fabric arts for a handmade lifestyle

Bill Kerr and Weeks Ringle

Weeks and Bill are the dynamic duo behind Modern Quilt Studio (formerly known as FunQuilts). They have two books with C&T Publishing—Transparency Quilts and Quilts Made Modern. They also contributed designs to two Stash Books titles—Modern Blocks and the brand new We Love Color.

Weeks and Bill recently launched their new magazine, Modern Quilts Illustrated, and they’ll be speaking at QuiltCon next February. So we thought you might like to know a little more about this very talented husband-wife design team!

Describe your first experience as an artist.

Weeks:  I began doing contemporary ikebana (Japanese flower arranging) while living in Tokyo for eight years after college.

Bill:  I learned to sew at age eight on my mother’s sewing machine. The only place for it in the house was in my bedroom. Being a mechanical kid, I loved taking it apart and reassembling it. Along the way I actually learned to sew a bit. While my mother was a weaver and my father was an architect, I was a math and science kid until I went to college where I got the design bug. I ended up studying printmaking (and anthropology) as an undergraduate.

What inspired you to make a career of your creative spark?

Weeks:  I had a series of bosses who had less energy and creativity that I wanted in a boss. I wanted to see how far I could take my ideas without someone holding me back. I also wanted to have the flexibility to be a full-time mom and own a business.

Bill:  I grew up in an entrepreneurial family and had seen my parents pursue their interests and I wanted to do the same.

"Mint Julep" from "Transparency Quilts"

How has your artistry changed over the years?

We started our company making high-end quilts for interior designers and galleries. Over time we found a place for ourselves in the quilting community at large. We continue to evolve as designers, constantly asking ourselves how we can create work that is reflective of the time in which we live. Because our times change, so should our art.

Any memorable moments to share from your travels as authors?

Our favorite moment of late was in Madison, WI this past March. We had just given a lecture and were signing books. Our daughter Sophie was sitting in the back of the room waiting for us to finish so we could go eat dinner. One kind lady saw her and said to her, “Will you sign my book too?” Sophie said, “Sure.” Then a line started to form in front of Sophie with others who wanted Sophie to sign their books. Later on Facebook, I posted that I was grateful that they made her feel special. One woman responded, “I think Sophie needs a book of her own…”

"Whisper" from "Transparency Quilts"

How would you describe your personalities?

Weeks:  I’ve got a  ton of energy and my head is always full of new ideas. I’m a bundle of contradictions: I’m actually a total introvert but am comfortable among people with whom I have something in common. I’m both very focused and disciplined and a huge prankster. Being a great mom and a loving wife are at the top of my resume. I’m very loyal and think it’s important to be fair and honest. I’m really good in a crisis and will tirelessly cheer on people who are working hard to make their lives or the world better. I’m never, ever bored which is a good thing, because I’m married to Bill Kerr, who makes me look like a slacker.

Bill:  The other day I was in the elevator with a group of people who were talking about going to lunch because they were all bored. I thought to myself, “Bored? What does that feel like?” There is so much I want to do and so many experiences I want to absorb and share with Weeks and Sophie, that there just aren’t enough hours in the day. I get huge energy from making things, but also I’m greatly motivated by helping others grow as designers and artists.

Many thanks, Weeks and Bill!