COME VISIT US!

WELCOME

QUILTER OF THE MONTH

More than 50 years ago, Mary’s Mom and Mother-in-law began teaching her the craft of quilting. Mary reminisces, “My first quilt was made when I was pregnant with my first baby. I embroidered nursery rhyme blocks and made a baby quilt….My very first class was the log cabin quilt. I was asked by a very dear friend (Valene Schnieders) to join her in the class. She showed me how to use the ruler and rotary cutter…Sure made things easier. Before that I made my own templates and cut each out separate. I have taken many classes since and learn something new at each.”

Like many quilters, she has made gifting quilts a family tradition.  Mary stated, “I have seven children and each received a couple quilts when they got married…21 grandchildren each received a baby quilt–some with embroidery blocks or panels and some pieced.  They also get  a large quilt for Christmas the year after they graduate from high school.  I have 8 great-grand babies and have given them a receiving blanket.”

Mary also commented she has “made lots of other quilts, throws, wall hangings and table toppers.  One special throw made after my husband passed is from his shirts and jeans. Thanks to daughter-in-law Julie who helped. It’s a real treasure.” Be sure to stop for a look at his quilt displayed in our Quilter of the month window. 

Mary also commented, “I have made several T- shirt quilts with one being made for my son Glen who is a Cedar Rapids firefighter”.  This quilt’s usual home is on Glen’s bed at the firehouse where he works–however this month, we are privileged to have it on display.

In addition to honoring her family firefighter, Mary has also donated 7 Quilts of Valor. Her donations do not stop there however. Like a typical quilter, throughout the quilt making process, Mary accumulates lots of scraps–so of course she turned them into quilts and lap throws.  These quilts she donates to “Sleep in Heavenly Peace”, a non-profit organization that provides beds and bedding to needy families with children.

Over the years, Mary has been inspired with ideas, and has learned many techniques from friends who quilt, and classes she’s taken. Mary was a member of N.E. Iowa Heartland Quilting Guild for 25 years where she enjoyed sharing the quilting experience with other members. She was often inspired by guild members during show and tell, monthly presentations, special speakers and trunk shows.

Mary’s favorite fabrics are Kansas Troubles (Civil War reproductions), Brights and Batiks. She enjoys patterns from Missouri Star, Villa rosa and Fons & Porter. Mary’s favorite technique in the quilting process is piecing with specialty rulers.  So on Mary’s cutting table you’ll find Quilters Select Rulers as well as the Bloc Loc Ruler.

Finally, Mary concludes her quilting memoir with these words, “Quilting has been my passion for years and I admire all the quilters out there.  I feel very honored to have been asked to be Quilter of the Month.” 

The Quiltmaker’s Shoppe has enjoyed introducing you

to Mary Heims– our February  2023 Quilter of the Month!  

​

​