Explore every episode of the podcast A Quilter's Life

We had to drive on back country roads in West Virginia to meet Reberta Hall.  Ginny Guthrie Caplinger had told me about Reberta a while back and I’m so glad it worked out for me to meet her.  Should I have been concerned when Ginny and her husband, Jim, climbed into the truck to take me and said to each other - Do you remember to get there?  And then at a fork in the road they again were - Which way? Oh well, we have all day to get there.  I just smiled and trusted them.  And I’m so thankful that we arrived, had a wonderful lunch, and of course the best part was getting to know Reberta! Throughout Reberta's story you’ll hear how she loved to sing and she loved poetry.  She shared several quilty poems, quilts, and pictures of her life which I'm sharing here below. This Flower Garden quilt was started for Reberta in 193o and finished for her daughter in 1951. Reberta loves Crazy Quilts.  Here she is with a special one that she keeps on her couch. Here are some other quilts that Reberta has made.  Her special cat, Sue Boy, used to enjoy them also. A couple of pictures of life.  Reberta and her cousin.  Then the second picture shows the car Rebeta learned to drive in.  Notice how deep the ruts in the road were.  This is the road that went past their front door.  You can see her house in the background.  It's now part of her driveway. Reberta painted this stool.  Doesn't the design look a bit like a quilt?  Isn't this collection of wooden spools amazing?

Jean Pickering Collins is one of my heroes.  Every time I have the opportunity to chat with her she’s been on a new adventure.  It astounds me that she accomplishes so much and she makes such beautiful quilts.  I don’t know how she has gotten it all done.  And then here locally whenever her name comes up people have such glowing remarks to share about her. If you didn’t listen to my first interview with Jean from July 12th of 2019, you’ll want to go back and listen to her story. It’s hard to believe that on July 12, 2019 I released my first three episodes of A Quilter’s Life.  I purposely chose Jean to do this second interview to celebrate 5 years of recording and sharing stories of quilters.  Life happens and I ended up in the hospital overnight with bad headaches and double vision.  I am still dealing with these symptoms, but as the doctors help me to figure out what’s going on I’m still able to share these stories with you even with a few delays. When I arrived at Jean’s for this interview it was a beautiful day, so we left the doors open.  While listening you’ll figure out why that became a problem. You’ve also probably noticed that the first interview her name was Jean Pickering and in this interview we’ve added Collins.  Again, this adventurous lady will explain all of that. This is the Trip Around the World Quilt Jean made for her husband, Bill Collins. This quilt Jean made for her college class reunion in 2005. After the interview Jean showed me several of her quilts.  This Dresden Plate covers her bed. We started talking about small piecing and she pulled out this tiny Clam Shell she had done. Here are the tableclothes that Jean picked up in France and Portugal. If you missed Jean's prior interview here's the link: Jean Pickering

If you not only love quilting, but also books and travel, you’re going to want to find out about this new community that Lynn Christiansen has put together.  It’s always mind blowing to see how all the pieces come together in our lives to be used in such a wonderful way. Lynn is a passionate quilt pattern designer whose creativity is fueled by the rich tapestry of her travels. With a wanderlust spirit and an eye for cultural nuances, she translates her global adventures into unique quilt patterns that capture the essence of diverse landscapes and traditions. Each of her quilts is a testament to the rich tapestry of the world, inviting you to embark on a quilting adventure that captures the essence of different places and traditions. Here's a sample of Lynn's quilts and wool applique. Join Lynn in her new adventure! Connect with Lynn Website:  Emerald Falls Quilts Facebook:  Emerald Falls Quilts Instagram:  emerald_falls_quilts Pinterest:  Emerald Falls Quilts

Ellie Perez, better known as "Ellie the Quilter," started social media channels to teach creative minded people how to quilt and ended up building a supportive crafting community. The mission of Mojave Farms Quilting Company is to provide an inclusive community for all makers, and to make quilting and crafting more accessible to everyone, no matter how well they sew or what their budget is. Ellie strongly believes that everyone is creative and that sewing, quilting, and crafting of any kind should be accessible to everyone. Here are two of Ellie's Quilts.  Confetti and Fall Petals Connect with Ellie. Website: Mojave Farms Quilting Co. Instagram: majavefarmsquiltco Pinterest: Mojave Farms Quilt Company TikTok: elliethequilter  Mojave Farms Quilting Company YouTube: Mojave Farms Quilt Company   And Thanks again to Carolina Moore for connecting me with Ellie! Here’s where you can find Carolina: Website:  Always Expect Moore.com YouTube: Carolina Moore Pinterest:  Carolina Moore Instagram:  craftmoore Facebook:  Always Expect Moore Podcast: I Love Notions Previous interviews with Carolina: Carolina Moore 02-01-21 Carolina Moore helping me celebrate the 200th episode of A Quilter's Life

How exciting for me for a quilter to sign up on my calendar without me contacting them first.  Thank you Mary Shepherd for sending Patricia Moller my way!  What a blessing to hear Trisha’s story.  She calls herself a fourth generation quilter, but the third generation was skipped.  I agree with her that time flies when you are involved in what you love.  Trisha hopes that you may find some inspiration from her work. Here are some of Patricia's quilts. Connect with Trisha Website: Dulce Quilts And Thanks Mary Shepard for connecting me with Patricia! Here's Mary's episode if you missed it. Find out more about Mary’s book, Free Motion Murder on her website Mariners’ Compass Murders.

