The First Stitch: Every Quilter Has a Story – Details, episodes & analysis

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The First Stitch: Every Quilter Has a Story

Lisa Donnelly

Leisure

Arts

Frequency: 1 episode/13d. Total Eps: 19

Discover the shared experiences that connect all quilters. The First Stitch is the podcast dedicated to celebrating the journeys of the craft's most passionate members: YOU! Host Lisa Donnelly of Wild Plum Lane brings you short, impactful episodes that prove we are all more alike than we are different, no matter where or when we picked up our first set of needle and thread.

Every week, you'll hear:
-A Quilter’s Story: Hear the unique, personal accounts of how quilters began to quilt, overcome creative blocks, and found purpose in piecing. These are your stories, read aloud, emphasizing the universal themes of creativity, challenge, and community.
-Finishing Focus: Practical, no-nonsense tips and actionable strategies for completing your quilt projects (WIPs/UFOs). It's gentle motivation to finish those beautiful quilts!
-Quilting Tidbits: Essential, quick-hit information on tools, new fabric lines, techniques, and the latest happenings in the world of quilting.

Join us to recognize your own journey in the stories of others, gain practical quilt project planning and organization skills, and feel more connected to the quilting community as a whole.

New episodes are released every Wednesday morning.

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Apple

Recent rankings

Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.

Apple Podcasts

🇨🇦 Canada - hobbies
26/08/2026
#73
🇨🇦 Canada - hobbies
24/04/2026
#73
🇨🇦 Canada - hobbies
23/04/2026
#29
🇨🇦 Canada - hobbies
17/01/2026
#92
🇨🇦 Canada - hobbies
16/01/2026
#56
🇨🇦 Canada - hobbies
05/01/2026
#78
🇨🇦 Canada - hobbies
04/01/2026
#52
🇺🇸 USA - hobbies
04/01/2026
#99
🇺🇸 USA - hobbies
03/01/2026
#73
🇺🇸 USA - hobbies
02/01/2026
#70

Spotify

No recent rankings available

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

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https://forms.gle/pVT851vkt32YwRVa8
19 shares
https://www.wildplumlane.com/quilting-freebies-sign-up
9 shares
https://www.wildplumlane.com/shop/p/wind-blossom-pdf-quilt-pattern
3 shares

https://www.amazon.com/shop/wildplumlane.quilts?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_B2P8WJX4NNC2FWMCT75F
2 shares
https://amzn.to/4aYkIf0
2 shares
https://amzn.to/45zUKL5
1 share

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RSS feed quality

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Score global : 68%

Publication history

Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.

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Latest published episodes

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Episode 0: Trailer

Thursday, December 18, 2025 • Duration 01:35

Welcome to The First Stitch, where every quilter has a story. Join host Lisa Donnelly from Wild Plum Lane for a brand-new podcast celebrating the stories, tips, and connections that stitch our community together.

What to Expect:
-Short & Sweet: 5–10 minute episodes perfect for your morning coffee or a quick sewing break.
-Weekly Inspiration: New episodes drop every Wednesday.
-Practical Tips: Real-world advice on finishing your WIPs so you can start your next favorite project.
-Community Stories: Authentic "first stitch" moments from quilters just like you.

Share Your Story
We want to feature you on the show! Whether it’s your journey into quilting or a favorite project-finishing tip, your story might be read in an upcoming episode.

Email: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com

Submit Here: https://forms.gle/pVT851vkt32YwRVa8

Go ahead and Subscribe/Follow to join us for our first full episode starting in January 2026!

Website: https://www.wildplumlane.com/

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2: Dot’s First Stitch Story + Simple Organization Tips to Move Your Projects Forward

Episode 2

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 • Duration 03:20

First Stitch Story: Meet Dot!

In this episode, we meet Dot, whose First Stitch story spans decades of making. From learning to sew as a child to a lifetime of creative work, Dot’s story is a beautiful reminder that creativity evolves…and that there’s no single path to becoming a quilter.

WIP-Finishing Tip: A Simple Way to Get Unstuck

If you’re feeling stalled on your works in progress, today’s WIP-finishing tip focuses on gentle organization…not perfection. I share a small, doable shift that can help you regain momentum without pulling everything out or overhauling your space.

I also mention a free tool that helps you clarify what to work on next. You can access the free Simple WIP Inventory or read more about how to use it using the links below.

