As a mother who transitioned from a career to pursue her passion for quilting, I understand the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in creative endeavors. Today, I have the pleasure of introducing Rachel, a fellow Minnesotan and talented quilt pattern designer, who shares a similar journey of balancing motherhood, professional life, and a deep love for quilting. Join us as we uncover Rachel’s inspiring path, filled with vibrant fabrics, geometric designs, and the boundless creativity that defines her quilting journey.
Personal Background
Rachel, 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 was born and raised here in Minnesota, and now live in the wonderful city of Minneapolis. I am 30 years old, mom to a 7 month old baby boy, and a wife to my best friend. I went to school for Civil Engineering, and worked as an engineer for about 6 years after college before leaving that profession. I now spend my days as a pattern designer and caring for our home and our son!
Quilting Journey
When and how did you start quilting? What drew you to quilting as a form of expression?
Like many others, I made my first quilt in 2020. I had been sewing for many years before that, but it wasn’t until the Covid shutdown that I focused more on quilting. I’m lucky enough to say that my mom is a talented quilter and fabric lover, and she passed those interests down to me. My pull towards quilting began with my love of fabric, and grew from there.
Pattern Designing
What inspired you to start designing quilt patterns? How do you approach the creative process of designing a new pattern?
My love of sewing and my skills as an engineer made designing quilt patterns the perfect outlet for both of those passions (bring on the quilt math!). Typically my design process starts with graph paper and a pencil and evolves from there.
Style and Aesthetics
How would you define your pattern style? Are there specific themes or elements that consistently appear in your designs?
My style is fairly geometric and modern. Typically my designs are pulled from the things around me that I love – my latest pattern was designed to look like ribbons and bows. In high school I wore a different bow in my hair every dingle day that matched my outfit, and today one of my favorite things is giving a friend the perfect gift wrapped up with ribbons and bows!
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?
I can never stick to a specific color scheme for each quilt – every one is different. I love bright rainbow colors, and I love dusty desert colors. My heart belongs to floral fabrics, though. I’ve never met a floral I didn’t love!
Business Activities
Apart from designing patterns, what other activities are integral to your quilting business?
(Membership, notions, courses, etc)
Other than quilt pattern design, I also have a few bag patterns available, and a few more in the works! I just began technical editing this year, as well.
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?
The best place to find my work is my website: www.sewjoyfulstudio.com, instagram: @sewjoyfulstudio, or facebook @sewjoyfulstudio.
People can sign up for my email newsletter to stay up to date on all the things! Otherwise Instagram/Facebook are where I share what I’m working on.
Upcoming Projects
Can you provide a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or designs you’re working on? Any exciting collaborations or events?
Just a week ago I released my newest quilt pattern, All Wrapped Up! The QAL for that begins on Friday, May 3rd!
This year I have plans to release a few bag patterns. And last, but certainly not least, the Sweater Weather Sampler is returning in 2024 from the Nine Patch Quilt Collective!
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?
Being able to toggle through so many different colorways for a project in QuiltInk has streamlined everything for me. I struggle to choose fabrics for a project – the ease of which I (and those who purchase my patterns!) can test out fabric choices for a quilt is incredible!