"Tinker Toys" by Susan Braverman won Best Machine Quilting at QuiltCon 2026.
QuiltCon 2026 Artist Statement: "This quilt reimagines childhood construction sets through a modern quilting lens with traditional elements like drunkard's path, rail fence, and checkerboard blocks. I combined curved and linear shapes to evoke movement and connection, much like the toys themselves. Bold colors and graphic contrasts create a design that is both nostalgic and modern."
Second Artist Statement: "This geometric abstraction of drunkards path blocks is inspired by the playful mechanics of Tinker Toys construction sets. The piece celebrates how simple shapes can become interconnected forms guiding viewers through the composition where modern meets nostalgia."
Techniques Used: Machine Pieced, Machine Quilted on a Frame (Longarm), Faced Binding
(Main Quilt Photo from The Modern Quilt Guild Facebook Page; Sign and Ribbon Photo from Steven Braverman LinkedIn Page; Display Photo, Detail Photo, Individual Ribbon Photo, and Individual Sign Photo from shortstory.longarm Instagram Page)
Maker: Susan Braverman
Quilter: Susan Braverman
Year Made: 2024
Owned By: NA
Size: 52 x 52 inches
Shows & Museums: QuiltCon 2026
Awards: Best Machine Quilting (Sponsored by Anna Maria Textiles) at QuiltCon 2026
