Jumpstart Your Creativity: DVD by Barbara Olson

Barbara Olson wrote one of Dragon Threads’ most successful books, Journey of an Art Quilter. While Barbara offered techniques in the book, I think what really captured readers—including me—was her account of becoming and an artist. Barbara is a powerhouse talent, but what was special about the book beyond her innovating quilting techniques was how she harnessed her creativity and translated it into art. Her story is inspirational and motivating.

Well, her new DVD, Jumpstart Your Creativity, is a chance to spend a little time with Barbara in your living room! The DVD walks you through the steps to create your own art quilt in the shape of a large flower. Barbara includes detailed lessons, starting with a flower outline pattern that you can print from the DVD. She then shows you how to select fabrics that work together and then how to machine applique each petal. She also includes a lesson on auditioning background fabric, and how to finish the top with her colorful, random free motion patterns. It’s a unique look and adds so much to the background. In the end you’ll have a large,very graphic floral quilt which will impress everyone.

Special to this DVD is a trunk show at the end. I really like it! She also includes outtakes which are very funny. The run time is 1 hour and 20 minutes and nearly every one of them is full of valuable designing information.

GIVEAWAY!

There are two prizes this week. Leave a comment (with an email address). First prize is the DVD. Second prize is a large Barb Olson flower pattern. I’m including a copy of her book, Journey of an Art Quilter, with both prizes. If you don’t win, get over to Barb’s site to buy the DVD, book, and patterns. Deadline for this contact is PM, next Wednesday April 13th.

While you're there, bookmark her site. There’s always something new to study and enjoy. She keeps a "Quilts in Progress" page that is just fascinating.