This is Bettye’s first shadow trapunto quilt. “Trapunto” is a form of quilting in which figures are outlined in stitches then stuffed with extra batting to make them rise above the surface of the quilt. In “shadow trapunto” the top layer is a sheer batiste fabric. When figures are stuffed with brightly colored yarn, the designs take on a soft, hazy appearance. The stuffing is usually done from the back of the quilt, but Bettye, devised a way to stuff the yarn in from the top with a tapestry needle. This quilt, designed by Cindy Denton, won Best of Show at the Alabama State Fair and got the same honor at Disneyland in California when shown with winners from other state fairs across the country. (Photo of quilt courtesy of Jimmy Martin)
82” L X 78” W (1985)