It’s been at least 30 years since I took my first class with Lois Ericson. I can’t remember where it was or even the exact topic of the class, but I remember that Lois opened my eyes to a truly creative approach to sewing. I had studied textiles & design in college. I knew how to sew by the rules. I was working at Vogue and Butterick patterns. But what Lois was teaching was an entirely new way of sewing…..and seeing.
I remember we made samples of shaped facings. Before that I never thought of a facing as anything other than something that finished an edge and was unseen from the front of a garment. Creating a facing that became a design element was a new concept to me.
And we explored unusual ways to create closures with unique buttons, cordings and shaped buttonholes. You mean there are other ways of sewing on buttons and making buttonholes than just lining them up in a row? 
Immediately, I became of fan of Lois’ work and a collector of her books and patterns. I think I only took that one class with her, but she instilled in me a creative spark that still simmers when I approach my sewing projects.
Years later, I had the privilege of studying with Lois’s daughter, Diane Ericson. I attended one of the Design Outside the Lines retreats that she teaches with Marcy Tilton. Like her mom, Diane challenged us all to think in new ways and to break the rules to express ourselves.
So I was very sad when I learned that Lois Ericson passed away peacefully last week after suffering a massive stroke. My condolences to Diane and their entire family. Lois inspired so many of us through her teaching and books and magazine articles.
This is one of my favorite pictures of Lois, taken from the back of her book “Pleats”. Under the picture it states that she is looking for the right button in her terrific “stash”. 
The bio in the book mentions that Lois’ idols were Erte, Issey Miyake, Georgia O’keefe and Louise Nevelson. Well, Lois…you are one of my idols. Thank you for igniting the creative spark.
In an e-mail I received from Marcy, she said that there were no plans for a memorial. But that if we want to honor Lois, we should all go to our studios and create, make and invent. And to teach. And as Marcy said, Lois did indeed forge a path in fiber arts that is a foundation of the work we all do today.
Thank you Lois for giving me permission to play and to stray from traditional techniques. Your many friends and students will miss you but your inspiration will live on in the work of everyone who has studied with you or read your books.
Where are all my pictures from CHA? In my head, I guess.
Like the colorful bead & felt jewelry program at Trade Marker International – so bright and happy.
How fun is this technique??
Canvas Corp’s booth was so cool with all their natural textured fabric products.
Love the burlap wreath. Take a look at their blog, chock full of ideas.
I did manage to take a picture of my Designer Showcase booth. What a great event with so many talented designers. Thank you to all that stopped by. I am excited about some new contacts I made.
