Well, Portland's Spring Quilt Market has drawn to a close, and a vibrant and exciting show it was too. I saw so much that was really appealing. I know I'm biased, but David & Charles author, Mandy Shaw was a sensation whenever she presented her new book, Quilt Yourself Gorgeous. Her schoolhouse session on Thursday had everyone enthused and giggling at her stories. Lots of quilt shop owners approached her on the days that followed to ask her for workshops as far afield as Alaska. If you are a quilt shop owner reading this in the UK and want Mandy to teach a class, I would book her quickly!

Other simply gorgeous offerings included these fabulous Japanese bags, which were showing off the fabrics from Kokka. (Sorry the photo's sideways - slight but apparently insurmountable (by me) tchnical hitch!)

Also gorgeous was Anna Maria Horner's booth, which won first prize at the show. Here's a snapshot of her schoolhouse presentation, which shows some of the quilts that hung in her booth (which I wish I had taken a photo of, it was so beautiful). I hope the quilts and a visit to her website will give you some idea of the loveliness!

Quit show season is now well underway in the UK and I'll be bringing you reports of the Festival of Quilts in August, but I have plenty to share with you before then,

All the best

Jane