Kathy Doughty
In 1993 Kathy made her first quilt and instantly fell in love with the "American"-style quilt. It connected her to her childhood and her home so far away and simple pleasures. She spent years making squares until she discovered triangles. Then she found an array of lively shapes and skills that took her into more complex quilting patterns. She enjoys that there is a lot to learn in quilting, and she says she will always want to fine-tune and add skills to the basics that she still loves. She connects with the idea of traditional quilts made modern by the influences of today. She says the many artists with whom she has worked over the years have opened her eyes to the principles of design, color, shape, and line; they include Sue Cody, Marg George, Brigitte Giblin, Wendy Williams, Rosalie Dace, and so many others. Now she wishes to share the added depth she has found as she has grown in her love.
In 2003 she opened Material Obsession and found the companionship needed to make life complete, people who share this patchwork passion with her! The shop is a place where quilters are encouraged to experiment with textiles, design, and method. It is a creative environment that is all about the discovery of adding layers one at a time.
Wendy Williams
"I have been working in the quilting industry as a designer and teacher for over 15 years. In 2014 my first book was published with C&T in the U.S. called ‘Wild Blooms and Colorful Creatures’. Hopefully one day I will find the time to do another.
Having a degree in adult education has led me to teach regular workshops in Sydney at Material Obsession as well as teaching all over Australia and internationally. Prior to working in the quilting industry, I worked and taught in Fashion.
I am passionate about quilting and trying new ideas. With this I strive to keep my designs fresh and new and design with the knowledge that my patterns need to be achievable by all.
A variety of techniques are incorporated into the quilts and patterns I design including wool applique. My wool applique is usually done with pure wool felt using bold but simple embroidery stitches. My aim is that my work is achievable for all levels of quilters and stitchers."
