Discussions on quilting, fabric, inspiration, creativity and more. Hosted by mother and daughter Moda fabric designers Sherri McConnell and Chelsi Stratton, A Quilting Life Podcast with Sherri & Chelsi is a series of light-hearted and informative conversations that provide the listener with quilting industry news, quilting tips, and creative inspiration.
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Chelsi Stratton Podcasts

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Struggles Quilters Face and Keeping a Positive Mindset
49:22
49:22
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49:22In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss some of the struggles they faced when they began quilting and designing fabric. They share how they dealt with and overcame these struggles and also talk about the importance of keeping a positive mindset while quilting. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support Show Notes Blog Post: https://www.aquilting…
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The Right Amount of Projects, Sample Sewing, and Displaying a Quilt on Your Bed
37:32
37:32
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37:32In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi answer some new listener questions. They discuss how many projects they are comfortable working on at a time, how Sherri got involved in sample sewing, how to display a quilt on a bed, how to arrange fabrics in a scrap quilt, and more! https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support Show Notes Blog Post:https://www.aqu…
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Modavation Recap, Trimming Quilt Blocks Down, and Placing Low Volume Fabrics in Quilts
38:21
38:21
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38:21In this episode, Sherri recaps here recent trip to Dallas Texas for the 2nd annual Modavation retreat. She shares some of the great insights and news she learned while there. Sherri and Chelsi then answer a couple follow-up questions from episode 135. They discuss how to tell if you have enough fabric to trim a block down. They also go a little mor…
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St. George Retreat Wrap-Up, New Quilt Retreat Tips, and Simple Quilted Gift Ideas
40:07
40:07
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40:07In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi recap their recent quilt retreat they hosted alongside Camille Roskelley in St. George, Utah. They share all the fun activities that were included with this retreat and give some new tips for a quilter looking to attend a retreat in the future. They then share some of the terrific gifts they received from retreat …
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In this episode, Sherri welcomes fellow Moda fabric designer and quilter Vanessa Christenson to the show! Vanessa shares how she first started quilting and blogging and how that led her to eventually connect with Moda. Vanessa also has a background in psychology and is a certified nutritionist and life coach. Vanessa is known for her ombre fabrics …
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Quilt Block Construction from Idea to Finished Block and Writing Quality Quilt Patterns
48:07
48:07
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48:07In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss their process of constructing quilt blocks from start to finish. They share how they take their ideas from paper or computer into their sewing space to start constructing their blocks. They also discuss what makes a great quilt pattern and how important it is to have someone proofread patterns before they …
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2025 Quilter's Tool Buyer Guide and Traditional Piecing vs Specialty Rulers
45:27
45:27
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45:27In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share their 2025 Quilter's Tool buyer guide list. They discuss tools and notions they think benefit quilters of all skill levels. Sherri also shares an exciting news about a quilting vacation she will be taking part of next Summer in England! We have linked all the tools and products discussed in the episode below…
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Saving Scraps and Planning out Scrap Quilts
43:15
43:15
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43:15In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share some of their best tips for saving and organizing scraps. They also dive into the process they use for designing and piecing their scrappy quilts. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support Show Notes Blog Post: https://www.aquiltinglife.com/?p=31554 Cozy Earth 40% off with our link (or code AQUILTINGLIFE): …
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Deep Dive into Designing a New Fabric Collection and Making Crisp Quilt Blocks
51:21
51:21
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51:21In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi answer a couple listener questions in depth. Sherri and Chelsi take a deep dive into the process they use to design a brand new fabric collection. They also discuss how they keep their blocks nice and crisp and she what types of sprays and tools they use to achieve nice flat quilt blocks. https://www.buzzsprout.co…
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Quilt Making Process | Starting a New Project & Sewing Efficiently and Accurately
43:37
43:37
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43:37In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss their quilting processes. They share how they prepare to begin a new original project and what they do differently when they prepare to make a pattern written by someone else. They also share tips and give advice on how to sew more efficiently and accurately. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzspr…
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In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss their new fabric collection, Delightfully Yours. They share their favorite floral and basic prints in the collection and discuss the inspiration behind this fabric line. This fabric collection is a sister collection to Simply Delightful and will also feature a 108" backing print. Delightfully Yours is expe…
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In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share what is on their quilting bucket lists. They also tease their upcoming fabric collection they will be sharing on Friday February 28th, 2025. Leave your guess in the comments for what fabric line is the sister collection to this upcoming fabric collection. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.co…
