Emily is the designer for Aunt Em's Quilts.  She is really very talented and I just missed her at Quilt Fest is Utah last month.   Mabye next time.  Take a bit to get to know her a little better~  She is the guest designer for the   November Pattern also– 

Easy as Pie Quilt by Aunt Em's Quilt

Pattern available to Workshop members only

I pieced and quilted my first quilt when I was in high school.  My dream has always been to be a designer, although in high school I thought I would be a fashion designer.  When my baby went off to school I started sewing displays for a local quilt shop.  In an effort to help the owner sell some fabric, I designed a quilt.  It was a success.  That was three years ago.  Everyday I am amazed at how blessed I am to be living my dream.  I enjoy creating; playing with color and design, watching how an idea evolves into a quilt. I have three wonderful sons, a delightful daughter and an awesome husband.  They are the joy of my life.  My mom has always been an inspiration for me.  She is very talented and has always encouraged me to develop my talents.  I am thankful to each of them for their love, support and encouragement.

So how did you get your crafty start? I have the most wonderful and artistic mother.  Through her I was able to explore many art forms and discover my strengths.  When I was ten she won a sewing machine in the state fair and gave it to me.  She let me use her scraps and encouraged me to develop my talents by having me enter things in the fair.  I won my first blue ribbon on a quilt when I was 14.

How long have you been crafting? Thanks again to my mom I’ve been sewing for as long as I can remember.

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your craft/sewing/business?  I want to continue to design and create patterns, and to teach others what I have learned.  As far as my business goes, I just need it to pay for my habit.  I’m a quiet person and quite content to sew away the hours in my sewing room.  But I do have to pay for my supplies.  I also feel a need to share the joy that quilting brings to me and to give back what so many talented quilters have shared with me. 

What or who inspires you?  My mom of course! 

When you are not involved in your craft/business- what can you usually be found doing?  I love to read and next to quilting it is the thing that relaxes me the most.  My hubby, three sons, and sweet daughter are a great source of joy in my life.

How many UFO’s do you have? Do I have to count them all?  Like most quilters I have a long list.  I try to cross off ten a year.  My problem is sometimes I start more than I’m crossing off.

How much time do you spend on your craft? I try to spend a few hours every day.  I recently went back to school and that has taken a big bite out of how much time I can spend.  But I still try to spend some time every day.

What's your favorite color? Green comes in at number one but yellow and red are close seconds.

Do you have a favorite Notion? I love my Nifty Notions Rulers

What sewing machine do you use? My trusty old Bernina 830.

What music do you usually listen to when you create?  I’m pretty eclectic when it comes to music.  Everything from Enya and Michael Bubble to Toby Keith and Cold Play

Do you also cook?   Yes got to feed those teenage boys and a growing little girl.  And coming from a family that owns a bakery I enjoy all those baked goods, probably a little to much.

Do you have a favorite pattern/project?  Anything scrappy finds it’s way into my heart.

What do you hate to do?   Housework, I live by the motto:  “Creative clutter is better than tidy idleness” 

What craft have you yet to try but haven't – and why haven't you done it yet?   I would love to learn to knit.  OH that there were more hours in the day.

How did you come to start your business?  I was making charity quilts for our neighborhood quilt project and ran out of border fabric and had to come up with a creative way to make it not look like a mistake.  At the time I was sewing displays for Quilter’s Haven in Bountiful.  I showed Ruth Anne what I had come up with.  She told me to make it into a pattern and they would sell it in the shop.  I did a few more patterns for Ruth Anne.  When my neighbor, one of the owners of Christensen Wholesale, found out what I was doing she had me come to a vendor’s open house at her warehouse and it just took off from there.

How do you keep your life balanced between family and work, especially if you work at home?  I try to get all my sewing done while everyone is gone between the hours of 8:30-2:30.  When my kids are home I try to spend time with them.  Like my mom I have given my 10 year old daughter a sewing machine that sits in my sewing room with mine.  Two of my sons have also joined me in my sewing room from time to time.  My youngest son is great when I need a second opinion on color.

Do you ever feel like you are in a rut or get burned out?  Quilting heals me.  It is my unwind, rejuvenate, lift my spirits activity.  There are so many different things to learn and do that it keeps my interest.  But that may be why I have so many UFOs.  If I get tired of something I can always move on to something else.  I guess that can be a blessing and a curse.

She has a wonderful collection on her site + a blog for you to follow her along with.

What was your favorite part about Emily?  I love that she finds quiltling healing, and a place to undwind.  Also- oh that there were more time in the day.

Things are changing a bit for the group starting now!!!   I am excited actually for it.   I have rolled the year into smaller chunkes— 3 month workshops actually.   There will be 4 of them per year of course, and each of them will still have guest desingers once a month, block of the month + I have added a few new things!!

Take a look at the new schedule:

Starting with the first Monday of the month, each Monday there will be new content posted.

