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.