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An In Depth Look at Thread and Favorite Valentine's Day Quilts & Decor
50:24
50:24
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50:24In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss all things thread. They share some information about thread count in the Moda 108" wide backings that they were previously unaware of. They then discuss the threads they use for piecing, quilting, and binding and share why they use the threads they use in different situations. They also share some of their…
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2025 Goals, AI in Quilting and Advancements in Quilting over the last 25 years
42:11
42:11
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42:11In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share their quilting goals for 2025. They then discuss the advancements made in quilting over the last 25 years and predict what quilting might look like 25 years from today, in 2050. Inevitably, the topic of AI in quilting is also brought up. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support …
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1st Annual A Quilting Life Awards and Favorite Bella Solid Fabrics
51:37
51:37
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51:37In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share information on current and upcoming sew-alongs and projects. They then discuss their favorite Bella Solid fabrics and present their first-ever A Quilting Life Awards for 2024. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support Show Notes Blog Post: https://www.aquiltinglife.com/?p=31114 C…
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How Much Fabric Should I Buy, Masculine Fabric Lines & Paper Patterns vs PDF
40:25
40:25
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40:25In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi answer some new listener questions. Some topics discussed include the pros and cons of paper patterns vs PDF patterns, quilt retreats for beginners, how much fabric to buy, masculine fabric lines, and more! Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support Show Notes Blog Post:https://www.aqui…
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In this episode, Sherri welcomes fellow Moda fabric designer and quilter Janet Clare to the show! Janet joins us today from her home in England and shares her journey as a quilter and fabric designer. She shares some great advice that any quilter can benefit from following. She also shares the backstory of her infamous Artisan Apron. Thank you Jane…
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Sherri & Chelsi Quilt Retreat Info, 2024 Christmas Sewing and Recapping a Busy Year
45:32
45:32
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45:32In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share more information on their upcoming Quilt retreat in May 2025 with Camille Roskelley of Thimble Blossoms. They then discuss their current Holiday/Christmas sewing projects they are working on or plan to work on this season. They then give a recap of 2024 and look back at what they have accomplished this year.…
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Last Minute Quilting Gifts, Giving Thanks and Thanksgiving Dinner Menu Debate
1:03:00
1:03:00
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1:03:00In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi tease some exciting news coming in 2025. They then give some ideas for last-minute gifts for quilter friends and family. They also thank everyone who has continued supporting their quilting lives. Lastly, the crew plays a fun game where they debate which Thanksgiving foods deserve to make the final menu on the big…
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Another Terrific Quilt Market! | 2024 International Quilt Market Recap
52:11
52:11
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52:11In this episode, Sherri, Chelsi, and Billy discuss their recent trip to Houston, Texas for the 2024 International Quilt Market. Sherri and Chelsi share some of the highlights of this year's trip and Billy gives his thoughts on Market as a first-time attendee. Sherri also shares some fun things happening with Moda Fabrics in a new segment, Moda Minu…
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In this episode, Sherri welcomes the prolific quilter Nancy Lane to the show! Sherri met Nancy through her quilt guild in Orange County, CA. Nancy has since pieced several of Sherrri's quilts and has done a fabulous job on every quilt she has pieced. Nancy has a great backstory as to how she first began quilting. She was a professional seamstress a…
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Preparing for Quilt Market and Finding a Long-Arm Quilter
46:38
46:38
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46:38In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss their preparations before attending the International Quilt Market each year. They also offer advice for anyone attending Quilt Market for the first time. Lastly, they share some insight and advice for people interested in starting a long-arm quilting business and how to find a new long-arm quilter. Help S…
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Selecting the Right Stitch Length, Hanging Quilts on Walls, and Cutting Mat Lifespans
53:00
53:00
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53:00In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi answer a fresh batch of listener questions. Some topics discussed include using the right stitch length for piecing, making napkins and placemats, hanging mini quilts, tips for chain piecing, cleaning and/or replacing cutting mats and rotary blades, quilt labels, and more! Help Support our Show Here: https://www.b…
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Garden of Quilts Recap, Family Favorites Sew-Along, and Quilting History Resources
41:17
41:17
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41:17In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi announce an upcoming sew-along they will be participating in with Chelsi's Brightly quilt from their new book, Family Favorites. Books are available now, and the sew-along will begin after Laguna Sunrise fabric has finished shipping. Fat Quarter Shop will be hosting this fun sew-along. Sherri then recaps her recen…
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Electric Quilt 8 Software and Designing Quilt Patterns
46:54
46:54