The Weekly Schedule of the Month: 

• 1st Week~     1 Exclusive pattern by Guest Designer + Interview
• 2nd Week~   Block of the Month pattern
• 3rd Week~    Topic & Tips ~ Recipe Share. From your Kitchen to ours
• 4th Week~    Challenge Topic {given 1st month} ~ Giveaways {thanks to our sponsors}
• 5th Week~    Something Special – it's a surprise

Isn't that great?  {i think so, and that is all that matters!} hee hee

Along with a new layout/schedule I am switching up the prices….. for past workshops the price is $17.00 and for the current workshop the price is $15.00. I have also seperated the Block of the Month we finished and the Mystery Quilt and they are $7.00 each.  Everything is found in the shop here.  Not bad huh?

So here is the current workshop shpeel:

       

• 3 in 1 Christmas Tree Pattern.  Rug-hooking, Needle Punch or Pieced. You choose.
• 'Easy as Pie' Quilt top. 56" X 56" finished.
• Block of the Month – Memory Tree

   

She is a local girl {just on the other side of town from me} and has an applique group that meets monthly.  She also does machine quilting and is totally talented that way too. What doesn't this girl do?  She is really fun to be around and so nice to speak with. She quickly offers tips and hints and anything else that might be helpful.  I am grateful that she decided to be a designer. 

For the month of October her pattern that she is sharing is sooooo versitile!!  Not that that is too surprising, really.  She has given the instructions for making the pattern in Rug hooking, Needle Punch and also appliqued/pieced.  Can you believe?  

Isn't that the cutest?  I love the variety of the project. Let's you explore something that you might not have been interested in doing… great idea.  So, it's basically a 3-fer pattern.   They are all included in the membership for the group.  Join now……and make up a few for christmas.

She designed a block and was featured in: 

 Cheryl's block is the bottom row far right block- looks like this:

Just in April she published her first book: 

isn't it going to be the cutest?

I have done a few swaps with Aunt Pitty Pat + partcipated in a few swaps she has hosted + I have 2 coming up with her besides the siggy swap! phew.

 Enough with the friendship thing— let's read a bit about her!!!

So how did you get your crafty start? A neighbor next door to my parents use to make these really fun shaped animals and people using craft foam. She also made these really fun Easter Bunnies using Clorox bottles.
 

How long have you been crafting? Since I was about 11 years old and that my sweet friends was many moons ago.
 

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your craft/sewing/business? I started out sewing pet apparel for dogs.. but I didn't have much luck on that… I then switched to selling vintage buttons and patterns.  I sell a few of those here and there. I also like to sell my OOAK pincushions. My dream is to sell enough products to purchase a new fancy Quilting Machine and Frame.

What else would you like people to know about you? I love to participate and hold swaps up on my blog. I have met some very fun and interesting ladies from all over the world by blogging and holding swaps.

What or who inspires you? I get inspired each day when I visit blogs of others. The ladies that I follow on my blog have such creative minds. I look forward to getting ideas and inspirations from others.
 

When you are not involved in your craft/business- what can you usually be found doing? On the computer blogging, watching a movie, or playing with my many creatures.

Tell us about your current projects. Currently I am working several swaps. A Halloween Tote swap, Halloween Block swap, Christmas Block swap, 2 Annie Dolls and 3 Quilts for my family… LOL I hope I get it all done before the due dates.. Especially the Family Christmas Gifts. I think I am a person that works better on pressure

How many UFO’s do you have?Lots and Lots and Lots.. too many to count really. I use to be very good about finishing a project before going on to the next.. but when you join in on block swaps and other swaps.. and there are things to do to complete the items.. sometimes its hard to get back at them in a timely manner.

How much time do you spend on your craft? I sew as often as I can… I bet I spend 20-30 hours a week or more sewing.

What's your favorite color? Different shades of Blue
 

Do you have a favorite Notion? My scalpel for ripping out seams.
 

What sewing machine do you use? I have several sewing machines. I collect toy sewing machines, I have 2 Feather Weight Machines, 1 301 Singer, 2 Baby lock Machines, 1 Baby Lock Embroidery Machine, Juki Machine for Quilting on my frame, and 2 other older Singer Machines… I guess you can say I am sewing machine poor. I love Sewing Machines.. that and Chocolate are my down falls in life!!

What music do you usually listen to when you create? No noise at all.. just the click click of the sewing machine. Sometimes I turn on the radio for the weather when it looks like its going to be storming outside.

Do you like to cook? LOL yes when I have to! I love to bake and make Candy. I also love to can foods.. like pickles, jams, stewed tomatos, and pickle Jalapenos.

Do you have a favorite pattern/project? I love to sew Annie Dolls and Aprons. I have no favorite patterns to speak of … all of the ones I have are very nice. If I was to choose a pattern that I like the best.. I love patterns from Brenda Greenwalt. She shares her amazing Annie Patterns with everyone.

What do you hate to do? I hate house work.. I would rather be sewing than anything else in this world. I love to create new patterns and designs to use or alter old clothing into something special.

What craft have you yet to try but haven't – and why haven't you done it yet?  As far as crafting.. there is nothing out there that I am interested in trying at this time. I sort of do everything right now that interests me… other than building Bird Houses

How did you come to start your business? When I purchased the Pitty Pat…(dog) I could not find clothes to put on her. So I started sewing for her.. I thought I would share my love of sewing with others that have small dogs, who wanted clothing for them.

