nspiration for this 68" w x 68" h quilt was gathered from Janeen van Niekerk of South Africa, as well as, the Sheppard's extensive travels throughout Africa.
This art quilt as made for the 2020 Mirabel Charity Auction sponsoring the Foothills Foodbank. It is constructed out of 667 separate pieces using the Foundation Paper Piecing Method. Fabric is placed on the reverse side of the pattern and assembled in a "mirrored image."
In patchwork, foundation paper piecing was initially a method used to stabilize tiny pieces of scrap fabric that were stitched together. It first became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries in England, although a 15th-century Italian piece, "The Impruneta Cushion" owned by Antonio degli Agli, may have used foundation piecing. A similar process in Britain is English paper piecing.
This 40" w x 50" h quilt uses hand-dyed cotton from Thailand. Should you choose to wash it in cold water, the quilt will take on a less flat and more vintage look. Always use caution, as colors may bleed. Kimono Silk Thread by Superior Threads was used in the free-motion quilting process.
The quilt is titled, signed and dated on the reverse side. An optional hanging sleeve is attached.
Beautifully illustrated children's books by M.R. Nelson, Christina McDonald, and Dr. Seuss depicting Zebra's and a stuffed zebra named "Duncan" completes the set.
Many thanks to Ms. S. R. for her continued generosity. "Duncan" is to live as an honored office display.
Sharyl Sheppard 2020
https://www.sharylsheppard.com/
https://www.inscottsdale.com/
