Please, Pass Those Bite-size Candies

This weekend Harriet Hargrave, a quilting pioneer taught in North Carolina.  Harriet encouraged the revolution of machine quilting. Prior to Harriet’s acceptance in the industry, quilting by machine was frowned upon and was considered non-traditional. Harriet mastered the art of using the electric needle (sewing machine) to make fabulously stitched heirloom quilts. She fought and won battles that allowed machine quilting to have the acceptance it does today. She also wrote the first book on Heirloom Machine Quilting, which is currently in its 4th edition. She paved the way for people like me, who don’t have interest in sewing by hand.

I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn from Harriet. Amongst the drama in my life this week, I was able to attend Harriet’s 2-day class on Heirloom Quilting. At times, it was difficult to make the long drive to Greensboro. I don’t want to make heirloom quilts, so I debated about even signing up for the class. However, I teach machine quilting and I know any new knowledge I gain will improve my teaching. Oh boy…did I gain, this class was more than worth my efforts.

I like to know facts, I like to know what works, but I like to also know that I don’t have the quilt police watching me with an evil eye. I won on all counts. I have never met a teacher…ever…that focused on the science of learning a new skill, but this is how Harriet teaches. She knows her subject, but she also knows the reality of making it work. There’s no magic dust. It is focused practice that builds on skills which makes you learn. It was amazing for me to hear her say that machine quilting is mental activity. You teach your brain and your hands will follow. Well, yes!…why didn’t I know this? This is how I learn. My brain struggles learning new multi-step physical processes. I need my instructions in bite-size candy bites, not the entire King-size bar. For this reason, you won’t find me in aerobic classes…by brain can’t keep up with the instructor. I’m a klutz!

Because of the knowledge I gained this week, I will become a better teacher and better quilter.  Hopefully, I’ll be able to attend another of Harriet’s classes…maybe her boot camp at her shop in Colorado. I am honored to have learned from such a pro and pioneer. In the mean time, let’s partake in eating the bite size candy?