The Handmade Quilt

Allie's quilting practice is rooted in the belief that beauty is found in simplicity, and that purpose thrives when sustainability is at the forefront of creation. Waste surrounds us, and the environmental toll of overconsumption is undeniable. But so much of what is discarded, doesn’t need to be. There are opportunities provided in intercepting what is headed for the landfill.

Each piece in this series—from smaller wall hangings to full-size throw quilts —incorporates scraps and thrifted fabrics that would otherwise contribute to the endless waste. The quilt backs are made of 100% linen, and the batting is composed of either 100% cotton or a blend of bamboo, silk, cotton, and tencel, so no new synthetic materials are incorporated. The process is laborious, but working with odd, mismatched shapes and limited fabric sizes is a rewarding challenge. Through these constraints, Allie has an opportunity to transform scraps into pieces of functional art, so that every stitch celebrates something that already exists. Simplicity and sustainability can produce works of purpose and beauty without negating our impact on the environment.