As we dive into the second week of the Olympics, many of you are thinking about making a quilt to commemorate these London games.
Here at eQuilter we've had fun collecting British and London themed prints, along with the various sports represented in the Olympics.
For those who have traveled to this beautiful city, there are many art and architecture treasures that can inspire our quiltmaking. One of my favorite places in London is Westminster Abbey. There are so many layers of history here, that you just can't take it all in on your first visit.
You may be familiar with Norah McMeeking's book Bella Bella Quilts, which translates the marble inlaid floors created by the Cosmati family, into beautiful quilt designs. (I am meeting Norah at a very special quilt show in Rome, in late September…stay tuned for more details in upcoming newsletters!)
The center of Westminster Abbey has a complex 13th century Cosmati inlaid pavement, but it is usually covered by a carpet to protect these precious ancient marble inlays…unless there happens to be a coronation or a royal wedding! One of the times I visited, it was uncovered and under restoration. We watched the conservators on their hands and knees with toothbrushes, bright lights, and magnifying goggles.
If you visit the octagonal Chapter House in the East Cloister behind the Cathedral, you can't help but notice these beautifully preserved Medieval tiles. Here is a shot of some of my favorite tiles in that building, and to me they look like they could be a beautiful inspiration for an applique block, don't you think?
But wait, there's more! Just when the last of the athletes and fans drift out of London and the city returns to normal (the "new normal" – post Olympics), quilters from all over Europe will flood into Birmingham for the Festival of Quilts.
I will be there on Saturday and Sunday, Aug 18-19. Last year in August while I was in London and Birmingham, the riots were happening! This year I hope to find England basking in a mellow post-Olympic glow.
