QuiltInk Blog

Apothecary – May26 Challenge

April has come to an end, and what a beautiful month it’s been.

With the Coastal Sunset palette by Bookends Quilting, you explored deeper tones, soft transitions, and a more atmospheric approach to color. The response was incredible, with 297 entries shared for the giveaway, showing once again how much this community continues to grow through color and experimentation.

A big congratulations to our April winner:

allkindthreads, who will receive a copy of the book Quilting the National Parks by Stephanie Forster — a beautiful collection of 20 patterns inspired by natural landscapes.

And now, it’s time to begin something new.

For May, we’re collaborating with Alderwood Studio, bringing a fresh perspective to this month’s challenge.

They’re introducing a new palette: Apothecary

A palette that invites you to explore color in a more subtle and layered way, and to try combinations that might be outside your usual choices.

Are you ready to explore it?

Let’s begin.

APOTHECARY PALETTE

The Apothecary fabric collection conjures a sophisticated celebration of Halloween’s enchanting side. Blending the mystical beauty of an old-world apothecary with subtle seasonal charm, this collection invites you into a world of moonlit potions and whispering herbs. Delicate cobwebs drift across botanicals, while elegant snakes, pumpkins, and bats curl among celestial motifs and bottles filled with mysterious brews. With a palette designed for moody magic and quiet wonder, The Apothecary captures the spirit of the season.

MEET AMBER

Amber is a modern pattern designer, author, fabric designer, and educator. She runs the Modern Makes Membership, teaches technique and pattern writing courses, and releases modern patterns under the Alderwood Studio brand. She designs fabric for Riley Blake Designs, and draws inspiration for both her fabric and her quilt patterns from the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Amber lives in Portland with her two small children and enjoys gardening, painting, and knitting in her free time.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

Go to www.quiltink.com, sign in or create your free account.
Choose a pattern from the main page.
Color the pattern using the May Challenge palette — it’s the first palette in the Solid Palettes list.
Share your mock-up on our #quiltinkwall.
Boost your chances by creating a post or story on Instagram, mentioning @quilt_ink and @alderwoodstudio and tagging #QuiltInkChallengeMay26.
It counts as 2 entries in the giveaway.

PRIZE

A Fat Quarter bundle from the Apothecary fabric collection by Alderwood Studio.

The winner will receive this stunning FQ selection, generously sponsored by Amber of Alderwood Studio

Selection: On June 1st, we will randomly pick 1 mock-up from all the mock-ups shared on the Wall using the May Challenge palette (the ones marked with the gift icon).

The more mock-ups you create, the higher your chances of winning.
Start coloring now!

This giveaway is open internationally. You must be at least 18 years old.
This giveaway is not sponsored by Instagram. Participants release Instagram of any responsibility and agree to IG terms of use.

Here are some examples of quilt patterns mock-ups using the Apothecary palette in QuiltInk! Don’t you love them all?

Patterns featured are (click to color):

Remember by clicking on the gift icon in the QuitlInk Wall you will be able to see all the mock-ups for the Challenge alive.

Curious about how to find the palette to participate. Follow these steps and start coloring!!

And here you can check the name of the May26 Challenge palette – Apothecary by Alderwood Studio. Aren’t they amazing?

We can’t wait to see all your mock-ups!

Happy coloring and quilting to you all!

QuiltInk Challenge Apr26 Winner

April had a completely different feeling… and you really went for it.

With the Coastal Sunset palette by Bookends Quilting, this month’s challenge was all about exploring mood, depth and those rich, earthy tones inspired by the coast. And honestly, the result has been incredible.

We received 297 entries for the giveaway, and the variety has been amazing. Some designs were bold and dramatic, others much softer and more subtle, but all of them captured something special from the palette. It’s always surprising to see how the same colors can lead to so many different quilt interpretations.

All the mock-ups are truly impressive.

And now, it’s time to announce the winner:

allkindthreads

Congratulations You will receive a copy of the book Quilting the National Parks by Stephanie Forster.

We’ll contact you by email very soon with all the details.

This book is such a beautiful piece. It includes 20 quilt patterns inspired by national parks, and it’s perfect if you love quilts that connect with nature and landscape. It’s not just patterns, it’s a great source of inspiration for color, composition and storytelling in your quilts. Definitely one to have.

And to everyone who participated, thank you. Every mock-up you share helps build this space where we can all try new things, play with color and keep learning together.

If you haven’t seen all the entries yet, go to the Wall and filter by Past Challenges. There’s so much inspiration there.

And if you’re ready for the next one… it’s coming very soon.

