2025: Pixelated Postage Stamps

In 2025, our guild's objective was to create eye-catching quilts of postage stamps. Using pixelated images, we were encouraged to stretch and redefine the traditional definitions and techniques of the use of pixels. By varying size, shape, enhancement, and placement, the viewer's eyes are invited to wander over the quilted images, allowing different perspectives depending upon the distance away from the quilt one stands. A secondary goal was to encourage our members to challenge themselves to design a unique piece by breaking apart their image into sub-sections to create interest. They were encouraged to use a new technique, reimagine preconceived ideas, or delve into the unconventional. Most importantly, this endeavor allowed our members to support one another and have fun!

Messages Between Generations

Katie Bishop

My daughter Harriet created the art that I made into this quilt. It appears to be as foreign as a galaxy or familiar as a face. At times relatable, but at others not. We give the future our “two cents” often without acknowledging their perspective.

The galaxy effect that this quilt has at a mid-distance was unintentional. The original art that Harriet created was solid colors, but adding the element of printed fabrics overlaid a starry quality to the art.

Panda Bear Postage Stamp

Kate Koeze

Panda Bear Postage Stamp is a pixelated quilt of a panda from the National Zoo, I made for our guild’s quilt challenge.

This is my first pixelated quilt. I picked an image with strong contrast and I was pleased that it made my panda somewhat abstract. I have been hanging it in my office where people on Zoom can see it. It has 3,136 3/4” squares.

Australian Stamp

Angie O'Bryant

Australian postage stamp wall hanging made using the postage stamp method of piecing.

This piece was completed as a guild challenge quilt and is my 1st submission to an AQS show. The trip of a lifetime to Australia, specifically to see the unique animals there, provided the theme for this wall hanging composed of 1,280 1-inch squares.

Live Free

Bobbie Vruggink

I taught school for 38 years. This quilt celebrated the years I taught kindergarten in the Sea Turtle Room. A postage stamp was $.37 the year I started that adventure.

There are over 3,600 pieces in this quilt. I love Sea Turtles. The children I had in the Sea Turtle Room are now all grown and swimming free in life!

Big Red

Suzanne Timmer

This quilt is a pixelated postage stamp of the lighthouse in Holland, Michigan. I chose Jennifer Sampou Sky ombre and batik fabric to highlight the lighthouse and give the quilt movement.

Growing up in West Michigan, summer was not complete without a trip to Holland state park. Lighthouses always bring me back to that carefree time as a teenager hanging out at the beach.

Rose's Owl

Kelly Hubbard

Pixelated barred owl sits on branch of birch tree with blue sky background. Pixels of various size and construction (squares, rectangles, half square triangles) add detail & depth to owl & tree/branch.

I was excited by our Guild’s theme and challenge to think “outside the box” in designing and constructing the quilt. The owl is based on a photo taken by a friend. I wanted to focus on nature and loss of habitat. Approx. 800 pieces and 10 fabrics.

Seeking Serenity

Jer Hon-Hawkins

I love a challenge! This quilt shows an evening sunporch view at a golf course to be developed. Emotions twofold. Sadness losing green space/US political turmoil. I’m seeking serenity... forever! Approx 250 pcs, about 220 varied fabrics, many self-dyed/painted.

Liberty

Dave Staublin

Seen from afar, Liberty appears in front of the rising sun. Up close, a different image of Liberty is seen in the quilting - just as each of us sees Liberty from our own personal perspective and experiences.

My first pixelated quilt, I love how the image changes as the viewer moves closer to or farther from the quilt. I also love that the postage, ”Forever”, represents the liberty we each desire in this country of ours.