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46:54In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi do a deep dive into the software they both use to help them design their quilt patterns, Electric Quilt 8 (EQ8). They first share some new features that have recently been released and then discuss how this software has helped them throughout the years as they have continued to design new quilt patterns. They also…
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In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi welcome the prolific quilter and head of marketing for Moda Fabrics, Lissa Alexander, to the show! Lissa shares how she went from working at a local quilt shop to becoming the head of marketing at Moda Fabrics. She explains some of her responsibilities as the head of marketing and reveals how she still gets so muc…
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Back to School Means Back to Sewing and Quilting in Literature, Film, and Television
45:57
45:57
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45:57In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss what they have accomplished so far this Summer and what they plan on completing by the end of 2024. Chelsi shares how she anticipates her schedule will change as her kids return to school. The group then discusses how quilting is represented in literature, film, television, and other aspects of pop culture…
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Profitable Quilt Projects, A Potential Retreat and Finishing "All the Things"
54:44
54:44
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54:44In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi answer an excellent batch of listener questions. Some topics discussed include making profitable quilt projects, a potential Quilting Life retreat, being unable to put a quilt down, managing multiple projects simultaneously, EQ8 tips, how to search for videos, a future tutorial, and more! Help Support our Show Her…
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Raspberry Summer Fabric Collection and Inspirational Quilting Stories
36:28
36:28
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36:28In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss their new fabric collection, Raspberry Summer. They discuss the inspirations behind this fabric line and the story of how they could not agree on the name. This fabric collection is a sister collection to Strawberry Lemonade and also features a 60" wide dresden block cheater print. Raspberry Summer is expe…
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Quilt Preservation and Behind the Scenes at A Quilting Life
49:08
49:08
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49:08In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss caring for quilts and quilt preservation. They discuss washing quilts, properly storing quilts and the importance of limiting sun exposure. The crew then gives a look into what happens behind the scenes here at A Quilting Life. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support Show Not…
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ModaVation Quilt Retreat Recap and 2024 Mid-Year Review
49:07
49:07
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49:07In this episode, Sherri talks about her recent trip to Dallas, Texas where she attended the ModaVation quilt retreat hosted by Moda Fabrics. At this retreat, Sherri was privileged to teach a class and give a presentation to quilt shop owners from all across the country. She shares all the details and happenings of this wonderful retreat for shop ow…
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Overcoming the Dog Days of Summer with Fun and Productive Summer Sewing Ideas
35:33
35:33
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35:33In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share and discuss ideas for overcoming the dog days of Summer with some ideas for Summer sewing projects and other things that can be done in your sewing space to help you feel productive and ready to create. This podcast also marks the 4th anniversary of the A Quilting Life Podcast! Thank you to all the loyal lis…
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Billy's Wedding, Family Favorites Quilt Book, & Our Eventful Trip to Fat Quarter Shop
42:41
42:41
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42:41In this episode, Sherri, Chelsi, and Billy recap Billy's wedding and share some of their favorite memories from the ceremony and reception. Sherri and Chelsi then discuss their trip to Fat Quarter Shop in Austin, Texas. While there, they attended the photo shoot for their upcoming book, Family Favorites. This book will be available in September of …
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A Quilter's Identity, Managing Fabric & Batting Shrinkage and Quilting Superstitions
41:49
41:49
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41:49In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss what it means to be a quilter. They distinguish what it means to identify as a quilter and everything that entails. They also share their thoughts on managing shrinkage in fabrics and batting and read a quilting superstition/tradition from a listener. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/…
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Listener Questions: Trimming Quilts, Coordinating Fabric, and Adding Size to Quilts
50:28
50:28
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50:28In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi answer a new batch of listener questions. Some topics discussed include trimming quilts, the difference between traditional and modern quilts, low-volume prints, searching fabrics, coordinating solid fabrics, scalloped borders, long-arm quilting, and more! Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/111…
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In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss all things sewing machines. Sherri recently purchased a new sewing machine so it was a good time to compare machines in different price ranges and also discuss how technology has advanced and changed what sewing machines are capable of doing. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/s…
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Sharing Quilting with Others and Keeping the Joy of Quilting Alive
52:04
52:04
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52:04In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share what kept them excited about quilting after they were first introduced to this hobby. They then discuss how they have tried to introduce others to quilting and give some tips on how to share the joy of quilting with others. We also want to thank everyone who has subscribed to this YouTube channel over the pa…