Eva Saunders, also known as the “Gingerly” Quilter, has come a long way literally.  She was born and raised in Germany and found her way to Los Angeles, California, in the United States for school.  Later she moved to the eastern side of the United States where she is excited to have launched Gingerly Quilt Co.  If you’re looking at quilts on Instagram, you’ve probably already seen her cool Exploding Pizza Quilt pattern. Eva's Exploding Pizza Quilt Here's Eva with her cat Bobby and her Dainty Paws Quilt And she just introduced her new pattern Zen Blossoms Connect with Eva Website: Gingerly Quilt Co. Facebook: gingerlyquiltco Instagram: gingerlyquiltco TikTok: gingerlyquiltco Etsy: GingerlyQuiltCo

Dora Cary loves quilting for the creativity and freedom of expression it gives her, and she loves the quilting community for the amazing generosity and sense of camaraderie.  Her quilts have been displayed in many of the larger quilt shows. I am so thankful that Dora shared about becoming a citizen of the United States and how the freedoms that we tend to take for granted mean so much to her. Here's some of Dora's quilts that we talked about in the interview Beads on a String - her first quilt pattern. Arabesque - foundation paper pieced - the third quilt she ever made. Only One - one fabric - one shape - a simplified and modern one-block-wonder quilt. Here is Dora with Totally Spring - This was her first quilt accepted at QuiltCon in 2015. Patch Nine - her second quilt accepted at QuiltCon in 2016 Also in 2016 Dora was at her first Market in Houston. A few more of her quilts: City Girl - inspired by traditional block Farmer's Daughter, Llamarama quilt at the Paso house in the sun, and Boxing Play. It was fun to meet Dora in person at QuiltCon 2024 Connect with Dora: Website: Orange Dot Quilts Facebook: Orange Dot Quilts Instagram: orangedotquilts Etsy: OrangeDotQuilts YouTube: Orange Dot Quilts

When Megan Fowler is not behind a sewing machine or chasing a toddler, you can find her enjoying the Colorado outdoors.  Yet if that wasn’t enough she is running not only one quilty business, but two!  Megan’s dream for Modern Moon Quilt Studio is to marry her special love for vintage design and her fondness for modern quilting to be able share her version of modern nostalgia with the quilting world.  Then not long ago she created Quilt Scouts to bring quilting adventures to quilters.  She hopes to encourage us to step out of our comfort zone and try something new in a fun way. Here's a couple of Megan's patterns Happy Camper Hey Scout Some of the badges available at Quilt Scouts   Connect with Megan Modern Moon Quilt Studio Website: Modern Moon Quilt Studio Instagram: modernmoonquiltstudio Quilt Scouts Website: Quilt Scouts Instagram: quiltscoutsofamerica

It was fun to realize that this episode would be released during the week of Melissa Struttmann’s open house celebrating Osage Hills Retreat’s 2-year anniversary.  Melissa has put so much thought, work, and love into creating a wonderful place for crafters to gather.   She has learned through her life with the excellent work she has accomplished to bring all her expertise together.  You can easily see this in the events that she offers at Osage Hills Retreat.  Please take a moment to look at her episode page on A Quilter’s Life website to see her quilt that four generations worked on.  Notice in the picture of the quilt there’s the little black sewing machine that she used on that project. Here's Melissa's favorite quilt that four generations worked on Connect with Melissa about Osage Hills Retreat Website: Osage Hills Retreat Facebook: Osage Hills Retreat  Instagram: osagehillsretreat Pinterest: Osage Hills Retreat TikTok: osagehillsretreat Yelp: Osage Hills Retreat   And here's her links for Osage Hills Quilting Website: Osage Hills Quilting Facebook: Osage Hills Quilting  Instagram: osagehillsquilting Etsy: OsageHillsQuilting  

Imagine living in Houston and not knowing about the International Quilt Festival, then a friend takes you to see all the wonderful quilts. What an incredible introduction to quilts for Ellen Happe Phillips.  Ellen fell in love with this craft and never looked back. With each step she improved her skills and now uses her long arm quilting to help others make beautiful quilts. Here's Ellen's quilt A Study in Lonestars And we talked about how the quilting on It's All About the Quilting quilt Ellen made and ended up recieving a blue ribbon! It was fun to meet Ellen at QuiltCon 2024 Connect with Ellen Instagram: ellenhappe Facebook: Ellen Happe Phillips

When Jody Leonardo suggested that I interview Rochelle Rice, I was thrilled.  I’d been wanting to connect with Rochelle and her co-host, Leslie Bercher, for awhile, but hadn’t done it yet.  Rochelle and Leslie are the co-hosts of the Inappropriate Quilters Podcast and I guess I had them up on a bit of a pedestal.  So when Rochelle told me that she’s been listening to A Quilter’s Life I was in shock. It was so much fun to chat and realize we have such respect for each other.  Rochelle teases me at the end that we chatted for many hours.  I’m sure we could have, but my interviews don’t last that long. Here's a Mosaic Quilt that Rochelle made Connect with Rochelle Instagram: doughnutwarrior And listen to her podcast: Inappropriate Quilters Podcast  

Purple Daisy Quilt Designs is the culmination of Jody Leonardo’s experiences of participating in sewing groups, working in quilt shops and selling handmade quilts.  Now she has expanded to offering quilt patterns to allow individuals to make their own quilts.  This is a dream come true for Jody and she’s so excited to share a little piece of her creative world with us. This is Jody's quilt called Kenzie Connect with Jody Website: Purple Daisy Quilt Designs Instagram: purpledaisyquilt_designs Facebook: Purple Daisy Quilt Designs

Mary Shepherd and I met at QuiltCon2024 in Raleigh, NC.  She is an avid quilter and the president of the Delaware Modern Quilt Guild.  Since Mary’s retirement from being a mathematician and computer scientist she has become an author with her first quilting cozy mystery, Free Motion Murder. Here's some of Mary's quilts. Mid Century Energy Nemish Flimsy Volcano Find out more about Mary's book, Free Motion Murder on her website Mariners' Compass Murders.