Do you ever feel like you are in a rut or get burned out? Oh yes.. I think that happens to a lot of us that sew a lot. I am sure its that way with a lot of artisans. We all need to sit back and take a break to let our brains catch up with our thoughts

And if so, what do you do to help yourself out of it? I see something that someone else has made and I get inspired all over again and there I go.. off to the sewing room.

Blog: http:auntpittypats.blogspot.com/
Etsy: AuntPittyPats.etsy.com
Etsy: cowgrlup.etsy.com

Thanks for sharing a bit of yourself and of course for handling our little swap. You are the best!!!

Don't forget this Friday:

Contact Me with your Pattern

& Get it Reviewed this month!!!

This week we have a special reviewer guest— Jo from Bearpaw Blog!!!   I love it when others want to share their knowledge and talents with us. Don't you?   {If you ever want to be a reviewer you just need to contact me….easy as that!}

Here is a bit about Jo before she starts:

About Me

Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Hi! I'm Jo Avery, I live in Edinburgh and, along with my husband, run Jonathan Avery Homestore. My 2 lovely sons are all grown up now which means I have more spare time for making patchwork quilts, crocheting and generally mucking around in my sewing room while singing along to the radio!

So here goes Jo's review:

Hi! I'm Jo from Bearpaw blog and I am delighted to be taking part in Focus Friday!  Becky asked me to review some of the patterns I had made from the wonderful Last Minute  Patchwork and Quilting Gifts book and I was very happy to oblige. I have just moved house though  and of course this book just had to be in the last packing box I opened!  I love this book and bought it after I saw it in the window of Purl Soho during our 'trip of a lifetime'

to New York last November. I didn't buy it at the time, as I was worried about exceeding my  luggage weight from all the fabric I was buying! So I ordered it from Amazon when I got back  home to Scotland, and set to work as I still had a few weeks left to make some handmade Christmas  presents.

I have been sewing since I was 6 years old and spent a lot of my childhood making soft toys, so as  soon as I saw 'Peanut, the Wee Elephant' I just knew I had to make him. In fact I made 2!

I really enjoyed making these elephants and found the patterns were pretty accurate. I know this pattern has been covered in a previous week so I will just tell you about the few 'improvements'  (IMHO!) I made to the project: I used quite a few different fabrics for the different pattern prices rather than just the ear lining, after all these are 'patchwork' gifts! I changed the felt eye to a button  and crocheted a little blanket for the back (and added a wee tassel!), mainly because I like to use as many different textiles as I can and because I thought the elephant would be snugglier with a crocheted blanket. My elephants were given to 2 sweet little baby boys called Ewan and Oscar

Quick link to her post about the elephants– just in case you would like to read it

It is hard to come up with a new idea for a sewing project but I probably would have bought the book for the Coloured Pencil Roll alone as it is such a good idea and so easily adapted. I made 2 versions of it for Christmas presents, one for pencils for my niece, Ana, and one for crochet hooks  for my sister, Jane. I think this is one of the best ideas in the book.

Again I found the instructions very easy to follow. My only criticism would be of the dimensions  given, '1 and 5/8 inch' seems an incredibly clunky size for a strip width, couldn't it have been '1 and  a half'? Of course, it would have been so much easier in centimetres…

It was great fun choosing the rainbow of fabric to match the pencils and I didn't really need to make any improvements to the design this time as it is such a perfect little project.

here is a link to the photos of the crochet hook version

For the crochet hook version, I made the roll with just 14 sections, but still gave the fabrics a rainbow 'bleed'. My sister taught me to crochet when I was a child (and as I am a bit thick, she taught me again and again until I eventually 'got it' a few years ago!), now I am a total crochet addict! I really should make one of these for myself! You can read a bit more about how I made the crochet roll on this blog post here (http://bearpawandbearpaw.blogspot.com/2009/12/handmadechristmas- part-2.html).

You can also make a roll for your knitting needles and I would love to think of another use for them as they do make such a lovely present. Have any of you adapted this roll for any other purpose? I'd love to hear about it!

Christmas will be here before we know it so it's a good time to get this book out again and pick some projects for this coming year. I really fancy trying the Scrap Books and the Bird Ornaments. Some of the projects are very simple and would be good for building the confidence of a quilting beginner, but there is plenty for the more experienced quilter, such as the Colour-Wheel Quilt (which I saw hanging behind the counter in the Purl Soho shop!!) and the Puzzle Ball.

There is also a fantastic reference section at the back with lots of personal recommendations from the author for her favourite haberdashery products. AND you get a big fold out sheet with all the patterns on! All in all I would heartily recommend this book.

What has Jo been up to lately?

 Great review wasn't it?  Thanks Jo!! 

 Check out her blog here  Bearpaw blog   *** I am working on the focus friday poll for next month…….I know, a little late- but you know. ***

I got the morning coffee spot over on Polka Dot Cottage!!!  eeeeee!

