Karen Weiland is a local Artist and the Project Manager for the Expansion of the Barn Quilt Trail throughout LaGrange County in 2024. You can read more about the project here. We asked Karen for a quick interview so people can learn a little more about her, and she kindly agreed.
Q: Can you tell us a little about your life and background, family, etc…?
A: I have been married for 45 years (yes, to the same person, lol). I have two married daughters, 4 grandchildren and am a fur parent to a German Shepherd named Nova. I have always lived in LaGrange Co. and my Father “jumped the fence” when he married my Mother so I have some Amish blood running through my veins, which I am very proud of. I can understand the Amish language, when spoken, well enough to get the jest of what’s being said but conversing in it is another matter. I have so many interests and sometimes feel like a “jack of all trades, master of none”! I love being outdoors. I am a Master Gardener (inactive) so my landscape reflects that. I also am a fan of raised beds where I grow vegetables and fruits. I also love to decorate, whether it’s outdoors or inside my house and I love making Barn Quilts. It’s so addicting!
Q: How did you get started painting designing and making Barn Quilts?
A: I got started with Barn Quilts because of a CVB board meeting I attended nearly 13 years ago. At the time I sat on the Tax Commission Board and so was able to attend the CVB board meetings. One of those meetings included a verbal presentation by the CVB director from Marshall County, Mike Wolfington. He shared information about their Barn Quilt Tour. Our Director at the time, Beth Thornburg, leaned in, looked at me, and said “Karen, I think that would be a good project for you”! After a huge amount of research, here I am today, still making Barn Quilts and I love it!
Q: What is your favorite thing about living in LaGrange County?
A: My favorite thing about LaGrange Co. is not the upcoming weather, that’s for sure! It is the ruralness of it! The lakes, rivers, fields, open spaces and friendly people. I am NOT a city girl!
