Join us as we uncover how this one-of-a-kind event came to life and why it’s already a must-attend gathering for sewing, embroidery, and quilting enthusiasts.

Episode Highlights:

(1:18) Meet Linda Z – Hear from Linda herself as she shares how the idea for Fall Fest was born and what it took to make it happen.

(4:20) Family Legacy – Linda talks about her daughters Tracy and Debbie, her grandson Nick, and how they’ve shaped the future of the business.

(5:41) Behind the Scenes – Tracy and Debbie reveal the planning process, unexpected surprises, and standout features of the festival.

(10:43) Key Takeaways – What did they hope attendees would gain from this event?

(11:50) Educators Spotlight – Meet Sylvain Bergeron and Alexis Galloway, two of the top industry instructors.

(15:14) Ricky Tims Interview – The legendary quilter and musician shares why he felt compelled to participate, his unique Locomotion technique, and what’s next for him.

(18:50) Attendee Voices – Hear firsthand experiences from festivalgoers Nita Davis, Lisa from Ontario, and Loretta Turner.

(19:50) BERNINA’s Commitment – John Carr, BERNINA’s District Manager, explains why this event was a must for BERNINA and previews their exclusive courses.

(17:51) Vendor Insights – OESD’s Barb Michielicheck and Laurastar’s Emily Dunlop discuss their latest products and why Fall Fest was the perfect venue to showcase them.

(23:14) Ricky Tims’ Closing Thoughts – How did he sum up the magic of this event?

(23:48) The Big Question: Will There Be Another Fall Fest? – Linda Z reflects on the success of the event, shares her biggest takeaway, and teases what’s next.

Linda Z’s first-ever Fall Festival of Sewing, Embroidery, and Quilting was a labor of love, embraced with gratitude, and a memory to last a lifetime. A heartfelt thank you to Linda Z and her incredible team, as well as the educators, vendors, and attendees who made this event truly special.

If you’re already dreaming of Fall Fest 2025, mark your calendars—the countdown has begun! For more information on the 2025 Fall Fest, go to www.lindazs.com

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

• Allison Rainboth grew up in Glendale, CA, just 10 minutes from the Rose Bowl (where she learned to drive in the parking lot!). She pursued graduate studies in biology at UCLA before moving to Wisconsin in 1992. Today, she and her husband are passionate about maintaining their historic home, and she shares her space with three beloved cats.
• Vickie Coleman, the oldest of three girls and an admitted Army brat, was born at Fort Benning, GA. Her childhood was filled with travel, living in Germany and attending four different high schools. She earned her undergraduate degree in textiles and clothing from the University of Tennessee and later completed a Master of Science in vocational education from the University of Kentucky. She now runs Bluegrass Quilt Appraisal, LLC in Lexington, KY, and shares her home with two tuxedo cats.

Both Vickie and Allison are accomplished quilters, educators, and passionate advocates for preserving quilt history.

(2:15) How did Vickie and Allison first learn to sew? Their stories may surprise you!
(5:52) What led them to become quilt appraisers? Allison shares her journey first.
(8:51) Thinking about becoming a quilt appraiser? Here’s what it takes.
(10:59) Why should you always look for a certified appraiser?
(12:00) The essential skills of an appraiser—hint: dedication is key!
(14:26) How did Vickie and Allison meet? It all started at the Midwest Fabric Study Group.
(14:50) What do they look for when appraising a quilt? A deep dive into the appraisal process.
(18:41)Appraisal vs. consultation—what’s the difference? Vickie explains.
(19:09) How do Vickie and Allison approach appraisals differently?
(22:56) The art and science of fabric dating—what clues do appraisers look for?
(24:41) What excites them most about quilt appraisal?
(27:14) The biggest challenges they face in their work—some may surprise you!
(29:42) Fun stories from the field: their most memorable appraisals.
(33:36) What are the most expensive quilts they’ve ever seen? Value isn’t just about money!
(38:00) A quilt with pieces dating back to the War of 1812—hear the incredible story.
(42:02) Found an old quilt? STOP storing it in a cedar chest! Here’s how to properly preserve it.
(47:20) How have quilters used their craft for secret communication? Learn about quilt histories and resources like The Quilt Index (Michigan State University) and the International Quilt Museum (Nebraska).
(52:33) What’s next for Vickie and Allison? Their quilting dreams and future projects.
(54:22) Who’s the most famous quilter today? Allison’s pick: Bisa Butler (Check out Sew & So Podcast Episode #1!).

