On today’s episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast I'm talking with Alissa Haight Carlton. Alissa is a modern quilter, designer, author and the co-founder and Executive Director of the Modern Quilt Guild (MQG).  She has written two quilting books, Modern Minimal and Block Party. When not working in the quilting world, she heads up casting for Project Runway. Alissa lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two sons. 

Alissa tells the story of the founding of the MQG and how it's run today. She talks about how the organization has grown, why they chose non-profit status, and how they've handled pushback on various issues over the last seven years.

Alissa also explains what it's like to cast reality TV shows, especilly Project Runway. Hear what she's looking for in a cast member and how this show differs from other reality shows you might encounter.

Catch up with the Modern Quilt Guild on their website: themodernquiltguild.com

And follow Alissa's creative life on her Instagram feed: alissahaightcarlton

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This episode is sponsored by Jacquelynnes Steves. The I Love Home Free Block of the Month and Sew Along at JacquelynneSteves.com is starting soon! The patterns are Free and you have an option for doing just piecing, or add applique or hand embroidery to your blocks. This is a great project for beginning to more advanced quilters! Patterns have lots of step by step diagrams, and there will be some video tutorials as well. Get lots of ideas for fabrics and colors, and tons of giveaways with incredible sponsors! Plus, join the fun Facebook community, Sew Quilty Friends, to share your photos, ideas, and questions. There is an optional fabric kit available too! Use discount code WHILESHENAPS2017 to get $6 off the regular price of the kit, now through July 10, 2017.

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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.

To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.