Let’s keep coloring

Designer Spotlight – Kelli Fox

This is our 30th Designer Spotlight interview, and we continue to love discovering the stories, paths, and creative journeys behind each designer in our community.

We’re excited to feature Kelli Fox, the designer behind Kelli Fox Designs, whose work reflects a rich mix of curiosity, exploration, and lifelong creativity.

Before quilting became part of her life, Kelli spent decades working in business while also exploring many different crafts along the way. Her journey into quilting began with a simple moment of inspiration that eventually grew into a deep passion for modern, geometric design and a structured yet creative approach to making patterns.

Keep reading to discover how she turned a new studio space into a creative turning point, how she approaches design today, and how she continues to evolve through learning, color, and experimentation

Personal Background

Kelli, as we dive into your story, could you provide a snapshot of who you are and take us on the journey that led you to where you are today?

My name is Kelli Fox. I’m 61 years old and live near Boulder, Colorado. Professionally, I have spent over 30 years working as a Business Manager, but I’ve always had a creative side that I made space for along the way. I’ve dabbled in pottery, fused glass, sewing garments, cake decorating… I’ve tried a little bit of everything.

Quilting came into my life at just the right time. When my kids went off to college, I moved into a new home that had a studio above the garage. I knew I wanted it to be a creative space, but I wasn’t quite sure what that would look like yet.

Then, I went to my niece’s baby shower, saw a modern baby quilt she had received, and something just clicked. I remember thinking, ” This is it.” That moment really shifted things for me.

Quilting Journey

When and how did you start quilting? What drew you to quilting as a form of expression?

Realizing that I wanted to explore quilting motivated me to transform my studio into a sewing space, and I jumped in. I started with small quilted potholders to learn the basics, then quickly moved into modern quilt patterns.

From there, I really dove in. I got hooked on the process, figuring out how to match seams, get points to line up, and all the various techniques. I often joke that I treated it like getting a degree in quilting.

I started taking classes, and during COVID, when Zoom classes became more available, I took as many as I could. I explored everything from improv, art quilts, curved piecing, paper piecing, color, and a wide range of techniques, anything I could learn.

I tend to be pretty detail-oriented and definitely a bit of a perfectionist, so quilting really clicked with me right away.

Pattern Designing

What inspired you to start designing quilt patterns? How do you approach the creative process of designing a new pattern?

After about six years of learning and making quilts, I started designing in EQ8, which opened up a whole new level of possibilities. I then took a pattern-writing course where I learned Adobe Illustrator and InDesign. Shout-out to Elizabeth Chappell of Quilter’s Candy for such a comprehensive class.

Learning the pattern writing process felt like a natural next step; it gave me the tools to turn my design ideas into patterns. I wanted to create designs that might inspire more people to try quilting, since it’s been such a meaningful creative outlet for me.

My process usually starts with playing around with shapes, traditional blocks, and ideas I have in my head. I draw and refine designs in both EQ8 and InDesign. Once a design starts to come together, I make a few samples – usually two or three – to test proportions, color, and contrast.

From there, I write the pattern and send it to two Tech Editors and a couple of pattern testers to make sure everything is clear and works. Then send it out into the world.

Style and Aesthetics

How would you define your pattern style? Are there specific themes or elements that consistently appear in your designs?

I’d describe my style as modern and geometric, with a focus on making most of my patterns beginner-friendly and approachable. I use techniques like strip piecing, nesting seams, and easy construction to make the process faster and more enjoyable.

Color

How does color play a role in your pattern designing? Do you have a favorite color? Are there certain color combinations you find particularly appealing?

Color is a big part of my design process, and definitely one of my favorite parts. It’s amazing how different a pattern can feel just by changing the palette or rearranging colors. That’s why I love QuiltInk so much, it makes it easy to play with color and discover combinations that match individual style.

I don’t really have just one favorite color or palette. I definitely go through phases. My comfort zone is blues and neutrals combined with warmer tones, but I also love a bold, high-contrast palette, depending on the design. I tend to try different colors when making my samples before deciding on the palette I use for the pattern.

Business Activities

Apart from designing patterns, what other activities are integral to your quilting business?

(Membership, notions, courses, etc)

In addition to designing patterns, I’m always learning. I still take classes because I love seeing how other quilters approach things – it keeps me inspired and gives me new ideas.

I teach beginner classes locally, and I have a few friends who come to my home for sewing lessons, which I really enjoy. It’s fun to help new quilters build confidence and see everything start to click.

On the business side, I run my pattern shop through my website and Etsy and spend time creating content.

