sailors ventured into town and snagged a vintage sewing machine from a local boatmaker. Dinner that evening was a grand feast at the Bridgewater Bistro—live music, fresh fish, pasta, and the warmth of good company. Then it was back to the community room for more late-night sewing, soundtracked by our shared playlist and belly laughs.
Saturday hit full speed with a day of dedicated sewing and, of course, our much-anticipated games. Left Right Center with fat quarters brought plenty of cheers and groans, and the Swap the Tote game where treasures exchanged hands. The evening turned into a raucous adventure when Sara Flynn led a mini improv sewing lecture, immediately followed by Stitch and Switch, a live sewing game alongside a screening of The Goonies. Scraps flew like cannon fire, and by the end of the night, we had crafted a baby quilt and a twin-sized charity quilt. Some brave souls even took a dip in the motel jacuzzi before returning to their machines.
Sunday came too soon. We spent the morning squeezing in last-minute stitches, exchanging hugs, and reluctantly packing up. Everyone left with new quilted treasures, armfuls of goodie bag loot, and hearts full of memories made with incredible quilt friends.
Until next year's voyage, my friends — may your bobbins stay full, your seams straight, and your hearts inspired.
The Knowledge Project: A Stitched Stand Against Censorship
A book can change a life. A book can challenge ideas, ignite conversations, and expand our understanding of the world. But what happens when access to knowledge is restricted?
We created The Knowledge Project, a collaborative quilt inspired by the Nea Onnim Adinkra symbol for knowledge, to confront this very issue. This quilt, stitched by many hands, is a visual protest against censorship—a striking bookshelf of banned books, each title hand-stitched onto fabric, coming together to form a powerful statement: Knowledge should not be denied.
A Symbol of Resistance
The quilt’s design was inspired by Adinkra symbols, motifs from the Gyaman people of Ghana and Ivory Coast that carry deep philosophical meanings. Historically printed on cloth for royal garments and ceremonies, these symbols are now widely recognized as representations of African heritage and wisdom. The Nea Onnim symbol—meaning *"he who does not know can learn"—*felt especially fitting for a project centered on banned books. Many of the books featured in this quilt tell stories of Black history, gender identity, social justice, and resistance—themes that are often targeted for removal from libraries and schools.
A Living Archive of Banned Books
Each spine on this quilt represents a banned or challenged book, stitched with care and defiance. Some are classics, some are contemporary, but all have faced censorship. Among them:
📖 The Hate U Give
📖 The 1619 Project
📖 Gender Queer
📖 To Kill a Mockingbird
📖 1984
📖 The Handmaid’s Tale
📖 Where the Wild Things Are
📖 Anne Frank
📖 Go Tell It on the Mountain
📖 The Perks of Being a Wallflower
...and many more *(full list below). Each title represents a fight for the freedom to read, to learn, and to share stories without fear.
Where to See the Quilt
The Knowledge Project Quilt will be exhibited June through July at the Collins Gallery in the Main Library of Portland, Oregon, as part of the Stitched Resistance and Unbound show. But its journey doesn’t stop there—this quilt is meant to be seen, to spark dialogue, and to stand as a reminder of what’s at stake when books are banned.
We are offering this quilt for display in bookstores, libraries, and community events to continue the conversation about censorship and the power of storytelling. If you are interested in hosting this quilt in your space, please reach out to us via email.
The Artists Behind the Stitches
This quilt would not exist without the talented hands and hearts that brought it to life. Artists from all over contributed their skills, ensuring that each book spine was not just sewn but honored.
A special thanks to: Michelle Fitzgerald, Berene Campbell, Carole Seubert, Chris Marchini, Marci Macfarlane, amy dame, Brittany Scott, Samantha Flores, Sara Flynn, Marcia Mersky, Michele Nichols, Kory Keller, Sandy Uhos, Casey Manley, Rebecca Dovi, Angel Van Note, Juandamarie Gikandi, Angie Reat, Kristine Millette
This quilt is more than fabric and thread—it is resistance, history, and a promise that knowledge will not be silenced.
📚 Want to help keep books accessible? Support your local libraries, bookstores, and banned book initiatives. Read freely. Share stories. Keep the conversation alive.