It was so fun to get to know Robyn Capps.  Her daughter had posted a picture of one of Robyn’s quilts on her Facebook page and my sister happened to see it.  I’m so glad this led to an interview.  So, thanks Sadie and Ruth for helping this connection to happen. Here's pictures from Robyn's Chicken Quilt We also talked about Jerriann Massey and the Christian Quilt Guild. Listen to Jerriann's episode:  Jerriann Massey Connect with Jerriann: Website: Annie McHugs Instagram: anniemchugs Facebook: Annie Mc Hugs Website: Christian Quilt Guild Facebook: Christian Quilt Guild Facebook: We are called to PRAY

Lisa Shepard Stewart encourages others to express themselves creatively through culturally relevant techniques and materials.  Although she loves African fabrics with every fiber of her being, she also loves to learn and share about other cultures from around the world. The intro on this episode is going to be a bit longer than normal because during the interview Lisa experienced an earthquake.  I didn’t want to leave that part in the middle of her interview, but I do want to share it.  I’ve edited it so you aren’t hearing Lisa repeat, “Paula hold on.”  and time between statements as she was figuring it out.  Then after she called back we had a little conversation about it.  Also, I wanted Lisa to have this recording of a major event in her life.  So glad that she was safe during this! When you listen to the interview you will hear a soft hum when I ask the question What message would you want to leave with them?  I believe that hum was the beginning of the earthquake. Here are some of Lisa's quilts: Korhogo Antelope and Citron Moon Corded Cabin and Makola On My Mind wall hangings I'm so glad I had the priviledge of meeting Lisa at QuiltCon 24 Connect with Lisa Website: Cultured Expressions Instagram: culturedexpressions Facebook: Cultured Expressions

Teri Henderson Tope is an internationally recognized teacher and lecturer who loves all types of applique. She is creative and full of life which shows up as she’s up early and gets more done before noon than most others accomplish all day.  I meant to ask Teri about her motto “Well behaved women seldom make history, so let’s make a little history”. But I think a bit of that shows through in this interview.  I love that she always finds something good about each day. I found the following paragraph on Teri's website.  She has accomplished so much! Her quilts have been exhibited in shows across the United States and in Japan, winning an award or two. Her quilts and patterns have been published in Quilter’s Newsletter Magazine, Quilter’s Quarterly, The American Quilter, Keepsake Quilting and Clotilde. Teri is the Author of “Applique in Reverse” published by the American Quilter’s Society. And has designed over 35 patterns for her company, Material Girl Designs. She has been a member of the Applique Society since 1998 and served 6 years on the TAS board as Marketing Chair. She is a member of The National Quilter’s Society and its Columbus Ohio chapter, The Quintessential Quilting of which she served as Vice President and President, and the American Quilters Society. Teri loves to travel, teach, lecture and share her joy of applique. We talked about these two quilts during the interview. He Loves Me This is the way Teri appliques feathers   Connect with Teri. Website:  Teri Tope Facebook:  Teri Tope Instagram:  teritope

I had such a wonderful time at QuiltCon 2024 in Raleigh, NC, this past February.  While there I had the opportunity to meet several people that I have interviewed on A Quilter’s Life and also many others became new friends.  Carrie Dell, the executive director of American Quilt Study Group,was in their booth when I walked in and introduced myself.  I was so excited that she logged onto my website and signed up to be interviewed while I stood there chatting with her.  Although Carrie hasn’t made a quilt, she is surrounded by quilters and loves quilts.  She is doing a great job keeping quilting stories alive.  Thanks Carrie and everyone involved with the American Quilt Study Group for working so hard.  Here's Carrie and the other volunteers that were at QuiltCon 24. I'm so glad that I had the opportunity to meet Carrie at QuiltCon also. Find out more about American Quilt Study Group on their website: AQSG Also check them out on these links: Facebook: American Quilt Study Group Instagram: americanquiltstudygroup YouTube: American Quilt Study Group

At my eye doctor appointment I was able to ask about getting glasses so that I could see the TV and also see the close work when working on a binding.  It is so wonderful that my eye doctor, Holly Sprout, is a quilter and knew exactly what I was wanting.  She even named the new combination Quilting in her software.  The day that I returned to interview Holly, those new glasses were ready and they are wonderful. And I wanted to mention again that it’s so enjoyable to walk into Holly’s business and see a quilt on the wall.  She does such a wonderful job on her quilts! Here's the quilt that was hanging by the reception desk when I was there.

Jan Lockhart hasn’t been quilting all that long, but she has fallen in love with our craft!  I am awestruck by the stunning Feathers quilt she made using a pattern from Alison Glass.  Jan sent a picture of this quilt to be used as the feature picture for this episode.  You may also find it on her episode page on A Quilter’s Life website. Here's the Alison Glass Feathers pattern that Jan made.