Vickie Coleman: [email protected]
Allison Rainboth: [email protected]

Subscribe & Listen: Don’t miss future episodes! Follow Sew & So Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

Our guest today is Michelle Renee Hiatt, Executive Show Director at the American Quilter’s Society.

Michelle story is a remarkable blend of professional achievements and creative passion. Raised in South Jersey by her single mom and grandmother, Michelle is one of five siblings. After earning her bachelor’s degree in accounting and marketing, followed by a master’s in technology from Rutgers, she became a Six Sigma Master Black Belt and built a stellar 30-year career managing operations and process improvement for major organizations like Trump Casinos, Reed Elsevier, Dow Jones, and Moody’s, as well as consulting for technology firms and NYU.

Quilting entered her life as a side passion, but her talent for designing and teaching quilting quickly gained traction. She created her own pattern line and taught at shows, retreats, and guilds across the U.S. In 2023, Michelle embraced a new chapter as Executive Show Director at AQS, where she works to inspire quilters of all generations.

Key Moments in the Episode:

(2:20) How Michelle's grandmother inspired her love of sewing.

(3:46) The first thing Michelle ever made.

(4:23) Growing up with the unique influence of her mom and grandmother.

(5:57) Highlights from Michelle’s corporate career, including leading a critical COVID project at NYU.

(12:46) Balancing a full-time career, frequent relocations, and building her quilting legacy.

(19:24) Becoming Executive Show Director at AQS—Michelle shares the journey.

(22:09) The scale and impact of her role at AQS.

(24:25) Michelle’s initiatives to engage the next generation of quilters.

(27:04) Surprises during her first months at AQS: “As fabulous as I expected it to be!”

(28:33) Exciting changes and innovations under Michelle’s leadership.

(32:17) Involvement with Sew on the Go and Studio 180, and what they represent.

(35:25) Twice a year, Michelle hosts a Mystery Quilt series—an event you don’t want to miss!

(38:03) Learn more about Michelle’s mystery quilts at sewonthego.net.

(38:33) What’s next for Michelle, and her ultimate dream.

(39:22) Michelle’s parting message: “I’m a quilter first and foremost, just like the community I serve.”

(40:28) To connect with Michelle, visit AmericanQuilter.com or sewonthego.net.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

Our guest today is Lexie Millikan, Executive Director of the Quilts of Valor Foundation. Lexie is an artist, educator, and curator. She received her BFA, with a focus in fiber, installation, and social practice, at the Kansas City Art Institute in Kansas City, MO. Along with her work with the Quilts of Valor Foundation, she also has an active studio practice in which she teaches classes, exhibits her own artwork, and continues to learn more about art and craft.

Lexie has worked extensively with the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and through this has met makers throughout the world.

A non-profit sheworked for, The Yeiser Art Center won the Governor’s Award in the Arts, , for community programming and she was twice nominated for Young Leader of Western Kentucky. 

Lexie makes her home in Marion Kentucky and when not working she enjoys riding motorcycles with her husband and hiking with their dogs.

(2:00) How did Lexie learn to sew and who was her influence? Well, first of all…she didn’t learn this craft until she was in college.

(2:37) Lexie shares her quilt making approach and talks about improvisational piecing. Learn also about her fabric choices.

(3:35) What’s her favorite quilt and how did she create it? Well…think doilies! 

(4:25) Lexie has a degree from the Kansas City Art Institute. Walk with her through her education and how her learnings influence her work today.

