Biography of Alex Anderson

Hi Everyone, here's a little bit about me. My love affair with quiltmaking began in 1978, when I completed my Grandmother's Flower Garden quilt as part of my work towards a degree in art from San Francisco State University. Little did I know that quilting would become a life long passion. My emphasis in college was fiber and graphic design which led me to a deep respect and admiration of Amish Quilts. Their strong visual impact along with the sensitive intricacy of the quilting design became the starting point of my quilting. Over the years my central focus has been understanding fabric relationships and an intense appreciation of traditional quilts and beautiful quilting surface design.
Over two decades later I am still in love with quilting and all that surrounds it. The creative aspect of making a quilt or watching someone unlock their own creative spirit is one of pure joy and excitement. The journey of quiltmaking has challenged me in other ways I never dreamed possible. From authoring books, designing fabric, working with Bernina of America as National Spokesperson to hosting Simply Quilts on Home and Garden television, quiltmaking has allowed me to stretch and grow in areas beyond my wildest dreams.

My personal mission is to share my love of quilting with anyone who will listen. When teaching, my goal is to educate and encourage those interested in quilting as clearly and simply as possible. As for those who really aren't interested in the craft itself, I enjoy enlightening them about this art which has been handed down so carefully from generation to generation.

I have time to quilt?? Of course. It is the place I find myself most at home, the place where I can reflect and think about things, and the place where my creative spirit soars. I can't imagine my life without quilts..... nor do I ever intend to!