Jackie Perry started quilting as a hand quilter and loved teaching hand piecing and hand quilting.  As she continued to learn more techniques, she added to her classes.  She recently retired from teaching, but she loves the fellowship with other quilters.  Jackie also enjoys designing original work and participating in challenges. Many of her quilts have been in major quilt shows.  You may have seen her quilts as she is a multiple International Quilt Show award-winning quilter, including many Best of Show. We talk about several quilts that are shown below. Look at the detail of this whole cloth quilt.  The colors are from the thread where Jackie quilted.  Except the mouse in the center which she painted first.  This is Mouse Pad. Diamonds Galore Amish Country Circ Touché Feline la Fleur Joy of Spring Slash and Curve

I’ve always been amazed by whole cloth quilting, but Karlee Porter has taken it to a whole new level!  She has developed graffiti quilting which is a very unique technique that encompasses a copious amount of quilting designs.  Ten years ago Karlee wrote a book to share this technique with others and quilters fell in love with it.  Graffiti Quilting has grown so much that Karlee updated her bookand her class to offer her students to not only to make quilts be more beautiful with each traditional rule that is broken, but with each new design combination they learn skills that will sky-rocket as they build the muscle memory to execute all the free-motion quilting visions. Here's an example of Graffiti Quilting that Karlee made.   Here's the links Karlee talked about in her episode: The royal huntress video: https://youtu.be/Wqd5dHahfDk The Ira Glass Creative Process Video: https://youtu.be/PbC4gqZGPSY   If you're interested in Karlee's class she has given me an affiliate link so that you can save $25. Use AQL25   when you sign up at  https://www.karleeporter.com/product-category/education/    Connect with Karlee Website: Karlee Porter Instagram: karleeporterdesign Facebook: Karlee Porter Design Pinterest: Karlee Porter YouTube: Karlee Porter

Erin Grogan was able to leave a job that she didn’t care for to start her own quilting businessLove Sew Modern.  Her goal with the patterns she designs is to create the beauty she wishes to see in the world and to help others find their creative voices too.  Erin has a unique style that everyone is falling in love with. Erin and I recorded this episode before QuiltCon 2024 in Raleigh, NC, so we talked about attending.  But by the time this is released QuiltCon will have come and gone.  Erin and I did get to connect at QuiltCon.  I'm posting the picture of us together down below. Here's Erin's Apparotlly It's a Party Quilt that she taught on the Caribbean Cruise. Connect with Erin - Website: Love Sew Modern Instagram: lovesewmodern Facebook: Love Sew Modern Pinterest: Erin Grogan - Love Sew Modern Here's Erin and me at QuiltCon2024 Also, Thanks again to Carolina Moore for the connection with Erin Grogan. Here’s where you can find Carolina: Website:  Always Expect Moore.com YouTube: Carolina Moore Pinterest:  Carolina Moore Instagram:  craftmoore Facebook:  Always Expect Moore Podcast: I Love Notions

“I’m just an old fashioned lady.  Been around a long time.”  That’s how Elsie Coleman introduced herself to me.  I had the privilege of going to Elsie’s home to interview this centenarian and seeing her beautiful quilts.  She continues to make amazing quilts. Newspaper articles about Elsie in 1995 and 1999 Quilt that was raffled in 2012 and info on it Some of her quilts Quilt that her Aunt Ella made.  Elsie is pointing out the flower that was made from her childhood clothing. Cross Stitch that she needs to quilt yet The first quilt she used fabric paint and then quilted around.  The second quilt shows her amazing hand quilting. The tag is on her quilt with nine patches. Elsie embroidered the angles and then put them in a quilt. I was amazed that this quilt was pieced! This Cross Stitched and Hand Quilted quilt Elsie made for her sister.

Jen Frost of Faith and Fabric finds inspiration from the everyday things around us. Her faith is central to her family’s life, and is often reflected in her full Scripture Quilts™ patterns and the smaller Scripture Quilts™ blocks. She also values the skill of sewing, and thinks it’s one that we need to continue to teach each generation. If you’re new to sewing, Jen invites you to try out some of her beginner-friendly sewing projects. Here's a couple of Jen's quilts. Connect with Jen Website: Faith and Fabric Facebook: Faith and Fabric Instagram: Faith and Fabric Pinterest: Jen Frost / Faith and Fabric YouTube: Faith and Fabric Also check out Jen's 2024 Scripture Quilts Awards!

So many of the quilt shop owners I’ve talked to share that they don’t get to make the quilts themselves much anymore, but I am so impressed with Sheila Squires that she makes it a priority to take time to quilt.  She is very involved with the community and you’ll be amazed how many quilts these quilters in Seward, Alaska, are making! Connect with Sheila on Facebook: Sew 'n Bee Cozy Short video of Sew 'n Bee Cozy on A Quilter's Life YouTube Channel  

Andi Sanfield realized that her style of quilting and teaching can encourage others to express their creativity in a tangible way.  She decided to create fabulous designs with easy-to-follow patterns for the adventurous quilt makers in the world.  People are excited about the designs and eager to enroll in her online quilting classes. As I mentioned last week, Andi and Tori McElwain have come together to bring us another wonderful quilting podcast calledQuilting on the Side.  So I reached out to them to bring you these updates of what’s been happening in their lives since we last spoke.  It was fun to be updated on what they’ve been up to and this episode is my chat with Andi. Andi and I talked about her A Little Bit Different quilt. And here's Andi with her 6 1/2" x 9 1/2" ruler to help make the A Little Bit Different blocks. Connect with Andi – Website:  True Blue Quilts Facebook:  True Blue Quilts Instagram:  truebluequilts Pinterest:  True Blue Quilts YouTube:  True Blue Quilts   And check out Quilting on the Side with Andi and Tori!

