As you can imagine, I was amazed to be awarded first prize for my quilt Angels, which you can see here in all its glory:
There were between 25 to 30 entries in the South West Quilters' Challenge. My quilt was made from dupion silks and remnants from silk dresses that I had made for various people while living in Australia ( I am a squirrel and never throw anything away!). I liked the idea of lots of sparkle - after all, it is Christmas - so added couched silver thread around all of the blocks then threw in some stars and other bits of embellishment on the appliqued angels. All made on my trusty Bernina 1230 sewing machine with some stars embroidered using my Janome 10,000. I had originally decided to have only two angels but somehow the other four spread their wings and joined in. I made it over a period of two to three months on and off. I was surprised, and of course thrilled, to win first prize.
The annual SWQ Christmas party and get together with two speakers (morning and afternoon) takes place at Exeter Racecourse Centre every year and is always - despite the atrocious weather this year - well attended, with 200 or so packing the hall, everyone contributing food which makes for a superb lunch. It's topped off by the wonderful Christmas cake provided every year by the great Dorrie Shorthouse, liberally doused with calvados and tasting truly amazing. A great day out and not to be missed.
Details from the six angels:
