Craft To Career

Ever wonder if you can turn your craft into a full-time career? I’ve been there. I know the feeling of wanting to create something you love and build a business around it, but also wondering if it's really possible. I'm Elizabeth Chappell, and I’ve spent the last few years turning my quilting passion into a thriving business—and I want to help you do the same! Each week, I share my personal journey and talk to other incredible entrepreneurs about how they turned their creative passions into successful businesses. You’ll get tips on everything from social media strategies to practical business advice, as well as stories of success (and failures) that will inspire you to keep going. I started my business from scratch, and now I write and sell quilt patterns, run an online membership, and have built a six-figure business. And I’m here to show you how to make your dream job a reality, too. If you’ve ever wondered, Can I really be successful doing what I love?—the answer is YES. There’s space for you, and I’m here to help you get there. Let’s turn your craft into the career you’ve always dreamed of. It won’t always be easy, but I promise it will be worth it.

Barbie Mills on Pantograph Design, Longarm Quilting, and Growing a Quilting Business 10/09/2026

Barbie Mills on Pantograph Design, Longarm Quilting, and Growing a Quilting Business What if you could see how a pantograph will look on your quilt before you ever load it on the frame? Barbie Mills, longarm quilter and pantograph designer behind The Quilting Mill, joins the podcast to share how she built her business and the tool she created to help quilters choose their quilting with confidence. Barbie has loved sewing since she was a little girl and made her first quilt as a teenager. She studied Family and Consumer Science in college and taught in public schools for seven years before turning her love of quilting into a full time business. In 2012, she began longarm quilting by hand, and when she added a computerized system to her studio, she discovered a new passion: designing digital pantographs. Her designs are known for minimal to no backtracking, so they stitch out smoothly and efficiently. Barbie's newest project is her Pantograph Preview Tool. Upload a photo of your quilt, and you can try different pantograph designs, thread colors, and sizes to see what each would look like before you stitch. She also teaches a class for quilters who want to design pantographs of their own. Barbie lives in Utah with her family and is an active member of the Salt Lake Modern Quilt Guild. In this episode, you'll hear: How Barbie went from teaching Family and Consumer Science to running her own quilting business What led her from hand guided longarm quilting to designing digital pantographs Why she designs pantographs with little to no backtracking How the Pantograph Preview Tool works, and how it helps quilters and longarm clients choose a design What it takes to design your own pantographs, and how her class teaches it Barbie's advice for growing a quilting business of your own Connect with Barbie: Website: About Barbie: Pantograph Preview Tool: Pantograph design class: Etsy shop: Instagram: /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/43217788

Why Your Email Promos Aren't Selling (Live Coaching Call with Allison Austin of The Kitschy Creative) 09/18/2026

The Little Green Bean: A Decade of Pivots, Mentors, and Growth 08/28/2026

From Idea to Industry Staple: How SewTites Built a Product for Quilters 08/21/2026

What Pattern Writers Should Know About Selling with QBPN, with Ruth Erdei 08/14/2026

What Pattern Writers Should Know About Selling with QBPN, with Ruth Erdei If you sell digital quilt patterns, you've probably wondered whether a marketplace is worth it, and what actually goes on behind the scenes to make one work. Ruth Erdei joins the podcast to talk about Quilting Books Patterns & Notions (QBPN), the family business she co-owns, and why she believes so strongly in transparency as a business model. Ruth is a serial entrepreneur, designer, and creative business strategist with more than 20 years of experience building businesses across the craft, creative, and e-commerce industries. Her background spans custom cosplay, crochet, digital products, fashion, quilting, and cross-stitch, which gives her a wide view of both the creative and business sides of the industry. She's the co-owner of QBPN and co-founder of Craft Hatchery, two marketplaces supporting hundreds of independent designers and connecting makers with customers around the world. In this episode, Ruth shares: How she got started with QBPN and how the company has grown How the QBPN business model works and what makes it different from other marketplaces Why pattern writers might consider selling their patterns through QBPN The different revenue streams the company offers designers We also talk about something that doesn't always get discussed: what it actually costs to distribute digital patterns. It's easy to assume digital products have no overhead since there's no shipping or warehousing involved. But platform fees, protecting designers' intellectual property, keeping listings current, customer support, marketing, and ongoing file management all take real time and resources. Ruth talks through what that investment looks like at QBPN and why supporting and protecting designers is central to how the company operates. If you're a pattern designer weighing where to sell, or just curious how a marketplace like this runs behind the scenes, this episode is worth a listen. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/42355420

Eli McCann on Writing "Stitched": Quilting, Comedy, and the Drama of a Sewing Circle 08/07/2026

Building a Self-Sustaining Quilting Business with Jamie Bright 07/03/2026

Joshua Dunn on Memory Quilts, Space, and a Quiltmaker Magazine Feature 06/12/2026

How Mim Jenkinson Built a Million Dollar Sticker Business 06/05/2026

How Mim Jenkinson Built a Million Dollar Sticker Business Mim Jenkinson sells stickers, and she has grown that into a business earning over $1 million a year. In this episode of Craft To Career, Mim opens up about what she sells, how her business has grown year after year, and the choices that made the biggest difference. She talks about the role her courses and membership play in her success, and how learning from people who are a few steps ahead of her has shaped her growth. Mim also shares a recent shift in how she builds her email list. For years she relied on seminars, and she has since moved to a new model that has worked better for sales. If you want to grow your own creative business, Mim's story is full of lessons you can apply. Come get to know Mim, her sticker business, and the thinking behind how she keeps it growing. About Mim Mim Jenkinson is a sticker making educator who has taught more than 20,000 crafters to make stickers using Cricut, Silhouette, and Canva. She started making stickers at home in 2016, built a five star shop, and now runs a creative education business that earns over $1 million a year. In this episode What Mim sells, and how the pieces of her business fit together How her courses and membership became central to her success Why learning from people ahead of her has been a driver of her growth The pivot from seminars to a new model for building her email list, and why it has worked better for sales The habits and decisions that keep her business growing year after year A few takeaways for your own business Growth often comes from learning openly from others, not figuring everything out alone Courses and memberships can create steady income and deepen your relationship with your audience When a list building strategy stops serving your sales, it is worth testing a new approach Connect with Mim Website: Free Sticker Making Starter Kit: Free Sticker Starter Class: Secret Sticker Society (membership): Business coaching: Instagram: YouTube: /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/41528795

Niching Down and Standing Out: Helene of Scandi Quilts on Growing a Quilt Pattern Business 05/22/2026

From Blank Page to Bestseller: A Conversation with Katherine Center 05/15/2026

Turning Art History into Quilt Patterns: A Conversation with Eva Saunders 05/08/2026

Turning Art History into Quilt Patterns: A Conversation with Eva Saunders What if the funding to grow your quilting business was already sitting in your local community, waiting for someone like you to apply for it? In this episode of the Craft To Career Podcast, I’m talking with Eva Saunders of Gingerly Quilt Co. about the unique way she has grown her quilting business: by applying for and receiving local grants for small creative businesses. These grants have helped Eva develop online quilting courses, invest in her ideas, and grow Gingerly Quilt Co. without relying only on pattern sales. Her story is such a good reminder that there are creative ways to fund a quilting business, and sometimes the resources you need may be closer than you think. Eva has also created a beautiful and memorable niche as a quilt pattern designer. With her background and love for art history, she designs quilts inspired by famous works of art and artistic movements. From a Starry Night quilt inspired by Van Gogh to Art Deco quilt patterns, Eva brings fine art into quilting in a way that feels fresh, meaningful, and completely her own. In this episode, we will talk about: How Eva discovered grant opportunities in her local community What the grant application process looked like for her creative business Why niching down into art history quilts helped her stand out as a pattern designer How she turns famous artwork into quiltable designs The unique construction methods behind her art quilts How turning quilt patterns into online quilting courses opened up new revenue streams What it looks like to build a quilting business around your personal interests and expertise Listen to this episode if you: Are a quilt pattern designer looking for new ways to fund your business Have wondered if grants for small creative businesses could help you grow Want to create more unique and memorable quilt patterns Are interested in art quilts, art history quilts, or fine-art-inspired quilting Feel like you need help finding a niche that feels true to you Want to learn how online quilting courses can become another revenue stream Eva’s story is full of practical insight and creative inspiration. Whether you are dreaming of applying for a grant, creating a course, or developing a niche pattern design style of your own, this conversation will give you so much to think about. About Eva Saunders Eva Saunders is the quilt pattern designer behind Gingerly Quilt Co. Her work blends quilting, art history, and creative construction methods to create patterns that feel like works of art. Through Gingerly Quilt Co., Eva creates art-inspired quilt patterns and online quilting courses that help quilters bring famous artwork and beautiful design movements into their own quilts. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/41197215

From Woodworking to Quilting: How Chris Hanson Built Modern American Vintage 05/01/2026

Theresa Benson of The AI Quilter: AI, Ethics, Creativity, and the Future of Quilting 04/10/2026