Back in May of 2021 I had the privilege of sharing Tori McElwain’s story.  Tori and Andi Stanfield have come together to bring us another wonderful quilting podcast called Quilting on the Side.  So I reached out to them to bring you these updates of what’s been happening in their lives since we last spoke, you’ll get to hear Andi’s next week. Tori has a passion for helping others develop their skills and knowledge. As a coach, author, and teacher she is dedicated to helping Quilters and Crafters design and promote engaging and impactful workshops and courses. Here's Tori's pattern Target the Stars Connect with Tori Website: The Quilt Patch by Tori FaceBook Group:  The Quilt Patch by Tori Instagram: quilt_patch And Tori’s YouTube – Coffee Chats with Quilters   And check out Quilting on the Side with Tori and Andi!

With patience and using her God given talents, Audra Rasnake has created amazing quilts!  Her first show quilt came home with 16 ribbons…many of them were blue, a couple of them were for Best Hand Quilting, and it was her first of 3 AQS ribbons she has received over the years. Audra has a passion to share needle turn applique and hand quilting as she wants this incredible art form to have a revival. Thank you to Sheila Drevna for letting Audra know to contact me. Here's Audra's first show quilt, Hadassah! Connect with Audra on her Etsy Shop In The Sanctuary   And again Thanks to Sheila Drevna for connecting me with Audra. If you missed Sheila's episode on A Quilter's Life you can find it here. Connect with Sheila Longarm Love https://www.youtube.com/@longarmlovequilting    https://www.facebook.com/longarmlove    https://www.instagram.com/longarmlove/    https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/WoodAndFabricBarn?ref=shop_sugg_market

A millennial and serial entrepreneur with a million ideas floating around, Ashelyn Downs began her quilting journey while running yet another business and realized her love for design and married the two passions to bring more fun and modern quilts to the ever-expanding quilting world. Her mission is to create a community for other modern quilters to find the confidence and inspiration to make beautiful quilts that fit their lifestyle. I love how Ashelyn jumps in with both feet to reach her ideals.  Even as a young girl she made a unique way to sell lemonade.  Imagine a little girl coming up to your door to offer you to buy her lemonade instead of just having a lemonade stand in front of her house. Here's Ashelyn's first quilt pattern that she talked about. And here's her 9th&9th quilt Connect with Ashelyn Website: Urban Dwell Studio

  Also find Ashelyn and Lacie on The Grateful Thread Podcast A podcast and community where cool quilting newbies and experienced quilters unite! You Can Sit With Us!

It’s been exciting to see the quilting community grow so much in the last few years.  Along with that we are seeing more quilting podcasts being made.  A few weeks ago I had the privilege of interviewing Amanda Oros of Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show.  And while chatting with her she told me about Lacie and Ashelyn of The Grateful Thread Podcast.  Of course, I’m thrilled to get to share these quilting podcasts with you. On this episode I get to chat with Lacy Messerly, one of the co-hosts of The Grateful Thread Podcast and owner of Messy Quilts.  She strives to have open and honest communication with her clients to create a quilt to be loved forever.  Lacie mentions sending me pictures of the wonderful quilts we talked about and here they are: Connect with Lacie Website: Messy Quilts

Follow Lacie's Quilty Adventures on All The Socials

https://www.instagram.com/messyquilts/ https://www.threads.net/@messyquilts https://www.tiktok.com/@messyquilts?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc https://www.facebook.com/LacieMesserly Also find Lacie and Ashelyn on The Grateful Thread Podcast A podcast and community where cool quilting newbies and experienced quilters unite! You Can Sit With Us!

Hard to believe that I’m publishing this episode of A Quilter’s Life on the first day of 2024.  I had a wonderful 2023 and I hope you did also.  Of course, one of the blessings I had over the past year was getting to visit with so many of you wonderful quilters.  And I’m heading into 2024 with great expectations of visiting with more of you. In each episode of A Quilter’s Life I always ask, “What is your favorite quilting tool?”  Sometimes I phrase it like, “What quilting tool are you so happy that you have or couldn’t do without?”  Many of us love our tools so much that it’s hard to choose just one. So here’s the top 23 tools that quilters have listed on A Quilter’s Life in 2023.  Do you remember hearing some of these tools? The first 16 items were mentioned once during the year.  Then I’ll move on to the items that more people mentioned until I get to tell you the tool that was the most favorite in 2023.

