MJ Kinman is a contemporary artist specializing in gemstone-inspired quilt patterns. Her work, spanning over two decades, transforms the allure of precious stones into intricate fabric designs. Kinman’s artistic journey began with a fascination for gems, leading to the development of unique techniques for replicating their facets and brilliance in textile art. This article details the development of her work, focusing on her celebrated “Birthstone Series” and related projects.
The Genesis of Gemstone Quilts
Kinman’s exploration of gemstone representation in quilting began nearly 25 years ago, sparked by a single captivating image of a gem. As a novice quiltmaker, she embarked on a seven-year quest to find the appropriate techniques to translate this visual inspiration into a quilted form. This dedication resulted in her first gem quilt, marking the beginning of a prolific career dedicated to capturing the essence of gemstones through fabric and thread. Her work has since been exhibited nationally and internationally, featured in publications such as Quiltfolk, Quilting Arts Magazine, and McCall’s Quilting, and included in both private and corporate collections, notably Maker’s Mark Distillery and the National Quilt Museum in Paducah, Kentucky.
The Birthstone Series: A Twelve-Part Collection
Kinman’s most recognized project is the “Birthstone Series,” a collection of twelve quilt blocks, each representing a traditional birthstone. Released in 2018, this series quickly gained popularity within the quilting community. The series aims to provide quiltmakers with the tools to create their own gemstone-inspired artwork. The complete series is available as a “Mega kit,” containing supplies and patterns for all twelve blocks. Individual block patterns, such as the June Birthstone Block, are also available, allowing quilters to focus on specific stones or gradually build a complete birthstone quilt.
Techniques and Materials
Kinman’s technique relies heavily on freezer-paper piecing, a method she expertly teaches through certification programs and online platforms. This technique differs from foundation paper piecing, eliminating the need to tear away paper backing. Instead, it utilizes freezer paper as a template for precise fabric placement and piecing. She emphasizes the importance of accurate seam allowances – a quarter-inch – as fundamental to successful execution.
The process, while initially appearing complex due to the numerous markings and numbers within the patterns, is described as positive and encouraging by those who have followed her instructions. Kinman recommends washing and ironing fabric before beginning a project. She also utilizes rayon thread, switching colors for each facet to enhance the visual depth and avoid color competition. Her collaborative work with Northcott Fabrics has resulted in collections like “Facets by MJ Kinman” and “Jewel Box by MJ Kinman,” specifically designed to complement her gemstone designs.
Expanding the Gemstone Universe: Beyond Birthstones
While the “Birthstone Series” is a cornerstone of Kinman’s work, her artistic exploration extends beyond traditional birthstones. The “Diamond Divas Series” features larger quilt patterns inspired by fancy-cut diamonds, showcasing her ability to translate complex gem shapes into quilted forms. More recently, her work has been inspired by the National Gem Collection at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Her “Bourbon Diamonds” series celebrates Kentucky’s signature spirit, demonstrating her versatility in incorporating thematic elements into her gemstone-inspired designs.
Teaching and Community Engagement
Kinman is dedicated to sharing her techniques with others. She has appeared on Quilting Arts TV and The Quilt Show.com, and launched a teacher certification program in 2018, creating a network of “Gem Affiliates” who are authorized to teach her patterns worldwide. She also offers online learning opportunities through Creative Spark (C&T Publishing’s online learning platform) and fosters a community of gem-loving quiltmakers through the “Tiny Treasures Club” and the “Diamonds & Drama Queens” Block-of-the-Month club. Prior to the pandemic, she taught workshops throughout the United States and Canada.
Programs and Events
Kinman actively participates in quilting events and workshops. She recently presented a program titled “Gems & Joy,” and conducted a workshop called “Bite-Size Gems.” These events typically involve demonstrations of her techniques, trunk shows displaying her completed quilts, and opportunities for students to create their own gemstone blocks. Her merchandise is often available for sale at these events.
Conclusion
MJ Kinman’s work represents a unique intersection of quilting artistry and gemstone fascination. Through her innovative techniques, particularly freezer-paper piecing, she has successfully translated the beauty and complexity of gems into stunning textile art. Her “Birthstone Series” and subsequent projects have inspired countless quilters to explore the possibilities of gemstone-inspired designs, fostering a vibrant community of gem-loving artists. Her dedication to teaching and sharing her expertise ensures that her artistic legacy will continue to flourish within the quilting world.