A Joy Forever: Marie Webster’s Quilt Patterns

By Rosalind Webster Perry and Marty Frolli, Copyright 1992 Rosalind Webster Perry, Published by Practical Patchwork

Marie Webster was a leader of the Great Quilt Revival of the early 20th century. A Joy Forever– the first book of her classic patterns- features her original applique designs from the years 1909-1925. Here are her popular Sunbonnet Lassies, Poppy, and May Tulips patterns, as well as some never published before, including her vibrant Poinsettia and the charming crib quilt, Bunnies.

A Joy Forever also tells the story of Marie Webster’s remarkable career as a quilt designer, author and businesswoman. The book is lavishly illustrated with vintage family photographs and color pictures of Marie’s beautiful quilts.

Patterns included in this book:

  • Bedtime
  • Bunnies
  • Daisy
  • French Baskets
  • Frapes and Vines
  • Iris
  • May Tulips
  • Poinsettia
  • Poppy
  • Sunbonnet Lassies
  • Sunflower
  • White Dogwood



A Passion for Quilts: The Story of Florence Peto 1881 – 1970

A result of the Heritage Quilt Project of New Jersey by Barbara Schaffer, Natalie Hart, Rita Erickson, and Rachel Cochran, with a Foreword by Virginia Avery and Contributions by Cuesta Benberry, Bets Ramsey, and Merikay Waldvogel.

“Every woman’s quilt is like her child – beautiful.” Florence Peto

The quilts Florence Peto collected and those she made were of such high quality that they became significant parts of museum collections. Florence’s enthusiasm for life, thirst for knowledge, and love of quilts led her on a path she might not have expected as a young woman at the end of the nineteenth century. Through books, magazines, lectures, and exhibits, she shared the stories she found in quilts and created a legacy that endures into the twenty-first century.




Accept the Challenge, Just Do It!

Thursday July 17, 2025, 1:00pm – 2:00pm Marion Public Library, Meeting Room B, 600 S Washington Street, Marion, IN

Join accomplished quilter Doris Goins for an inspiring journey through two decades of fabric artistry in response to the prestigious Hoffman Challenge. In this motivational lecture and trunk show, Doris will present her remarkable collection of challenge quilts—one from each year from 1996 through 2017.

The Hoffman Challenge has long been renowned in the quilting world for pushing creative boundaries. Each year, participants receive a collection of fabrics and a theme, then must craft a quilt or fabric art project that demonstrates their technical skills and artistic vision. Through Doris’s 21 challenge quilts, you’ll witness the evolution of quilting trends, techniques, and her personal artistic growth across more than two decades.

Doris will share the stories behind each piece—her inspiration, the challenges she faced, the techniques she employed, and how she interpreted each year’s theme and fabric constraints. Most importantly, she’ll encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and participate in the Hoffman Challenge yourself!

Whether you’re a seasoned quilter looking for fresh inspiration, a beginner curious about quilt competitions, or simply an admirer of textile arts, this trunk show promises to be both educational and motivational. Come discover why Doris believes everyone should “Accept the Challenge, Just Do It!”




Big Bright Star

Saturday, May 31, 2025 1:00pm – 4:00pm, Marion Public Library, Maker’s Space with Kathy Boxell.

Join us for a workshop to assemble the Quiltsmart Big Bright Star. Beginners have no fear! This pattern is super fast and accurate! No inset piecing, only straight strips to cut – no angles or diamonds, perfect intersections and beautiful points! This star can be used to create a throw, a twin, or a queen sized quilt. Registration includes a kit which includes the Quiltsmart foundation material to complete one star as shown in the photo. You provide your favorite fabrics.

Space is limited so register today!

Note: If you are a member of The Quilters Hall of Fame enter ‘member’ into the coupon code field for a $5.00 discount on your workshop.