Clickety Click on over to read the interview–

I usually do the interviewing– even to myself– but this time Lisa did it. phew.

She asked some great questions girls…. and her blog?   What's not to love?

+ She responds to every comment….. so go make one so she will have to keep working. hee hee

{actually I love it and that is what i try to do because of her}

She does some crazy cool stuff with clay– buttons and jewelry…… and she is working on her photography.

Random photos for fun:  The boys decided that they needed a 'swimming barrel':

Have you ever been interviewed? {besides for a job } 

So how did you get your crafty start? I started when I was 8. I have a sampler that I made. My mom was a great influence.  Since then I have taken it upon myself to do it all!

How long have you been crafting? I have been crafting for a few years now. I have always done hand embroidery and x-stitching. I started with stitching for Shephards Bush and then found quilting when my first daughter was born. I have been hooked ever since! I found a few quilt groups to attend locally and did everything they put out there. I joined round robins, swaps, and other fun things. I stretched myself alot and tried a lot of different techniques and patterns. I loved doing this when I was just starting.

Now, I am a little bit more picky with the patterns, swaps and other things I do. I know what I like, and what I for sure don't.

 What are your goals or dreams in regards to your craft/sewing/business? Wow- do I really ask this of others? I loved attending those quilt groups and decided that I should start one on line. My goals are flighty. I never settle on one thing and even when I do, I jump to another. I have a hard time keeping on track. If I was to track some specifics it would be: * share my knowledge with others, * have a successful sewing group, * sell my patterns online, * sell my patterns in stores, * go to market,

 What or who inspires you? I love to read, listen, watch and find new things all the time. I give everything a try. I love colors, new patterns, designs, and loose designs- free thinking. I find that watching blogs and websites will keep you up with what is new.

 When you are not involved in your craft/business- what can you usually be found doing? One thing I definitly am not found doing is cleaning. I have a real problem there. I straighten and wipe. I spend a lot of time with the kids and homeschool so that keeps me a bit busy. I also have a blog and LOVE to post new things, share myself and read up on what others are doing.

 Tell us about your current projects. Right now I am working on a few goodies. I am working on an online e-book Cranky Quilt. It is based on my pattern on my blog. I am also finishing up a video pattern set for the Quick Stitch Series. Can't think of anything else—but I am sure there is a ton of other things going on. I just remembered– the Round Robin series on the blog is just finishing up and Peanuts Travels is just starting.

 How many UFO’s do you have? Wha oooo Let's not make me count them ok? Seriously though, I am pretty sure that I have more tops that need to be quilted, then projects that need to be made. I am trying hard to keep up with what I make. It is one of my goals to quilt it when I finish it. That is hard I tell you!

 How much time do you spend on your craft? ok. really do I need to share that? That is a crazy question! Just like Cori from Chitter Chatter I am thinking about it constantly. I have a notebook to keep track of all the ideas. Plus, I really like to sew! Lucky for me the sewing room is in the kids toy room, so I don't feel isolated.It is a lot of hours— it is my full time job….so you get the hours.

What's your favorite color? I really like blue and tend to lean on that a lot! I have found lately though that I will use whatever. I tend to also lean towards a scrappy quilt– so anything goes.

Do you have a favorite Notion? I would have to say it is the seam ripper! I call it my 'best friend'. But really it isn't my favorite. I really like using the smaller rotary cutter.

 What sewing machine do you use? I have a Janome and love it. It does have a bit of a shaking problem when I go on retreats {I blame it on the tables hee hee}, but it goes everywhere and I love it. One falt though—the button hole stitch isn't that nice.

 What music do you usually listen to when you create? I love anything and everything. It ranges from rock to modern, to pop, to country..to whatever is on instead of commercials. Boy, I am all over the place aren't I?

 Do you also cook? I don't mind cooking, but I really don't love it. It takes time and I am a get it done quick kind of person…so there is a lot of casseroles and easy meals made. The honey doesn't do much to help out here…darn it!

Do you have a favorite pattern/project? I love my Cranky Quilt. It is free, spontanious, and definitly makes you think outside of the box and gets you beyond —is my corners, points perfect? I also love anything from Wee Wonderfuls. Dolls and little things are my downfall. I go through fazes of what I work on and dolls are always included in that.

What do you hate to do? I haven't fell in love with paper piecing {even though I designed a paper pieced quilt pattern}. I also really don't like instructions that I have to read, read, and re-read. I love quick, easy patterns with photos!

 What craft have you yet to try but haven't – and why haven't you done it yet? I have a whole cloth quilt that I would love to hand quilt. That is one thing that I have been hesitant in jumping into. Not sure why. ok. no, I think I do. I like things to be done and done quick! Hand quilting is not a quick finish. That's it. yup.

 How did you come to start your business? I started my online sewing group this January. I am new at that one, but really wanted to share a group atmosphere with everyone worldwide and not just in my community.

The other things I sell started out with –oh, that's cute. I can make my own doll with my own style. How about not making a thousand of these and letting others sew their own….thus, I started selling the pattern. Now, I love to sell patterns and see what others are coming up with.

