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Alexandra (Sandy) Schweitzer

AQS Certified Quilt Apprais

Quilt historian, lecturer, author

P.O. Box 1042

Crystal Lake, IL 60039

(815) 459-5545

sandys@mc.net

Bridging the past and present

Background:

Schweitzer started on her “textile” journey as a child growing up in Spring Green, WI playing with her grandmother’s button box. Sewing her first project, a yellow apron, led to a passion for fabric. Weaving, spinning and dyeing with natural plants gave way when she discovered quilting. Schweitzer, a retired psychotherapist, bridges the past and present: She co-founded the McHenry County (IL) quilt documentation days in 2002, she completes textile and quilt restoration for both individuals and the McHenry County Historical Museum, where she volunteers AND, she is also a national award winning art quilt maker. She lectures and gives workshops on both traditional and contemporary quilts. She has written articles about “labeling” quilts and has a booklet due to be released by mid-September, 2007 on what information to put on your quilt labels.

Certified as an AQS appraiser in 2005, Schweitzer belongs to numerous national quilt organizations as well as to national and local quilt study groups. She’s a member of PAQA (Professional Art Quilters Alliance) and SAQA, (Studio Art Quilt Association).

Lectures:

QUILT TALK Discusses the reasons to have quilts appraised, types of appraisals, what to do with those old tops & blocks, storage, quilt care, etc. Q & A time. Bring in a quilt or top. Trunk show and hand outs. (The bascis!)

QUILT RESTORATION “When the dog takes a bite out of----or when your ballpoint pen explodes on your quilt:” When, what and how to complete basic quilt repair and restoration. Trunk show and hand outs.

GETTING LABLED! All about what information to put on your quilt labels, types of labels and a historical perspective. Learn how to use your quilt label to document when using other folks’ photos, etc. Trunk show and hand outs.

QUILTS THAT WORK! “From the bedroom to the woodpile:” A look at the beloved utility quilt’s role in America’s quilt-making history. Trunk show.

CHILDREN’S QUILTS This lecture can be about doll quilts, crib quilts or a combination of both. American quilt makers made wonderful quilts for their children and their children’s dolls! A historical perspective and a look at the current revival of making doll quilts. Trunk show.

SIGNATURE (FRIENDSHIP) QUILTS These quilts, first made in the 1840s, continue to be made today. A look at the purpose, technology and importance in the suffrage and temperance movements with a trunk show.

THE “DEPRESSION TRIO” A close look at the Double Wedding Ring, Grandmother’s Flower Garden and Dresden Plate quilts. How come these patterns are alive and kicking with many quilts, using these patterns, being made today? Trunk show.

APRONS? YOU SAY “YOU” WEAR AN APRON? A look at the current “apron craze,” the history of, and a trip around Spring Green, WI to meet apron wearers. Not all apron wearers were women! Trunk show.

TEXTILE BAGS (AKA FEED SACKS) 1860-1960 Everything you wanted to know about textile bags and feed sacks and more! Trunk show and handouts. This trunk show the “unusual” and well as the traditional use of these feed sacks!

QUILTS WITH A MESSAGE----MAKING A DIFFERENCE Many quilts assist in problem solving by dealing with strong emotions which allow for personal expression. A look at quilts dealing with relationships, grief and, social and historical commentary. Also covers ‘quilts for a cause.” Trunk show. (Includes many of Schweitzer’s social commentary quilts.)

Each lecture is set for a 40-45 minute time presentation with additional time for Q & A.

New lectures are being developed all of the time. Each lecture is set for a 40-45 minute time presentation with additional time for Q & A. Contact for information, availability and contract information. (815) 459-5545 or email sandys@mc.net

Workshops:

GETTING LABELED

QUILT REPAIR AND RESTORATION

THE FINISHING TOUCH (bindings and edge treatments)

All workshops are available both for half day (3 hours) and full day (6 hours).

Call (815) 459-5545 or email sandyw@mc.net for a full description, supply list and contract information.

APPRAISAL DAYS:

Appraisal days are available for guilds at quilt shows or for a guild event (10 appraisals minimum) and also for quilt shops.