The world of gemstones has long captivated humanity, inspiring artistry and symbolism across cultures. This fascination extends beyond traditional jewelry making, finding expression in unique artistic mediums like quilting. M.J. Kinman has dedicated her work to translating the beauty of gemstones into intricate fabric designs, most notably through her “Birthstone Series” – a collection of twelve quilt blocks, each representing a traditional birthstone. This series, along with her “Diamond Divas Series,” demonstrates a passion for capturing the essence of gems in a tactile and visually striking format. Her work has been exhibited in national and international quilt museums, including the National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Kentucky, and is held in both private and corporate collections, such as Maker’s Mark Distillery. This article explores the creation and inspiration behind Kinman’s gemstone quilts, focusing on the techniques and resources available to quilters interested in this unique art form.
The Birthstone Series: A Quilted Gemological Collection
M.J. Kinman’s “Birthstone Series” is a comprehensive collection of quilt patterns designed to replicate the appearance of twelve different birthstones. Each block is meticulously crafted using traditional piecing techniques, employing freezer paper as a template to achieve precise facets. The patterns are not foundation paper piecing; instead, templates are ironed onto the right side of the fabric, allowing for easy removal and reusability, minimizing waste. The series is available as individual patterns or as a complete package including all twelve patterns and corresponding fabric kits.
These kits utilize Painter’s Palette solids from Paintbrush Studio Fabrics, with colorways also translated into Moda Bella and KONA solids, offering quilters flexibility in fabric choices. Fat-quarter bundles are available for purchase directly from eQuilter.com or through Paintbrush Studio and its distributors, simplifying the fabric selection process. The inclusion of black fabric, specifically Paintbrush Studio Fabrics’ Ebony (121-004), is consistent across all kits, providing a grounding element for the gemstone designs.
Techniques and Resources for Gemstone Quilting
Kinman’s approach to gemstone quilting centers around freezer paper piecing, a technique she details in her book, Gemstone Quilts, released in 2020, and further explains in a Sulky webinar. This method involves ironing freezer paper templates onto fabric, allowing for precise cutting and piecing of the intricate facets that define each gemstone. A smaller introductory project, “En Pointe,” featuring a 13-faceted block with only five fabrics, serves as an excellent starting point for those unfamiliar with the technique. This project is available as a free downloadable PDF pattern.
The patterns themselves include detailed “Piece Plans,” step-by-step guides designed to help quilters assemble each facet strategically, ensuring a perfect fit. Kinman emphasizes the importance of using rayon thread for quilting, switching colors for each facet to avoid visual competition and enhance the gemstone’s brilliance. She also advocates for “Wild-Motion Quilting,” a technique she teaches in her webinar, to further accentuate the texture and depth of the quilted gems.
Inspiration and Artistic Process
Kinman’s journey into gemstone quilting began with a 25-year exploration of creating diamond designs using fabric. Her lecture and trunk show, “Gems & Joy,” chronicles this artistic evolution, showcasing her techniques and the inspiration behind her work. The creation of these quilts is not merely about replicating the appearance of gemstones; it’s about capturing their inherent joy and beauty.
The process begins with careful consideration of color and fabric selection. While solids are recommended for clarity, quilters are encouraged to experiment with Bali hand-dyes, ombres, or textured solids to achieve unique effects. The detailed fabric translations provided for each colorway ensure consistency and ease of replication, while also allowing for creative interpretation.
Project Quilting and Community Engagement
The popularity of Kinman’s work extends to the quilting community through challenges like Project Quilting. In a 2025 challenge, participants were encouraged to create projects inspired by their birthstones, further demonstrating the widespread interest in gemstone-themed quilting. This challenge highlights the collaborative and inspiring nature of the quilting world, where artists share their creations and techniques.
Kinman actively fosters a community of gem-loving quiltmakers through online platforms such as the Tiny Treasures Club and the “Diamonds & Drama Queens” Block-of-the-Month club. These platforms provide opportunities for quilters to connect, learn, and share their passion for gemstone quilting.
Availability and Contact Information
M.J. Kinman’s patterns, fabric kits, and online courses are readily accessible to quilters of all skill levels. Her work is available through her online shop, eQuilter.com, and Paintbrush Studio. She also offers lectures and trunk shows, sharing her expertise and inspiring quilters across the United States and Canada.
For inquiries, Kinman can be contacted via phone at 502-287-3034, email at [email protected], or by mail at 709 Fairhill Drive, Louisville, KY 40207. Her website, https://mjkinman.com, serves as a central hub for information about her work, upcoming events, and online resources.
Conclusion
M.J. Kinman’s “Birthstone Series” and “Diamond Divas Series” represent a unique intersection of gemology and quilting artistry. Through meticulous technique, thoughtful design, and a passion for capturing the beauty of gemstones, she has created a collection of quilt patterns that inspire creativity and celebrate the enduring allure of these natural treasures. Her work not only provides quilters with the resources to create stunning gemstone-inspired pieces but also fosters a vibrant community of artists who share her love for fabric, color, and the timeless elegance of gems.