1. Needle and thread
2. Diagnaly seam tape
3. Software to design quilt
4. #2 mechanical pencil - doesn't get wider
5. Custom thimble
6. Freezer Paper
7. Sandpaper work board - YouTube videos
8. Iron
9. Quilting Frame
10. 1/4 inch foot
11. Glue
12. Needle Nose Pliers - especially when changing blades on rotary cutter
13. Seam roller - can use at machine so don’t have to get up to the ironing board with each seam
14. Lint roller to clean around sewing space
15. Accuquilt - saves so much time and is more accurate
16. Measuring Tape
17. Marking tools 
    1. Hera marker 
    2. Bohin Retractable chalk marker
    
    
18. Stiletto
    1. ByAnnie Stiletto - the tip is a little rough to keep your place, but not too rough to hurt the material
    2. Purple Thang
    
    
19. Scissors
    1. Kai Scissors
    2. Karen Kay Buckley Scissors
    3. Fiskar Spring Action Scissors
    4. Snippers
    
    
20. Sewing machines

Merry Christmas!  This episode of A Quilter's Life is being published on Christmas Day, 2023!   I hope you’ve enjoyed the stories of the wonderful people behind the beautiful quilts in 2023.  I’ve gathered their tips for this episode of A Quilter’s Life.  This year we’ve heard some great tips that will help us along the way in our quilting journeys.   We start with  

• Just make it.  There’s never an ugly quilt.

This was a great tip for me as I tend to dream about what I want to make instead of getting in my sewing room and just getting to it.  

• Just try it.  No matter what it is, know it won't be perfect, but try it.

Have you wanted to try a pattern or technique, but didn’t think you would be able to make it look right?  Well, it really can’t hurt to try and more than likely we realize we can do it and we enjoy it.  

• Never pass up an opportunity to learn something new.

I’m also finding that when we learn something new it’s not always learning something more difficult, but many times we learn a new way that is actually simpler.  Why wouldn’t we want to make our lives simpler?

• When you get frustrated with a step in your quilting project, keep failing.  Because it helps you to figure it out, get better and learn.  Your quilts don’t need to be perfect.  And don’t compare.  Remember finished is better than perfect.

 

• If it works for you don't worry about what others say.   Enjoy the process!

Yes, enjoy the process that you’ve figured out works for you.  There’s always going to be the person that has found what works for them and they think that is the way it should be done.  It never hurts to listen to what they have to say because we can pick up tidbits of information that may work for us.  But we can just thank them and enjoy the process that works for us. Which leads us into the next tip of 

• Don’t be afraid to experiment and adapt.  Try a technique if you don't like it there's usually another way to achieve the same outcome.  Do what works for you.

• Also, don’t be afraid to make a mistake.  You’re in charge of that.  You get to decide if you’re going to rip it out or leave it in.

 

• Don't take shortcuts.

This is especially true when we’re working on a project and we’re tired.  We know ourselves and we know when we need to do that extra step, but we just want to get it done.  Before you know it we have a date with Jack.  Taking out all the stitches with the seam ripper because we just took a shortcut and it ends up not being a short cut at all.   ...

I interviewed Sarah Fulks almost two years ago and I wanted to chat with her again to update us on what she’s been doing.  She has gone from having SnuggleBugStitching as a side business to having it as her main business.  Sarah keeps busy with making quilts, quilt patterns, providing quilt alongs, and becoming a 2024 Benartex Ambassador besides being a busy mother of two. Connect with Sarah: Website: SnuggleBugStitching Instagram: snugglebugstitching Facebook: Snugglebugstitching Etsy: SnuggleBugStitching

Susan Smith and I had a wonderful conversation catching up on how Stitched by Susan continues to grow. She is so busy helping longarm quilters to create with confidence, freedom, and joy.  I was so occupied asking her about her classes that I failed to ask about her monthly membership, Advance.  Susan knows that machine quilting can be very solitary, especially on a longarm.  It’s just not that easy to pack up your machine and head to a friend’s house for the day, right?  But she also knows it’s important to have that community to share ideas and tips, encouragement and motivation.  So she has created Advance which is a membership for quilters who want to learn, grow, and advance their skill and confidence.  If you’re a longarm quilter looking for that community, check out Susan’s website to find out more. Look at the detail of the quilting on these quilts! Connect with Susan Website:  Stitched By Susan Facebook:  StitchedBySusan Instagram:  stitchedbysusan Pinterest:  Sitched By Susan / Long arm quilter & teacher YouTube:  StitchedBySusan

I invited Brandy Maslowski back onto A Quilter’s Life to share an update as to what she has been doing the last couple of years.  If you missed her previous episode you’ll want to go back and listen.  Brandy is not only a leader and teacher in the quilt industry, but also is the podcast host on The Quilter on Fire podcast where she and her guests go from having insightful discussions about quilting and fibre art to finding out their stories and what brings them joy. Connect with Brandy: Website: Quilter on Fire Facebook: Quilter on Fire Twitter: Quilter on Fire Pinterest: Quilter on Fire Instagram: quilteronfire YouTube: Quilter on Fire

Like so many of the guests sharing Thankful Notes this year mentioned the blessing of family, I am also very thankful for the family I have.  People that are close to us tell us that they can’t imagine me without Guthrie or Guthrie without me.  Maybe that’s why when one of our oldest nephews was little he called us GuPa.  Just one word to describe us.  So it’s just natural for Guthrie and I to have this conversation to share our blessings of 2023. If you’ve been listening to A Quilter’s Life, would you be so kind as to write a review on your favorite podcast player?  I’d love to hear what you think and it helps others to find the podcast.  Thank You so much!

