One of the most unique stops for quilters and needleworkers
is only fifteen minutes just across the river from St. Louis on Main Street in
Edwardsville, Illinois. Owners Stephanie Gabriel and Janice Belling renovated an
historic structure, built in 1839 by Frederick Krafft, a German immigrant. The Quilted
Garden occupies one side of the Krafft House and is owned by Janice. The other half
of the building houses Stitcher's Harvest, and Stephanie's array of needlework supplies.
Both shops offer classes - and, surprise! - these classes are all based on original
designs!
Janice explains, "We wanted to offer our students classes
that were unavailable anywhere else. And, we didn't want to wait for delivery
of patterns that could arrive late. Our talented teachers responded and created
their own designs." So, The Quilted Garden has all-original, one-of-a-kind patterns.
The second floor has a sunny classroom, tables and unique designs decorating the
walls to inspire creativity. The hall and stairwell are covered with quilts: all
one-of-a-kind creations.
Many of the classes are "cross-overs." That is, these
classes include embroidery as well as piecing or appliqué. All of the required
materials are under one roof, unusual in most quilt shops. Janice's shop offers
sashiko embroidery classes and Stephanie offers silk ribbon technique classes.
Even the Victorian-style rest room is unique: it is
decorated with Janice's collection of antique bedpans! The room's walls have
collectible samplers and needlework from Stephanie's collection.
The Krafft House has been many things to Edwardsville,
home of Southern Illinois University. The building has served as a boarding
house, a meat market, a beauty shop, and an insurance company. Today, everyone
who visits the charming two-story building is glad that Janice and Stephanie
collaborated and turned the Krafft House into a one-stop shopping experience
for those who love to make quilts or embellish and stitch. If you're in the
Midwest, come and visit these shops for supplies, instruction, or inspiration.
For more information, call: 1-877-278-9824 or
email: thequiltedgarden@charter.net
©2004 Hallye Bone
www.thequiltercommunity.com
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