The Legend, Judith Baker Montano

And a giveaway…..

Judith Baker Montano is a legend in the needlework industry, where she has been active for 30+ years. I remember in 1993 when her book The Art of Silk Ribbon Embroidery was all the talk of Quilt Market. I bought the book and so much silk ribbon! Her pictures, her quilts, and her ideas were so unique and striking. Her work stuck with me. A few years ago Ricky Tims suggested that I chat with Judith about a book. Of course, I thought, perfect idea!

Many quilters incorporate multiple techniques--embroidery, photography, knitting, beading, weaving, dyeing--into a project. Nobody does it like Judith. She’s the master. Nowhere is this more evident than in her latest book, Fibreart Montage: Combining Quilting, Embroidery & Photography with Embellishments. “Montage” in this book is the technique of combining pictorial elements from various sources in a single composition. Judith uses parts of different photographs or fragments of printing. These either stand alone and retain their separate identity, or they look as though they belonged together from the very beginning. But don’t just listen to me. See for yourself. One picture is worth a thousand words; two even better. I think these two sample pages from the book will give you a great idea of what Judith does:

One thing that is very unique about Judith is her wonderful photography. This book is filled with gorgeous pictures she’s taken over the years, making it a personal, colorful journey. But she doesn’t just provide “eye candy”. She also manages to capture her technique, step-by-step, through pictures. These are two completely different skills, but masterful Judith nails them both. This is a lavish, creative trip full of inspirational photos and the detailed information you need to make a montage of your own.

Book not enough? How about a class? Judith has been travelling for years, teaching her followers around the world. Living out of a suitcase gets old after a while, so now Judith does private workshops in her adorable studio in La Veta, Colorado (also known for its other famous citizen, Ricky Tims). Can you imagine? Spend a few days immersed in Judith’s world, getting hands-on attention. Soak up all that gorgeous scenery, surrounded by all her fabulous work. Look at these wonderful pictures of her studio (by Judith Baker Montano herself) and tell me you don’t want to make a reservation now:

Judith has put together an absolutely fantastic giveaway. I mean fantastic! Check it out:

Straight from her personal stash there’s a lovely assortment of fabric, thread, embellishments. I was tempted to keep it for myself....Alas. Lest you wonder how to use all this fabulousness, the lucky winner is going to get a copy of Judith’s book, too. You can work on a montage of your own, using Judith’s technique and her stuff! A runner-up will win a copy of Judith’s latest book. What are you waiting for? Leave a comment below. Need a second chance to win? Sign up for our email newsletter. (Don’t worry--I’m catching duplicates if you’ve already signed up.) Leave “Judith sent me” in the “How Can We Help You” box.

Contest ends Wednesday, Groundhog Day, February 2nd at 5pm.