Hello!
I’m Helen,
The creative behind “AND SEW I…”
Sewing is a vital part of my life, as essential as coffee, cuddles, and a comfy hoodie. It contributes to my mental well-being in ways both expected and surprising. Stick around for the rollercoaster that is AND SEW I… – there will be Foundation Paper Piecing, curves, and the occasional odd run. Yes, my run is definitely odd.
The name “AND SEW I…” originated from my desire to start captions to my photos with “AND SEW I…” instead of “BUT” to foster a more positive mindset, I’m always striving for positivity. Plus, I couldn’t resist the pun. I have a passion for designing Foundation Paper Piecing (FPP) patterns that are pictorial, three-dimensional, and bold. I love tackling complex and challenging projects, always pushing myself to improve. Sometimes I push myself too hard, but sharing the journey is what makes it all worthwhile.
I’m honoured to have won multiple awards at the Festival of Quilts in Birmingham in 2023 & 2024.
Want to stay up-to-dated on my latest projects, get a peek behind the scenes and maybe the odd discount code?
RECLAIMED RESISTANCE
Boudicca, the legendary & unforeseen warrior heroine of ancient Britain, who brought together opposing tribes in a fight against oppression and to secure better the future for her wronged daughters. As I confront the uncertain and often alarming future of our society and planet, I draw strength from her legacy. This quilt is both a reflection and a call to resilience; a personal battle cry for the world my daughters will inherit.
Crafted from repurposed fabrics, harvested from our worn clothing and bedding, this piece embraces sustainability, with many materials naturally dyed using traditional techniques. The quilt comes to life through a fusion of appliqué, improvisational piecing, free-motion quilting, and thread painting, each stitch carrying the echoes of history and the weight of hope.
Exhibited/ing at Internatiional Quilt Festival, Houston, TX, USA – Oct 2025, New England Quilt Museum, MA, USA – April-Julu 2026 & Festival of Quilts, Birmingham, England – July 2026
BLOOMING MANDALA
A self-imposed challenge. Drafting my own graphic symbol of self-improvement with signature use of bold colours & progression. The pieced compound & reverse curves, plus precise repetition, pushed me to develop my skills. FMQ referencing blooms and the shaped periphery adds interest and complexity.
Double Award Winning Quilt in 2024.
REACHING – The Mermaid Quilt
“A mermaid has no tears, and therefore she suffers so much more.” wrote Hans Christian Andersen
A mythological creature of beauty and temptation. Pushing my design and quilting skills to try and reach a dream.
Award Winning.
Unique-orn Quilt
Unique
adjective – being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else
A pattern which can be made as a horse or a unicorn. Inspired by horses being my first love, especially the French Percheron, and to indulge my daughter’s passion for unicorns. I wanted the pattern to be easily customizable to suit each potential recipient without losing its realism.
Fractured Skull Quilt
A much requested supersize version of the 2nd FPP block I designed, with a fractured background in an 8 shade gradient. A foray into designing large scale FPP patterns.
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And Sew I ... 