Fabric requirements to complete one 58″ x 58″ star:

  • Fabrics #1 and #5: 1/2 yard
  • Fabrics #2 and #4: 3/4 yard
  • Fabric #3: 1 yard

Fabric requirements for optional sizes:

  • Optional border: 1 yard
  • To create a twin border: 2 1/2 yards
  • To create a queen border: 6 yards

 

Also, bring the following supplies:

  • Sewing machine
  • Rotary cutter, ruler, and mat
  • Thread and bobbins to match fabric
  • Scissors, pins, and any other items you like to sew with

This workshop will be taught by Kathy Boxell. Kathy has been sewing with Quiltsmart products for 15 years and has recently been certified to teach Quiltsmart methods.




Braided Whirligig

Saturday, July 19, 2025 9:00am – 12:00pm Marion Public Library, Maker’s Space, 600 S Washington St. Marion, IN

Get ready to twist and twirl your way through this fun and eye-catching quilt design! Braided Whirligig is a dynamic and modern quilt pattern that combines the playful movement of whirligigs with the timeless charm of braided blocks. Perfect for confident beginners and seasoned quilters alike, this fat quarter friendly project makes the most of your favorite prints while minimizing waste.

Whether you’re looking to bust your stash or showcase a brand-new bundle, Braided Whirligig is the perfect pattern to let your creativity shine. Join us for a class full of inspiration, technique, and joyful quilting energy! Grab your favorite NINE fat quarters and join the fun!

About the Teacher: Shannon Arnstein, the creative mind behind the Braided Whirligig pattern, brings infectious energy and enthusiasm to her classroom that immediately engages students of all skill levels. Her vibrant personality creates a welcoming environment where creativity flourishes. What truly sets Shannon apart is her genuine honesty—she provides constructive feedback that helps students grow while maintaining their confidence and excitement for the craft. As both designer and teacher of this workshop, Shannon offers unique insights into the pattern’s development and countless tips for making your Braided Whirligig truly spectacular.




Celebration 2025 Vendor Mall and Quilt Show admission

Admission

  • 3-Day Pass: $15

  • 1-Day Pass: $8

  • 1-Day Passes will also be available at the door

Hours

  • Thursday & Friday (July 17 & 18): 9am – 4pm

  • Saturday (July 19): 9am – 3pm

Vendor Mall

First United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall 624 S Adams St, Marion, IN


Quilt Shows

The Quilters Hall of Fame 926 S Washington St, Marion, IN

  • Quilts of Hubert Ver Mehren: From Giant Medallions to Elegant Embroidery

Marion Public Library 600 S Washington St, Marion, IN

  • Forrest Room: Laurel McKay Horton: TQHF 2025 Honoree Quilts

  • Carnegie Room: Evening Star Quilt Guild: Name to come

First United Methodist Church 624 S Adams St Room, Marion, IN

Sanctuary:

  • Marie Webster Quilt Guild

  • Indiana State Quilt Guild Life Time Achievement Award winner: Doris Goins

________________________________________________________________________________

Celebration 2025 will feature the inductions of two new honorees into The Quilters Hall of Fame, Laurel McKay Horton and Hubert Ver Mehren.

A distinguished quilt scholar, researcher, author, editor, lecturer, consultant, and teacher, Laurel McKay Horton has made significant contributions that have shaped the world of quilting in research, publications, museums, and preservation. Horton’s impressive career includes ten years as editor of “Uncoverings” the American Quilt Study Group’s prestigious annual publication. Her editorial leadership was marked by generosity, expertise, and a commitment to nurturing authors while upholding the highest standards of research and reporting. Her passion for teaching and enthusiasm for the subject have inspired countless individuals, instilling a deeper appreciation for historic quilts.

Hubert Ver Mehren, will be inducted based on his significant impact on the quilt world in the 1930s. Ver Mehren’s quilt patterns are considered some of the most complex and dramatic designs of the day. He marketed his patterns anonymously or under pseudonyms so he is largely unknown and TQHF feels it is time that he is recognized for his influence on twentieth century quiltmakers.