(6:42) Lexie is a teacher. Hear about the courses she teaches, why she’s chosen these focuses and how you can find out more about joining her.

(8:17) Lexie has worked extensively with the UNESCO Creative Cities Network. Learn about this program and her work with them throughout the world.

(10:03) Through her work with UNESCO, Lexie has met makers throughout the world. Hear about some of these adventures in Mexico, South Korea and Spain.

(13:30) Quilts of Valor was founded in 2003. Lexie tells us the story of its genesis…it all started with an actual dream.

(14:38) How did Lexie become the Executive Director of Quilts of Valor…she shares this story. Then, she explains more about the organization and her leadership role.

(16:23) Why is the work of Quilts of Valor so important to the individuals that have been “comforted”? Lexie walks us through their mission and fulfillment.

(17:15) Want to learn how the Quilts of Valor program works? Learn more here.

(18:32) Hear a firsthand accounting of a few of the memorable moments when veterans receive their quilt.

(19:56) Because Lexie’s sister is in the military her work is very personal. Lexie shares their story, talks of her sister’s service and talks about the sacrifices that military families make on a daily basis.

(22:32) She helps us understand how to support military families. It begins with kind words of encouragement

(23:31) What’s next for Lexie?

(24:55) And…what’s her dream? Think a vibrant studio practice.

(25:34) What question didn’t I ask? Lexie shares the story of how her parents were such a strong influence early on.

(28:00) How can you reach Lexie? www.lexieabra.com and [email protected]. 

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

Our guest today is Terry Grahl the Founder and CEO of Enchanted Makeovers, a national non-profit charitable organization based in Taylor, Michigan. She started Enchanted Makeovers after a life-changing visit to a shelter for women 

Terry grew up in Michigan ran a successful interior decorating business called Terry's Enchanted Cottage.

Terry has contributed to more than 12 books, has appeared on PBS, the Today Show, Woman's World magazine, First for Women magazine, and various other television news outlets and national magazines to raise awareness and share the mission. 

She is currently working on her next children's book about the Capes for Kids program. To be released in March 2025. 

(2:00) Terry who was introduced to us by Deanna Springer who is a huge supported of Terry and her work, tells about her mother’s influence on her work

(3:05) Why does Terry believe sewing is important?

(3:20) Terry tells us about her business Terry’s Enchanted Cottage.

(4:42) How did Terry come to found Enchanted Makeovers? She shares the heartwarming sorry of how fate led her to her remarkable work.

(10:00) Why did Terry choose the word Enchanted. It’s about discovery and hope. 

(10:33) Learn about the mission of Enchanted Makeovers and how they work with volunteers and the recipients of their services.

(12:33) Terry shares the remarkable story of Donna who was a recipient of Enchanted Makeovers.

(14:05) Enchanted Makeovers The Travelling Pillowcase Project and Capes for Kids involve the work and love of sewists. Learn about this work. And why she says, “What are tears if there is no action”!

(16:18) The Sacred Sewing Room –a project inspired by Terry’s mother – helps thousands through the country. Learn how this began and how it works.

(18:48) What does she mean by “Love is in the Details”?

(19:20) Enchanted Makeovers has had strong coverage in the media and even a shout out from Sheryl Crow. Hear the story…

(21:25) Enchanted Makeovers is now found nationwide…learn about their reach.

(24:06) What’s next for Terry and what’s her dream? Well, for one hew new book The Little Bluebird who Forgot How to Fly available in March 2025 on Amazon.

( 27:00)How do you reach out to terry? www.Enchantedmakeovers.org

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

Over the years, we've been honored to host iconic figures like Kaffe Fassett and Brandon Mably, who revealed how color can be a life-changing force, and Tula Pink, who welcomed us into her imaginative, boundary-pushing world. We heard from Alex Anderson, who reminded us of the importance of claiming space for our creativity, and Amanda Murphy, who inspired us to stretch the boundaries of traditional quilting.