 How do you keep your life balanced between family and work, especially if you work at home? I don't. Is that horrible? I have a hard time keeping track of myself and others. I have lists that help me keep on track. I have a list for my blog and business too. I give the kids the morning and then I get the late afternoon and evening time.

Do you ever feel like you are in a rut or get burned out? for sure! I am lucky I guess because I don't focus on just one thing that that helps me not get into too many ruts. I never have a loss of ideas, but I do loose a bit of confidence. Is it good enough? Are they really playing along? Is this worth it? When this happens I just have to remember what the purpose is– to share. To learn. to grow. This helps. I also love to go back through my idea book and find something to work on.

 Here's a bit more if you would like.

-Becky Jorgensen

Blog: http://patchworkposse.com/blog

Website: http://patchworkposse.com

Here is a quick preview of the pattern I am sharing.  You must be a member to get the pattern—

Chocolate Dipped Strawberry HotPad

pst— Share your Peanut with us!!!  Peanut Pattern Here.

pst-pst– It's Promote your Blog Week.  Clickety Click here to add your link!!

Show and Tell— a pattern by Quilt Soup.   

It was in a magazine a few years ago. I made 2. One for each daughter.

Let me tell you a little secret girls– I don't like applique. I am lazy!

I made all the leaves and centers of the flowers raggy. hee hee.

So how did you get your crafty start? I have been a crafter all my life and have tried everything from macramé to stained class!

How long have you been crafting? Like I said, all my life.

What else would you like people to know about you? That I am a pretty nice gal with a good sense of humor once you get beyond my business-like attitude!

What or who inspires you? Color and people!  The people I meet and know and the experiences we have along the way always give me something to think about and commemorate in a quilt.

When you are not involved in your craft/business- what can you usually be found doing? I am involved in my craft business 24/7.

How many UFO’s do you have? Maybe about 20. I used to have about 5 times that many but found some quilt angels to take them off my hands. I work with a charitable quilt group in Florida that puts every block and scrap of fabric, etc to use in quilts that are given to those in need. I have recently had an opportunity to work with some local quilters that make and donate quilts to raise funds for a children’s hospital. I am hoping to work with the same kind of group in Idaho. The way I see it, I will have no UFO’s pretty soon! It has never really bothered me to have UFO’s. I think of them as the price of tuition when you are learning something new or figuring something out. They have served their purpose if I can answer the question I am asking with them. It is a bonus to have them made into quilts that someone can use and take comfort from.

How much time do you spend on your craft? Like I said…24/7!

What's your favorite color? All of them!

Do you have a favorite Notion? Absolutely.. Dovo appliqué scissors and QuiltSoup’s Block Board.

What sewing machine do you use?   I piece every quilt I make on a cast iron signer made in the 1950’s. I also have a Featherweight. I use a Kenmore sewing machine for machine buttonhole stitching when I am making a fusible web project or machine quilting a quilt.

What music do you usually listen to when you create?  An eclectic assortment on my ipod. It ranges from Classical through country to alternative and always includes a little Christmas music.

Do you also cook? I can make a bowl of soup to keep myself alive but don’t really like cooking. I like to make desserts and pastries because I find decorating them to be lots of fun and, of course, love to eat them.

Do you have a favorite pattern/project? I LOVE to hand appliqué and hand piece.

What do you hate to do? I hate, hate , hate binding a quilt!

What craft have you yet to try but haven't – and why haven't you done it yet? I don’t know that it is really a craft but I want to learn to weld so I can do metal sculpting. I just haven’t had time to get to it yet!

How did you come to start your business? The same way many of us in the quilt pattern business did. I have only made one quilt that was identical to the pattern and it was the first one I made. I, of course, changed the colors, etc. I was always more interested in “I wonder how it would look if I did x, y or z rather than in making the quilt exactly like the pattern. Other people were interested in making their quilts the same as mine and asked me to write a pattern for them. One thing led to another and before you know it, I had everything in place to open a quilt pattern company.

How do you keep your life balanced between family and work, especially if you work at home? I am no good at balance in any arena of my life. My child is grown and gone so, luckily for me, I don’t have many family obligations or others who need care.

Do you ever feel like you are in a rut or get burned out? I never suffer from a lack of ideas and get excited about learning and trying new things. It has only been lately that I have come to feel that I am in a bit of rut. I plan to try something new to get myself of it. I will let you know how that works out!

Links—

Blog:   www.quiltsoupblog.com

Website:    www.quiltsoup.com

ok. I think my favorite parts are—- she works 24/7!! lucky girl.  Metal Sculpting huh? that's a new one to me too.  Thanks Barbara for taking the time to make us something wonderful and sharing it with us!!!

What is your favorite part?

pst— Come join us so you can make her beautiful table runner!!

How long have you been crafting?

I have enjoyed crafts my whole life.  In elementary school I loved origami.  Then I scrapbooked before scrapbooking was cool.  Then I cross-stitched until my eyes didn't like it.  Now I quilt.  I started my long arm business, Moose on the Porch Quilts in 2002. 

