I can't remember a time when I didn't sew.  The only remains of my very early work you can see here.  I made clothes for Barbie dolls and pin cushions and was part of the 4-H sewing program for several years.  My first ventures into quilting were in 1976.  It was the year of the bicentennial and there was a new interest in these "quaint" crafts.  I went to the fabric store and bought one of the few books available at the time and quilted a potholder (which I cannot lay my hands on, but hope to, soon.  It's around here somewhere.)

For the next thirteen years, I made all kinds of quilted objects, mostly pillows which were used as fundraisers.  I have no pictures of this stuff (thankfully).  The '80s and '90s brought so much more to quilters in the way of books and classes.  I took opportunities to learn and have studied with some of the best:  Melody Johnson, Ricky Tims, Laura Wasilowski, Nancy Johnson-Srebro, Marsha McCloskey, and many more.  Each one of these gifted teachers gave me the tools to do further experimentation on my own. 

When it comes down to it, the best way to become a better quilter is to make lots of quilts.

While I enjoy traditional quilting, my current interest is in pushing the limits of quilting as an art form.  I enjoy teaching beginning quilters and giving them just enough technique to make them dangerous.  Most of all, I want to help my students realize that they are an artist, that they can make something they can be proud of, and, hopefully, inspire them to continue learning as much as they can.

Also, I am a professional quilt appraiser.  If you have any questions about appraisals and documenting your quilt's history, please email me or call!  I love talking quilts! 

I am fortunate to be in a part of the country that offers excellent resources to quilters, where I live with my husband, two boys, and a cat who has decided to take up residence with us.  In addition to quilting, I also work with my husband in his business, and you can see that biz here.

Finally, I hope that in some small way, I can encourage you to be open to the creativity that is in you.   Now go start that new project!                                        

Jo Griffith    P.O. Box 6834    Wyomissing, PA 19610     610.796.9363    info@jogriffith.com