 




Featherweight Care and Maintenance Workshop

Saturday July 19, 2025, 1:00pm – 4:00pm, Marion Public Library, Maker’s Space Marion Public Library, Maker’s Space 600 S Washington St, Marion, IN

Join us for an informative workshop all about caring for and maintaining your beloved Singer Featherweight sewing machine! Often referred to as the “Perfect Portable” for its lightweight design and ease of use, the Featherweight model revolutionized home sewing when it was introduced in the 1930s. Today, quilters love this machine for its portability and ease of use. This three-hour workshop will provide hands-on instruction for keeping your Featherweight running smoothly for years to come. You’ll leave the workshop confident in your abilities to care for this cherished sewing machine.

Space is limited, so register today! Workshop fee is $50. If you are a member of The Quilters Hall of Fame, enter ‘member’ into the coupon code field for a $5.00 discount on your workshop.

Topics covered will include:

  • Basic cleaning and oiling techniques
  • Identifying and resolving common issues like tension problems, skipped stitches, motor problems
  • Adjusting pressure foot, needle plates, bobbin cases
  • Safety best practices

Bring your Featherweight machine and the following supplies:

  • Screwdriver that came with your machine
  • Sewing machine oil
  • Sewing machine grease, if you have it
  • An old bath towel to cushion your machine
  • Two colors of thread that are the same weight and from the same manufacturer
  • Scrap fabric
  • Scissors
  • Ear swabs
  • Toothpicks
  • Apron (optional)
  • Rubber gloves (optional)
  • Any other tools you use on your machine

This workshop will be taught by Vivian Lemmon. Vivian’s Featherweight journey started in 2015 when she saw a Featherweight and thought it would be fun to have one to take to retreats. That led to learning how to maintain them. In 2018 she flew to Idaho to take two classes from The Featherweight Shop. She has since serviced a number of machines as well as gained more skill and a greater love for the precision of these little machines. If you have questions for Vivian, her email is vlemmon@embarqmil.com.




Hubert Ver Mehren and His Quilts, Kits, and Catalogs: Susan Price Miller

Saturday 9:00am – 10:00am Marion Public Library, Meeting Room B, 600 S Washington St, Marion, IN

Step into the fascinating world of one of quilting’s most mysterious figures in this illuminating lecture on Hubert Ver Mehren and his significant impact on the quilt world of the 1930s.

Despite his remarkable influence, Ver Mehren remains largely unknown to many quilt enthusiasts—a creative genius who marketed his extraordinary patterns anonymously or under pseudonyms. This presentation pulls back the curtain on his secretive career and showcases the breathtaking scope of his design sensibility.

Ver Mehren’s patterns are considered some of the most complex and dramatic designs of their day, ranging from spectacular giant medallions to elegant embroideries. The lecture will explore his distinctive aesthetic and why his work represented the pinnacle of quilt design during this vibrant period in quilting history.

Learn how Ver Mehren’s artistic vision challenged conventional design boundaries and influenced quilting trends of the era, even as the man himself remained in the shadows. Discover why quilt historians consider his rediscovery so significant and what his work reveals about the evolution of American quilting.

This presentation complements the special Hubert Ver Mehren exhibit currently on display at The Quilters Hall of Fame museum, offering deeper context and appreciation for these remarkable works.

About the Presenter: Susan Price Miller holds a B.A. in history and has done studio work in both drawing and painting. A quilt maker and designer since 1983, she specializes in 20th-century quilt topics in the Midwest.

Susan’s journey researching Ver Mehren began at the encouragement of leading quilt historian Cuesta Benberry, who recognized the significance of Ver Mehren’s Des Moines business, Home Art Studios. In the 1980s, when Susan began her research, many aspects of Ver Mehren’s work and life remained unknown to the quilt world. Her dedicated scholarship has helped uncover the story behind his original pieced patterns, preprinted kits, and superior catalogs that were marketed nationally.