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your craft/sewing/business?

I love the quilting industry.  I love doing exactly what I am doing.  I hope to be part of the quilt industry for a long time.

What or who inspires you?

I love quilt magazines.  I think I have subscriptions to all of them.  Otherwise I see one at the store that I don't have and end up paying full price for it.  I also love books on traditional blocks.  I will often see a block or a pattern that will inspire something completely different.  I also love playing with EQ.  It lets me rotate blocks quickly, change the colorway, etc.  Most of the time it feels like I am playing.

When you are not involved in your craft/business- what can you usually be found doing?

Chasing after my 6 kids ages 4 months to 11 years old.  I have also recently discovered triathlons (the short ones).  I did my first one last year, and I am training for another one in May. 

How many UFO’s do you have?

I have absolutely no clue. 

How much time do you spend on your craft?

Besides my family, quilting is my life.  If I am not actually quilting, I am dreaming about it.

What's your favorite color?

Lately it's brown. 

Do you have a favorite Notion?

My 4-1/2" ruler

What sewing machine do you use?

Bernina Activa

What music do you usually listen to when you create?

Talk Radio

Do you have a favorite pattern/project?

Whatever I am working on.

What do you hate to do? sewing or otherwise.

Clean my house.

What craft have you yet to try but haven't – and why haven't you done it yet?

I would like to learn to knit.  I tried it once last year, but I didn't get too far.  Why?  I have 6 kids, and one of them is 4 months old.

How did you come to start your business?

I had been teaching math and was looking for something I could do at home.

How do you keep your life balanced between family and work, especially if you work at home?

Let me know if you figure that one out.

Do you ever feel like you are in a rut or get burned out?

Not often.

And if so, what do you do to help yourself out of it?

Take a break for a few days or a week and then start browsing quilt magazines, fabric catalogs or see what new fabric is coming out.  It is hard to be in a rut when I see what new fabric is coming.

What else would you like people to know about you?

This year I am doing a Jelly Roll quilt along that starts March 1st.  I have gotten some great designers to design the different blocks.  More information is on my blog if you want to play along.

Give us an update on your credentials- books, fabrics, patterns, teaching, what have you done?

I still do long arm quilting.  I currently have 5 books out.  Number 6 is in the works.  It will be called "Simply Charming Babies & Kids."  I have also started writing patterns with Northcott Fabric.  The first one is out, "Sweet Baby Kate."  Others are in the works.  One pattern "Easy as Cake" was recently featured on Moda Bake Shop. 

 Links—

Blog: http://moosequilts.blogspot.com

Website: http://www.moosequilts.com

I love that she is a busy girl and likes it all!! I especially want her to be my neighbor so I can borrow all the magazines she subscribes too. 

For the month of March Konda has designed

'Shooting Star'

40 X 40 quilt

It is made with a charm pack + a few backgrounds.

Looks like a great pattern for beginners and perfect for a table centerpiece or wall hanging.

I almost think you could make it in 'baby' colors and it is just the right size for a —baby.

Want to know some more great girls in the Patchwork Craft world

and Patchwork Posse Membership group?  Check out the list here:

I thought i would include her little insite for the One Yard Wonder Book and how her pattern got in the book. "In regards to the book, early last year (from memory) Store Publishing put out a call for submissions for the new book. I submitted the Peg Bears and was not expecting anything – I knew there were a LOT of submissions. So I was thrilled when I received a response from them saying that they wanted the pattern in the book."   lucky her and the others!!

So how did you get your crafty start?
I had always been interested in making things since I was a child. I found a lot of joy and comfort in it. I loved sketching, drawing, painting and gluing things together. But it was only after the birth of my first daughter that I finally got into sewing. I wanted to give her a softie that was unique and different and I couldn't find anything that I was happy with at the mall. So I decided to sew it up myself! It was a crash course in sewing for me, but I was soon hooked!

How long have you been crafting?
Since I was kid. But I've been designing and making softies for almost 4 years.

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your craft/sewing/business?
When I started making softies, I never planned to have a 'business' as such. It just developed that way. I still don't have a clear view of where to take this 'business'. I'm taking it one day at a time and taking opportunities as they come to me. At the end of the day, I just want to continue designing and making because it brings me joy. I want to try new things as well. I want to keep learning and improving.

What or who inspires you?
Vintage design, children's books, children's drawings, colour, Japanese kawaii aesthetic, street art, my two daughters, Beci Orpin, Shinzi Katoh, Pip Lincolne and so many designers/crafters/bloggers!

When you are not involved in your craft/business- what can you usually be found doing?
During the day I work as a Business Analyst in the information technology and telecommunications industry

Tell us about your current projects.
Well, I'm going through a significant transition period in my life at the moment so I don't have many projects on the go. The things that I am excited about this year are: the current display of one of my fawns, standing 4 metres tall, in a wonderful store here in Melbourne; inclusion in two sewing/craft books to be published this year; releasing more sewing patterns through the company that distributes and publishes my patterns, Pattern Press; spending more time developing and releasing new fabric designs.
How many UFO’s do you have?
At least 10, may be more!

