Redwork is a simple kind of quilt where the picture is embroidered on a plain backing. Historically, they are red because Turkey Red was one of the earliest, cheapest, and most accessible dyes available to a home sewer. Varieties of color started to be available in the last century and now we can make these in any color we like. I like using red for tradition, but some designs call out for different colors. I really enjoy combining unexpected pictures with the traditional technique. I am a huge fanatic for children’s literature (just ask my son Oz!) so illustrations from classic children’s books are one of my favorite sources. Line illustrations lend themselves to this technique so well. Ozma of Oz is one of my favorite characters from the later Oz books.