Theresa Benson of The AI Quilter: AI, Ethics, Creativity, and the Future of Quilting Artificial Intelligence is one of the biggest conversations happening in the creative world right now, and in this episode of The Craft to Career Podcast, I sat down with Theresa Benson of The AI Quilter to talk about it all. Theresa gives a thoughtful look into the use of Artificial Intelligence as a quilter, artist, and business owner. We talk about the hot topics so many creatives are wondering about, like whether AI steals art, how it impacts the environment, what we can do about it, and how to think through using AI in an ethical and intentional way. And spoiler alert: this conversation is not as one-sided as you might think. If AI feels exciting, confusing, inspiring, or even a little unsettling, this episode will give you a lot to think about. Theresa brings nuance, wisdom, and a balanced perspective to a topic that affects artists and business owners more and more each day. In This Episode, We Talk About: How Theresa uses AI as a quilter, artist, and business owner The concerns creatives have about AI and art theft Ethical questions around using AI in creative work The environmental impact of AI and why it matters What creatives can do to use AI more thoughtfully How to think about AI without fear, panic, or blind acceptance Why this conversation is more layered and nuanced than many people realize Listen to This Episode If You: Feel curious or cautious about Artificial Intelligence Wonder whether AI steals from artists Want to think more deeply about AI and ethics Are trying to decide whether AI has a place in your creative business Want a balanced conversation about technology, creativity, and responsibility Resources Mentioned in This Episode Water Runs Through Everything We Build The Conscious Creative’s Guide: AI Tools That Won’t Steal Your Soul Thirsty Intelligence Whitepaper Ethics & Values Articles from The AI Quilter Digital Muse Landing Page Digital Muse Product Page Digital Muse on Amazon About Theresa Benson About Theresa Benson Theresa Benson, also known as The AI Quilter, helps quilters, artists, and creative business owners think more carefully and creatively about technology. Her work explores how AI can be used in ways that support human creativity rather than replace it, with an emphasis on ethics, responsibility, and keeping your own voice at the center of your work. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/40691445

Michael Eason of Quilchemy: How He Turned a Love of EPP Into a Thriving Quilting Business 03/27/2026

How Muppins Emporium Became a “Must-Visit” Quilt Shop in Paducah 03/06/2026

How to Build a Sustainable Creative Business with Abby Glassenberg of Craft Industry Alliance 02/13/2026

Building a Creative Career That Pays: Inside Carina Gardner’s University of Arts and Design 01/30/2026

Building a Creative Career That Pays: Inside Carina Gardner’s University of Arts and Design What if getting a degree in design didn’t mean writing a thesis—but instead meant building a real, revenue-generating business? In this episode, I’m joined by Carina Gardner, who is doing something truly bold: she’s opened her own university. The University of Arts and Design is unlike any traditional university experience. Think of it as a trade school for creatives, where students learn practical, real-world skills—like keeping their books with QuickBooks, pricing their work, and running a profitable business. Instead of writing a thesis for a master’s degree, students are required to create and run a business. Carina knows both sides of the academic world. She holds a PhD from the University of Minnesota and spent years watching talented creatives hear the same discouraging messages: “You can’t earn money as a creative.” “Don’t study art—you’ll just be a starving artist.” But Carina—and many of her peers—are living proof that those statements simply aren’t true. In this conversation, Carina shares how creatives can build multiple six-figure businesses by selling their art and designs—not by teaching others how to be creative, but by doing the work themselves. This episode is an inspiring look at what’s possible when creativity and business come together—with intention, structure, and confidence. In this episode, we talk about: Why Carina started the University of Arts and Design How this model differs from traditional art and design degrees What creatives actually need to learn to earn real income Why running a business replaces a thesis How artists and designers can build sustainable, profitable careers If you’ve ever loved creating—but wondered how to make it financially sustainable—this episode will open your eyes to a new way forward. 🎧 Come meet Carina and learn all about the university she’s built—and the future she believes creatives deserve. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/39924750

The Personalized Skincare Business Model That’s Changing Results—and Why It Works 01/23/2026

The Personalized Skincare Business Model That’s Changing Results—and Why It Works In this episode, I’m joined by Dawn Jett, founder of Spruce Micro, a company I truly love and personally use. Spruce Micro has one of the most compelling business models I’ve seen, and it solves a very real problem for so many people: stubborn skin concerns like dark spots, large pores, uneven skin tone, and texture issues that just don’t respond to one-size-fits-all solutions. Dawn shares why she started Spruce Micro, how the business works, and what makes it so different from traditional skincare clinics. Here’s the unique part: Spruce Micro doesn’t rely on lasers or chemical peels. Instead, every client receives a fully customized skincare protocol, tailored specifically to their skin, lifestyle, and goals. No generic routines. Everything is done virtually. Clients send in high-quality photos of their skin, Dawn and her team carefully look at your skin concerns, then they create a personalized morning and evening routine you can do entirely from home. And the results? Truly impressive. Dawn has worked with thousands of clients across all skin tones and skin types, helping people achieve results that exceed what they thought was possible. I’ve personally been working with Dawn for several months now, and I’m beyond pleased with my own results, which is why I asked her to come on the podcast. Not just to talk about skincare, but to break down the business model behind Spruce Micro. In this conversation, we explore why Spruce Micro is such a strong, sustainable business: It solves a clear, specific problem It’s membership-based, allowing flexibility while encouraging long-term loyalty It’s highly personalized and difficult to replicate These are the ingredients of a business built to last. Whether you’re interested in improving your complexion or you’re a business owner looking for inspiration you can apply to your own work, this episode is packed with insight. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/39845755

