While I was at Quilt Market, I was talking with some of the quilting industry
leaders about the direction the industry is heading. Most agree that there has been an infusion of a “fresh new look” in recent fabric collections, and that the appeal for quilting fabrics has gradually broadened to a larger demographic market.
Simply stated, there are more fabric collections presented (at shows like Quilt Market) that a new and younger generation of sewers, craftsters and quilters love.
And that is keeping the quilting/sewing/fabric industry fresh and alive.
And the one thing that almost all agree on is that Amy Butler pretty much single-handedly changed the quilting fabric industry. She has opened the door wide open and has created a whole new category of fabric.
Her fabric lines are vintage and sophisticated. Contemporary reproductions in exciting colorways. “Youngers”, as well as “Olders” and “In Betweeners” (like me), are drawn to her designs. Just go see for yourself. But, don’t forget about her quilt, bag and clothing patterns.
Industry newcomer, Joel Dewberry, agrees. Joel was a rookie presenter, at Quilt Market, but his three fabric lines: "Aviary", "Manzanita" and "Chestnut Hill" made a big splash. His lines were among the things that “wow-ed” the quilt market trade.
Says Joel, “Amy has been incredibly influential in the industry. She has paved the way for contemporary designers like myself to be accepted and she has created an excitement for a fresh approach, she is just amazing—and incredibly nice.”
“Feedback from quilt shop owners has been wonderful,” said Joel.
I will be featuring Joel and his work is the next few weeks and Joel will be guest writing as well. This father of soon-to-be-four children lives in
ED NOTE: I noticed today 5/20/07 that Joel's entire collection is posted on Westminister's website. Take a looksie.
comments
Wow, wouldn't your 'Rails and Squares' look fabulous done in any of these collections! I think I'm holding out for Manzanita...er, no Chestnut Hill...or maybe Aviary!
Posted by: Mary Ann | May 17, 2007 6:55 AM
Looking so forward to hearing more from Joel. His collections are absolutely gorgeous and he had the best booth at market! It's so wonderful to see such high end design in more affordable quilting fabrics. It's an exciting time for this industry.
Posted by: Tanya | May 17, 2007 8:16 AM
wow!!! Love those fabrics. Can't wait to find out more about him!
Posted by: Megan/creativeoutletdesigns | May 17, 2007 4:11 PM
I am already onto Joel, and eagerly awaiting the debut of his line. Yes, Amy has inspired many designers, but also cleared a path for more brilliance.
Posted by: sara, the wine makers wife | May 17, 2007 8:13 PM
I am in love!! These new designers who find the perfect blend of vinatge/retro with hip and color schemes to knock one on their booty is SO VERY INSPIRING!
I see them everywhere - market, catalogs, magazines, blogs ....etc....
As the 30 year old daughter of a qult shop owner in a small city in Southern Texas I am saddened by the lack of openminded quilters/crafters. We tried a couple of bolts of a specific line that I loved and people openly said they thought it was ugly.
OUCH!!
I thought I always wanted to take over my mom's quilt/fabric/craft store but after watching the local guild members get up and leave during a speaker with something "out of their comfort zone" I have been appauled and feel lost in this area.
These same guild and area crafters will sigh and ask me why the youngsters won't join up or stay...
I don't have the heart to tell them -
we want to, but we want to make our own blazing paths just as they did!
e.
sorry to ramble - love this new direction of color and design and feel right at home (at home or at places like quiltersbuzz.com)
thanks for such and awesome site!
e.
Posted by: erin mac | May 18, 2007 8:00 AM
I was at Spring '07 quilt market and got to meet Amy and Joel--both so humble, friendly, down-to-earth, and just so talented. They just hung out at their booths and spoke with people walking by, I was amazed! They are both such and inspiration to me and it was the highlight of my trip getting to talk with them and hear about their inspirations, thoughts, stories. Anyhow, a shop owner I met at market bought a bunch of fabric from both Amy and Joel's lines (I would have too, but it was my first market, and I was trying to pace myself and the budget...ran out of money quick--not to mention it's all so gorgeous, I couldn't just by a couple bolts, I would have needed it all!), and I had the priviledge of quilting a shop sample for her....check it out on my blog!
Posted by: Brandi | August 5, 2007 11:54 PM