This journey has introduced us to countless other inspiring voices: astronaut Dr. Karen Nyberg, who shared her love for quilting in space; Michael Thorpe, whose bold textile art challenges conventions; and the incomparable Gee’s Bend Quilters, represented by Mary Margaret Pettway, whose work connects us to a rich heritage of storytelling through fabric.

We've also learned from quilting luminary Ricky Tims, who shared his unique blend of music and quilting, costume designer Justine Seymore and Julian Collins, who creates fashion with purpose. Mimi G brought her vibrant energy and DIY spirit, while Deanna Springer reminded us of the enduring legacy of Nancy Zieman and the Great Wisconsin Quilt Show. We’ve brought you behind the scenes at Quilt Week in Paducah, BERNINA university, C2E2, QuiltCon, The Sewing and Stitching Expo, Houston Festival, The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show and The National Quilt Museum. 

And our guest list goes on: Gail Yellen with her expert sewing techniques, sustainable designer Tristan Detweiler, creative advocate Kristina Wong, and reality star Craig Conover from Southern Charm who we accompanied to North Charleston High School as he donated BERNINA sewing machines to their maker space. We've heard from visionaries like Jean Wright from Sew Sisters, Amanda Richie from Unshattered and fabric artist Cookie Washington, each of whom has left an unforgettable mark on our community.

As we reflect on these first 100 episodes, we are profoundly grateful to each guest who has shared their time, talent, and insights, and to each of you who have been with us on this journey. 

So now, let’s celebrate by taking you back to February 18, 2021, to where it all began with a replay of our very first episode featuring the incredible Bisa Butler. Here is Sew & So episode #1…

This podcast explores Bisa Butler’s fascinating journey, which began with her getting a Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting at Howard University. Realizing painting was not her passion, she went on to Montclair University to pursue a Master in Teaching. It was there, while making a quilt in her first-ever fibers class, that she had an artistic epiphany; she realized she could do what she loved, express her creativity in a way that moved her deeply, and tell the countless untold stories of African Americans. 

Each pivotal step in her journey is described in fascinating detail. She talks about learning to sew from her grandmother; a black woman, and wife of an Emissary, who found herself transported to Morocco. She and her husband had to attend many formal events, and since they couldn’t afford to buy the refined clothing, one was required to wear, her grandmother would pore through fashion magazines and create replicas of designer outfits. The scraps of fibers and fabrics from those outfits can be seen in Bisa’s portraits of her grandmother and grandfather. She explains how using little bits of their lives helped inform her work.

Butler describes her work as “excavating the soul, where her own spirit has a conversation with someone who has long passed. The process begins with a portrait. By gazing into the eyes of her subject and really looking at the lines, creases, scars and the expression in their eyes, she can ‘hear’ their unspoken story. She spoke of the improvisational nature of private quilts and their ability to tell the personal experiences of her people (21:20 – 24:21).

As she details her journey through galleries and museums, Butler recounts the bias that was shown towards artists who use cloth in their art. But through all the rejections and dismissals, she kept at it, slow and steady, until her work exhibited at a New York gallery. After that, her work began getting accepted at more galleries and museums.

Her fiber and fabric creation, The Storm, the Whirlwind, and the Earthquake features a life‐sized representation of abolitionist and social reformer Fredrick Douglass whose magnetic gaze pulled her in. This piece is a powerful example of how Butler’s painterly textiles convey a sense of shared humanity were on exhibit at the Toledo Museum of Art.

Her textile creations were exhibited in the European Painting Gallery Space at the Art Institute of Chicago in 2021. This is the first time a living artist has been showcased in this space. Her work iwasalso featured in Dress Up, Speak Up: Regalia and Resistance at the 21C Museum Hotel in Cincinnati, Ohio.

It was a joy to learn about the strides fiber, fabric and quilting artists have made, and we owe much of it to Bisa Butler. Her personal story of using textiles and the medium of quilting to celebrate her heritage and her community and her powerful art is a great inspiration to us all. This is one story you don’t want to miss, so make sure you catch the podcast.

