STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE AND EXPLORE NEW CREATIVE AVENUES!

EMBRACE THE SEWING MACHINE IN NEW WAYS 

As quilters and textile artists, we often find comfort in the familiar—the hum of our sewing machines, the rhythm of piecing fabrics together and the satisfaction of completing a well-executed quilt. But what if we dared to step outside our comfort zones and explore new creative possibilities? What if we pushed our artistic boundaries and experimented with different techniques, materials and even other forms of art? 

EXPERIMENT WITH DIFFERENT TEXTURES 

TRY FREE MOTION MACHINE EMBROIDERY OR UPCYCLED FASHION 

For those who love their sewing machines, why not delve into free-motion machine embroidery? This technique allows you to create stunning thread paintings, intricate textures and unique embellishments that add depth and dimension to your quilts.  

FREE MOTION MACHINE EMBROIDERY

If you’re feeling even bolder, consider revisiting dressmaking—yes, I know, many of us have sworn never to make clothes again! But what if we approached it differently this time? Imagine designing stylish, tailored garments using upcycled clothing—turning forgotten pieces into sustainable fashion while reducing waste. Now that’s a challenge worth taking on! 

CREATE TAILORED GARMENTS

EXPERIMENT WITH NEW TECHNIQUES IN ART QUILTING 

If sewing remains your passion, explore new techniques in art quilting. Experiment with raw-edge appliqué, mixed media or couching. Try incorporating unusual materials like yarn, netting or painted fabric. The world of textile art is vast and there is always something new to discover. 

EXPERIMENT WITH COUCHING

EXPLORE OTHER ARTISTIC MEDIUMS 

If you are ready to step away from the sewing machine, why not try painting in watercolours? Or sketching with pencil or charcoal? Exploring different artistic disciplines can enhance your quilting by improving your sense of composition, shading and texture. 

SKETCH WITH PENCILS AND CHARCOAL

Plus, learning something new is invigorating—it recharges your creative energy and keeps you inspired. I got as far as purchasing watercolour paper, paint and paintbrushes and then I got side-tracked….back to my sewing machine! 

LEARN TO PAINT WITH WATERCOLOURS 

CHALLENGE YOURSELF BEYOND ART 

But why stop at art? Challenge yourself in other ways—learn a new language, pick up a musical instrument or learn how to play bridge! Growth happens when we step beyond what we know well. It’s easy to fall into a rut, to keep doing what’s familiar because it’s safe. But true creativity flourishes when we take risks, embrace the unknown and allow ourselves to learn and grow. 

TAKE THE LEAP! 

I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone. Try something new, experiment, play and most importantly, have fun on this creative journey. Who knows where it will take you?