Simple WIP Inventory: https://www.wildplumlane.com/quilting-freebies-sign-up

How to use it (Guest blog post): https://quilterscandy.com/tips-progress-on-quilt-projects/

From My Sewing Room

This episode’s favorite tool is a surprisingly simple storage solution that’s become a go-to for managing my works in progress. It keeps projects visible, contained, and ready to pick back up when time allows.

My favorite WIP storage containers: https://www.target.com/p/12-39-39-x-12-39-39-x-2-34-all-purpose-storage-tray-brightroom-8482/-/A-83279859#lnk=sametab

Share Your First Stitch Story

Your story might be next. If you’d like to share how you got started sewing or quilting, I’d love to hear it and feature YOU in a future episode!

Email: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com

Submit Here: https://forms.gle/pVT851vkt32YwRVa8

Episode 1: My First Stitch Story + Tools to Help You Finish More Quilts

Episode 1

Wednesday, January 7, 2026 • Duration 04:23

In this episode, I’m sharing my own First Stitch story—from learning to sew with my mom and grandma, to returning to quilting (many!) years later and eventually founding Wild Plum Lane. It’s a little backstory on how quilting became such a meaningful part of my life.

Free Resources to Help You Finish More Quilts

To help you make progress on your works in progress, I’m sharing my free library of quilty planning and organization tools, including planners, WIP trackers, free patterns, and more.

Get your quilting freebies All Access Pass

Favorite Tool of the Day

I’m also highlighting one of my all-time favorite quilting tools: the Martelli ergonomic rotary cutter. I share why I switched to it, how it helped relieve my arthritis pain, and why it’s kept me quilting for years.

Find the Martelli ergonomic rotary cutter

Share Your First Stitch Story

I’d love to hear your First Stitch story! If you’d like to be featured in a future episode, you can submit your story here:

Send an email to: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com
Or use our quick submission form

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We're Taking a Spring Break + Exciting News!

Episode 13

Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 02:07

Today’s episode is a super-quick update about The First Stitch that I wanted to share with you directly. (And no, it's not an April Fool's Day joke!)

We're taking a spring break for the months of April and May, and new episodes will return this summer on Wednesday, June 10th! Life is full right now in the best possible ways (a few more details are included in the episode!), and I LOVE creating this podcast for you…so I'm making a few adjustments.

Starting in June, new episodes will drop every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Twice a month, every month. It's a slight change that is going to make a big difference in keeping this show going strong for the long haul!

Make sure you're subscribed to my newsletter so you don't miss the June 10th return (plus keep up on behind-the-scenes fun and snag a first-look at what I hope will be my new quilting studio!), and I'll see you then. Thanks for being here. It means more than you know!

Subscribe and get quilting freebies!

And speaking of stories... have you been thinking about sharing yours? I would love to hear it! I’m still collecting stories over the break, and your First Stitch story could be featured in an upcoming episode!

Email: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com

Submit your story

Wild Plum Lane Shop

Wild Plum Lane's Amazon Storefront

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12: Marissa's First Stitch Story + Sewing in Small Bites of Time

Episode 12

Wednesday, March 25, 2026 • Duration 05:13

First Stitch Story: Meet Marissa
In this episode I share Marissa's story. She's 31, finished her very first quilt last year, and her journey into quilting is one of the most honest and heartwarming stories featured on the show yet. From years of putting creativity aside to making quilts for her son, her mom, and her aunt, I love everything about this story. Hear it in Marissa's own words in this episode.

WIP-Finishing Tip: Sew in Small Bites of Time
Marissa sews when she can, around a very busy 2-year-old. And honestly? That's how most of us are quilting…around the rest of life! So today's tip is all about making those small pockets of time count.

I share a simple strategy for breaking your current WIP down into tiny next steps so you can make real progress even in 10 to 15 minutes. No more sitting down and losing half your sewing time just figuring out where you left off! This one is quick, actionable, and a tip you can start using today.

From My Sewing Room: Precut Fabric Bundles
Today's recommendation is for anyone who has ever lost a whole sewing session to fabric auditions and second-guessing. Been there. Done that!

I'm talking about precut fabric bundles, specifically charm packs and fat quarter bundles. These are a total game-changer for newer quilters and for anyone who wants to sit down and start sewing immediately without the decision fatigue. I share my favorites and where to find them in the episode.