You can learn more about Bisa Butler and view some of her amazing works of art at Bisabutler.com

If you know someone you think has an outstanding story – a story that should be shared on this podcast, please drop me a note to meg@sew&sewpodcast.com  or complete the form on this website.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

Welcome to Sew & So, brought to you by BERNINA, made to create! I’m Meg Goodman, and today, you’re in for an exclusive treat. Join me on a behind-the-scenes tour of a truly extraordinary milestone—the 50th anniversary of the Houston Quilt Festival. 

This isn’t just any quilt show; it’s an international celebration of artistry, creativity, and history. We’ll be diving deep with attendees, educators, personalities, and prize-winning quilters, capturing those moments that make this event so iconic. And, of course, we’ll be peeking behind the curtains… because that’s what we love to do on Sew & So, bringing you right into the heart of the action at one of the world’s most renowned quilt festivals.

This legendary event began in 1974, a time when the world was changing fast. Karey Bresenhan, a visionary, opened her quilt shop, Great Expectations, in Houston, Texas, sparking what would become an incredible journey. Just to give you a sense of that time: President Nixon resigned over Watergate, ABBA’s Waterloo was topping charts, and movies like The Godfather Part II and Blazing Saddles were captivating audiences. Nike was filing its first patent, People magazine launched, and fashion was all about flared pants and leisure suits. Quite a backdrop, right? 

The Festival’s Remarkable History (1:34)
Bob Ruggiero, Vice President of Communications for Quilts, Inc. (www.quiltsinc.com), shares the fascinating story of how the festival began in 1974 and grew into an international sensation. From behind-the-scenes secrets to exciting plans for the future, Bob’s insights set the stage for our journey.

International Flavors and Creative Innovation (6:31)
Meet vibrant vendors like Isabelle Bische from France and Karen Barry of Quilt Passions in Kailua Kona, HI.

From Quilts to Mysteries (8:56)
Bestselling author Arlene Sachitano (www.Arlenesachitano.com), known for her Harriet Truman/Loose Threads mystery series, explains how Houston inspires her work and why this festival is close to her heart.

Stories from Attendees (11:37)
Quilters Kim and Jean from Quero, TX, and Becky and Anne from Georgetown, TX, reflect on their favorite moments, while April from Texas and Scott from California share their first impressions of the festival.

A Global Masterpiece (13:05)
Discover this year’s Best of Show quilt, a breathtaking creation from China. Hear from the artist, Chen Jing, in a touching conversation made possible through a friend and Google Translate. Let’s let Bob Ruggiero introduce it.

Artistry Meets Innovation (17:29)
Past Sew & So guest Kestral Michaud (www.kestralmichaud.com) returns as the winner of the Master Award for Contemporary Artistry. Her journey continues to inspire!

Empowering Communities (18:36 & 22:35)
Spotlight on nonprofits: Meet newcomers like Danielle Harper from the Barbara Bush Foundation (www.bushhoustonliteracy.org) and Jessica Rudolph from My Very Own Blanket (www.myveryownblanket.org), as well as returning groups like MD Anderson (www.mdanderson.org/ovarian-quilt-project), Sew Powerful (www.sewpowerful.org), and Creativity Shell (www.creativityshell.org). Learn about their incredible missions and how you can help. 

Deep in the heart (24:58)

In the charming town of LaGrange, TX stands the Texas Quilt Museum. www.texasquilymuseim.org Meet Executive Director Deborah Blanchette Bradley who shares its story and its effort to preserve the history and future of quilting.

Why they were there (26:47)

Meet attendees April from Texas and Scott from California and they talk about their event experience.

Meet Jeanne Delpit of BERNINA (27:42)
Making her Sew & So debut, Jeanne (https://weallsew.com/author/jeannecd/) offers a peek behind the scenes of the BERNINA exhibit and her role as National Events Manager.

Rising Stars and Seasoned Pros (30:50 & 34:31)
Get to know Nick Jarrett, a newcomer mentored by Ricky Tims, and Uzoma Samuel, who updates us on his artistic achievements since QuiltCon.

