Quilted Identities
As queer people, we choose deliberately to be visible or invisible via our often idiosyncratic clothing styles. But what are the symbols that we affiliate ourselves with. Symbols that are maybe invisible, but that can reveal a lot about our identity.
For this workshop, all are invited to join in crafting a wearable quilt segment, which can be joined together or worn on your body. Bring your own fabrics, threads, paints and stamps, fabric markers, and other materials with which to embellish your piece. Using words, symbols, and imagery, design your segment to speak about your individual and community values, your theory of change, and your alignment within activism(s).
On this page, you'll find the instructions on how to make your own Quilted Identity segment, which you may wear on your body or bind together with other makers. For assembly you may use the following: discarded fabrics, embroidery floss, paints, stamps, fabric markers, iron-ons and other appliques, sequins & glitter, buttons and ribbons, any craft materials you already have around the house.
Step 1
With your inner eye, look inside your self with the following questions; What symbols, imagery, or words hold power in your formulation of selfhood? What are you growing into? Where are you coming from?
Draw, doodle or sketch your ideas, keywords, onto a piece of paper. If you want, share your findings with others.
Step 2
Gather fabrics and materials you want to work with. You may use (discarded) fabrics, embroidery floss, paints, stamps, fabric markers, iron-ons and other appliques, sequins & glitter, buttons and ribbons, any craft materials you already have around the house.
Sketch your idea onto a piece of fabric with the shape and size of your choice. Be it square, rectangle, round, triangular or any other wild shape. Make sure there is three or four spots on which you can attach the ribbons.
Step 3
Attach the ribbons. Choose three or four corners on your personal quilted segment to attach the ribbons to. Hand stitch or machine stitch these for secure wearing.
Step 4
Wear your quilt with pride, or attach them together for an Incidental Quilted Identity artwork.
Of Dutch Origin
Inspiration for this workshop came from the original 'Baafje' chest pieces, from the folkloric costume of Marken, the Netherlands. Wearers wore these pinned-on bibs as a signifier for their state of mourning. Deep mourning would entail darker colors, whereas light and frivolous colors would signify as 'out of mourning'.
With this workshop, the Queer Needlework Circle tries to reinvent queer symbolism worn on the body.
Image courtesy of Zuiderzeemuseum, the Netherlands
Book this workshop
This workshop is applicable for your (Queer) Event! Want the Queer Needlework Circle to host this workshop near you, or do you want to join as a participant? Send us an email with you enquiry and we'll be in touch with you shortly.