When I was 10, my Grandmother taught me how to sew, starting with simple garments. I have always been drawn to the simple, less is more, modern style. I prefer patterns that are forgiving and not tedious. So I guess style has not really changed but evolved over time. I enjoy making bags, zippered pouched and other 3D items. I also enjoy string piecing, improvisation, and using selvages.
Do you have a favorite quilter or a person who influences you? One of the quilters that has had an impact on my work is Ricky Tims. His art and style is applied not only to fabric but to photography, music and life philosophy. I am also blessed to be a personal friend of Ricky.
On my quilting “bucket list” are Tula Pink’s City Sampler and the Jelly Roll Rug. It’s hard to choose a favorite project, but it's probably my Chubby Chicks quilt, appliqué was done entirely with the BERNINA CutWork tool, and embroidery by machine using the CutWork software
I teach BERNINA Serger Mastery, QQ Serger Club, purses, totes, and garment classes. My favorite part of working and teaching at QQ is the customers! I get a lot of satisfaction out of helping people be successful with their machine and projects.
I am a member of the Riverwalk Quilters Guild, the Fabric Fondlers Bee, social member of the Naperville VFW, and legacy member of the Naperville Jaycees. Other than sewing, I also enjoy digital photography, travel, paper crafts, and hand stitching.
I grew up in northwest of Seattle in the Pacific Northwest, and moved to the Chicago area in the late 1980s. I have a BA from Washington State University and graduate studies at DePaul University. I am married and have two teenage daughters. I love ALL animals, but most of all dogs. We currently have two Boston Terriers and an English Bulldog. Fun Fact: I used to work for BERNINA of America as a Product Specialist and then a Technical Educator.