Episode Details

The first day of the Minnesota State Fair brings a chance to see thousands of creative works made by Minnesotans — including quilts that showcase remarkable skill, artistry and imagination.

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with two quilters about what goes into making a quilt, how quilting has evolved and the community and personal stories that can be stitched into every finished piece.

Guests:

• Brenda Lyseng is a quilter and board member of Minnesota Quilter’s, Inc., a statewide quilting organization. She was the director of the organization’s annual quilt show for five years until retiring from that role in 2024. Before that she was a biology professor and dean with the Minnesota State colleges and universities system.
• Wally Wallestad started quilting four years ago and is a member of the Minneapolis Modern Quilt Guild.

Angela’s guests shared these resources for beginner quilters:

• Melanie Ham’s Beginner Quilting Tutorial Videos
• Minnesota Quilters Facebook Group