Amateur category finalist Tom Rice is the only male competitor in Challenge 1 of McCall’s Quilt Design Star™ 2012 – yay, man quilters!
His entry-round submission is titled “Mountain Flight”.
Mountain Flight
Tom tells us about reactions “Mountain Flight” has received: “Everyone that has seen the quilt tells me how attractive it is. I was inspired by a book of illustrations from the artist who designed many of the rock band YES’ album covers. The quilt was a wedding present to our son – had already been delivered and my wife suggested I enter the contest. Our son took photos of the quilt and then we submitted them – and I was very surprised that I became a Challenge 1 finalist!
When I asked my colleagues at work to vote for my quilt, they said that this was a side of me they were not aware of. Designing quilts is not something the average construction inspector does on his time off. My supervisor told me of two old ladies that lived across the street from him as he was growing up. He would visit the cotton mills on the weekends and collect fabric scraps so these ladies could make quilts. He has been very supportive of my participation in this challenge.”
On his Challenge 1 experience thus far: “This is my very first attempt, not only for the Amish Star, but any traditional quilt block. I do help my wife with measuring and cutting straight – she says she has difficulty cutting straight lines. My drafting background comes in very handy – so we make quite the team.
The only problem I have had is figuring out the color scheme of the Amish Star Block. I have many ideas and still trying to get them to work out so the colors are pleasing and still be true to the block.
It is going to be a busy summer. However, when I get on a roll the ideas just flow and time stands still. Luckily we are going on vacation a week after the Challenge 1 deadline – we will just need to take our laptops with us so we can vote and get all of our friends and family to vote.”
He describes his fabric selection so far: “Mostly cottons, solids and small prints and maybe some corduroy for visual affect. I hope these fabrics will make sure the Amish Star Block pops.” Good luck on Challenge 1, Tom!
Tom's fabric possibilities
Don’t miss any of our QDS™ 2012 Designer Showcase posts – click here!
Thanks to one of our partners, Quilting Treasures, for sponsoring this QDS update!
Tom, Congratulations in becoming finalist just like me. You are breaking the barriers and that is good. All the best in the final weeks. Look forward to see what will be your next quilt.
Hope all your designs work for you–and all the finalists. can’t wait to see what you come up with next.
Congratulations on becoming a finalist! It’s so refreshing to see a man in the contest. I love that you and your wife work together on pieces. I look forward to your next entry.