#TheKnowledgeProject #BannedBooks #QuiltingForChange #StitchedResistance #FreedomToRead #UnboundVoices
*We highly recommend checking out these books at your local library—not only to support public access to literature but also to stand against censorship by borrowing banned books. If you're looking to purchase a copy, consider stopping by your local independent bookstore and browsing their used section. Buying secondhand keeps these powerful stories circulating while supporting small businesses in your community. However you find them, these books deserve to be read, shared, and discussed!
Featured Banned Books: The Gay Agenda, Firekeeper’s Daughter, The Hate You Give, The 1619 Project, The Handmaid’s Tale, Another, GenderQueer, Where the Wild Things Are, Don’t Panic Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, The Light in the Attic, Goosebumps, To Kill a Mockingbird, Animal Farm, Speak, Anne Frank, The Giver, Go Tell it on the Mountain, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, Catch-22, Catcher in the Rye, Little Red Riding Hood, And Tango Makes Three, Sulwe, 1984, Milk & Honey, Gossip Girl, The Witches, Wings.
Wool Appliqué: A Step-by-Step Guide to Raw Edge Technique
Welcome to the world of wool appliqué as the final part in our 2024 series of applique techniques! This versatile and forgiving quilting technique is perfect for creating lush textural designs. With this tutorial, we're keeping costs low and creativity high, making it accessible for all quilt artists. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
As with most quilting techniques, there are many ways to approach raw edge wool appliqué. Here’s a low-cost option:
Essential Supplies:
A marking tool (like a pencil or fabric marker)
Access to a printer (to print your templates)
Fabric for the background (a solid or subtle print works well)
Fabric for template shapes (scraps of wool from sweaters, scarves, or blazers; knits like old t-shirts also work)
Freezer paper
Bonus Supplies:
A lightbox or a window for tracing templates
Chipboard, cereal box, or cardboard for sturdy reusable templates
Step 2: Preparing Your Background Fabric
Choose a contrasting fabric for your background. Press it and cut it to 20" x 20". The finished block will trim down to 18.5" x 18.5". Next, gather scraps for your template shapes—a mug, sweater, dots, and snowflakes are excellent starting points.
Step 3: Felting Your Wool
Felt your wool to ensure it doesn’t shrink later. Here’s how:
Hot Wash: Soak your wool in a sink of hot water or run it through a hot washing machine cycle. Rinse in cold water.
Dry: Use a dryer to make it soft and pliable.
Pro Tip: Wash similar colors together to prevent bleeding. Unsure if your wool is fully felted? Felting it again won’t hurt!
Step 4: Tracing and Cutting Shapes
Reverse Your Pattern: Check if the pattern template is already reversed. If not, use a lightbox or window to trace it in reverse.
Trace on Freezer Paper: Trace each shape onto freezer paper, ensuring clear, bold lines.
Cut Around the Line: Cut just outside the traced lines.
Fuse and Cut Precisely: Iron the freezer paper (paper side up) onto the correct color of wool. Cut directly on the drawn lines.
Peel and Arrange: Once cooled, peel off the freezer paper and arrange your pieces on the background fabric using your pattern as a guide.
Step 5: Securing and Sewing
Pin or baste your shapes in place, ensuring at least a 1/2” seam allowance around the block’s edges. Now comes the fun part: sewing by hand! Here are your options:
Thread Choices: Match your thread to the wool or choose contrasting colors for a bold look.
Stitch Styles: Use a blanket stitch for a classic finish, or experiment with wide, messy stitches in bright neon threads for a modern twist.
Bonus Resources: Watch the Experts
Expand your skills by watching these helpful video tutorials:
Step 6: Finishing Your Block
Stitch around each appliqué shape, ensuring the edges are secure. Take creative liberty with your stitching style to make your block uniquely yours. Once finished, admire your completed 18.5” x 18.5” appliqué block ready to be joined into a larger project or displayed as a standalone piece.
Happy stitching!
Blog post and pattern created by Sara Flynn
Exploring Modern Applique Block of the Month 2024
Needle Turn Appliqué: A Classic Technique for Quilt Enthusiasts
Needle turn appliqué is a timeless technique cherished by quilt-makers for its elegance and versatility. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting out, mastering this method can elevate your quilting projects to new heights of craftsmanship. In this blog post, we'll delve into the art of needle turn appliqué, provide resources to get you started and inspire you to create stunning quilt designs.
What is Needle Turn Appliqué?
Needle turn appliqué involves hand-sewing fabric shapes onto a background fabric, creating a smooth, seamless look without visible stitches. This technique is ideal for adding intricate designs, curves, and organic shapes to quilts, offering endless creative possibilities.
