Kathy Dunigan

Pearl's Background:

I have been sewing since I was 6 years old, starting with embroidery. I received my first real sewing machine at the age of 12, and I replaced the machine's motor three times before I turned 16!

After starting out making clothes, I discovered quilting in 1991, and began teaching quilting a few years later. Then, in 1995, I learned appliqué and have since devoted most of my time to developing new appliqué techniques.  "My greatest contribution to the world of quilting is sharing my techniques"

I started my own pattern company in 1995 and have been publishing my designs since then. Because of my love for appliqué, and wanting to share my methods with others, I filmed my first video "Appliqué with Pearl" 2002 and then a DVD "Appliqué Techniques with Pearl" 2006. Additionally, I manufacture and sell my own appliqué products, i.e., Appliqué & Pressing Tool and Ultimate Appliqué Template Paper. I currently self publish and distribute 60 patterns and 7 appliqué products. I hope that these products and my patterns will inspire others to try hand appliqué and quilting -- it can be easier than it looks

Mexican Hat

Baltimore Halloween

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       Annie Smith

Website:

Annie Smith began sewing at the age of 8 and was a quilter by the time her first child was born.

Annie lectures and teaches quilting internationally. In 2005, she began “Quilting Stash, the First Podcast for Quilters” where she talks about all things related to quilting and interviews her quilting heroes and is celebrating her 4th anniversary this year.   Annie dreams about quilts at night, in-color, and thinks she will never have the time to make all of the quilts she dreams about.  She is currently working on a book about appliqué.  

Annie’s technical expertise takes many forms, although fabric selection and fine machine appliqué are her specialties. Annie develops a quick rapport with the audience and immediately immerses herself in tales every quilter can relate to and provides valuable insight along the way.

A native Californian, Annie lives with her husband and two of their three children, who all quilt and contribute to her podcast and to her quilting obsession.

Annie’s teaching and lecture style is light-hearted, full of laughter and warmth. Every audience member will relate to the things of which Annie speaks. In her lectures and workshops, Annie crosses boundaries of age and experience and displays the love she has for this craft as few others can.

West of Baltimore

Garden Quilt

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    Cathy Van Bruggen

I began sewing at a very early age. I remember sewing doll clothes by hand while watching my mother create costumes. Later, I was hired by Catalina Swimwear as a production manager and sample maker. Unable to work outside the home while raising five children, I designed custom bridal wear. In 1970, we developed a family business called The Outfitters, a retail chain for women's clothing. When I retired in 1995, I began quilting as a hobby. By using timesaving techniques in quilt making, I developed Appliqué the Easy Way™. I enjoy creating botanically correct appliqué featuring flowers, birds, and woodland creatures. My workshops feature all my original designs and published patterns.

I was nominated Teacher of The Year by The Professional Quilter Magazine in 2004 and 2009. My designs have been featured in The Appliqué Society Newsletter. Recently, I was recognized in Quilter’s Home Magazine.

Teaching has always been rewarding for me. In the future, I look forward to continuing teaching my techniques and original designs.

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