Luncheon and Induction Ceremony Honoring Laurel McKay Horton

Friday, July 18, 2025, 11:45pm – 2:00pm, Matter Park Garden House, N River Rd &, N Quarry Rd, Marion, IN

Cost: $50

Join us for a special celebration as we induct Laurel McKay Horton into The Quilters Hall of Fame. This prestigious recognition honors her exceptional contributions as a distinguished quilt scholar, researcher, author, editor, lecturer, consultant, and teacher. Her impressive career includes ten years as editor of “Uncoverings,” the American Quilt Study Group’s prestigious annual publication.

The festivities begin with a musical performance by the talented Horton Family Musicians from 11:45 AM to 12:00 PM, setting a joyful tone for this memorable occasion. Following the performance, guests will enjoy a delicious buffet lunch.

TQHF Board of Directors President Debi Shepler will honor Hubert Ver Mehren for his contributions to the quilting world and will present his plaque to Susan Price Miller.

Renowned quilter Marianne Fons will deliver remarks celebrating Laurel McKay Horton’s significant contributions to the quilting world before the presentation of her commemorative plaque. The celebration continues with an open mic session, providing attendees with the opportunity to share personal stories and congratulations with our honoree.

This luncheon offers a wonderful opportunity to recognize Laurel’s lasting impact on quilt scholarship and to connect with others who appreciate her valuable contributions to preserving and advancing quilting heritage.

Please join us for this meaningful celebration!




Marie Webster: Garden of Quilts Bed Turning with Pat & Arlan Christ

Thursday, July 17, 2025 9:30am – 10:30am FUMC, Parlor

Join us for an enchanting presentation celebrating Marie Webster, a pioneering figure in American quilting and a prominent figure in Marion, Indiana history. Discover the legacy of this influential quilt designer, historian, and entrepreneur from the early 1900s.

Experience:

  • A curated selection of 20 quilts featuring Marie Webster’s timeless designs
  • Expert commentary by collectors Pat and Arlan Christ
  • The artistry of Webster’s floral applique patterns, inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement

Learn about:

  • Webster’s groundbreaking role as the first quilt historian
  • Her 30-year success as a businesswoman in the quilting industry
  • The enduring impact of her designs, still cherished and imitated over a century later

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore a significant chapter in Indiana’s contribution to American quilting heritage!




Marie Webster’s Big Floral Quilt Panel

Windham fabrics has reprinted the fabric panels with Marie Webster’s designs! This floral quilt panel features prints of the Marie Webster designs Iris, Morning Glory, French Baskets, Cluster of Roses, Dutch Baskets, Poppy, Pink Dogwood, Windblown Tulips, Wreath of Roses, American Beauty Rose, Gay Garden, and Magpie Rose. Georgia Bonesteel designed the panel when the fabric series was first produced in 2009 by Windham Fabrics. The panel is 36″ x 43″.




Marie Webster’s Garden of Quilts

By Rosalind Webster Perry and Marty Frolli, Copyright 1992 Rosalind Webster Perry, Published by Practical Patchwork

Marie Webster was a leading quilt designer of the early 20th century. The first collection of her original patterns, A Joy Forever, authored by her granddaughter Rosalind Perry and quilt teacher Marty Frolli, introduced these patterns to a new generation of quiltmakers. By popular demand, they have teamed up again on a second book of Webster floral applique designs, with color photographs, full-size patterns and complete instructions for 14 quilts. Noted quilt historian, Cuesta Benberry, has contributed the Preface.

Patterns included in this book:

  • American Beauty Rose
  • Wind Blown Tulip
  • Morning Glory
  • Morning Glory Wreath
  • Pansies & Butterflies
  • Wreath of Roses
  • Magpie Rose
  • Cherokee Rose
  • Cluster of Roses
  • Dutch Basket
  • Primrose Wreath
  • Pink Dogwood in Baskets
  • Rainbow
  • Gay Garden



Meet & Greet

Arriving early for Celebration? Join us Wednesday evening for our annual Meet & Greet social gathering! This relaxed reception provides the perfect opportunity to reconnect with quilting friends and make new acquaintances before the workshops begin.

Enjoy cookies and refreshments while chatting with fellow quilting enthusiasts in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Share your latest projects, exchange ideas, and get to know other attendees who share your passion for quilting.

