Jean Wells in her home studio, where she makes most of her quilts. Works in progress fill the room with colors and textures that mirror the landscapes of Central Oregon.
In addition to running the Stitchin’ Post, Wells also teaches and has written many books about quilting. Her legacy has inspired her grandchildren, who often host their own pretend art shows in her studio when they visit.
Stacks of fabric fill the studio shelves with vibrant colors.
Wells stitches a thin strip of material to a larger piece she is working on. While much of her process uses the sewing machine, her detail work is done by hand. ”I think of it as painting with fabric,” she said, “one brushstroke at a time.”
The original Stitchin’ Post was established by Wells 44 years ago. In 1997, she relocated the business to the main street in Sisters, which attracted new visitors and through-traffic. Wells said, historically, most of her business came from visitors from out of town, but now more locals are coming in.
This piece, titled The Wedding Garden, was inspired by the wedding ceremonies of Wells’ two children, which took place in the backyard of their family home. Zinnias and sunflowers were planted alongside existing wildflower patches for the occasion. The memory is preserved in the pattern work seen above.