Here is another member spotlight post. Meet Samantha Linehan!
Q: When did you start quilting? A: I started to teach myself some quilting about ten years ago. I have been more serious in my quilting in the last four years.
Q: What would you tell a newbie that you wish you had known when you started? A: Take classes! You can learn so much from just taking a single class, and the more the better!
Q: Have you always considered yourself a "modern" quilter? A: I am just starting to realize that the quilts I am drawn to are called "modern". I didn't realize that before. I just knew I didn't like the old style really floral patterns.
Q: What’s your favorite sewing/quilting tip? A: I pride myself on having 1/4 inch seams. Everything fits together like magic if your seams are accurate.
Q: Do you have a favorite quilt block, pattern or designer? A: There are so many that I like. I really like all the different ways you can make a log cabin quilt and the different designs that come out depending upon color placement and block placement.
Q: Do you have a favorite notion or tool you can't quilt without? A: Not yet. I hope to explore more. I do like Mary Ellen's Best Press.
Q: Do you quilt your own quilts? A: Yes, for the most part. I want to learn free motion quilting so I can stop stitching in the ditch!
Q: What’s your favorite part of the quilting process? A: I love seeing the small pieces of fabric come together in blocks and then a whole quilt top. I love it when the top looks as good or better than I imagined. And I love sewing the binding on and seeing the whole finished project. I really feel like I accomplished something!
Q: What part of the quilting process do you dislike or struggle with? A: I have the most trouble with the actual quilting. I don't know how to free motion quilt yet, but I am planning on taking some of Alyssa's tutorials to try to learn!
Q: Do you design your own quilts? A: I tweak patterns that I like mostly.
Q: What inspires you to create? A: I love making things for others who appreciate it. Recently I've made a lot of baby quilts or other sewing projects as baby gifts. But I find inspiration everywhere, and I always have a million ideas on my list of things I'd like to make someday.
Q: Do you do any other crafts? Which ones? A: I have dabbled in beading and scrap-booking.
Q: How many quilts have you made? A: At least 6 completed quilts, countless quilt tops waiting to be finished, and plenty of other quilted projects like bags, place-mats, and table runners.
Q: What are you working on now? A: I just finished a memory quilt for my son's preschool teacher. I am making a set of place-mats currently.
Q: What do you wish you knew how to do (quilt related) and hope to learn? A: Right now, my main focus is on free motion quilting. I would love to learn the techniques and be able to quilt bigger quilts on my small machine.
Q: Do you have quilt related business that you want to share with us? A: I really like Sew from the Heart in Scottsdale. I have taken many classes there over the years and have learned a lot. They are always so nice and helpful. And the projects I've made are really great!