I was very happy to be asked to contribute to the Be Creative with Workbox Magazine series, and to write about my experience of blogging.
Here is the article, out in this month's issue (170) - it's a really lovely publication you can find out more about here.
I loved being involved with the development of Liberty's latest quilt range The Orchard Garden. I had my first preview back in January when the head designer Mary-Ann came up to visit my Ilkley studio. I instantly fell for a couple of the signature prints including Pheasant Forest. The design is similar to Jess & Jean on Tana Lawn with delicate details perfect for piecing into a quilt. The first strike-offs arrived in the Spring, and we designed the Orchard Star Quilt as a free project to accompany the collection. This pattern can be downloaded from Alice Caroline's website here, where you can also buy fabrics. I made the quilt in time for Festival of Quilts in August and...
Every week I teach quilting at my studio in Ilkley. Many of the women have been sewing with me for a number of years. In fact, over 95% of our customers stick around, and have warned us that we are never allowed to close the studio doors! We often discuss the fact that the cost of the each term of classes, is much cheaper than therapy. Whilst it's a bit of a joke now, the mental health benefits of practising a craft in the company of others is real. I witness it day in, day out and it's an amazing experience. I can recall so many moments of laughter, as well as the odd moan. Someone gauging opinions on a...
On the eve of the release of my debut quilt pattern, Morris Mouse, I wanted to share a few insights. The strongest value in my business is to be helpful. This goal drives the studio classes that I teach, and the patterns that I produce. I want people to improve their skills and to feel the sense of pride and achievement that I love at the end of a craft project. I know from experience that written instructions for any sewing or quilt pattern can be tricky - however well drafted. I have been frustrated, confused and, at times, I may even have had a little cry when I just don't get it! Therefore, when I wrote down my vision...
Happy World Quilting Day 2018! We have been very busy behind the scenes producing our first studio quilt pattern. Introducing Morris Mouse. A dapper young chap, inspired by Liberty's Cottage Garden range. He loves relaxing amongst the cosmos flowers and bluebells, which surround his cosy thatched cottage. How is he made? Morris is a foundation pieced sewing pattern. This means that you sew through the paper templates on your sewing machine and then remove the paper afterwards. It's a technique that allows you to make very accurate lines and we love it! When can I buy him? Morris is making his debut on Sewing Quarter TV on Sunday March 25th at 10am. He will also be available on our website...
