A Legacy in Fiber Art

For over forty years, Judith Baker Montano has been a leading figure in the world of fiber arts. What began as a project for her first book in 1983 blossomed into a prolific career as an award-winning artist, author, and teacher. Her journey has taken her across the globe, including twenty-four annual teaching tours of Australia, seventeen trips to Japan, and extensive visits throughout Europe and New Zealand. Through these travels, she pioneered the revival of Victorian crazy quilting and silk ribbon embroidery for a modern audience.

 

A World of Inspiration

Judith’s work is deeply informed by the cultures she has embraced. Whether participating in Buddhist ceremonies in Japan, listening to the haunting bagpipes of Scotland, or witnessing the powerful dances of Australian Aborigines, her travels have provided a rich tapestry of experiences. Each journey resulted in suitcases filled with treasures (vintage textiles, rare tools, and unique "doodads") sourced from musty bookstores, hidden alley markets, and antique shops around the world.

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Throughout her fifty-year career as an author, photographer, and illustrator, Judith has used these treasures as props, backdrops, and primary sources of inspiration for her many books. Her collection began at age twelve with five antique cigarette silks; this moment sparked a lifelong passion for the history and tactile beauty of needlework.

 

A Note from Judith

"As I transition to a new chapter and move to Detroit to be closer to family, I have reached a bittersweet crossroads. My new home, a charming 1939 brick bungalow, simply cannot accommodate the extensive collection of vintage memorabilia and textile art I have gathered over the decades.

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While I am not retiring from teaching or writing, I realize it is time to say goodbye to many of these cherished items. With the invaluable help of my daughter Maddy and son-in-law Tony, we have reimagined this website to be my official central hub: a place where you can find my upcoming class schedule and a curated shop featuring pieces from my private archive.

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Every item here holds a memory and a piece of my heart. My hope is that these treasures find new homes where they will continue to inspire creativity and joy. Thank you for being part of my journey."

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— Judith Baker Montano