Photographs by E. C. Dabis Brass safety-pins for basting, and white cotton gloves for more grip. |
Written by: Donna Foote
Ruby began sewing at age seven and hasn't stopped yet. Her aunt was her inspiration and taught her to sew on an old fashioned treadle machine. They made quilts for the family, a necessity for surviving those cold Oklahoma winters!
She continued to sew on this old treadle until 1950 when her stepfather bought her her first electric machine. She made her first quilt in 1952 and to date, Ruby estimates that she has completed over 200 quilts! She also has made dolls for which she has won ribbons at the county fair.
Today, Ruby quilts in her huge sewing room and displays her quilts in her lovely home. Ruby says, "Christmas is my favorite time of year," and her home certainly reflects the holiday spirit. Enter her home during the holiday season and you feel as if you've been transported into a Christmas wonderland.
Besides the twinkling lights on trees decorated with her fabulous ornament collection, Christmas quilts adorn walls and balcony and drape over chairs. Many of these quilts are traditional and reflect her talents in embroidery, appliqué and painting.
