I learned to sew at the young age of two with my wonderful mom, Marie. I have always gotten such joy out of sewing. I discovered quilting when I turned 20 and was still in college when some friends got married and started their families. I taught myself to quilt so I could make gifts for them and their children and the rest is history.
I’ve been quilting more than 40 years. I purchased my first long arm machine in 2001 and started quilting for others as a hobby. I’ve finished hundreds of quilts over the years and have developed and taught many classes, been published in both magazines and books. I also love to show my quilts and have been honored with numerous awards and ribbons for my quiltworks.
When I took early retirement from the corporate life at age 55, I was able to devote more time to quilting and Extreme Quilting was launched. In late 2015, I had the good fortune to be able to add a second long arm machine to my shop, another Gammill with the Statler Stitcher computerized option. This really helped me ‘up my game’.
In addition to making and finishing quilts for others, I also love to wrap clothesline with fabric and form them into baskets, bowls, trivets, coasters and ringcatchers. Each one is unique. I’ve posted some pictures of a few and many are available for purchase on my Etsy site, ExtremeQuilting.
I am also available to teach a wide variety of classes and on occasion, private lessons. If you are looking to possibly book talent for a guild lecture or workshop program, conference, retreat or quilt store, please contact me directly and I will send you my class syllabus, course description and fee sheet.
Take a look around my website and I am always happy to hear from you!
I own and operate two Gammill Long Arm machines. One is a stitch regulated Gammill Optimum plus on a 12 foot table and the other is a Gammill 22/10 with the Statler Stitcher computerized option.
We primarily use Superior Threads and offer both Cotton and Wool batting options. We own thousands of patterns to complete your quilts. Come check us out and let us help you finish your beautiful quilt tops into family heirlooms.
I also make a wide variety of baskets, bowls, ringcatchers, quilts, trivets and coasters. These items are available for purchase via my Etsy shop at https://www.etsy.com/shop/ExtremeQuilting?ref=search_shop_redirect
Please take a me a look around and feel free to leave comments and feedback for me.
Some frequently asked questions with answers:
1). Do you make t-shirt or clothing quilts for people? No, I do not make t shirt quilt for people. I simply Do not enjoy working on these, so I have stopped taking them in as commissioned quilts. I will, on occasion, quilt them for people.
2). Can you recommend someone that make and finish t-shirt quilts? Yes! Google ‘Project Repat’.
3). What do I need to do to prepare my quilt for long arm quilting by you? You should trim the threads from the front and back of the quilt top. Batting and backing should be 8” longer and at least 6” wider than the finished size of the top to allow for proper loading onto my long arm machines. The top and backing edges should be squared up and pressed, wrinkle free.
4). Yes I will piece your backing yardage for you at the charge of $15 per seam.
5). Do you sell batting? Yes, I do stock several different sizes and types of batting which I am happy to use in your quilt if you haven’t purchased batting already. I typically stock 100% cotton batting in both white and natural colors, 80/20 blend in black, wool batting as well as Quilter’s Dream Green which is made from recycled plastic soda bottles. Each is priced competitively with what is available on the market today. Sold per yard or by the foot.
6). What type of thread do you use? I love using OMNI and OMNI-V threads. Thread is included in the cost of my quilting and I do not use customer provided threads when I quilt. I do stock over 200 thread colors and options in my studio to choose from.
7) Do you trim and square up the quilt after quilting? Yes I can if desired, and no extra charge. Leftovers are returned to you.
8). Can you add binding to the quilt for me? Yes, if you provide the yardage I can make and attach the binding to you quilt including mitred corners for a fee which varies depending on the quilt size. You can choose to have me finish the binding by machine or finish sewing the binding down to the back by hand yourself.
From my customer Barbara Blumenthal of Englewood NJ:
"Diane has quilted several pieces for me, all of which were lovely. But the work she just finished, a contemporary wedding quilt for my son, is beyond words! Diane transformed my work into a true masterpiece. Her creativity and absolutely meticulous needlework helped create an heirloom that will be treasured for years. I’m honored to have been able to collaborate with such a talented artist. And, by the way, I’m hesitant to add a sleeve for hanging: the back is as gorgeous as the front! Thank you, Diane, from the bottom of my heart.
Barbara "
“This is a gorgeous piece which looks stunning” Jeffrey
“Wow this basket is pretty. It is also very sturdy and well made. It was nicely packed and shipped quickly! So glad to have found this, Thanks! ” SherrieRae
“This is marvelous. You are a genius! Thank you!” Kspgallup
“This tablerunner is so well made. it is bright and beautiful and I will be able to use it on both sides of it...what a bonus!” Mcjudyknight