Quilting offers quiet, creative time

By MONETTE TAYLOR | South Central Texas Edition

Helen Muras, a member of the Colorado Valley Quilt Guild, said she learned to quilt by 'trial and error.' She considers other quilters as 'kindred spirits.' -- Staff photo by Taylor

March 10, 2005 - The first thing you noticed upon entering the Best Little Quilt Show in Texas, held at the Fayette County Fair Grounds outside of La Grange, (other than the beautiful quilts) was that all members of the Colorado Valley Quilt Guild had something unique around their necks.

According to member Helen Muras, the material which went around her neck to rest on either side of her chest as a fancy "lapel" is called a chatelaine. Seems the name "chatelaine" originated from "... the mistress of a castle or an elegant or fashionable household; a device for suspending keys, trinkets, etc; or a woman's lapel ornament." Members of the Guild chose a special material and each made their own chatelaine, decorating it with their individual tastes.

Some featured their initials, or miniature scissors, thimbles and other objects used by quilters. Muras' chatelaine contained all of the above, plus a pin cushion, among other things. Although Muras said she hasn't "always quilted," she has always been around family members who did. Actually, she has been quilting for 30 years, herself, and said she loves the way she is able to "lose herself in quilting."

Like many quilters, Muras never took lessons; just used the "trial and error" method, while reading quilting books and watching other "experienced kindred spirits." Many of her first projects were designed as gifts for family members - older ones, as well as newborn ones.

About 19 years ago was when Muras started doing the actual "piecing" of quilts. She shared that the hardest technique she has attempted includes the English Paper Piecing. Each type of quilting has its on techniques and requirements.

Laughing, Muras said she "quilts for fun," and that quilting, for her, serves as the best, personal therapy! She talked about one project she was really intent upon completing by a certain time. In order to have more time to herself, she said she complained of migraine headaches for days on end, just to be alone with her quilting ... always hoping her family wouldn't find out!

While she is quilting, she said she can just forget about everything and relax, while watching her designs come to life.

Another special aspect of quilting for Muras is the personal touch and love that goes into each homemade project. "It's something they will keep forever and remember that I made it just for them."

When she's not quilting, you can find Muras on her tractor, working in the hay fields along with her husband, Ed. (They sell hay to the public.)

Her advice to anyone thinking about quilting or driving a tractor is to "just do it!"

The Colorado Valley Quilt Guild is open to anyone interested in quilting. Their meetings usually include educational programs, with some special classes to learn new techniques. There are about 87 members in the Guild, coming from Austin to as far east as Kingswood, and all areas in between.