MQResource

This week we are featuring quilter Linda James of Seven Lakes, NC.  I’m sure you’ll enjoy getting to know her a little better; and I know you’ll enjoy the photographs of the quilts she has shared with us.

Please be sure to visit the forum and thank Linda for taking the time to participate in our “In the Spotlight” feature.

MQResource: Please tell us a little about your family.

My husband, Craig, and I have been married for 22 years.  At the time of our marriage, he had four children ranging from 4 to 18; and I had three ranging from 5 to 16. 

After the Friday night ceremony, the pastor took me aside to sign the official document and informed me that he wouldn’t be filing the official document until Monday.  He said I should call him if I changed my mind!  Looking back I don’t know how I managed a family of 9; but now they are all grown, and we have 11 grandchildren.  Our “in residence” child is a 7 yr old miniature schnauzer named Max.

MQR: Where do you call home?

I live in Seven Lakes, NC just a few miles outside of Pinehurst, known as the “Golf Capital of the World.”  I’ve lived in a lot of places on the east coast and even traveled in an RV for two years.

MQR: How long have you been quilting?

In 1995 I walked into a quilt store looking for fabric to make doll dresses for a granddaughter.  My mouth dropped open as I looked at all the quilts hanging on the walls.  That started it.  Longarm quilting began when we stopped RV’ing four years ago.

MQR: Do you have a quilting business?

Sewgrateful Quilting Service is the name of my business.

MQR: What do you enjoy most about quilting for other people?

I love the smile on the customer's face when they see their top quilted.  Getting a ribbon for my work isn’t bad either.

MQR: Do you still do much piecing, or are you all about the quilting?

I’m really about both, but I don’t seem to find time to make my own quilts anymore.  The process of creating a quilt top is very therapeutic for me, but I love the transformation when you quilt a top.

MQR: Where do you find inspiration for your quilts and quilting designs?

Mostly online but also at shows.

MQR: What is the most challenging part of quilting for you?

Figuring out what to quilt for a custom design.  Carla’s class, Quilt Whisperer, has helped; but I am still not as confident as I want to be.

MQR: What are your favorite quilting tools?

My computer is the most used tool.  I search for what others have done and I keep a file of designs I like.  I also like using stencils.

MQR: What  is your current favorite quilting book or pattern?

I really don’t have a favorite.  It is whatever book or pattern has grabbed my attention at the moment.  If I had to pick a block, it would be the nine patch.  I think there are so many interesting variations.

MQR: Please tell us about a favorite quilting class or workshop you have taken recently.

I took Linen Ladies Club at MQX.  Fantastic!  I love the old beautiful linens, and now I can turn them into quilts.

MQR: If you could offer one helpful tip or hint to a new machine quilter, what would it be?

Don’t be hard on yourself.  No one sees what you consider to be a mistake.  So go for it.  Just do it.

MQR: What hobbies do you have (beyond quilting)?

Life after quilting????  I read, hit a little white ball around a green pasture, paddle a kayak and fish (starting to do this).

MQR: What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?  

Vanilla Bean

MQR: Do you prefer salty or sweet snacks?

Whichever is in the pantry.

MQR: What is your favorite beverage?

Coffee and then more coffee.

MQR: What is your least favorite food?

I don’t like raisins, coconut or apricots.  Unfortunately, I like everything else!

MQR: What is your favorite time of year?

Spring.  Or is it summer.  Or maybe fall.  Just not winter.

MQR: What are your favorite books/authors?

Emile Richards writes interesting stories, some of which include quilting.

MQR: What are your favorite movies?

No all time favorite, but I recently enjoyed “Seven Pounds”.

MQR: What is one of your goals for 2010?

I want to make an original art quilt.  This will be a huge leap for me.

MQR: What is your favorite quote?

Spreading God’s Love Through Quilted Comfort is my byline.

MQR: Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about quilting or your business?

Whatever talent I possess is a gift from God, so my mission is to show God's love through quilted comfort.  That philosophy drives me to encourage others to make Quilts of Valor.  The QOV pictured above is one I made for the 82^nd Airborne.

All photographs have been provided by Linda.