Online Presence

Where can people find your work online? (Website, social media handles, online marketplaces). How do you use online platforms to connect with your audience and fellow quilters?

You can find my work on my website at www.kellifoxdesigns.com, on Etsy under Kelli Fox Handmade, Instagram @kellifox_designs, and on Pinterest under Kelli Fox Designs.

I spend a lot of time on Pinterest and Instagram, sharing my patterns and current projects, hoping to inspire others to try quilting or explore a creative outlet.

It still amazes me how something I started in my studio has grown into a way to connect with people all over the world.

Upcoming Projects

Can you provide a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or designs you’re working on? Any exciting collaborations or events?

I’m currently working on a few quick, easy-to-make patterns, like pillows, table runners, and wall hangings. I want to create projects that feel approachable, something beginners can start with and build confidence from.

Starting with a full quilt can feel a little overwhelming, so I love offering smaller projects that still feel modern but are more manageable. One of the designs I’m especially excited about is a new pattern called Arista, a geometric design with easy construction that includes both a pillow and runner/wall panel, perfect for a quick project.

QuiltInk Experience

How has QuiltInk contributed to your quilt pattern design business? Could you share your experience with the platform and how it has influenced your creative process and connected you with fellow quilters?

The minute I discovered QuiltInk, I thought it was genius. It makes visualizing color layout and placement so simple. With so many fabric lines available to play with, quilters can try out different options in a design before ever buying, cutting, or sewing.

My customers love it too. I get consistent positive feedback from quilters who use it to try out color ideas before they start.

Designer Spotlight – Stephanie Forster

This month, our Designer Spotlight takes us to the Pacific Northwest, where nature and creativity go hand in hand.

We’re so happy to introduce Steph, the designer behind Bookends Quilting.

Based in Seattle, Steph creates patterns inspired by the natural world, with a special love for mountain landscapes reflected throughout her designs. From her very first quilt made with a high school friend to designing patterns rooted in real places, her journey is a beautiful blend of creativity and connection to nature.

Keep reading to discover her quilting journey, her design process, and how she uses QuiltInk to explore color and inspire others ✨

Personal Background

Steph, as we dive into your story, could you provide a snapshot of who you are and take us on the journey that led you to where you are today?

I’m based in Seattle, WA, and I’m 35 years old. I have a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy. I moved to Seattle in 2012 to pursue my graduate studies, and what was meant to be a temporary chapter became home after I met my husband in 2015.

Quilting Journey

When and how did you start quilting? What drew you to quilting as a form of expression?

I started quilting in 2008 with my high school best friend. She suggested we make quilts for our college dorms and I quickly bought my own sewing machine after making that first quilt. I love that quilting allows you to create a tangible piece of art that you can use and display in your home. As someone who likes to be cozy, I love getting to snuggle up with something I’ve created.

Pattern Designing

What inspired you to start designing quilt patterns? How do you approach the creative process of designing a new pattern?

The first quilts I made I actually designed myself. My first design was a pretty basic square pattern, but I drew it out and still have the drawing for it. I didn’t dive into using quilt patterns until 2020 when I found the quilting Instagram world. After finding Amber Elliot of Alderwood Studio and her Pattern Writing Academy, I really dove into the designing process.

My creative process varies depending on the subject matter. Sometimes I move standard shapes around (HRTs, HSTs, curves) until I find a pattern that I like. Sometimes I look at an image of a park or place in nature and replicate a design from that image.

Style and Aesthetics

How would you define your pattern style? Are there specific themes or elements that consistently appear in your designs?

I would define my pattern style as being grounded in natural elements and the natural world. I take a lot of inspiration from the outdoors.

I have several mountain themes that appear in my patterns. I love the mountains so I enjoy creating new patterns to represent mountain ranges.

Color

How does color play a role in your pattern designing? Do you have a favorite color? Are there certain color combinations you find particularly appealing?

As I design a new pattern I play around with different color tones to enhance the shapes and elements in the design.

My favorite color is teal, or in Art Gallery Pure Solids I love Hemlock and Honeymoon.

I love the combination of Raw Gold, Gingerbread, and Chocolate, as well as Nova, Honeymoon, and Cerulean.

Business Activities

Apart from designing patterns, what other activities are integral to your quilting business?

(Membership, notions, courses, etc)

I was able to use a couple of the national park patterns and create knitted blankets that I offer on my website. These are great for gifts or for people who love the design but who don’t sew!

I started designing my book, Quilting the National Parks, in late 2022 and it was published in 2025. I had always dreamt about writing a book and was so flattered to be sought out by my publisher. The book has 20 unique patterns featuring a national park in the United States. The patterns vary from pillows, to wall hangings, to baby, throw, and bed size quilts.

