I recently had the pleasure of meeting with Tammy via Zoom to learn a little more about her. Here is what she had to share with the guild:
 

Your website shares that you have a background in art and literature. How did you transition from art and literature to quilting?

My sister-in-law invited me to a quilting class and I got the bug. For many years, I also taught as a high school teacher. Two years ago, I retired from education and have been able to devote all of my time to designing and teaching (instead of the full-time side hustle!)

Can you tell us a little bit about the “To the Point” art quilt that you made?

It’s one of my favorite pieces! I wanted something that was uniquely mine with a mid-century modern look.

What can someone learn from taking the workshop, “Guided Improv: To the Point?”

You will learn to make 40-inch long diamonds using a guided improv technique. This is an ambitious project because of its size, so chances are it will be a UFO but you will have a good start on it.

How do you best describe your quilting style?

A little bit of everything. I’ve worked with fabric companies and designers. I’ve worked with modern, contemporary, traditional, large-scale, fused, curved, Studio 180 Design . . .the list goes on. I have varied tastes.

Do you personally try to create pieces each year that you can enter into juried quilt shows?

I have only entered one quilt show. It was QuiltCon two years ago. My quilt was accepted. I was thrilled!

Where do you see the fabric art and quilt industry five years from now?

Interesting question. Ultra-modern has been big for a while. I am seeing a trend towards a growing appreciation for the traditional quilt. For the younger quilter, the “old stuff” is new and I see them embracing it. What’s interesting about quilting is that it doesn’t matter what decade you get introduced to quilting, there is something for everyone.

How has social media influenced your position in the quilting/fabric art world?

Social media is an animal in itself. It adds another layer to a small business owner. I used to think that the line from Kevin Costner in the movie “Field of Dreams” would be enough to grow a business– ‘If you build it, they [he] will come.’ That isn’t the case anymore. Society now expects constant eye candy. It’s not easy being the creator, quilter, teacher, bookkeeper, filling sales orders, and constantly promoting your business.

What was it like being a Benartex ambassador?

I signed up to be a Benartex ambassador for a year because I like to be challenged. I have been a creative batik designer so I wanted to work with printed fabric and I knew that if I worked for them, I would have to use printed fabric for assignments.

What’s next for you?

I have been making quilts for a long time. Like most of us quilters, my beds are covered, the closets are full, and our family has enough quilts as well. I am enjoying the exercise of making miniature quilts. They can be hung anywhere, they are easy to switch around, or use as a table runner.

What are your sources of creative inspiration?

Ideas can come from anywhere. The reality is that you just have to pay attention. At different times, I draw from different sources. Sometimes I am looking for something seasonal, other times, I want to create something that speaks solely to me.

Do you have a “can’t live without it” notion in your sewing box? 

Yes, I do! I love half-square triangles and the pinwheel block. I think pinwheels are happy and adorable!. My favorite notion is the Tucker Trimmer.

Thank you, Tammy. The guild is looking forward to meeting you in May and hearing your lecture about how to get different looks from the same pattern.