YOU REAP WHAT

YOU REAP WHAT YOU SEW

An interview with quilter Linda Nordblad

by Sandi Solomonson

Like a good novel that surprises you with the turn of each page, such was my interview with Linda Nordblad. This sharp, seasoned Realtor has a passion for an art that combines her European family roots with international travel, and love of flowers.

Born and raised in Amstelveen, Amsterdam, Linda grew up watching and learning the craft of sewing from her grandmother and mother; both who were talented with needlepoint and prolific seamstresses. They instilled in her a love for helping people and taking time to notice the beauty that surrounds us every day. In her early 20’s, Linda’s love of travel afforded her the opportunity to work as an airline hostess, where she met her husband of 37 years. And even though life would bring her to the United States, her childhood memories of a simple backyard Tulip garden would later blossom into a unique style of quilting.

Strolling into an Oregon coast quilt shop in 2011 would forever change Linda’s life. Upon seeing a pattern with Tulips, she was hooked. Or, should I say, stitched. She researched 17th century Tulips and was smitten by the white petal streaks often found in art depicting this national flower. The challenge was planted. Through a process of taking and enlarging photos, she painstakingly created her own custom patterns, allowing her to create art with fabric that looks so real, so authentic, you want to lean in and savor it’s floral aroma. Using a technique known as free-motion

quilting, Linda allows the needle to guide her. “I try to be intuitive, allowing the needle to lead me like an artist's brush,” she shared. The result? Award winning works of art. So, what does this busy professional gain from laboring over a sewing machine with minute specks of fabric for hours? Well, peace. “If my mind is full of worry or stress, I cannot quilt. I must allow creativity to rule so the beauty of a quilt can shine through,” said Linda. And, in fact, beauty does shine through in the form of unique color combinations, textures, and hints of fluid movements.

Her favorite color to work with is yellow - the color of friendship. According to Linda, in a world full of stress and rushing around, her art invites people to slow down, gain perspective, and enjoy the unique artistry of flowers. To be a friend, to help one another, to give along life’s journey, and to blanket your day with joy.

She is motivated by service sharing, “I get a lot of satisfaction from helping people. What we give always comes back to us, so I like to give my best.” She exudes sincerity and charisma. And just like gazing at a Tulip garden, she spreads seeds of happiness, peace, and joy.

When not quilting Linda can be found helping clients with the buying or selling of their home as a REALTOR® in Chase International's Reno Office.