“Molokini Bay,” a machine pieced and machine appliqued quilt by Karen Justis, is on display through August at the R.H. Johnson Library, 13801 W. Meeker Blvd.

Justis was first attracted to the Molokini Bay quilt pattern at a quilt and craft fair in Scottsdale. She found the piece somewhat challenging and had to improvise a bit because the pattern instructions were not always clear.

Because the piece is large, Justis chose to applique the fish and plants in sections to make it easier to complete on a home sewing machine. It took her about two months to sew.

Justis has no immediate plans for the quilt but it may be one she offers at the Palo Verde Patchers quilt show in 2026.

In 2002, some of her friends took her to a meeting of the Desert Quilters Guild of Imperial County, CA.

“I joined that night even though I didn’t have a machine or have a clue about sewing,” said Justis.

In 2010, she moved to Sun City West and joined Palo Verde Patchers. She has become an active and supportive member of the club and has taught many classes in the guild. She was also club president from 2013 to 2014.

“So I guess that proves you really can teach an old dog new tricks,” said Justis.

Visit patchers.scwclubs.com for general information about the club. The club room is open 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday (8 p.m. on Tuesday) and 8 a.m.-noon Saturday at the Kuentz center. Visitors are welcome.