This is the 3rd and final episode of the 2023 Thankful Notes from guests on A Quilter’s Life this year.  Plus a few that we recorded before November but won’t be published until later.  Brandy Maslowski will be in December and the last three are guests that will be published in January of 2024.  I am so thankful for each and every guest that has been willing to be interviewed.  I hope you have been enjoying what everyone is thankful for.  Did you keep track of how many of the guests that you remembered from their episodes?  If you did, please let me know.  I think it was a fun game.   Here are the last 15 Thankful Notes for 2023.   Connect with Amanda - Website: Sweet Pea Design Co. Instagram: sweetpeadesigncompany Facebook: Sweet Pea Design Company Instagram: notyourgrannysquiltshow YouTube: Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show Amanda Oros episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Star - Instagram: Stella Quilts Star Goodhand's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Dawn - Website: Chestnut Ridge Sewing Instagram: chestnutridgesewing_ Facebook: Chestnut Ridge Sewing Facebook: Friends Of Chestnut Ridge Sewing Dawn Krier's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Jennifer - Website: By the Yard Etsy: ByTheYardComics Facebook: By the Yard Instagram: bytheyardcomics Instagram: sewfunpatterns Jennifer Lopez' episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Carolina - Website:  Always Expect Moore.com YouTube: Carolina Moore Pinterest:  Carolina Moore Instagram:  craftmoore Facebook:  Always Expect Moore Podcast: 

We continue listening to Thankful Notes of guests that were on A Quilter’s Life in 2023.  I think many of us are thankful for many of the same things, but every once in a while we realize there is no way to relate.  Yet, we too can be thankful for them that they have reached a place to be thankful. Did you play along in the last episode to try to remember each guest?  How many did you remember? On this episode we have 14 more guests sharing what they are thankful for.  I'm curious if you’ll remember them all?  You might just have to go back and listen to their episodes again.  I have loved hearing each one of their stories and it’s amazing how much of it comes back to me when I listen to their Thankful Notes.   Connect with Pola Quilting - Website: Pola Quilting YouTube: Pola Quilting Instagram: polaquilting Facebook: Pola Photo If you’re interested in her private Facebook group: Pola Quilting With Friends Pola Quilting - Malgorzata Banjo's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Sonia - Website: Fabric and Flowers Instagram: fabricandflowers Pinterest: fabric & flowers Facebook: Fabric & Flowers Facebook Group: Fabric & Flowers Quilty Chat Sonia Spence's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Amber - Website: Alderwood Studio Instagram: alderwoodstudio Amber Elliot's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Claudia - Website: Create with Claudia Facebook: Create with Claudia Twitter: Create with Claudia Instagram: createwithclaudia Pinterest: Create with Claudia YouTube: Create with Claudia Claudia Porter's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Jess - Website: Cottage Laine Instagram: 

In the United States the months of November and December are very busy with holiday celebrations.  So I decided to try something new this year.  Almost all of 2023 I asked the guests that were interviewed on A Quilter’s Life to share something they were thankful for.  Since this was also new for me, I did forget to ask a few of the guests and for that I’m sorry.  I do realize that some other countries have celebrated Thanksgiving already, but I decided to share these Thankful Notes throughout the month of November. I thought it would be fun if you wanted to play along as you listen and see if you remember each guest.  I have so enjoyed listening to what they are Thankful for.  I have the list of guests along with links to contact them on the episode page (also known as show notes) for this episode if you want more information about them.  Along with their links there is also a link to their episode if you missed their story. The first couple guests I asked them what they were thankful for, but after that I had them introduce themselves.  So the first Thankful Note is from Tânia Mogari of Tânia Mogari Quilter.  The second Thankful Note is from Lori DeJarnatt of Humble Quilts. I want to thank each of you that shared what you are thankful for.  This was so much fun to include in the interview process.   Connect with Tânia - Website: Tânia Mogari Quilter Instagram: taniamogariquilter YouTube: Tania Mogari Quilter  @taniamogariquilter4406 Facebook: Tania H T Mogari Tânia Mogari's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Lori – Website: Humble Quilts Facebook: Humble Quilts Instagram: humblequilts Pinterest: Lori Dejarnatt Lori Dejarnatt's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Sarah - Website: Meaning of Life Designs Facebook: Meaning of Life Designs by Sarah Vedeler Instagram: meaningoflifedesigns YouTube: Sara Vedeler Designs Sarah Vedeler's episode on A Quilter's Life   Connect with Amanda - Website: Quilt It List Pinterest: Quilt It List / ALeeB Creative Instagram: quilt_it_list Facebook: 

Lynn Lancaster Gorges is a lifelong quilter.  She has a passion for combining fabric, color, and design to create unique, one-of-a-kind works of art.  She draws inspiration from traditional quilting techniques, but also enjoys pushing the boundaries and exploring new methods and styles.  Lynn is a textile conservation and restoration expert specializing in antique and vintage quilts, clothing, military uniforms and flags. Connect with Lynn: Website: Lynn Lancaster Gorges https://www.instagram.com/lynnsquilts  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-lancaster-gorges-3293939/

It was so much fun to realize that Sheila Drevna lives in the town where several of my children went to college.  So I can easily picture the places she talked about.  And since my mom was born and raised near there it was also fun hearing some of the names of places that my mom had talked about.  After a serious illness, Sheila was so determined to get better that even her doctor told her she was different.  Her tenacity was amazing and quilting became a way for her to push her limits.  Now she has a longarm business, teaches and lectures for quilt shops and quilt guilds, and then last year she began creating patterns. Connect with Sheila Longarm Love https://www.youtube.com/@longarmlovequilting    https://www.facebook.com/longarmlove    https://www.instagram.com/longarmlove/    https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/WoodAndFabricBarn?ref=shop_sugg_market  

