Jane Bell

My fascination with textiles, colour and design started at the early age of five when I was introduced to needlework. After exploring many avenues I found patchwork, appliqué and hand quilting to be the medium I enjoyed most.

 I have been designing and making pieces for over twenty-five years. Being an American from Boston I enjoy working with traditional patterns which I sometimes rework by using non-traditional fabrics. Silk and cotton are the fabrics I use most some having ethnic designs. I produce a range covering small home décor accents, such as cushions, wallhangings up to full size quilts. Amish quilts are a speciality, especially ones done as wedding commissions.

My work has been displayed in museums in the U.S.A. and Britain. I currently sell through three galleries and a hotel. I am a member of the Craft Guild of West Lancashire and participate in all their shows and exhibitions as well as several non-guild exhibitions and shows. I very much enjoy working closely with clients on commissions, as I feel I am creating an heirloom for their future.

Native American and Japanese designs are ideas I am currently exploring with a series of wallhangings. I also indulge my interest in fashion by making wearable art pieces, such as silk patchwork waistcoats quilted with gold thread and hand beaded. There are always new ways to look at the traditional patchwork.