The Genius of Quilter Sharyn Resvick

You’ve heard that the right brain supplies creativity and the left brain, logic, and analysis. MRI’s have since debunked that notion, proving both sides use both skill sets. Sharyn Resvick, quilter extraordinaire and former dental hygienist, proves it so.

Growing Up in Rural North Dakota

Now 70 years young, Sharyn grew up in Northwest North Dakota - six miles east of Montana - in Grenora, population of 400. Out in the “boonies.” Sharyn participated in 4-H, where she learned to sew, eventually sewing all her clothes, along with many other skills. She also played French horn in the band and participated in most everything their school offered. Sharyn says that she and her four sisters loved growing up in Grenora (derived from Great Northern Railroad, its Western-most endpoint: Grenora.)

In college, Sharyn chose dietetics (science and math heavy) and became a hospital dietitian - back when few people took nutrition seriously. (How times change, right?) She changed careers and became a dental hygienist which polished her fine motor skills (and teeth). Little did she know those skills would propel her to award-winning success and bliss as a quilter, which she started at age 40, as her two daughters grew up.

Fun for All Ages

Husband Mike’s job required numerous transfers. After moving to Chicago, friends took her to a quilt shop. With her passion for fabrics, she was instantly hooked. In quilting classes, new friends with wide age spans surrounded her, making age irrelevant. She found this true wherever they lived.

Besides her network of quilting friends, Sharyn says, “I’ve always loved textiles. Also, for me, I had no control over life in general, but total control over quilting. It’s one area where I can make the rules. I’ve always loved colors, detail, creativity, and perfection.” Sharyn also paints in watercolor and has taken lessons throughout her life. That, too, has undoubtedly influenced the stunning artistry of her quilts.

International Fame

In fact, Sharyn’s accolades are now worldwide. Last year she was invited to present her “Threads of Time” quilt display at the 50th anniversary convention of the International Quilt Festival in Houston, TX. Her display encapsulated 60 quilts she made depicting our country’s quilt history from the early 1800s to the modern quilts of today. She spent seven hours a day for four days enthralling world-wide audiences. Sharyn returned home and learned she was named Minnesota Quilter of the Year for 2025. She’s presented at over 30 different quilting events across the country, with still more on the docket. She says that at age 70, she can’t wait to explore her next project.

Scrapbooking

Back in Minnesota, Sharyn was preparing a “This is your Life” scrapbook for her daughter’s high school graduation when she heard about Beth and attended one of her classes. Since then, Sharyn has attended events several times every year. Why?

“Beth was friendly and knowledgeable. She was instrumental in advancing me to the computer and online scrapbooking. Beth took the fear away,” Sharyn says. And once again, Sharyn loves the camaraderie at Beth’s workshops.” There’s a bond easily formed with like-minded people whether crafting, sewing, or catching up. You visit while getting projects done and having fun. There's something about creating together. There’s a connection - the creative spirit. We’re all like-minded,” says Sharyn. What’s not to love about that?

These days Sharyn is collaborating with her sisters and cousins to create a family heritage photo album during their annual cousins’ retreats. They plan to digitize it and create a legacy piece. No matter what Sharyn is doing, clearly, she’s a classic example of someone using both sides of her brain - and everyone benefits.

Sound inviting? Check out the full calendar for Beth’s events at STUDIOescape™. Check out Sharyn’s quilting masterpieces on Facebook at Sharyn’s Threads of Time Quilting Journey.