I have been making quilts for 35 years, transforming ideas, memories and landscapes into textile pieces filled with colour, movement and care.
Quilting has always been my way of playing, sharing, and expressing care for others.
Emm BarnesMy journey has developed through family knowledge, formal study and continued experimentation. Each stage has added something new to the way I make, teach and support other quilters.
I was taught to sew by my grandma Kitty when I was six years old. After several years working by hand, she allowed me to use her hand-crank Singer sewing machine, which she had received as a wedding present in 1930.
I began the City and Guilds Certificate in Patchwork and Quilting and invested in a Brother sewing machine so I could explore zig-zag appliqué and develop a broader range of techniques.
The Master Quilter programme, run by Region 2 of the Quilters Guild of the British Isles, opened a new chapter in my work and helped me fall in love with machine quilting.
Hand quilting remains a passion, now enriched by a growing love of machine quilting.
My current work combines different approaches rather than relying on one method. Free-motion, walking-foot and hand quilting each bring their own character, rhythm and texture to the finished piece.
Organic lines create energy, atmosphere and movement across the textile surface.
Repeated lines and considered direction help build shape, balance and controlled texture.
Hand stitching creates a personal, intimate surface and keeps the pleasure of slow making at the heart of the work.
My background in adult education allows me to support people with patience, clarity and practical guidance—whether I am leading a workshop, speaking to a group or working one-to-one.
I have worked as an evening class tutor, lecturer, festival and museum speaker, trainer and certified coach. I bring that experience to every workshop, talk and quilting-support session.
Practical and encouraging adult learning.
Clear, engaging talks for varied audiences.
Structured learning with useful outcomes.
Thoughtful one-to-one creative support.
Available for quilting groups, creative organisations and individual quilters.
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Quilt by the Sea
I live in Kent with my husband and two cats and a very modest fabric stash. I would love to work with you or your quilting group.
Whether you are planning a workshop, looking for support with an unfinished quilt, or hoping to develop greater creative confidence, please get in touch to explore the possibilities.