Shop Fabric Bundles at Wild Plum Lane

Shop Fat Quarter Shop precut bundles

Share Your First Stitch Story!
Your story might be next! If you'd like to share how you got started sewing or quilting and possibly be featured in a future episode, I'd love to hear from you.

Email your story: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com

Quick story submission form

3: Mary’s First Stitch Story + A Simple Way to Prioritize Your WIPs

Episode 3

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 • Duration 04:32

First Stitch Story: Meet Mary
In this episode, we meet Mary, a fellow Kansas City–area quilter whose creative path included early sewing lessons, a break for life, and then rediscovering sewing and quilting years later, Mary’s story touches on creativity, learning curves, and the joy of saying yes to something new.

The Wind Blossom pattern that connected us: https://www.wildplumlane.com/shop/p/wind-blossom-pdf-quilt-pattern

WIP-Finishing Tip: Prioritize What Matters
Today’s WIP-finishing tip is all about prioritizing your projects. When everything feels important, it’s easy to feel stuck. I walk through three-step process to narrow your focus so you can decide what to work on next…and then actually make progress!

I also mention a couple of free tools that support this process, including one especially helpful for quilts that are headed out the door as gifts.

Quilting Freebies All-Access Pass (Includes the Simple WIP Inventory and the Quilt Care Card): https://www.wildplumlane.com/quilting-freebies-sign-up

From My Sewing Room: The Postcard Club
This episode’s feature from my sewing room/studio is a little different…and all about connection! I’m sharing about my Postcard Club for Quilters, which is a low-effort, high-joy way to stay connected with the people you care about while celebrating quilting all year long.

Postcard Club for Quilters: https://www.wildplumlane.com/postcard-club

Share Your First Stitch Story
We want to feature you on the show! Whether it’s your journey into quilting or a favorite project-finishing tip, your story might be read in an upcoming episode.

Email: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com
Submit Here: https://forms.gle/pVT851vkt32YwRVa8

11: Lana's First Stitch Story + Why Labeling Your Quilts Matters

Episode 11

Wednesday, March 18, 2026 • Duration 05:26

First Stitch Story: Meet Lana
In this episode, we meet Lana from Oklahoma, whose love of quilting has carried her through decades, dozens of moves, and a life full of beautiful, meaningful moments. Lana's story is one I know you're going to love... especially her Christmas finish that was 30 years in the making!

You'll hear about a very special hand-embroidered label, what it said, and why it was so meaningful. It's the kind of finish story that makes you want to go dig through your own WIP pile right now.

WIP-Finishing Tip: Label Your Quilts Every Time
Lana's story is the perfect lead-in to today's tip, because she mentioned something that so many of us can relate to. Her early quilts don't have dates on them, and now she has no idea when she made them.

Today's tip is simple: before you consider a project truly done, add a label with the date. I share a few easy ways to make this happen without it feeling like one more big task at the end of your project. Because the truth is, future you (and the people who receive your quilts!) will be so glad you did.

From My Sewing Room: Ever Emblem Labels
Speaking of labels... this episode wouldn't be complete without sharing one of my favorite ways to make labeling quick and easy. I'm talking about Ever Emblem labels on Amazon. They're iron-on, customizable, and they look beautiful on any finished quilt.

Whether you're finishing a 30-year WIP like Lana or wrapping up a weekend project, a label is what gives your quilt its story. I'll share a bit more about why I love them and how they work in the episode!

Browse Ever Emblem labels

My favorite 2" x 3" (sew on or iron on) labels

Share Your First Stitch Story
Your story might be next! If you'd like to share how you got started sewing or quilting and be featured in a future episode, I'd love to hear from you!

Send an email to: firststitch@wildplumlane.com

10: Janet's First Stitch Story + Tips for Visualizing Your Quilt Project

Episode 10

Wednesday, March 11, 2026 • Duration 07:15

First Stitch Story: Meet Janet
In this episode, we meet Janet, a self-described beginner quilter whose story is quietly extraordinary. She learned alongside her mom, worked together on quilts for her twin granddaughters, and then faced the moment so many of us dread: having to carry on alone after losing the person who quilted beside her. What she did next is something I think every quilter needs to hear. And the fact that she's now passing the whole beautiful tradition down to her own granddaughters? The best!

