In the cold climate of the Northern Hemisphere there is a long tradition of quilt-making, because, having attributes of warmth without bulk and strength without stiffness, the layered and filled quilt is unsurpassed as a bed covering.

Therefore it is no surprise that the oldest quilt known, a quilt more than 2000 years old, was found in a Siberian tomb. Interestingly, its quilt-stitching, the stiching necessary to hold the layers in place, is in the form of animal and spiral motifs over a diamond background, showing something of the maker’s personality, and indicating that quilts have from very early on provided a “solace to the user beyond utility,” to quote William Morris. Quilts have steadfastly maintained this dualism of utility and art. In some cultures quilts have served as one of the very few art objects in people’s possession, becoming treasured heirlooms.

Standard patchwork patterns evolved over time as quilters discovered interesting and beautiful ways of assembling and stitching odd scraps of fabric. Today the art of quilt-making continues to evolve as new ways of working with fabric are explored. Increasingly quilts are appreciated as much for the aesthetic pleasures they provide as for their utility of warmth, and function as wall hangings instead of coverings.

Among the Mennonites who settled on the Canadian prairies, who are Sharon and Norman’s ancestors, there is a rich heritage of quilting. Sharon has been sewing since her youth, and making quilts for a number of years now, beginning with traditional patterns and techniques. Today she enjoys working in various styles using a variety of techniques. Sharon and Norman collaborate on many quilt projects, which are mostly wall hangings, as described in a Winnipeg Free Press article. Some are in various private collections across the country.