Welcome to our regular feature where we shine a light on the talented members of BARN’s Fiber Arts community! This month, we talked with quilter extraordinaire Maryjane Efstathiou. Do you know someone in Fiber Arts with an interesting story to tell? Contact Sara at fiber.lead@bainbridgebarn.org

What initially brought you to BARN?

My husband and I chose to relocate to the Pacific Northwest to be nearer to family, seeking a peaceful, non-urban environment.  We needed an acre of land to support our hobbies and passions.  For me, it was important to find a quilting community that would inspire creativity, provide stimulation, and offer a sense of friendship. Bainbridge Island perfectly embodied all of these qualities with an extra bonus … BARN!

How long have you been doing fiber-related things?

I took my first beginner quilt class in 1990, and was instantly hooked!  From there, I began making baby quilts for all my friends, and I haven’t looked back since.  I eagerly signed up for every quilting class I could find, always looking to learn something new.

Where can we find you at BARN?

You can find me in the Fiber Arts Studio, especially on Thursdays from 12 to 4 PM for our weekly Quilting Bee.  This is a casual, open sewing group where we work on individual projects, share ideas, inspire one another, and most importantly, have lots of laughs.

Whether you are a beginner or seasoned sewist, everyone is welcome.

My partner in crime, Danielle, and I offer classes several times a year.  In the past there have been: Beginning Block of the Month, Beginning Sewing, Specific Quilt Block Construction and Layout (Log Cabin Design), Tee Shirt Quilt and Basic Sewing Techniques.

Have you been inspired to try anything new? If so, what?

I’m constantly inspired by the creativity and talent of other quilters. Their work motivates me to explore new ideas and push my own boundaries. I love learning through hands-on classes that offer different techniques, and I make it a point to attend quilt shows and fiber-related events as often as possible. They are a great source of both inspiration and community. My latest obsession is felting and using that in quilts.

Don’t miss this special quilt by Maryjane in the End to End exhibition in The Commons!

Dish Towel Raffle Through Oct. 1

BARN’s weaving community is collectively weaving 12 dish towels in The Commons as part of the Fiber Arts Studio’s “End to End” exhibition, showing through Oct 1.

This exhibition features work from studio members and highlights processes from raw materials and inspiration, through creation, and final product. The handwoven tea towels will be raffled off as a donation to BARN. Tickets are $2 each and can be purchased at the front desk. Thank you for supporting BARN!