The American Quilter’s Society QuiltWeek shows have long been a cornerstone of the quilting world, bringing together artists and enthusiasts from across the country. In 2026, those shows feel even more meaningful as they align with the United States’ 250th anniversary—sparking creative tributes rooted in history and national pride.
To mark the occasion, AQS introduced the special traveling exhibit Stars, Stripes & Stitches, a juried collection of 40 quilts that will tour QuiltWeek shows throughout the year. Each piece offers a unique interpretation of the American spirit through fabric, color, and design.
Honored to Be Among 40 Quilters
I’m incredibly honored (and still a bit in disbelief!) to share that my quilt, Anthem of Stars & Stripes, was selected as one of the 40 featured in this exhibit.
Patriotic quilts have a special place in my heart because my sister serves in the military, and I love designing patterns that can be used to honor those serving our country. For this quilt, I focused on using tonal and low-volume prints so the design itself could truly shine. My favorite feature is the radiating “flags” quilted with wavy lines, creating the impression of flags fluttering in the breeze—a small but meaningful tribute to motion, resilience, and freedom.
Being selected from such a talented pool of quilters is both humbling and deeply meaningful. Each quilt in the exhibit tells a story, and together they create a powerful visual celebration of heritage, service, and creativity.
Why I love the AQS Quilt Shows
What makes the 2026 QuiltWeek shows so special is the full experience they offer. Alongside exhibits like Stars, Stripes & Stitches, attendees can explore:
- World-class quilt displays and special exhibits
- Educational workshops and lectures
- A vibrant vendor marketplace
- A welcoming, creative community
Quilting continues to evolve as an art form, and events like QuiltWeek highlight both its innovation and its enduring traditions.
Looking Ahead
As Stars, Stripes & Stitches travels across the country, I’m excited to see how it resonates with viewers. There’s something powerful about a collection of quilts telling a shared story—of a nation, its people, and the threads that connect us. If you attend a QuiltWeek show in 2026, I hope you’ll take time to visit the exhibit. And if you happen to spot Anthem of Stars & Stripes, I’d love to hear what you think.
