I’ve just spent the last three days at International Quilt Market in Portland Oregon. It’s exhausting! So much to see, so many interesting people. Wow! I’m tired but totally inspired. I’ve got so many ideas I don’t know which one to try first. I met an amazing bag designer, Nicole Mallalieu, she comes from my home town. Her work is brilliant.

She writes her patterns to teach and empower people. This is a pretty unique approach to pattern writing which I really like. Makes me feel like I’ve been slacking off. Because I’ve become a bit of a dictator with my pattern writing – you will do this, this and this…my way!

I also met Tula Pink and was totally inspired by her. Like me she is a first generation quilter / sewist. So she’s not restricted by tradition. I like to learn from the traditional works and then put my own spin on them. I guess that is why I’m a bit of a modern quilter. Mind you I do love a good Log Cabin quilt. And I know I’m not alone in that! I picked up Tula’s latest book 100 Modern Quilt Blocks and it’s got my mind racing. Check it out when you get the chance.

Finally I spent a bit of time with a great gal Jodie Carleton of Ric rac. She creates sewing patterns for toys and soft crafts. What a character! I love her. And her work is the cutest I’ve seen. If you want to make something for a little one, just check out her patterns.

I cannot wait to check out a class with Nicole and play in a fabric store with Jodie. All that happens when I go to Australia later this year. I’ll let you know just how much fun it all is.

Cheers Sewing Sue