Debbie Becker Matthie’s family tree grows on fabric — and it can be seen as part of the 28th Annual Quilt Show on Friday and Saturday at Westerner Park.
The Innisfail-area quilter has zig-zag stitched the names of her family members on a large crossword-style quilt she made for her grandmother’s 100th birthday about five years ago.
Although her grandma has since died, her name — Madeline — and her grandpa’s name — Wilfred — remain interconnected at the top of the quilt, followed by the names of their children, their sons-and daughters-in-law, and grandchildren.
As the show’s featured quilter, Becker Matthie will also be showing 10 other large quilts and about a dozen smaller ones at Parkland Pavilion. They will be among 200 quilts on display, created by about 50 central Alberta quilters.
Viewers might notice that Becker Matthie’s style has evolved over two decades, from traditional patterns to more free-form designs, including a spiral heart.
“Lately, I’ve been inspired to do something different,” she admitted — for the novelty and challenge of it.
Becker Matthie started sewing garments for her children. But as her son and daughter grew up, she switched to quilting to create something of more lasting, sentimental value.
The member of the Central Alberta Quilters’ Guild, and a founding member of Innisfail’s Wild Rows Country Quilters’ Guild, feeds her “fabric addiction” out of a sewing room that contains a regular sewing machine and an embroidery machine.
“My hands love the break,” said Becker Matthie, who otherwise does hand embroidery, cross stitch, crochet and knitting.
Besides the satisfaction of seeing a fabric design come together, she believes quilting has also given her a great social outlet, as well as another way to help local charities.
The quilt show also includes guest lecturer Laura Cole, popular on YouTube with her Sew Very Easy videos. There will be door prizes and demonstrations.
For more information, please visit ticketsalberta.com.
lmichelin@reddeeradvocate.com
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