Terry’s been sewing most of her life, but until last spring (2022) had never tried quilting. Now, one year later, she’s made 13 quilt tops and counting! When you ask what prompted her to start, she isn’t exactly sure apart from her “fabric hoarding” tendencies.

I’ve started thinking about my life as a maker life. Making things has always been my favorite part of every job I’ve ever had.

The inspiration for her quilts tends to come from the fabrics she’s collected over the years and her experiences both past and present. She made her first quilt at Ace from a stash of batik and paisley shirts she no longer wears but couldn’t bear to part with. 

She uses a special notebook to sketch and plan the layout letting the basic shapes in the fabric dictate what “kind of quilt they want to be.”

While she really enjoys the process of making quilt tops, she tends to procrastinate on assembly admitting to a closet full of UFOs (unfinished objects).

What’s Next?

Terry is getting really into playing with embroidery, applique, and geometric shapes. She’s also planning a Scrub Jay quilt inspired by the birds she and her partner hand feed in their neighborhood.

Terry’s Tips and Takeaways for New Quilters

• “Don’t go it alone.” Find community whether its online, at Ace, or a local quilting guild.
• Try a smaller project like quilted oven mitts or throw pillows to learn the mechanics.
• It’s helpful to have a space to work away from the distractions at home (like Ace).