Karin Soderholm is a teacher and artist whose love of education and textiles has led her on a wild adventure around the world. Her love of textiles is rooted in family tradition and the joy found in materials and process. Her artwork has been displayed in university and private galleries in the U.S., Korea, and China. A special thank you to my friend and fellow podcaster, Sue Donaldson the host of Welcome Heart: Living a Legacy Life podcast, for connecting me with Karin. Here's Karin's website: Karin Soderholm And find out more about my friend Sue Donaldson.  Sue is not only a podcaster, but also a speaker, author, and a hospitality & lonelimess expert. Here's Sue's website: Sue Donaldson  

If you had told Elizabeth Chappell back when she was 13 years old that she would become a quilter, she would have laughed in disbelief.  Yet, a few years ago she discovered the world of quilting and fell in love.  Elizabeth is a quilterpreneur, educator, and creator.  She serves quilters who own or want to start a business in the quilting industry.  She doesn’t seem to have down time as she also is busy designing quilt patterns, designs fabric, and is a fellow podcaster. Connect with Elizabeth https://quilterscandy.com/ https://www.facebook.com/quilterscandybox   https://www.instagram.com/quilters_candy/    https://www.pinterest.com/quilters_candy/_shop/    https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSCdiTEWvhOxfZmGhS4XuEg

I had the opportunity to interview Shirley Cox in her shop, Side Stitchin’, which is on the main street in Belpre, Ohio.  Shirley said she was fine with the traffic and customers shopping in the background while we had the interview.  After this interview I had the opportunity to shop at Side Stitchin’ and each time Shirley was so helpful so that I could find just what I needed.  Although we’ve both been in this area for about the same amount of time, we just met.  I’m so thankful to get to know Shirley. I was excited to meet Shirley Contact Shirley Website: Side Stitchin' Facebook: Side Stitchin' Quilt Shop Instagram: mysidestitchin

Beth Upstill is the owner of West Coast Wool.  Who knew that dyed wool could be made with so many beautiful colors?  She focuses on a brighter color palette which she offers on her website along with patterns, unique notions, and many other wonderful items.  Besides dyeing wool, Beth teaches wool applique workshops at local shops.  Thanks to Linda Williams for sending Beth to share with us on A Quilter’s Life. Connect with Beth Website: West Coast Wool Instagram: west_coast_wool Facebook: West Coast Wool YouTube: West Coast Wool TikTok: 1creativebeth

I bet if you’ve been around quilting for the last few years you’ve probably seen the quilting themed comic By the Yard created by Jennifer Lopez.  I know they always bring a smile to my face.  Jennifer brings the silliness of our quilting lives out in her comics in a way that we can relate.  And her humor is always good hearted and kind.  She doesn’t just draw comics, but is also a quilter and a quilt pattern designer. Connect with Jennifer Website: By the Yard Etsy: ByTheYardComics Facebook: By the Yard Instagram: bytheyardcomics Instagram: sewfunpatterns

Dawn Krier is the owner of the quilt shop, Chestnut Ridge Sewing, in Millersburg, Ohio.  You can tell as we visit that Dawn loves her Chestnut Ridge family and enjoys seeing her customers’ creativity.  I sew enjoyed taking a 3-day workshop with Krista Moser at Dawn’s shop and getting to experience first hand the warmth that Dawn and her staff shower on everyone. Here is Dawn's Bargello Find out more about Dawn and Chestnut Ridge Sewing Website: Chestnut Ridge Sewing Instagram: chestnutridgesewing_ Facebook: Chestnut Ridge Sewing Facebook: Friends Of Chestnut Ridge Sewing

This interview with Carolina Moore is extra special because it’s A Quilter’s Life 200th episode!  Although I have interviewed Carolina in the past I chose her specifically to be interviewed again for this special occasion.  This episode is a little different since we have already talked about Carolina’s background in her previous interview.  So our chat on this episode gives more insight on having a quilting business and helps us realize she is more than her business.  I don’t know how many of my guests over the last four years have stated that Carolina has helped them to get started and they don’t know where they’d be without her help.  Also, she is one of the people that has supported me and helped to make A Quilter’s Life successful. And I want to thank you too for listening over these past four years.  The encouragement of seeing people around the world enjoying the stories of quilters along with me has meant so much! Here's where you can find Carolina: Website:  Always Expect Moore.com YouTube: Carolina Moore Pinterest:  Carolina Moore Instagram:  craftmoore Facebook:  Always Expect Moore Podcast: I Love Notions

When Star Goodhand first saw a longarm quilting machine at a quilt shop she knew she had to have one. It didn’t take long for her to find Stella.  How interesting it was to find out the connection between Star and Stella!  I loved finding out that Star also has been a listener of A Quilter’s Life! Here is the front and back of the One Two Tree quilt. Here's Star's Puff Quilt And the Sampler that Star made You can find out more about Star and Stella Quilts on her Instagram: Stella Quilts

Amanda Oros is the daughter of the mother and daughter duo which is Sweet Pea Design Co.  Their love of all things fabric and sewing has fueled their passion for creating beautiful quilts for their clients.  Amanda is also a fellow quilting podcaster, so you’ll want to check out the Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show. Here's the Travaya quilt that we talked about. Connect with Amanda Website: Sweet Pea Design Co. Instagram: sweetpeadesigncompany Facebook: Sweet Pea Design Company Instagram: notyourgrannysquiltshow YouTube: Not Your Granny's Quilt Show