Songs of Freedom wins quilt challenge

The art quilt Freedom’s Spirit made by Jennifer Mitchell took first place at the Songs of Freedom 2015 Quilt Challenge. Learn more about the challenge here. This event was a way to celebrate milestones for Ballaarat Quilters and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (M.A.D.E). Located in Australia, both groups turned twenty this year. Congratulations.

Now, here’s what the judges had to say about Jennifer’s creation, shown above.

The judges felt that the specific story behind this quilt was very powerful and poignant, and one that is still extremely potent today. Carefully considered composition and excellent workmanship combined to create a strong art piece.

If you live close enough to M.A.D.E., you can see all the challenge quilts in person. Click the link below to learn more.

Celebrating Democracy Quilt Exhibition, at M.A.D.E.

{Image credit: Posted with permission from a Songs of Freedom representative}

Every quilter hits a creative lull from time to time. Maybe you’ve finished a big project and aren’t sure what to start next, or maybe life has been so busy that your sewing machine hasn’t seen daylight in weeks. Fat Quarter Shop’s Precut of the Week has a way of jumpstarting inspiration right when you need it.

Each Monday offers a little surprise — a curated precut bundle that might open the door to a new idea. Sometimes the colors speak to you, sometimes the scale of the prints, and sometimes just the ease of grabbing a coordinated bundle is enough to reignite your creativity.

For even more inspiration, these internal articles pair beautifully with precut sewing:

I love how precuts simplify the process. No fussing with measurements or debating which prints match — just open the bundle, choose your pattern, and enjoy the rhythm of sewing. For a creative reset, charm packs and layer cakes are especially good because they spark quick wins.

If you’re feeling stuck, try browsing this roundup for scrap-friendly inspiration:

Scrap quilts to try

Let each Monday be a gentle reminder that creativity is always waiting for you, even in the smallest moments.

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