May Program
Kay Conners
"Bed Turning"
May 27, 2025
Bed-turning is a way to display quilts while telling their story. It originated long ago as a social event. A married woman might hold a Bed-Turning in her home among family members and friends. Her quilts would be piled on top of each other on a bed. The hostess would then turn back each quilt, one by one, as she talked about each quilt.
NIQ will feature a traditional Antique Bed Turning by Kay Conners. She will show a historical presentation of quilts throughout history and their relevant stories via the events of the day. Showing quilts from 1700s to the present time, accompanied by a narration of the culture and progress of our country.
May Workshop
"Judy Neimeyer Quilts"
Bio: Diana Simkins is a dedicated quilter and instructor with over 25 years of experience in the craft. Originally from Montana, she moved to Coeur d’Alene two years ago to be nearer to family while continuing to share her passion for quilting.
Diana became a certified instructor for Judy Niemeyer in 2009 and spent ten years teaching for Judy. With a deep appreciation for precision and design, Diana has created over 100 Judy Niemeyer quilts, mastering the art of foundation paper piecing. Alongside teaching Judy’s techniques, she has developed and published her own patterns, inspiring quilters of all skill levels.
Recently, Diana acquired a longarm quilting machine to finish her own quilt tops and to provide quilting services to others. Whether teaching in classes or mentoring, she remains committed to passing on her knowledge and love of quilting to others.
Workshop:
Diana would recommend the Rustic Mountain Snowflake that was published in the spring issue 2019 of American Patchwork and Quilting. Students should be able to finish one table topper in the class. If students don't have a copy, the instructions are available in a downloadable pdf. for $6.99 at Quiltworx.com and Diana will provide pre-class instructions.
You can bring any Judy Niemeyer that you have in progress if you'd prefer. Diana can help those with other patterns in between the basic instructions for most of the group. Students bringing other Judy Niemeyer patterns should read their patterns for supply lists and fabrics. You may bring a project in any stage of completion. Pag

Diana Simkins