The work of artist MJ Kinman centers around the captivating translation of gemstones into the medium of quilting. While not focused on the gemstones themselves as naturally occurring minerals, Kinman’s artistry explores their visual qualities – color, facets, and light – through meticulously crafted fabric representations. Her unique approach has garnered recognition within both the quilting and art worlds, with exhibitions at prestigious venues like the National Quilt Museum and the Art Quilt Elements biennial. This article details Kinman’s process, the inspiration behind her work, and the availability of resources for those interested in recreating gemstone designs through quilting.
A Lifelong Passion for Sewing and Gems
MJ Kinman’s journey into gemstone quilting began with a childhood steeped in sewing traditions. Growing up in rural Nebraska with a family history connected to Amish and Mennonite quilting practices, she developed a foundational skill set at a young age. This early exposure to textiles and design laid the groundwork for her later artistic explorations. Initially, Kinman sought to fill the bare walls of her first apartment with a quilt that would serve as a significant work of art, sparking a career opportunity.
Her interest in gemstones was ignited by a direct mailer featuring a round brilliant diamond over 25 years ago. Intrigued by the intricate faceting pattern, she recognized the potential to translate the gemstone’s structure into a quilt design. Despite having no formal gemological knowledge at the time, Kinman observed that the design within the curved edges of the diamond consisted of straight lines, a characteristic that made it feasible to recreate in fabric.
The Art of Translation: From Gemstone to Quilt
Kinman’s process is a meticulous one, requiring both artistic vision and technical skill. It begins with a deep study of gemstone faceting patterns. In the early stages of her work, obtaining images of gemstones was a slow process, hampered by the limitations of dial-up internet. However, she persevered, learning to identify the arrangement of facets – kite shapes, quadrilaterals, and triangles – that define each gem’s unique structure.
Once a faceting pattern is identified, Kinman drafts the design on paper, then cuts it into hundreds of individual facets. These facets are then ironed onto fabric using freezer paper, a technique she discovered was ideally suited for quilting. Each piece is cut with a precise quarter-inch seam allowance and sewn together, facet by facet, unit by unit, section by section, until the quilt gradually takes shape. The key to success lies in accurate seam allowances and careful attention to detail.
Kinman emphasizes the importance of a “key” – a reference guide – throughout the piecing process, stating that the project would be nearly impossible without it. The pattern itself has markings that, while initially overwhelming, become essential for accurate construction once the instructions are understood.
Available Resources and Kits
Recognizing the complexity of her technique, Kinman offers a range of resources to support aspiring gemstone quilters. She has authored two books, "Gemstone Quilts" and "Crack the Color Code," detailing the basics of her craft. Additionally, she provides classes, trunk shows, and lectures both in person and online. She is currently developing a new trunk show focused on the Smithsonian’s National Gem Collection.
For those seeking a more streamlined approach, Sulky offers kits specifically designed for creating Kinman’s Birthstone Series quilt blocks. These kits include the pattern, a curated selection of fabrics by Paintbrush Studio, and a set of Sulky rayon threads perfectly matched to the fabrics. A Mega kit is also available, containing supplies and patterns for all twelve birthstone blocks in a slimline storage box. The kits are designed to simplify the process, providing all the necessary materials in a convenient package. Kinman recommends using rayon thread for quilting, switching colors for each facet to avoid visual competition.
Applications for Retail Jewelers
Kinman’s work also presents opportunities for retail jewelers seeking unique gifts or store events. Her one-of-a-kind gemstone quilts, ranging in size from 3’ x 3’ to 12’ x 24’, are priced around $350 per square foot. She also accepts commissions, allowing for customized designs in various sizes and color schemes.
Furthermore, Kinman creates dye-on-metal reproductions of her gemstone quilts using Chromaluxe technology, offering panel sizes up to 4’ x 8’ at a price of $65 per square foot. She is also available to host trunk show events at jewelry stores, appealing to both gemstone enthusiasts and quilters. Her Diamond Diva series offers customizable quilts averaging 4’ x 4’ for approximately $1,600.
A Unique Artistic Vision
MJ Kinman’s work represents a fascinating intersection of art, craft, and scientific observation. By meticulously translating the complex structure of gemstones into the medium of quilting, she creates visually stunning pieces that celebrate the beauty and intricacy of the natural world. Her dedication to her craft, combined with her willingness to share her knowledge and resources, has established her as a leading figure in the field of gemstone quilting. Her quilts are not merely representations of gemstones; they are artistic interpretations that capture the essence of their faceted brilliance.