WIP-Finishing Tip: Test Before You Commit
Today's WIP-finishing tip is one of the simplest things you can do to save yourself time, money, and a lot of frustration. If you've ever sewn a block together and realized the fabrics aren't doing what you pictured in your head, this tip is for you! I share a few quick tricks that let you see how your fabrics will actually read together before you're committed to a full project.

What to do with leftover quilt blocks

Free Quilt Coloring Pages

Want to try out fabric combinations before you ever pick up a rotary cutter? Grab my free quilt coloring pages through my Quilting Freebies All Access Pass! It's a simple, low-commitment way to play with color and value before you commit to a single cut.

Share Your First Stitch Story
Your story might be next! Every quilter has a beginning, and we would love to hear yours. Share your personal quilting journey, your best project-finishing tip, or your "first stitch" moment. Your story may be read on an upcoming episode of The First Stitch.

Email your story: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com

Submit your story

9: Debbie's First Stitch Story + Binding Tips to Finish Your Quilts

Episode 9

Wednesday, March 4, 2026 • Duration 06:15

First Stitch Story: Meet Debbie
In this episode, we meet Debbie, whose quilting journey took her from a childhood filled with stunning handmade clothes sewn by her talented mom, to walking away from sewing entirely after a difficult experience, to finally finding her way back to the craft in retirement. Debbie's story is a reminder that the creative things we are meant for have a way of finding us again. Four years in and nearly a dozen quilts later, she is still learning, still sewing, and still showing up!

WIP-Finishing Tip: The Secret to Finally Finishing Your Quilt Binding
Binding is actually my favorite step in the quilting process. It’s that final touch that takes a quilt from "almost done" to ready to snuggle! But I know it can feel like a stumbling block for a lot of quilters. Today’s episode shares several options for getting binding done that you may not have considered...including one that makes it a social occasion and another that gets the job done without a single hand stitch. There's a finishing path here for everyone!

Tool of the Day: Clover Wonder Clips
If you have ever held your binding down with one hand and stitched with the other until your hand was completely exhausted, you need Wonder Clips in your life. I’m sharing the story of how I discovered Wonder Clips at a lunchtime quilt group, and why I immediately went home and ordered a pack. They hold your binding perfectly in place while you stitch…they’re a small tool with a big impact!

Shop Wonder Clips

Get Mini Wonder Clips

Share Your First Stitch Story
Your story might be next! Every quilter has a beginning to their story, and we'd love to hear yours. Plus, over the years you might have picked up tips or tricks you could share with others that might inspire another quilter!

Share your personal quilting journey, your best project-finishing tip, or your "first stitch" moment. Your story may be read on an upcoming episode of The First Stitch.

8: Beth's First Stitch Story + Creating Your Own Quilt Retreat Day

Episode 8

Wednesday, February 25, 2026 • Duration 02:35

First Stitch Story: Meet Beth

In this episode, we meet Beth, whose sewing journey spans decades...from her first White sewing machine purchased in 1982 to rediscovering quilting after retirement. After years of raising three daughters and running a business, Beth came back to quilting in a big way. Her story is a wonderful reminder that it's never too late to pick up where you left off and make up for lost time!

WIP-Finishing Tip: Create Your Own Quilt Retreat Day

Today's WIP-finishing tip is all about carving out dedicated time to actually make progress. If you have trouble squeezing in time to quilt, I share how to create your very own at-home quilt retreat day...complete with permission to let the laundry wait! It's a game-changer for making real progress on your quilt WIPs.

Get All the Essentials for Your Quilt Retreat Day

If you're getting ready for a quilting retreat day and need supplies, be sure to check out my Amazon storefront. I've gathered links to many of my favorite quilting tools and notions — the things I personally use to stay organized, sew efficiently, and actually make forward progress on my projects. I hope they will be helpful for you, too!

Shop my Amazon Storefront for Quilting Supplies

Share Your First Stitch Story

Your story might be next! Every quilter has a beginning to their story, and we'd love to hear yours. Plus, over the years you might have picked up tips or tricks you could share with others that might inspire another quilter!

Share your personal quilting journey, your best project-finishing tip, or your "first stitch" moment. Your story may be read on an upcoming episode of The First Stitch.

The First Stitch: Every Quilter Has a Story – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

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Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

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Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

The First Stitch: Every Quilter Has a Story – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Other21

Amazon11

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Other21

Amazon11