Meet Karen Lewis - the quilter behind our new Build-a-Block Designer Collection

We've teamed up with amazing quilting creative, Karen Lewis to create a new Gemini Build-a -Block Designer Collection!

Expert quilter, author and fabric designer - Karen has designed a full range of Multi Media die sets exclusively for Gemini. Each set will create not one, but three beautiful quilting or patchwork projects using the modern method of die cutting.

Karen is a friend and colleague of Jo Avery, the quilter behind our first Build-a-Block Designer Collection.

So, let's get to know Karen - our newest crafting partner!

Who is Karen Lewis?

Karen is an expert quilter, fabric designer, screen printer and author.

Based near Leeds in Yorkshire, Karen spends her days quilting and designing new fabric collections for Figo Fabrics. 

Karen forms one third of The Thread House alongside fellow quilters, Jo Avery and Lynne Goldsworthy. In 2020, the UK based quilting retreat and pattern venture launched Virtual Retreats, Online Video Classes and The Thread House Club, which includes an annual subscription Block of the Month.

What is her creative style?

A published author, Karen's first book Screen Printing at Home introduces the reader to easy at home methods of launching into screen printing.

Her second book, Wabi Sabi Sewing features 20 sewing projects all based on the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi which celebrates beauty in the ordinary and imperfect. 

Karen has incorporated this concept to strip things down to pleasing simplicity in the choice of fabrics and colours used in the book's projects for home décor and accessories.

When she isn’t busy with her creative endeavours, Karen gets out into the fresh air to roam the fields and woods near her home with her family and dog, Scout.

Karen’s books, hand screen printed fabrics, quilting templates and more are available via her online store, where you can also join a bi-monthly fabric club. 

What is the Gemini Build-a-Block Designer Collection?

The Gemini Build-a -Block Designer Collection is a range of three die sets, each designed by Karen Lewis to create stunning quilts, wall hangings, bags and more.

Use them to stitch the perfect home-made gift for a loved one, or to brighten up your home!

Each set includes Multi Media dies to create a finished 12″ quilting block in a beautiful geometric design.

How do the die sets work?

With each set you can create three beautiful quilting or patchwork projects using Multi Media dies and a die-cutting machine.

Multi Media dies can cut multiple layers of fabric, including up to 6 layers of 100% cotton materials. Use them with a Gemini die-cutting machine to cut multiple patchwork shapes at once, with accuracy and precision.

This makes them faster, safer and  more accurate than using a rotary cutter. And if that wasn't enough, you'll have more time to get creative! 

Are they easy to use?

Yes! The Multi Media dies included in each set also feature seam allowance, to take all of the hard work out of calculating the dimensions of your patchwork shapes.

You'll also receive easy-to-follow instructions to guide though preparing and creating your chosen block pattern.

Simply die-cut your shapes, and follow the step-by-step guide to stitch together your design with a quarter inch seam allowance.

The Gemini Designer Build-a-Block Collection from Karen Lewis

Let’s take a look at all three of the Gemini Build-a -Block Designer Collection sets in more detail…

Geometric Arrows

The Geometric Arrows set includes six dies to create a finished 12” block with a beautiful interlocking design. The set also includes instructions to create a quilt, cushion and apron with a Geometric Arrows design.

Catherine Wheel

Create a 12" block with a stunning Catherine Wheel design with the four dies included in this set. You'll also receive instructions to create a quilt, tote bag and wall hanging with a Catherine Wheel design.

Bejewelled Delights

With the Bejewelled Delights set you'll receive five dies to create a finished 12” block with a n intricate design. Plus instructions to create a quilt, storage caddy and table runner with a Bejewelled Delights design.

As you can see, each set includes step-by-step instructions to help you create three beautiful quilted projects! But there’s nothing to stop you using the any of the designs to craft whatever you fancy – let your creativity lead the way!

We can’t wait to see what you make with the Gemini Build a Block Designer Collection from Karen Lewis! Make sure you share your project photos with us on Facebook UK, Facebook USA,  Twitter, Instagram UK, Instagram US, Pinterest UK or Pinterest US using the hashtag #crafterscompanion.