Jean Ray Laury & Stitching Club-Part One

In the early 1990’s, I took an applique workshop from Jean Ray Laury. I was intrigued to learn how to design a medallion quilt. .I learned so much during my time with her. Not only did she guide us through creating a quilt but she gave us “permission” to do what we love (quilting) while balancing being a wife and mother.  Her book, “Getting It All Together at Home” was a guidebook for that period of my life and for moving forward on my quilting journey.

Little did I know that in 2026 I would find myself, on zoom, as a member of the Jean Ray Laury Book and Stitching Club. The Club was offered by the Virginia Quilt Museum and led by Tara Miller.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading three of Jean Ray’s books, discussing the books and starting a project of my own.

The simplicity of Jean Ray’s work is truly what makes it stand out.  She said to let your stitching reflect your everyday life and to create from what you love.

So I gathered up some old stitching and needlework from my family and some cookie cutters from my collection. Encouraged, I have started my project, one block at a time.