March Featured Sewist: Carole Kiger

Carole heads up Project Linus for Monongalia County and participates in a few local guilds as well as teaching classes at some local quilt shops. I'm not sure that I know anyone who quilts more frequently than Carole! When I first met her, she proclaimed she despised foundation paper piecing. Now she uses this technique so proficiently, you'd think it was her first love. Carole does all of this in addition to working full time (plus!) in IT for WVU and taking care of her dogs and her home.

Carole Kiger

~What types of things do you sew?

Primarily quilts, but I’m starting to sew totes and other small items

Bookcase Quilt

~When did you first begin sewing?

I made my first small quilt about 18 years ago but have been sewing as a hobby for about 10 years.

Pink Quilt

~What was your inspiration to learn sewing?

My grandmother was a quilter and made quilts for all the grandkids.  I became involved in several charity projects that revolve around quilting as well.

Carole Kiger Quilt

~Do you have a favorite designer of patterns, fabrics, etc.? If not, what general themes or colors do you typically gravitate toward?

I like a wide variety of patterns and fabrics.  I tend to make more kids quilts so brighter colors and prints are always fun.

Jungle Quilt

~Tell us a little about the project you are most proud of or your favorite.

I have several projects I enjoyed making but one of my favorite projects to make was my parents’ 50th anniversary quilt.

Anniversary Quilt

~What is the one sewing tool (besides your machine or hands) that you would hate to be without?

I’d have to go with my seam ripper!  I use it frequently.

~Do you have a tip or trick that you would like to share with everyone?

Try something new often, even if you have tried it before.  Take a class even if you know the technique. Every class I’ve ever taken has offered me a tidbit of information I didn’t know before even if I was familiar with the pattern or technique.  Meeting and spending time with fellow quilters is an added bonus!

Elizabeth Hartman Dinosaur Quilt