Getting Started: Essential Tools and Materials
Before diving into your first needle turn appliqué project, gather these essential tools and materials:
Sharp scissors: Precision cutting is key.
Needles: Choose fine, sharp needles for smooth stitching.
Thread: Opt for thread that matches your fabric for seamless blending.
Fabric: High-quality cotton or appliqué-specific fabric.
Templates: We recommend using easy-to-use templates like the ones provided in our resource section below.
Step-by-Step Guide to Needle Turn Appliqué
Prepare Your Fabric: Wash, press, and cut your fabric into manageable pieces.
Trace and Cut Templates: Use our easy-to-use templates to trace and cut out your desired shapes.
Position and Pin: Arrange your fabric shapes on the background fabric, pinning them in place.
Needle Turn Appliqué Technique:
Fold under the seam allowance of your fabric shape with your needle as you sew.
Use small, even stitches to secure the folded edge to the background fabric.
Finishing Touches: Continue stitching until all shapes are appliquéd, then press your work to set the stitches.
Video Tutorial: Learn from the Experts
For visual learners, we recommend watching this informative video tutorial on needle turn appliqué. It provides invaluable tips and techniques straight from experienced quilters.
Templates for Your Projects
Download our easy-to-use templates to kick-start your needle-turn appliqué journey. These templates are designed to simplify the tracing and cutting process, allowing you to focus on perfecting your stitching.
Share Your Creations
We can't wait to see what you create with needle turn appliqué! Share your projects with us on social media using #NeedleTurnApplique. Your work may inspire others to try this classic quilting technique.
Final Thoughts
Needle turn appliqué is more than just a technique; it's a way to infuse your quilts with artistry and personal flair. Whether you're embellishing a quilt block or creating a masterpiece, embrace the slow stitching process and enjoy the meditative rhythm it offers.
Ready to elevate your quilting skills? Dive into needle turn appliqué today and discover the joy of creating intricate, handcrafted designs.
Exploring Modern Appliqué Techniques: A Step-by-Step Guide to Bias Tape Appliqué
Welcome to the exciting world of modern appliqué techniques! In today's blog post, we're delving into the art of bias tape appliqué. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting out on your sewing journey, bias tape appliqué offers a versatile and visually stunning way to add dimension and personality to your projects. For this year’s block of the month program, we are exploring a different modern applique technique each quarter. There is help available at all guild sew days and every Sunday in the small group meetup on zoom, posted in the members-only section, and held from 2 pm to 6 pm weekly.
Step 1: Creating Bias Tape
To kick off our journey into bias tape appliqué, let's start by creating our own bias tape. Begin by grabbing a fat quarter of fabric and follow along with this comprehensive tutorial on how to make a continuous strip of bias tape. [hyperlink to the tutorial video].
Step 2: Preparing Your Background Fabric
Next, select a contrasting background fabric for your appliqué project. Ensure it's pressed and cut out to measure 20" x 20" (remember, the finished block will be trimmed down to 18.5" x 18.5").
Step 3: Watching the Experts
Now, let's draw inspiration and gain valuable insights from the experts in bias tape appliqué. Check out this incredible video tutorial by Latifah Saafir [ hyperlink to the video]. Latifah's expertise and innovative techniques will guide you through the process, from start to finish. Check out this one too (link to the video)
Step 4: Applying Bias Tape Appliqué
With your bias tape prepared and background fabric ready, it's time to dive into the appliqué process. Follow Latifah's instructions closely as you begin to apply the bias tape to your background fabric. Experiment with different designs, shapes, and patterns to bring your vision to life.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once you've completed your bias tape appliqué design, take a moment to admire your handiwork. Trim the finished block down to 18.5" x 18.5" for a polished look. Consider adding additional hand-quilting stitches to enhance the overall aesthetic of your project.
Conclusion:
Congratulations on exploring the art of bias tape appliqué! We hope this step-by-step guide has inspired you to explore new techniques and unleash your creativity in your quilting and sewing endeavors. Stay tuned for more exciting tutorials and tips on modern appliqué techniques. Happy stitching! If you are posting on social media please add the hashtag #portlandMQG so we can see and celebrate your work!
P.S. As promised here is an advanced applique project once you have gotten some practice in. This advanced applique project is a map of the best bike paths in Portland. To create a larger outline for this applique project we went to the free website, blockposter.com, and had it expanded into 6 pages for easy printable copies at home, then taped them together to create the full layout.