How much time do you spend on your craft?
A few hours every night after my daughters have gone to sleep. It's a wonderful way to unwind after a busy day.

What's your favorite color?
At the moment, chartreuse.

Do you have a favorite Notion?
I love Japanese novelty trims and vinatge buttons.

What sewing machine do you use?
A Janome DC 3018. One of the best investments I have made. I bought it when I started out and it has been a faithful, tought little machine. Highly recommended!

What music do you usually listen to when you create?
I listen to music A LOT. At work, driving, sewing, whenever I can. It is a huge motivator for me. My taste in music is pretty diverse. At the moment, it is the soundtrack to Glee, A Fine Frenzy and covers of songs by the Vitamin String Quartet.

Do you also cook?
I had a little laugh when I read this question. All I can say is that yes, I cook – only because I have to, not because I enjoy it

Do you have a favorite pattern/project?
I never tire making my little Woodland Girls and Boys and Fawns.

What do you hate to do?
The step I hate most when making softies is cutting all the pieces out! I literally need to talk myself into sitting down and getting it done. I guess I have never been a fan of cutting stuff out – I'm rather impatient and just want to get onto the actual construction and putting it all together!

What craft have you yet to try but haven't – and why haven't you done it yet?
Crochet. I am pretty hopeless when it comes to yarn-crafts like knitting and crochet. As I mentioned, I am impatient and I have clumsy fingers. I would love to learn how to crochet – I am amazed by the crocheted softies I have seen especially the amigurumi softies – but I am quite certain that I would give up very quickly!

How did you come to start your business?
The "business" was only by accident. After I shared a few of my initial creations on my website, I did get a few queries as to whether I was going to sell them. So after some encouragement from family, I did finally open an etsy shop and put a few softies up for sale. I was surprised when my first sale was to a lady who lived on the other side of the world in the UK!

How do you keep your life balanced between family and work, especially if you work at home?
As much as I love designing and making, it will always be second to my family – my two girls. I make sure I leave work at work. When I get home, I am fully committed to spending time with my girls. It is only when the girls are asleep or napping that I work on my craft projects. Sometimes they want to help me and we stuff a few softies together (which is a lot of fun!). I also find time to run regularly, as this helps to clear my mind and provides some much needed "me" time.

Do you ever feel like you are in a rut or get burned out?
Definitely! Many times. And that's why I have learned to say "No" more often to craft-related commitments and ensure I always have my priorities clear in my mind. If it doesn't fit with my priorities, I will not commit to it.

And if so, what do you do to help yourself out of it?
I have learned to step away and have a break from crafting. I spend more time on other things and let the motivation to design/make/craft naturally make its way back to me. When I have done this, I always find new motivation, inspiration and energy in terms of my craft projects.

What else would you like people to know about you?
I am deeply and truly thankful for all the people who have supported me and One Red Robin – by stocking my work, providing encouraging advice, leaving lovely comments on my blog, or simply taking an interest in what I do. I am continually surprised, motivated and inspired by it. Any success One Red Robin has had can be attributed to these people.
 

One Red Robin
Website: http://www.oneredrobin.com

Softie Making
Website: http://www.softiemaking.com

Purchase her patterns here

I love to know that i am not the only one in this world with a pile of WIPS!  and that she sneaks her sewing time in the evening.  Makes me feel a bit more 'normal' ….even though i think i might be over the top with a dash of obsession.

So how did you get your crafty start?   I have always been part of a crafty family — my mom sews, my dad is a great artist (he used to sketch but now does woodcarving/crafting/carpentry and violin making), and my two sisters also knit and embroider. Drawing and sewing and crafting have always been a part of our upbringing.

What are your goals or dreams in regards to your craft/sewing/business?     For now I’d like to just keep it simple, writing the occasional pattern and blogging are really fun. I would love to be more involved with the sewing and crafting “work” I do someday, maybe design a fabric line or do paper patterns.

What or who inspires you?  I’m so inspired by Anna Maria Horner. She has 6 kids and still manages to throw out a couple fabric lines and a book every year. I don’t know how she does it. I’m also inspired by Heather Ross. Her fabric designs are really just breathtaking and so unique. Every time I see a new line from either of these talented ladies I get really excited.

When you are not involved in your craft/business- what can you usually be found doing?    Playing with my kids.

How much time do you spend on your craft?     Not much right now; maybe a couple hours a day if I’m really lucky and not too tired at the end of the day.

What’s your favorite color?    Aqua

What sewing machine do you use?      Bernina Activa 220

Do you also cook?      Nope. I’m so incredibly fortunate to have Mr Rae. He does most of the cooking and all of the grocery shopping. Every once in awhile I’ll go to Trader Joe’s or make a lasagna.

What do you hate to do?      Rip seams.

