CONNOR Nevins is a 15-year-old from Tatura who has become a master of the intricate art of quilt making.
Connor was recently declared the winner of the secondary school category at the Victorian Quilters Showcase 2022. The winning sample quilt took 16 months of hard work to complete and is comprised of 64 blocks.
Catharina’s Vintage Stitches in Kyabram sponsored Connor’s entry, and their delightful shopfront is where Connor does most of his sewing. Since age 9, Connor has been sewing up a storm under the guidance of the store’s owners, Catharina and Simone.
“I was really surprised and excited when they announced my quilt had won first place,” reflects Connor.
Quilting is no easy feat, with the intricacies and precise nature of quilting requiring immense skill and utilisation of mathematical calculations, a steady hand and a critical eye for detail.
Thus far, Connor has made an incredible 12 quilts and various cushions, pillows and bags.
“When creating a new quilt, I first source inspiration from a pattern that interests me or even use online resources such as Pinterest. After that, I find fabrics that will complement the design,” said Connor when quizzed on his creative process.
“Currently, I’m working on a quilt for the ‘Very Snuggly Quilt’ program which will be donated to a patient at the Royal Children’s Hospital.”
Connor juggles his quilting alongside his year 10 studies, which he does remotely through Virtual School Victoria.
“Eventually, I’d love to be a sewing machine technician. I am working out what my path to that end goal will be, perhaps through the field of engineering or completing an electrical apprenticeship.”
You can view Connor’s award-winning quilt in the front window of Catharina’s Vintage Stitches on Allan Street, Kyabram.
