Member Profile - Pat

This member of Fyber Cafe began her fiber experiences very early in life during WWII using woolen yarns and knitting needles to construct her Christmas mittens for the Christmas family. In junior high any interest in sewing was quickly stifled by a very stern home economics teacher! While at the University of Washington an appreciation for arts was sparked by a design class and frequent visits to many museums and galleries in Seattle. In the early sixties the sewing machine became a family item. This led to "Stretch and Sew for the Family and Beyond!" An employment transfer for her husband resulted in the transfer of a family of six to Alaska. This move presented many and varied quilt making adventures, including participation in a very active quilt group. Often well known fabric artists would come to Anchorage to share expertise with the guild. In Wasilla, Alaska a batik class was held presenting new techniques. This led to several guild members participating in a sub group with an "out of the box" approach to fiber art. Since retirement as a dietitian, passions for family and travel have led to many new family members and family travel to the Pacific Rim and beyond. A recent trip to New Zealand has increased new interest in fiber use. Mentoring grand children at the sewing machine, construction of grand children's quilts and a new digital camera consume much of the free time. The intrigue of new techniques and materials shared monthly at meetings adds to the adventure of Fyber Cafe members. Highlights for this member are the low immersion dyeing workshops, group critiques of our individual work, and group trips, such as those taken recently to Bandon and Coos Bay. The group support and eagerness to learn keep this group one you do not want to miss!