Online Presence

Where can people find your work online? (Website, social media handles, online marketplaces). How do you use online platforms to connect with your audience and fellow quilters?

My website is https://bookendsquilting.com/, my Instagram is @bookendsquilting, I also offer a free pattern for those who subscribe to my newsletter https://view.flodesk.com/pages/614cb755337f1c2aacf52863

I announce new patterns and quilt goods on my instagram as well as in my newsletter.

Upcoming Projects

Can you provide a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or designs you’re working on? Any exciting collaborations or events?

I’m currently working on a couple of projects I’m excited about! The first is a new free pattern that I will be offering to email subscribers coming later this year. The other is a new mountain pattern I’ve been thinking about for a while and have designed recently. I think it is actually going to have two different options depending on the number of colors you want to use. I’ve got my fabric ready to go to make my samples soon!

QuiltInk Experience

QuiltInk is so great to play with different color options! I love that it allows for everyone to see the different patterns on the wall and to find inspiration.

New Pattern: Sunup

If you love modern quilt patterns with a traditional touch, you don’t want to miss Sunup by Alison of @inthelightquilts .

This quilt design is built from two classic quilt blocks and simple border strips, but the layout gives it a fresh modern quilting feel. It’s one of those patterns where color placement and fabric choices really define the final look.

Soft neutrals, bold contrasts, warm palettes… the same quilt pattern can go in so many directions.

It’s written in one size (56 ½” x 56 ½”), perfect as a lap quilt or large baby quilt.

Take a look at the mock-ups and see how different each version feels — and if you enjoy exploring quilt mockups, quilt color, and modern quilt design, this one is a great pattern to try on QuiltInk.

Meet the Fabric Shops – Red Monkey Quilt Company

This month, we’re sharing the Meet the Fabric Shops on QuiltInk #14, and we’re so happy to introduce Red Monkey Quilt Company, the colorful online quilt shop behind Tammy Goff. Based in central Florida, Tammy brings together her love for bold fabrics, modern quilting, and a strong background in business to create a space that feels both inspiring and thoughtfully curated.

What started as a creative hobby slowly grew into something more, leading her to open her shop in 2019. Today, Red Monkey Quilt Company is known for its vibrant aesthetic, carefully selected fabrics, and beginner-friendly kits that make the quilting process feel approachable and fun.

In this interview, Tammy shares more about her quilting journey, her approach to fabric curation, and the exciting projects she’s currently working on—like her very first Block of the Month.

Read the full interview to discover her story, inspiration, and what’s coming next!

Personal Background

Could you tell us a bit about yourself? (location, age, educational background, …) Who is behind Red Monkey Quilt Company?

My name is Tammy Goff, and I’m the owner of Red Monkey Quilt Company, an online quilt shop specializing in modern quilting fabrics, curated bundles, and creative kits. I’m currently based in central Florida, where the bright colors and sunshine seem to fit perfectly with my love of bold, vibrant fabrics.

I’m in my 50s, and quilting has become the perfect blend of creativity and entrepreneurship for me. My educational background is in business and management, which has helped me build and run my shop with a strong focus on organization, customer service, and creating a great experience for quilters who visit my website.

Quilting Journey

How did you first get into quilting? When did you decide to turn this passion into a business by opening your shop?

I first started quilting around 2005. I’ve always enjoyed creative hobbies, but quilting really captured my attention because it combines creativity, color, and craftsmanship in such a unique way. I also love that quilting is a creative outlet where the end result is something both beautiful and practical—something that can be used and enjoyed for many years.

Like many quilters, what began as a hobby soon became something I was completely immersed in. I found myself constantly thinking about fabric combinations, patterns, and new projects, and I loved learning more about the quilting community and the incredible designers who bring so much creativity to the industry.

As my interest in quilting grew, so did my appreciation for high-quality fabrics and thoughtful fabric curation. I realized that one of the things I enjoyed most was helping others envision how fabrics could work together in a project. That naturally led me to the idea of starting Red Monkey Quilt Company, where I could share my love of modern quilting fabrics and help inspire other quilters. Opening the shop in 2019 allowed me to combine my education background with my passion for quilting.

Shop Story and Style

What’s the story behind Red Monkey Quilt Company? When did it start, and how would you describe its personality, style, and size?

In terms of personality, Red Monkey Quilt Company is fun, colorful, and welcoming, but also very thoughtfully curated. I want the shop to feel inspiring while still being informative and helpful for quilters at any stage of their quilting journey.