Serging Queen and Quilting Royalty (34:58)
BERNINA’s Pam Mahshie (@pammahshie) and Toni Smith, a.k.a. Quiltoni (www.quiltoni.com), share their latest projects and Houston experiences.

The Magic of Haute Couture (37:52 & 41:19)
Fashion visionary Joe Vecchiarelli (@joevecchiarelli) who has many collaborations with Disney, Dancing with the Stars, and Dolly Parton, tells us what he’s been up to lately.

(40:22) And then there’s the wonderful “Evening of Style with Nick Verreos” that Joe was responsible for making happen…

An Evening of Style (41:19)

And then…there’s Nick himself! www.nickverreos.com

(46:32)Join us now in the front row for this amazing display of Haute Couture as Nick Verreos provide commentary on his wonderful creations. Here’s Jill Benge to lead off the evening! 

And the Winners Are… (48:41)

Meet the three winners of the BERNINA machines raffled off at the fashion show Kim GImblet, Wendy Shapiro, and Elizabeth Martin 

Reflections (49:49)

And what did Beth from Pittsburg, Kathy from Prescott, AZ and Lynn from Colleyville TX think of the show?!

A Grand Finale (50:37)
Bob Ruggiero wraps up the festival with his reflections on this momentous event.

And it’s this very spirit—the connections, the creativity, the shared passion—that makes the Houston Quilt Festival so extraordinary. We at Sew & So were honored to be right there on the floor, immersed in it all. Our deepest thanks to everyone who shared their time, their stories, and their enthusiasm with us, painting a vivid picture of what makes this festival a cherished experience year after year

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. That’s S E W A N D S O Podcast.com.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

Introduction: Lina Owen, a passionate quilter and entrepreneur, shares her journey from Colombia to the United States, her quilting inspirations, and how she’s empowering the Hispanic community through her love of quilting.

Early Beginnings (1:42): Despite only starting four years ago, Lina has made incredible strides. Learn how she transitioned from other creative mediums to quilting, inspired by her entrepreneurial parents. With top-quality tools and a supportive family, Lina’s journey has been extraordinary.

Learning from the Best (7:21): Lina credits her quilting teachers from YouTube, including Missouri Star Quilt Company (www.missouriquiltco.com) and Love Jenny (www.lovejennyblog.com), for shaping her skills. She candidly shares why quilting felt daunting at first but continues to captivate her.

Influential Figures (8:40): Lina discusses the impact of Melanie Hamm (www.melaniekhamm.com) and Kimberly Jolly from Fat Quarter Shop (www.fatquartershop.com) on her quilting journey.

Upcoming Bilingual Quilting Book (11:17): Lina is co-authoring a bilingual quilting book with Laura Raquel Duran (www.marygoroundquilts.com), set for release in Fall 2025. Her mission is to make quilting accessible and culturally resonant for the Hispanic community.

Latina Quilting Leaders (12:57): Lina highlights prominent Latina quilters like Veruschka Zarate (www.prideandjoyquilting.com), Vanessa from Crafty Gemini (www.craftygemini.com), and Carolina Oneto (www.carolinaoneto.com), who are joining her initiative to celebrate and grow the community.

Moving to the US (13:47): Lina opens up about moving to the US due to unrest in Colombia, her journey from Florida to Wisconsin, and the resilience her family demonstrated. Quilting became a vital source of community and belonging.

BlueBelle Designs (19:07): Discover the story behind BlueBelle Designs, named in honor of her experiences and triumphs, including being a breast cancer survivor.

Health Journey (21:05): Lina shares updates about her ongoing health journey, battling both MS and cancer, and how she maintains her resilience.

Podcasting Adventures (22:09): Lina talks about relaunching her podcast, Las Quilteras, in September 2024, co-hosted by Laura Duran. She also teases upcoming episodes and guests.

Spanish Language Quilting Retreat (27:00): Lina recounts the success of hosting the first-ever Spanish language quilting retreat with Missouri Star, detailing how it felt to see her dream come to life and the retreat’s highlights.

