Behind the Stitches: Jan Bevan

Behind the Stitches - 4th July 2024

>Behind the Stitches>Behind the Stitches: Jan Bevan

Join us weekly for "Behind the Stitches," our blog series where we interview quilters with 14 insightful questions. Discover their quilting journeys, inspirations, favourite techniques, and more. Explore what makes each quilter unique and find common threads in our shared passion.

Let’s start with your name, and without revealing too much about your age, could you share how long you’ve been a member of The Quilters’ Guild?

Hello, my name is Jan Bevan and I have been a member of The Quilters' Guild for 20+ years now.

What inspired you to join our Guild? We'd love to hear what you enjoy most about your membership.

I saw wonderful work at Malvern in 2000 and then joined the Contemporary section to make journal quilts. I enjoy the camaraderie of quilters and the sharing of information the most, and that sense of community has kept me in the Guild over the years.

What region are you a member of?

I was a member of Region 11 for several years before moving to Region 2.

How and when did you start quilting? Was there an individual or specific event that stands out as the catalyst?

I started quilting around the 2000s, the major catalysts being visiting Malvern and then going to La Maison du Patchwork in France for about five years. Over the years I have had some inspiring tutors and made good friends.

What was your first sewing machine?

My first sewing machine, from when I was still at school, was a hand singer.

Are there any artists (quilters or otherwise) that you particularly admire?

I wish I could name them, but the reality is there are too many to list.

Where do you find your inspiration?

Cliche as it may sound, I find inspiration anywhere and everywhere. I do take lots of photos of nature and scenery and enjoy pushing out the boundaries with Modern Quilting techniques.

What are your favourite techniques and materials?

I enjoy piecing in all its forms and quilting by machine. I have a stash of semi-plains and textures rather than pretty prints.

What's your favourite quilt/alt. piece you've made and why? (We know this might be like choosing a favourite child!)

The quilt I love most is Carousel, a whole cloth, and my latest finish is Twist, which is going to FOQ. I also have a special place in my heart for my WW1 memorial quilt. I love all the images and techniques used in that quilt.

What is one thing you can't live without in your quilting room/space?

Warmth and good light, my rotary cutter and seam ripper!

What is your proudest quilting moment?

A couple of rosettes, and when my students say they have been inspired and encouraged to make a lovely quilt.

Have you ever had a project that made you want to give up quilting altogether or, at the very least, not finish it?

Oh yes, I have quite a few UFOs, but you must move on. My least favourite is paper piecing by machine.

Do you have any upcoming projects, exhibitions, or talks you'd like to share with everyone?

My latest project is about the election. “Promises and lies.”

I do put lots on Facebook, host talks and workshops, and I am an active member of Edgy Stitchers in Kent, a supportive and exhibiting group of quilters.

Please share any social media handles or a personal website you would like to promote

Quilting talk by Jan on Facebook

@janbevan on Instagram