by Sylvia Landman Rasmussen
Novato, California
 I often run into quilters who want to know how I go about creating original designs. I do not declare that each technique I choose is undiscovered territory; plenty of quilters more proficient than I use some of the same techniques. I simply follow the rules of creativity - that is, to create to satisfy the artist within - not for the approval of others or to match something transient like rugs, drapes and walls. I never use graph paper, tracing paper, drawings or software.
Freedom in my work begins from the moment I begin the thought process. Since I am unconcerned about leaving my quilts to the Smithsonian or the Museum of the American Quilters Society, I design my quilts for my own enjoyment. If others like them, that's wonderful, but if they don't that[s fine with me, too.
This little journal project that I'm describing here measures only 8 x 11 1/2. I prefer to be spontaneous and unstructured and a bit outrageous, but my primary method is this: I am guided by the raw materials in my studio which is why I maintain so many types of stashes: fabrics and various textiles such as sheers, organza, tulle, netting, lamé and brocade; threads, especially variegated cotton, silks and rayon and metallics; beads; buttons; ribbons; lots of silk flowers and leaves; lace (commercial and that which I make myself ); special papers (metallic, foils, cellophane); lining fabrics (Batiste, bridal sheers and other delicate fabrics); curtains; interior decoration samples; trims by the yard; old blouses, night gowns and lingerie; commercial appliqué motifs found in craft stores; small notions; floral supplies; gift wrapping; old jewelry, especially necklaces and brooches; embroidery floss; perle cotton; yarn; textile paints.
I almost never go to quilt or sewing shops to make something specific. Rather, I am stash building all the time. When my creativity is running high, I don't want to have to rush out to the store.
Next, I indulge myself with the methods, materials and shortcuts I find pleasing. Recently, I have been fussing around with norip methods of hand and machine appliqué and have dedicated myself to using sheer fabrics and embellishments excessively whenever possible.
Continued...
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