The Religious Education came to an end with a move, and a life changes. All through this there was quilting and message boards including rec-crafts-textiles-quilting, Alex Anderson Message Board, Quilts Your Way, this blog, The Quilt Show to name a few. On each one of these sites I learned and shared quilterly information. One of the most important things I learned is “your quilt, your rules” essentially that there is always another way of getting to what you want for your quilt. (Otherwise known as Quilting is a Beautiful and Complicated Art) Anyway. I had no intention of teaching adults – there’s a different mindset. Something changed though, a friend asked the question, “when are you going to start teaching”, and I had to think really think.
But
I have a secret
There is another reason I like to teach
A reason that is a bit more shocking
You see I love to watch the look on a quilters face when I give them permission.
That startled
slightly freaked out look
when I give them permission to do WHATEVER they want
it’s like the look, she sheer overwhelming, joyful look when looking at the Kona Solids card – the possibilities are endless and finding the right shade and tone perfect for the quilt.
And following that is this delighted moment of “Oh my Goodness she’s right and I DO have the skills to do it” look. I’ve seen that look over and over. I love that look. It’s my favorite look. Because in that look. In That moment there is confidence. Oh yes that is the look I strive for. One of my favorite things to say to a quilter is “You are a smart intelligent person, you can do this”.
Why does this make me so happy?
Why do I want This Look?
Because I know that fear.
I’ve given in to that fear.
And giving quilters permission
to do whatever they want
however they want
when ever they want
by teaching them how to use their machines
is the best thing ever.
Happy Quilting!
Teri
Take a pic of my quilt hanging!
Absolutely! I have a day scheduled to take pics and have fun!
Teri…..Precisely!!! “Permission” and “it’s ok” are my ‘mantra’ when speaking/teaching, also!!! Trying to dispel/get passed the “quilt police” notion is THE biggest breakthrough in a mindset!! I know it was for me…..beyond liberating and opening up the world of what can be because I want it to be!!!! This Saturday I will be doing such in the little town of Belle Fourche, SD. It will be (hopefully) an intimate group of 12 to 15. A mini-trunk show (where I “broke the rules” over and over) and micro-stippling demo at ‘The Bakery Fabrics’. All those “light bulb” moments just waiting to happen. The best to you in your teaching opportunities in Des Moines. I had hoped to get there but will be in a 2 day event in Spring Grove, MN, doing similar workshops. Such a privilege!!! Hugs………..
Wish I could HUG YOU right now after I read your article on Permission. I took a class from you at the MQX show i believe in Rhode Island and you are a very talented and special lady. God blessed you with a warm and loving soul and I am blessed to have connected with you; Looking forward to seeing you at the MQX show in 2014 in Manchester, NH.