Behind the Story: Why Quilts

What is it about a quilt that is so special?
And why did I choose to make it the center of my novella, The Missing Piece?
I've talked about quilt shops already, but why quilts in particular? Why not any other part of sewing?
Well, let me tell you about someone really special to me. My Grandma Reeve. She was one of the most amazing women I ever knew. And she taught me a love for quilts fairly early on. First, with a twin-sized quilt, each block appliqued with various women in different jobs. Then, when I graduated high school, with a queen-sized quilt made in the colors I requested.
And she didn't only make quilts for me. No. There were thirteen of us grandchildren and every single one received two Grandma-made quilts.

So, those quilts are obviously special because of who made them.
But think about what goes into a quilt. Lots of cutting--every single piece has to be cut out to be sewn together again. Certain patterns can't be pieced together on a sewing machine. Instead, they have to be stitched by hand (like a Grandmother's Flower Garden quilt I started years ago and never finished). Then, once the top is pieced, the various layers have to be stitched together, which often means going back over seams you've already stitched before again.
We're talking hours and hours of work.
Then, once you get the edges all bound neatly and the finished blanket washed, you get the joy of snuggling underneath it. And there is nothing comfier than a quilt on a cold evening. Comforting and warm.
And what does any of that have to do with romance? Well, you might have to read the story to find out. ;)
But seriously, I grew up watching Grandma and Mom make quilts. Literally played under a quilt frame some church ladies sat around and worked when we lived in Mississippi. How could I not include something so special in one of my stories? And The Missing Piece was born.
​So, do you love quilts? Has anyone in your life spent hours creating one for you? Have you ever tried your hand at all those tiny stitches?

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