Evelyn Newman - My early memories include sewing with my grandmother who made quilts by hand from used clothing, or what we commonly call scraps. I remember helping her to make pillowcases from empty flour sacks. I was fascinated by the Singer sewing machine that she allowed me to push the lever when she used it. I remember having to thread the needle for her due to the fact that her vision was decreasing. When introduced to using a pattern and an electric machine in school I soon started to make some clothes for myself. My career as a nurse introduced me to those who crocheted and I quickly “picked-up” the habit of making afghans and ponchos for everyone. When asked about quilting I remembered those days of stitching by hand and quickly said no. My sister-in-law, however, has been persistent. She has taken me to quilt shows in numerous states. She has included me in the activities of her guild. My exposure to the art of quilting in these shows changed my concept of quilting. I once considered a quilt a utilitarian object and not a piece of art. Now that the artistic desires are piercing my awareness I have started to find my niche in the world of quilting. My first projects have been small, a pillow whose design was created by guild member Gwen Sinclair, a wall hanging, a square for the guild raffle quilt, some stenciling and stamping projects. Of course, I have assisted my sister-in-law in tying, and completing some of her unfinished projects. I am still learning the basics and exploring various techniques. I’m buying fabric and books. I’m looking for that perfect sewing machine! I look forward to learning from my guild members and producing works of art.