Hello, and welcome to my site! My name is Joy Walker and I’m a textile artist in Washington. I took my first quilting class in 2000, but I’ve had a love affair with quilts all my life. I love the feeling of the cotton, the color combinations and the intricacy of the quilted design. The traditional quilt patterns are stunning but I enjoy the more abstract nature of my designs. I believe all my pieces share the same qualities; they are colorful and eye-catching, yet also soothing and comforting to the eye and spirit, which is my ultimate goal.

At first, I made simply patterned quilts and had them machine quilted. But then I discovered how much I enjoyed hand quilting with different colored thread and fantastic designs. It’s incredibly meditative and fulfilling to see my stitched designs take shape. I’ve always loved color, I’m a frustrated painter! When I started to explore the huge kaleidoscope of batik fabrics now available, I found my medium. I love being able to put together rich color pieces to form a vibrant whole quilt or hanging.

I have a real affinity for nature and its organic forms, I’ve always picked up pine cones, feathers, branches, rocks, you name it, whenever I am outside walking or sitting on the beach. I’ve also always liked the look and feel of charms and charm bracelets, so it seemed natural to combine my quilted forms with charms, beads, and natural elements to make a vibrant, organic whole. I plan to begin integrating other mixed media to my designs, including text, ribbons, etc.

My pieces measure from a small 4’’x 6’’ to a grand 4’x6’ and everything in between and maybe even bigger. I really enjoy making custom pieces and am happy to work with clients to make something perfect for their space. I invite you to check back often as I will be posting new pieces and shows throughout the year.