For those interested, take a short stroll (just half a block away) to The Quilters Hall of Fame Museum where you can view the special Quilts of Hubert Ver Mehren: From Giant Medallions to Elegant Embroidery exhibit—a wonderful way to start your quilting event experience with inspiration!

We look forward to welcoming you!




Membership

Join The Quilters Hall of Fame today! Every membership level receives:

  • Free admission for one year to the museum for the membership holder.
  • Our biannual e-newsletter.
  • A 10% discount in the museum gift shop.
  • Lower fees at our annual Celebration event.

Members at the $100 level and above may request a collectible Marie Webster Cat’s Meow House.

Members at the $250 level and above may request The Quilters Hall of Fame, our book featuring 42 quilting legends who have shaped the art of quilting.

If you would like to request upper level perks or if you would like to receive a tax receipt instead of perks, please make a note on the check out page.

Your membership will help to:

  • Showcase the honorees with permanent and changing exhibits.
  • Provide a variety of educational programs to the public for both adults and children.
  • Support our annual Celebration and induction of honorees.
  • Support ongoing development of the research library and collection.
  • Maintain a unique historical site. The Marie Webster House is the only National Historic Landmark to honor a quiltmaker.



Ode to Marie Webster Quilt Pattern

This quilt pattern was  designed to feature the Marie Webster Big Floral Quilt Panel printed by Windham Fabrics for The Quilters Hall of Fame. Quilt design by Jocelyn Smith is expandable from a throw size (56 1/4″ x 78″) to a bed size ((71″ x 94 1/2″).

Required Materials

Throw size quilt

  • 1 Marie Webster’s Big Floral Quilt Panel by Windham Fabrics
  • 1/4 yard medium green fabric
  • 1/4 yard dark green fabric
  • 6 fat eighths or (6) 2 1/2″ x WOF jelly roll strips of accent print fabrics in a variety of colors to coordinate
  • 2 1/4 yards background & outer border fabric
  • 7/8 yard sashing & inner border fabric
  • 3/4 yard cornerstone and binding fabric
  • 5 yards backing fabric

Bed size quilt

  • 2 Marie Webster’s Big Floral Quilt Panel by Windham Fabrics
  • 3/8 yard medium green fabric
  • 3/8 yard dark green fabric
  • 10 fat eighths or (10) WOF jelly roll strips of accent print fabrics in a variety of colors to coordinate
  • 3 yards background and outer border fabric
  • 1 1/4 yards sashing and inner border fabric
  • 3/4 yards cornerstones and binding fabric
  • 5 3/4 yards backing fabric

 




One Quilt Leads to Another with Judy Martin

Thursday, July 17, 2025, Marion Public Library, Meeting Room B, 600 S Washington St, Marion, IN

In this PowerPoint presentation, Judy Martin shows photos of a wide variety of her original quilts from her 55+ years as a quilt maker and discusses a wealth of ideas that you can incorporate into your own quilts. Judy is known for her innovative block and quilt designs in a largely traditional style. She has no shortage of ideas for her next quilt. In fact, each quilt Judy designs gives her multiple ideas for future quilts. Sometimes she explores related possibilities concurrently in Adobe Illustrator. This may result in multiple quilts that dance around a single idea. At other times, she revisits an idea, sometime years later, when it is the perfect moment to use it in a quilt. Judy discusses her toolbox of ideas and shows photos of multiple quilts to illustrate each one.

About the Presenter: One of the world’s foremost quilt designers, Judy Martin has long sought to bridge the gap between the traditional and modern. In the wake of the Bicentennial Quilt Revival, Judy was an enthusiastic proponent of machine piecing and helped bring pattern presentation into the modern era. Her work remains rooted in the shapes and styles of traditional quilts but feels fresh and original. Judy’s inventive plays on Log Cabin and Lone Star Quilts—each the subject of multiple books and a dazzling array of variations—have become two of her hallmarks. Over the course of her prolific four-decade career, Judy has inspired and empowered quilters to do their best work.