Future Plans (30:13): Exciting news: Lina is planning more retreats and previewing her 2025 Latino Sew Along.

Latino Quilting Traditions (32:34): Lina explains how Latino quilts stand out with vibrant colors and the exuberant expression of “yelling” during the creative process.

Community Needs (34:36): Lina emphasizes the importance of access for the Latino quilting community, advocating for more resources and recognition from companies.

What’s Next (36:20): Lina embraces going with the flow as she looks forward to more creative endeavors.

Wrap-Up (38:00): We covered it all this time, but Lina is always full of surprises!

Contact Information (38:27): Connect with Lina on Instagram at @QuiltingwithLatinas and @blue_belledesigns. Stay tuned for her 2025 book, Quilting With Latinas.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

Lynn Schmitt’s journey began in Chicago, where she cultivated her love for art. After attending Bradley University as a Fine Arts major, she went on to graduate from the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts and Roosevelt University with a BFA in Interior Design. For 30 years, Lynn thrived as a commercial interior designer, contributing to high-profile projects like O’Hare Airport’s Delta Concourse (now Terminal 3), international endeavors in Kuwait and Egypt, and numerous commercial spaces across Chicago.

In 2005, while working at A Touch of Amish, a quilt shop in Barrington, IL, Lynn shifted gears. Her first quilt pattern was published in Fons & Porter’s magazine in 2006, and in 2010, she launched her own studio, A Different Box of Crayons. Lynn quickly became known for her fresh approach to quilting, blending unexpected fabrics and techniques to push the boundaries of traditional design. Her work has appeared in multiple quilt publications, and she’s contributed to several quilt books, including projects for Needl’love.

When Lynn isn’t designing, she enjoys an active lifestyle, embracing everything from knitting and kayaking to cross-country skiing with her husband, Gerry Gallagher. She’s also eager to dive back into her early love of painting through upcoming mixed media art classes. Today, she calls Glen Ellyn, IL home, where her creative spirit continues to inspire those around her.

Episode Highlights:

• (2:27) Early Beginnings: Growing up in Chicago, Lynn discovered her love of sewing early on. She reflects on how taking risks from a young age laid the foundation for her future success.
• (4:24) Interior Design to Quilting: Lynn shares stories from her career as an interior designer, including favorite projects in the corporate world and abroad. Listen as she describes a cheeky encounter where a newspaper purposely omitted her name from a major article!
• (11:14) The Name Behind the Studio: Ever wondered about the inspiration behind A Different Box of Crayons? Lynn reveals how her mother used a box of crayons to calm her childhood exuberance.
• (12:46) From Design to Retail: Hear why Lynn made the leap from commercial interior design to owning her own quilt shop. Plus, get the inside scoop on her 1890 farmhouse. Oh, if those walls could talk!
• (19:34) Creating an Atmosphere: Visiting A Different Box of Crayons is like stepping into Lynn’s home—warm, inviting, and full of character. She shares her secret to creating this cozy atmosphere and explains why she humorously calls herself “the world’s worst retailer!”
• (22:38) Planning a Visit? If you find yourself near Glen Ellyn, IL, don’t miss the chance to visit Lynn at 439 Pennsylvania Ave.
• (22:50) Inside the Studio: Step into Lynn’s world of “eclectic textiles,” where fabrics are chosen to “dance” together in perfect harmony.
• (27:45) No Boundaries: Lynn discusses her latest fabric combinations and how her fearless approach to mixing materials can work for any quilter. Listen to her fascinating take on Victorian-era “crazy quilts” and how they inspire her modern designs.
• (31:09) Living Like a Leaf in the Wind: Lynn describes her life philosophy—being flexible, open to new ideas, and willing to let life take her where it will.
• (33:22) The Best Part of Her Day: What does Lynn cherish most about her day-to-day life? There’s no one answer!
• (34:24) What’s Next? From dreaming big to pondering her next creative endeavor, Lynn is always thinking ahead.
• (37:02) The One Question: What question did Lynn wish we had asked? It’s all about her greatest joy—her family, which remains at the core of who she is.

