The Color Purple

Sisters on the Runway, an organization that seeks to raise awareness and funding for women and children affected by domestic violence, recently added a new chapter at my daughter Alison's university. As a member of the UMass chapter, Ali asked if I would be willing to make a quilt for the silent auction accompanying the fashion show. All of the proceeds from the evening would benefit Safe Passage in Holyoke, MA. The color purple has symbolized domestic violence for more than twenty years so it only seemed appropriate to use that as a starting point for the quilt.

At first I pulled out every purple I owned but it was not what I had envisioned at all. Instead I opted for the Larkspur line from Alexander Henry as the base and then mixed in some Kona solids and various other prints (Tufted Tweets in Orchid, Hypnotize by Kathy Davis in Raspberry, Dan Bennett Eggs in purple and Stone Ta Dot). The left over pieces were used to create the backing. The binding is Cobblestone by Paula Prass, one of my all time favorites.

It was with mixed feelings that I delivered this quilt to Alison. While I was more than happy to make it, I am more than saddened that there is a need. As a Mom, I am so proud of her for getting involved and working to make a difference. I do love that girl....

Becca