It’s time for our 5th “Meet the Fabric Shops” interview, and this one brings a touch of sunshine and spookiness! ☀️🦇 This month, we’re spotlighting Kerri from S&S Handcrafted, a California-based shop owner who grew up by the waves and now dreams of opening a coastal retreat quilt shop. Kerri’s story is filled with personality—from her family’s deep roots in textiles to her unique offerings like gothic-inspired fabrics and custom Lucy Boston quilt centers. She brings her love for bold, quirky prints into everything she curates, and she’s built a space where creativity and individuality shine. Dive into her interview to discover how she’s turning her passions into something magical—one spooky fat quarter at a time!
Join us as we dive into Jenni’s journey, the story behind her shop, and what makes Handcraft Happy Hour a must-visit for quilters!
Personal Background
Kerri , could you tell us a bit about yourself? (location, age, educational background, …) Who is behind S&S Handcrafted?
I grew up soaking up the sun and catching waves along the Southern California coast, where surfing and swimming were my summer staples. The laid-back, vibrant lifestyle of the region has shaped who I am and continues to inspire me in everything I do. My dream is to one day open a destination retreat quilt shop right here in Southern California, blending my love for the craft with the relaxed, creative energy of the coast.
Quilting Journey
How did you first get into quilting? When did you decide to turn this passion into a business by opening your shop?
My mom worked at sewing machine shop my entire childhood, my grandparents were sock makers for Hanes US and my aunts all worked in the Ethan Allen factories as upholsterers! I made my first quilt in 2011, with zero idea of what I was doing!!
Shop Story and Style
What’s the story behind S&S Handcrafted? When did it start, and how would you describe its personality, style, and size?
My shop name is pretty un-original, S&S – for my hyphenated last name of Sanders Smith!
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?
When I first opened we focused on non main-stream mostly catering to the Halloween and goth crowds! This fit with my love of gothic everything and what we saw as need in the industry – more spooky fabrics!!
I have expended to offer a variety of brands, and do sell a lot of solids and blenders, I’d love to have every solids of Art Gallery Fabrics for sale in the shop!
Special Collections and Products
Are there any collections, brands, or unique products you’re especially proud to carry?
I’ve designed a unique single-piece center for Lucy Boston quilts! As much as I adore Lucy Boston quilts, I wasn’t fond of how the seams disrupted the center design. So, I’ve created acrylic templates and paper pieces that allow you to showcase larger prints while minimizing the seams, giving you a cleaner, more seamless look without compromising the beauty of the design. Now, everyone can enjoy the charm of Lucy Boston quilts with a fresh twist!!
Inspiration and Trends
What inspires you when choosing fabrics or products for your shop? Do you follow any specific trends or themes?
Honestly, I love selecting fun and quirky fabrics and collections that I’d personally be excited to sew with. My goal is to inspire others to see the potential beyond what the fabric initially shows. Sometimes, it’s challenging to put that vision into words, but I want everyone to feel the same creative spark and excitement I see in each piece!
Additional Services
Do you offer any other quilting-related services, like pattern design, long-arming, or classes?
Currently, I only offer acrylic template cutting, we are hoping to expand in the near future.
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?
I currently sell on Etsy at https://www.etsy.com/shop/SandSHandcraftedLLC?ref=seller-platform-mcnav
Honestly we are not very good at the social media and posting fun stuff for the shop!
Upcoming News and Projects
Are there any exciting new projects, events, or collaborations coming up that you’d like to share with the community
None currently, we would love the opportunity to create more quilt kits with up and coming designers!
QuiltInk Experience
How has QuiltInk been useful for your shop or customers? Any favorite tools or ways it’s made things easier?
My customers love being able to recolor the quilt patterns, using fabrics we have available in the shop for a truly custom quilt.