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In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss spring cleaning tips and ideas and share what they plan on sewing with for this Spring season. They also discuss some of their Spring decor ideas and how they feel more productive during this time of the year. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support Show Notes Blog Post: http…
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Laguna Sunrise Fabric Collection and New Quilt Book, Family Favorites
34:47
34:47
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34:47In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss their new fabric collection, Laguna Sunrise. They discuss the inspirations behind this fabric line and talk about how it mixes and matches well with many of their previous fabric lines, including Strawberry Lemonade. They also share news about a new book they are releasing with Fat Quarter Shop, Family Fav…
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Selecting and Piecing Quilt Backings and Dealing With Mistakes While Quilting
52:56
52:56
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52:56In this episode, Billy shares a new email for the podcast where listeners and viewers can send all of their listener quilt photos and listener questions to be answered on the podcast. The email is [email protected]. Sherri and Chelsi then discuss all things quilt backings. They share some of the things they consider when selecting the …
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In this episode, Sherri welcomes Amy Smart from Diary of a Quilter to the show. Amy is a quilter, a blogger, a fabric designer, a pattern designer, and an author. Today, Amy shares how she first started quilting and continued pursuing her new hobby as a young mother with young children. Sherri and Amy also discuss their early blogging days and how …
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Design Boards, Strike-Off Fabrics, Starting a YouTube Channel, & Sorting Fabric
51:27
51:27
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51:27In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share a couple fun finds and answer a new batch of listener questions. Some topics discussed include the new navy Strawberry Lemonade print, design boards, sewing machine covers, strike-off fabrics, starting a quilting YouTube channel, sorting fabric, and more! Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.co…
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2024 Preview: Goals, Upcoming Fabric, UFOs, and Sew Alongs
41:38
41:38
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41:38In this episode, Billy joins Sherri at the main desk as Chelsi is recovering from an illness and caring for a sick child. Sherri shares her goals for 2024, talks about unfinished projects she intends to complete this year, and hints at several sew-alongs she plans on joining/hosting in 2024. Billy relays all of the same information for Chelsi in he…
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Moonbeams Charity Quilt and Stitch Along with Kimberly Jolly of Fat Quarter Shop
42:31
42:31
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42:31In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi welcome back Kimberly Jolly of Fat Quarter Shop to talk all about the Moonbeams Charity Quilt and Stitch Along. This year's Make-A-Wish charity quilt features Sherri and Chelsi's Strawberry Lemonade fabric. There is also a special navy print made especially for this quilt's background. This quilt pattern is free t…
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A Quilting Life Academy, Favorite Podcasting Memories, and Looking Ahead to 2024
41:47
41:47
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41:47We made it to 100! In this episode, Sherri, Chelsi, and Billy look back at the early episodes of the podcast and discuss how it has evolved and become what it is today. They share some of their favorite memories from the podcast and look ahead to what is in store for the future. Sherri also announces her A Quilting Life Academy, an online course fo…
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Holiday Sewing and Favorite Holiday Memories
59:05
59:05
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59:05In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi share some of the holiday-themed projects they are currently working on and ones they plan on completing in the future. They then share some of their favorite holiday traditions. These include favorite snacks, movies, gifts, and memories. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone! Help Support our Show Here: …
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In this episode, Sherri, Chelsi, and Billy tell what they are grateful for this year in their quilting lives. Sherri and Chelsi then share some great gift ideas for fellow quilters this holiday season. All the products shared on today's podcast are linked below. Help Support our Show Here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1118069/support For complete sho…
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2023 Quilt Market Recap and The State of the Quilting Industry
49:26
49:26
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49:26In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi recap their recent trip to Houston, Texas, for the 2023 International Quilt Market. They share some new quilting products they were introduced to and a great new book authored by Lissa Alexander and Susan Ache. They then share all the happenings at this year's market and an exciting announcement about future marke…
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Improving Quilting Accuracy, Customer Feedback Influence, and Determining Fabric Yardage
52:59
52:59
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52:59In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi answer some new listener questions. Some topics discussed include improving quilting accuracy, how sales reports and customer feedback influence future pattern and fabric designs, determining yardage for a pre-cut-friendly quilt pattern, starching fabric, and more! Chelsi also announces a new sew-along with her Al…
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Holiday Preparation, Two-Tone Quilts, and Quilt Market Anticipation
51:30
51:30
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51:30In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss what they are doing to prepare for the upcoming holiday season. They also discuss two-tone quilts and what they are most looking forward to at the International Quilt Market this year. For complete show notes, pictures, and links to all of today's featured quilts and fabrics, visit the A Quilting Life Blog…
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