How do you keep your life balanced between family and work, especially if you work at home?     I don’t really try to balance it. I feel like my number one job right now is being a mom. And if I happen to have extra time to work, that’s wonderful. But when I find myself holding the baby in one arm and checking my email with the other, I know it’s time to step back.I started an Etsy with handmade sewn things that was more work than I bargained for so I had to stop. The pattern business really just happened by accident. I put a few free patterns on my blog and got so many emails from people saying, “Are you crazy? Why aren’t you selling your patterns?” That gave me the confidence to step out and give it a try, so I started selling those on my Etsy instead. Now I have instant download set up for pattern sales, which is so much easier on me and nicer for my customers. Too many to count. As I scan this room I can think of at least 20 off the top of my head that have been started but not finished. I’m really bad about that.

Do you ever feel like you are in a rut or get burned out?  Not right now (although in the past I have)…right now I just wish I had more time so I could make all of the ideas in my head happen!!! I feel like my head is so full of stuff I want to do it’s going to explode.

What else would you like people to know about you?   Professionally I still identify myself very strongly as a physics teacher. I taught science and math for 7 years and I’m really proud of that accomplishment (I’m pretty sure AP Physics is one of the hardest classes to teach). I just finished my Master’s this summer so that if I want to go back when my kids are a little older, I’ll still have that option. I also think the discipline of thinking like an educator has really been a benefit to me in my crafty life.

Blog:  Made By Rae

She is totally a girl after my own heart…..she dibbles and dabbles in all sewing!! I don’t do knitting, but can crochet so that counts. hee hee.  Throw in some clothing, quilts, bags, patterns. Oh, yea!!!

Thanks Rae for taking the time to answer a few questions and letting us get to know you a bit better.  Go on over and follow her blog—she has a goodie.

Amanda from Sasikirana Handmade!!

She was nice enough to answer a few questions about her sewing ‘career’ for us.  {that’s what i call it, so i can buy professional equipment. hee hee} anywhosies. 

Here is her project she did for One Yard Wonders our Focus for the month:

Enjoy!!

How did you get your crafty start?
I’ve been crafting on and off since elementary school thanks to my mom. But it didn’t turn into such an important part of my everyday life until I moved to the US. It’s so easy to get crafting supplies here that it just tempts me so much.

How long have you been crafting?
I started sewing since I got my machine in 2005.
What are your goals or dreams in regards to your craft/sewing/business?

I have a New Year’s Resolution to restock my sadly neglected Etsy shop. Other than that, finish my stack of WIPs!

What else would you like people to know about you?

I move from Indonesia to the US in 2004 with my husband. It’s a long way home from sunny tropical weather to a foot of snow! I’m still getting used to it.

What or who inspires you?

Right now, I’m inspired by zakka style, especially Rashida Coleman-Hale of I Heart Linen’s new book.

When you are not involved in your craft/business- what can you usually be found doing?Browsing Ravelry. I wish there’s a similar thing for sewing projects.

Tell us about your current projects.I’m planning to make a linen lap quilt out if the book I just mentioned above. 

How many UFO’s do you have?There’s too many! I have three quilts in progress, two bags, two overalls for my son, a shawl, and I don’t remember what else I have hidden in my WIP basket.

How much time do you spend on your craft?A few minutes here and there in between taking care of my kids. Sometimes at night when my husband can entertain two children at the same time. Not enough, I tell you!

I always try have two kinds of project going at once. One that has to be done at the machine and one that I can do by hand like embroidery, knitting, or some hand sewing project. That way, I do something that suits the time slot that I have.

What’s your favorite color?Linen and bright fun prints.

Do you have a favorite notion?

My seam ripper and dissappearing ink pen.

What sewing machine do you useA basic Singer that I bought at Target. I want to upgrade but I’m too intimidated with all the research I have to do to find a new one.

What music do you listen to during crafting time?

No music, just my daughter singing in the background.

Do you also cook?

Yes, but it’s more of a necessity than a hobby.

Do you have a favorite pattern/project?

I love Oliver + S clothing patterns and Denyse Schmidt quilt patterns.

What do you hate to do?

Cooking and laundry. I wish all that clothes would magically fold themselves.

What craft have you yet to try but haven’t – and why haven’t you done it yet?

I can’t recall any right now.

How did you come to start your business?

From my husband’s nagging, he kept saying that I should make something profitable out of my stash of fabrics.

How do you keep your life balanced between family and work, especially if you work at home?To tell you the truth I still hadn’t find the perfect balance. I go through with it, if home is calling then I get to it, then I do my craft in every free time that I have.

Do you ever feel like you are in a rut or get burned out?Sometimes, yes.

And if so, what do you do to help yourself out of it?I take a break from whatever I’m doing and do something else. Mostly it’s playing with my daughter or cuddling my baby, then I’m refreshed and ready to attack whatever’s been bugging me. Blog: http://amandasasikirana.wordpress.com

Shop: http://sasikirana.etsy.com, it’s empty right now, but I promise to restock it soon!

Isn’t she delightful?!  Run on over to her blog and check her out. She loves to do it all….photography, knitting, sewing, baby stuff, stitching, ……right up my alley.  Can’t find one true love….then give them all a try {not refering to the honey}. 

pst- notice that she said wip basket….how big is that? I just know that all my wips can’t fit into a basket. hmmm…