Blog

We tend to do reps quickly to compensate for the fact that we don’t have enough strength to complete them with control and grace.

My Free Motion Quilting Masterclass takes exactly that approach. Beginning with foundational shapes. Moving on to solid practice methods to increase machine control. And then opening up the world to dozens of creative designs and ideas.

This idea of tailoring what you’re doing “for the conditions” is a life lesson for all kind of things, even machine quilting.

What are some of the conditions we quilters need to slow down and pay attention to?

I’m so excited to announce we have a new website and a new logo! Don’t you love the thread making an S through the needle? I sure do. This is crazy exciting for me to finally roll out. Erin (my assistant) and I have been working and re-working everything in the website for months 😂 … Read more

free motion fun It’s been a fun few days of my favorite kind of quilting – free motion, edge-to-edge designs. I thoroughly enjoy matching the machine quilting idea to the “feel” of the quilt, its fabric, and who it’s intended for. birds of a feather First up is some all-over casual feathers. A close-up…. …and … Read more

Exploring Creative Entrepreneurship and Quilting with Tabatha Smith In this episode of ‘Measure Twice, Cut Once,’ host Susan welcomes Tabatha Smith, also known as the Quilt Retreat Queen.  Tabatha discusses her journey of building a successful quilting business and the upcoming Quilted! Summit, a virtual event featuring 25 speakers sharing insights about quilting and creative … Read more

I don’t know about you but right after the holidays, I tend to look around my sewing room and think, “I really need to declutter and organize.” “I need to finish some of the projects I’ve already started.” “I really should use the fabrics I have and save money.” And also me… “I really want … Read more

During my most recent YouTube Live and Unscripted, I’m working on piecing a project by One S1ster Designs, in Janet Nesbitt’s signature “crazy” style. Gorgeous red, country white (aka tan), and blue fabrics, all from Janet’s own Henry Glass lines come together to make a super charming and patriotic quilt. Viewers joined me virtually in … Read more

The Power of the Not To-Do List in Creative Entrepreneurship In season five of Measure Twice, Cut Once, the focus shifts to the behind-the-scenes world of quilting and creative business building. I’ll share personal experiences and strategies for turning a passion into a profession, emphasizing the importance of a ‘not to-do list.’ This approach prioritizes … Read more

Deep understanding – earned through struggles and “mistakes” – is far more valuable than any instant perfection could have been.

Pattern designers need quilts to be quilted too! Amy Smart is the force behind “Diary of a Quilter”, and she’s sent me this sweet starry Christmas quilt for a freehand quilting finishing touch. I plan to quilt my Crazy 8s design – free motion, of course! – and it’ll be done as a live stream … Read more

So many quilting designs! How do you choose?

Create texture with different quilting patterns on this Foxy Hoffman Panel

This is a fast and easy way to splice your batting when you have come up short.

spa day … aka regular maintenance for your sewing machine tlc for your sewing machine It’s spa day in the studio! Every machine needs a little TLC now and then. The good news is: it’s easy. The great news is: that little bit of TLC will go a long way toward saving you costly servicing … Read more

never buy spray starch again! It seems too good to be true, I know! But it is, in fact, super simple, and also free of pesky chemicals, so even those who are sensitive are likely to find this a great hack. It is residue free, unlike laundry-type starches, so it’s ideal for quilting. things you’ll … Read more

Can freehand quilting IMPROVE a quilt? Absolutely, yes! Of course, you know my answer, HECK YEAH! But just in case you don’t believe me, I’ve got a great example for you. I get to provide quilting services for clients of all skill levels, from beginner to ace. The most rewarding comment I ever receive is, “You … Read more

In my studio today I’m free motion quilting a unique, pictorial quilt, made from sumptuous flannels. Several different quilted textures and designs play up the mountains, trees, flying geese, and even the grass. There’s a bit of ruler work, some stylized feathers, and a small grassy fill. The quilt pattern is “The Mountains are Calling” … Read more

Quilting Design – ALLOVER FEATHERS (REPLAY) A freehand edge-to-edge(E2E) project from start to finish. Grab a coffee and come along for the ride. This entire project is free motion quilted in real time, with me chatting throughout about the decisions and choices. Check my IG, Facebook and Pinterest feeds for more completed photos of this … Read more