My Book and Fabric Postcards

I came to quilting like so many, creating quilts for the bed. In time I realized that I couldn’t continue making bed quilts and have the time to explore all the techniques and products I wanted to learn about. I needed a new approach, a new way of thinking about fiber art. I started by taking classes with inspirational fiber artists. I intentionally scaled down the size of the projects I was making with the idea of experimenting with a technique and finishing a project at the same time.

Then one day a friend handed me several Quilting Arts Magazine issues saying “You’re into embellishments now, look at these.” The Summer 2004 issue contained an article about a group of artists who were making and exchanging fabric postcards. This was my “Eureka!” moment: the postcards were an ideal format for experimentation with minimal time and materials investment. I couldn’t get to my computer fast enough to learn more.

I began trading fabric postcards 2005 with art2mail (the group in the magazine article) and Postmark’d Art (a group I started) and continued for 10 years. Neither group is active today. You don’t have to join a group to make and share these miniature art treasures. Just review the special occasions you celebrated with friends and family in the past year — you have plenty of opportunities to experiment and share. And here’s a liberating bonus: Because your investment in time and materials in so small while trying something new, you can feel free to toss out the postcards you don’t like!

The most frequently asked question about mailing fabric postcards is “Will the Post Office really mail these?” The answer is “Yes!” The postcards should measure 4˝ x 6˝ and be no more than 1/8˝ thick, be decorated with small, flat embellishments (sequins, ink, stitches, small seed and bugle beads) so they won’t be damaged in handling and be able to carry postage. Postcards which meet these standards can be mailed throughout the world using first class postage. Choose a self-adhesive stamp and press it firmly in place. It’s that easy!

Still skeptical about being able to mail a fabric postcard? Then do what I did: Make one today and mail it to yourself. Make notes on the message side of the card to record the materials you used to make it or simply jot down a favorite inspirational quote. Don’t forget to give your art a title, and date and sign the postcard for future reference. Then watch for your mail carrier!

The book is now out of print (with a few copies left at various sources including Amazon).

C&T Publishing also makes it available with printing by demand.

You can also buy directly from me. For $15 plus a small shipping fee, I will send you a signed copy of my book. Contact me at frankikohler@yahoo.com.