QNM Articles & Patterns

Creative Photo Expansion Quilts

By Brenda Groelz

Transferring photos to fabric has become a popular way to personalize quilts. To further emphasize and develop an image, I began exploring this technique for piecing around a photo. It is a step beyond traditional sashing or alternate block settings and expands the photo beyond its boundaries.

By using fused applique, a small photo can be used as the centerpiece of a much larger quilt block or wall hanging. Details can be added that give more interest and life to the images; your imagination can combine with the moment captured in time. It's a fun, creative way to use your special photos.

Brenda Groelz is a quilt designer, teacher, and quilt tour conductor from Phillips, Nebraska.

Mary's Baptism, 15" x 16", by Brenda Groelz.

Jon Groelz Fly Fishing at Yellowstone, 28" x 23", by Brenda Groelz.

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