Contact Information:
You can reach Lynn Schmitt through her website at www.adifferentboxofcrayons.com or email her directly at [email protected]. Be sure to let her know you heard her story on Sew & So!

Know someone with an inspiring story? Reach out to us at meg@sew&sewpodcast.com or submit your nomination on our website.

Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and rate this podcast on your favorite platform. Visit sewandsopodcast.com for more episodes and information.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests. 

In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome back Deanna Springer. Deanna was a close collaborator with the legendary Nancy Zieman, co-founding Nancy Zieman Productions in 2007. Together, they launched a blog, social media channels, and over 40 sewing and quilting products, as well as produced 12 seasons of Sewing with Nancy.

Today, Deanna carries Nancy's remarkable legacy forward, sharing their love of sewing with the world through the Great Wisconsin Quilt Show and other initiatives. In our conversation, Deanna reflects on her journey with Nancy, the impact of the Quilt Show, and the vibrant quilting community she’s passionate about supporting. We’ll also explore the ways Deanna continues to inspire and uplift others through her work and community projects like Quilt to Give.

(2:02) For those who haven’t met yet…Deanna tells us about her history in the sewing industry and how she met Nancy Zieman. It’s certainly been an amazing life!

(3:33) The Sewing with Nancy Show started in Nancy’s home in 1984…Deanna tells us how it all started.

(4:15) So, how did this 25-year long TV show evolve to The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show! Well, 4H had a big part of it all! And Nancy was certainly a woman ahead of her time!

(7:35) Deanna talks about how the Nancy Zieman Team is carrying on Nancy’s legacy.

(9:42) Deanna tells us about The quilt to Give Program spearheaded by Nancy and how you can get involved.

(11:05) After 20 years, how has the show evolved? Deanna who has been present tear walks us through the transformation. Oh, and Nancy really did teach Bucky Badger to sew!

(14:42) Deanna reflects on pieces of advice that Nancy Zieman shared with her and how this advice has helped her throughout life.

(16:12) How has Deanna seen the sewing and quilting community evolve? It’s the community…it’s people helping people.

(17:08) What are the challenges and rewards Deanna has experienced in carrying on Nancy’s legacy?

(18:10) Deanna’s two sisters now work with her teaching sewing through video. Learn about The Stitch It! Sisters. And hear about the great things that came out of the pandemic.

(21:34) Does Deanna see a difference between long time sewists and those new to the industry? She walks through the differences she sees in the different generations.

(23:36) What are some of Deanna’s most memorable moments of the past 20 years at The Great Wisconsin Quilt Show?

(25:50) In all she does, what is Deanna most personally proud of? She points out the vibe created by all who attend.

(27:04) For those who didn’t have the honor of knowing Nancy Zieman, what’s one thing they should know about her? Deanna’s response…grace.

(27:49) What’s coming up for the next Great Wisconsin Quilt Show. You have to keep things unique and interesting…but you have to keep it the same!  Oh and…do you want to volunteer? Find out how!

(28:53) Is there a question I missed?

It’s profoundly moving to hear Deanna Springer reflect on the legacy of Nancy Zieman, whose spirit truly embodies the heart of the Great Wisconsin Quilt Show. Nancy lived with a genuine humility that touched everyone she met, teaching and inspiring with a grace that resonates through each stitch and seam showcased here. It's a profound honor for us to bring you aa conversation that celebrates her life’s work, touching the hearts of all who gather. Thank you for joining us in this special tribute to Nancy’s enduring legacy. Our deepest thanks to Deanna for taking the time to talk with us. 

And there you have it – another story about a very special someone who dedicated their life’s work to Quilters around the world. Someone for whom quilting is so much more than a hobby…it’s a way of life…a connection to something bigger. 

If you know someone you think has an outstanding story – a story that should be shared on this podcast, please drop me a note to meg@sew&sewpodcast.com  or complete the form on our website.

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more

Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.