Unleash Your Creativity: Ultra Mini Quilt Show at PDX Flag!
Attention all quilting enthusiasts! We're thrilled to invite you to participate in our upcoming Ultra Mini Quilt Show at the PDX Flag near SE 57th Ave & Rhone St. This unique event promises a delightful blend of artistic expression, community engagement, and the joy of ultra mini quilts.
Event Details:
Deadline for Drop-Off: Thursday, April 18, 2024, at our in-person guild meeting.
Exhibition Duration: The show will be closed for swapping for approximately one week, reopening on April 27.
Pick-Up Information: Retrieve your small quilt on April 27th at PDX Flag (near SE 57th and Rhone St). Any remaining quilts will be available for trading with other art pieces by gallery attendees. We may also showcase additional mini quilts received during this time.
Event Highlights:
Location: PDX Flag, known for its charming diorama and elaborate themes, is the perfect backdrop for this free little art gallery.
Participate and Engage: Leave your tiny art, take art, and enjoy the diverse range of mini quilts on display. It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow artists and art enthusiasts.
Swap and Trade: Our event encourages the spirit of exchange! Swap your quilt for another masterpiece, fostering a sense of community and shared creativity.
How to Get Involved:
Create Your Mini Masterpiece: Let your imagination run wild and craft a unique ultra mini quilt. The size may be small, but the possibilities are endless! Sizes 1” x 1” up at 2.5” x 2.5”
Drop Off at Guild Meeting: Ensure your quilt is ready by Thursday, April 18, for the in-person guild meeting drop-off. Or mail your ultra mini to Stephanie, the mailing address is posted in the members-only section.
Attend the Show: Join us on April 27 at PDX Flag for the grand reopening. Witness the vibrant display, meet fellow artists, and explore the captivating world of ultra mini quilts.
Mark your calendars and be part of this exciting Ultra Mini Quilt Show at PDX Flag. Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting your artistic journey, this event promises inspiration, creativity, and a whole lot of fun. Let's celebrate the beauty of mini quilts and the artistic spirit that binds us all.
For any inquiries or to express your interest, please contact Stephanie at stephanie.gombos@gmail.com
We look forward to seeing your incredible mini quilts at PDX Flag!
Make it sew tiny!
Ultra mini quilts are as small as 1” x 1”up to 2.5” x 2.5”
2024 Fresh Merch Offering
🌟✨ Exciting News! New Merch Alert! ✨🌟
Hey PMQG fam! 🌈 We're thrilled to unveil our latest collection offered by one of our members, through Phantom Chicken Studios, in Portland Oregon! 🛍️✨
🌟 From cozy hoodies and shirts to stylish aprons, we've got something for everyone. Explore our fresh designs and treat yourself or find the perfect gift for a fellow Portland MQG enthusiast.
🚀 Hurry, these designs are flying off the shelves! Don't miss out on adding a touch of quilt guild love to your wardrobe. These are available for pre-order now and the first run will be delivered at the next in-person quilt guild meeting for free or shipped out to you.
🛒 Shop now: https://rb.gy/ij08xt
Want some more information? Here is a more detailed write-up from the maker herself!
Hi friends! My name is Gail and I run Phantom Chicken Screen Printing with my partner Gregg. We’ve been printing t-shirts for bands, events, teams, and other groups here in Portland since the mid-90s.
I’m also a long-time PMQG member! I love quilting. Being a part of this guild has been very inspirational for me. At the first meeting, I ever went to, I learned about hexies, and how to make them…it changed my world! I started a blog back then, and I still post about quilting.
I am excited to offer some hand-printed PMQG shirts, hoodies, and even some aprons for the guild!
First Class shipping is included in the price, and all pricing is size-inclusive! (No additional fee for XXL’s)
We do not inventory shirts here. Shirts are ordered as needed and we print after they arrive. There are no samples to try on.
There are size charts in each listing. Since these will be made-to-order, we cannot offer exchanges - please double check size.
*Mock-ups are not actual photos - actual shirt and ink colors may look different. Actual image print size = approx. 8.5” wide x 5.25” tall.
We plan to set up and print before each in-person meeting in 2024. Since these items are made-to-order, there will be some time between ordering and actual delivery. Estimated Ship Dates are in each listing.
If a particular item is out of stock when we go to place an apparel order, I will contact you with different options to choose from before we print.
If you have any questions about ordering, please let me know!
