Guest Designer – Stacey of SLOStudio / Podcast

Today I am excited to introduce you to Stacey– of SLOStudio. She was such a delight to chat with and I feel like no matter where you meet her, she is genuinely caring and thoughtful.

She explores the world of quilting (only 3 years now- if you can believe it) with bits of fabric, contrast and shapes.

Her patterns are on the modern side– which I secretly love. Her pattern- the Deco throw is a perfect start at modern design.

Enjoy her interview–

Check out the deco pillow from Stacey. What a great pillow and fun interview!

About the project for the quilt group:

The project that I am sharing is the Deco throw pillow.

The pattern uses foundation paper piecing to create a geometric, Art Deco-inspired patchwork motif. You can use solid fabrics for a modern look as I did, or try with your favourite prints!

Download the Pattern: (for members only- please login to access)

Materials List:

Fabric:
Black (Kona Pepper): 1/2 yard
Yellow (Kona Canary): Fat eighth or scraps
Grey (Kona Med. Grey): Fat eighth or scraps
White (Kona Snow): Fat eighth or scraps

Batting:
22in x 22in

Muslin or other lining fabric (optional):
22in x 22in

18in zipper

20in pillow form

Enjoy her interview and trunk show:

How did you get your start in sewing?

My mom taught me to sew when I was a little kid. My mom is not a quilter, nor is anyone else in my family – she is great at sewing garments and alterations. But I wasn’t really that interested in making clothes. In high school and university I sewed a few small items like bags and pouches.

Several years later, I got a sewing machine for a wedding present from my brother (I’d put one on my wedding registry list!). To start using my new machine, I decided as a New Year’s Resolution in 2014 to make a quilt that year. I finished my first quilt in February that year, and never looked back! I have been pretty much addicted to making quilts ever since.

What inspires you?

I think my greatest sources of design inspiration are from taking walks – whether it be colours I see in the green space near my house, or architectural details on buildings downtown. I am always snapping photos for reference, wherever I go!

Do you have a favorite notion?

My favourite notion of all time is something called a “hump jumper,” or sometimes called a “jean-a-ma-jig” — it helps your sewing machine sew over thick seams without getting stuck. I use it all the time when sewing pouches, bags, wallets or other items. It was only $2 at a local sewing machine shop, and it’s become an essential item for my sewing kit!

Another thing I use all the time is a very simple sewing measurement gauge. I use this to check my ¼” seams and to make sure my lines of straight line quilting are even. I keep it beside my seam ripper when I’m at my machine – I use it a lot!

Quirky Fun little thing about yourself:

I was once an extra in a Hollywood movie that was filmed in Toronto 🙂

What’s coming up for you that we can check out~

I have had a few projects published in magazines over the last year, including most recently my Art Deco sampler quilt in Love Patchwork and Quilting (Issue 49). I think this pillow would go with it perfectly!