Red Monkey Quilt Company is a small, independently owned online shop, which allows me to stay very hands-on with the fabric selection, bundle creation, and customer experience. That personal touch is important to me, because quilting has always been about creativity and community, and I love being able to share that with fellow quilters.

Product Offerings

What types of fabrics do you focus on? How do you offer them to customers—by the yard, as kits, or with custom options?

We carry a wide variety of fabric styles but tend to lean into modern prints. Offering fabric by the yard, pre-cut bundles, and custom kits.

Special Collections and Products

Are there any collections, brands, or unique products you’re especially proud to carry?

We pride ourselves on having a wide selection of Tula Pink and Allison Glass fabrics as well as a nice selection of wide backing fabric.

Inspiration and Trends

Are there any collections, brands, or unique products you’re especially proud to carry?

We closely follow sewing trends to keep fresh fabric in stock while keep some traditional options available.

Additional Services

Do you offer any other quilting-related services, like pattern design, long-arming, or classes?

We pride ourselves on the custom beginner friendly quilt kits we keep in stock.

Online Presence

Where can people find your shop online? (Website, social media handles, online marketplaces). How do you use online platforms to connect with your audience and fellow quilters?

We can be found under Red Monkey Quilt Company on Facebook. www.RedMonkeyQuiltCompany.com

Upcoming News and Projects

Are there any exciting new projects, events, or collaborations coming up that you’d like to share with the community

We are excited to have recently started our very first Block of the Month and are already planning our follow up project to be launched in the next couple of months.

QuiltInk Experience

How has QuiltInk been useful for your shop or customers? Any favorite tools or ways it’s made things easier?

I am excited about being able to re-color patterns, but am still learning about all of the capabilities.
Digitized patterns!

New Pattern: Quilting the National parks – Pillows

We’re so happy to share that @bookendsquilting has added all the patterns from her book, Quilting the National parks, to QuiltInk ✨

First up are four pillow-size quilt designs: White Sands, Redwood, Yellowstone, and Congaree National Park. Small projects, but full of modern design and endless possibilities for playing with color and fabric.

Each pattern has its own personality. Some are clean and geometric, others feel more organic and fluid — all of them are perfect for testing bold palettes or softer combinations and seeing how much a quilt can change before you even start sewing.

Steph has also teamed up with QuiltInk to create this month’s Challenge palette, and it’s been amazing to see over 250 mockups already shared on the Wall.

And yes… this month’s Challenge winner will receive a copy of her beautiful book 🤍

Take a look at the mockups and start imagining your own version. More patterns from the book coming soon!!

Mock-up Monday #174

Visit our Instagram account to see a beautiful continuous carousel with the mock-up

100 new quilt mock-ups in two weeks… 🤯

The QuiltInk Wall is full of fresh quilt patterns, color palettes, and fabric ideas right now — and it shows how powerful quilt mockups can be before you even cut your fabric.

Same design, completely different quilts.
All driven by color placement and fabric choices.

This is exactly what makes QuiltInk so exciting lately — a community of quilters constantly sharing new versions, testing ideas, and inspiring each other.

And this is just the start… wait until you see the Mock-up Monday dedicated to the Challenge with @bookendsquilting . It’s going to be stunning!!!

Scroll through, save your favorites, and tell me — which one would you actually sew?

New Pattern: Heart Shine

If you love quilt patterns with hearts and stars, you can’t miss Heart Shine by Christine of @moderncharmstitchery .

This beginner-friendly quilt pattern is designed to work beautifully with fat quarters or yardage, making it easy to adapt to your fabric stash and start sewing with confidence.

What makes this design special is how versatile it is. It can become a Valentine’s quilt, a holiday quilt, or simply a quilt to celebrate everyday moments — all depending on your color palette and fabric choices.

Red and pink, patriotic tones, soft neutrals, bold modern colors… this is one of those modern quilt patterns where you can really explore different moods through color placement and quilt mockups.

Available in baby and throw sizes, and now ready to explore on QuiltInk.

Take a look at the mock-ups and start imagining your own version.

New Pattern: Off Beat

If you love modern quilt patterns, you can’t miss Off Beat Quilt by Areanne of @pinestatestitches .

A bold, rhythmic quilt design that plays with movement and balance — where the interaction between fabrics creates a completely different visual flow each time.

Go high contrast for a striking modern quilt, or explore softer palettes for a more subtle, graphic feel. Same design… totally different result.

It’s a great pattern to experiment with quilt mockups, fabric combinations, and modern quilting ideas before you start cutting.

Open it on QuiltInk and see where your color choices take it.