How to Make a Living Selling Quilts: A Unique Business Model with Sarah LoCascio of Caravan Quilts 12/19/2025

How to Make a Living Selling Quilts: A Unique Business Model with Sarah LoCascio of Caravan Quilts Have you ever wondered whether you could truly make a living selling quilts? In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Sarah LoCascio, the creative entrepreneur behind Caravan Quilts, shares her answer. And it’s a big, resounding YES. Sarah has built a quilting business that's unique in the industry. Her weekly quilt drops sell out quickly because her approach blends three powerful elements: Genuine product scarcity Deep education and storytelling A compelling focus on history and craftsmanship It’s a recipe that not only delights her audience, but also proves that quilters can earn real income selling quilts. What You’ll Learn in This Episode 1. How Caravan Quilts Started Sarah shares when and why she began her business, the inspiration behind her unique model, and how it took shape over time. 2. The Power of Scarcity in Handmade Goods Discover why having a limited number of quilts available each week actually increases demand and keeps customers excited. 3. Why Education Sets Her Business Apart Sarah explains how teaching her audience about quilt history, construction, care, and storytelling builds trust and connection. 4. A Day in the Life of a Quilt Seller Get an honest look at what her schedule, workflow, sourcing, and production timelines look like. 5. What Makes Her Business Different From Other Quilting Careers From sourcing vintage quilts to curating collections, Sarah’s daily work looks very different from a typical quilter or designer. 6. Tips for Anyone Who Wants to Earn Money Selling Quilts Sarah offers advice for beginners, including what to focus on first, how to set yourself apart, and what pitfalls to avoid. Episode Highlights How Sarah discovered a market willing to pay premium prices for quilts Why storytelling can transform your product sales The systems she uses to manage inventory and weekly drops How she built a loyal, engaged customer base The role social media plays in showcasing her work What success looks like behind the scenes of a quilt-selling business Is Selling Quilts Actually Profitable? According to Sarah—yes. With intention, a strong brand voice, consistent storytelling, and a thoughtful business model, quilting can be a sustainable career. This episode is perfect for you if: You dream of selling quilts online or at markets You want to understand real-world business models in the quilting world You’re curious how other quilters make a living You love hearing creative, entrepreneurial stories You want to learn from someone successfully doing what many assume isn’t possible /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/39129325

How Ruthlessly Handmade Is Using Charity Quilts to Change Lives 12/12/2025

How Ruthlessly Handmade Is Using Charity Quilts to Change Lives In this inspiring episode, Sarah Morris, the creative behind Ruthlessly Handmade, shares the story of how she began hosting charity quilt events that have touched countless lives. What started as a single fundraiser two years ago has grown into an annual tradition, raising money each year for causes close to her heart: Isaiah 117 House and the Trevor Project. Her passion for helping others shines through as she talks about why she started this movement, how the quilting community shows up in powerful ways, and what’s ahead as she expands her charity events to happen twice a year for two different organizations. From assembling quilt blocks to purchasing raffle tickets for the finished quilts, quilters everywhere can be part of something meaningful. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Sarah began her charity quilt journey and why Isaiah 117 House is meaningful to her The incredible growth of her fundraising efforts over the past two years Why quilting has become a powerful avenue for giving back How you can get involved in upcoming charity quilt projects Details about block-making sign-ups and quilt raffles The future of Ruthlessly Handmade’s charity events, including plans to host them twice a year Get Involved Quilters can support these charity events in two main ways: Sign up to sew quilt blocks for upcoming charity quilts. Purchase raffle tickets when the completed quilts become available, all proceeds donated directly to the chosen organizations. 👉 and be notified when block-making opens and when finished quilts go up for raffle. Key Takeaways One person with a passion for service can spark a movement. Quilting isn’t just a craft—it can be a powerful tool for helping others. The quilting community is generous, committed, and eager to give back. Sarah’s story is a beautiful reminder of how creativity can create real change. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/39376690

How H+H Americas Is Transforming the Craft Industry with Darrin Stern 12/05/2025

How H+H Americas Is Transforming the Craft Industry with Darrin Stern Meet Darrin Stern, the visionary leader behind H+H Americas and the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival. In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell sits down with Darrin to uncover how these two powerhouse events came to life, and why they are transforming the fiber, fabric, and crafting industries. While some claim the quilting or fabric industry is “dying,” Darrin shares a very different story. His work proves that creativity, community, and craft are thriving more than ever. H+H Americas has quickly become one of the most exciting annual events for makers, brands, designers, and businesses alike, drawing global attendees to Chicago each year. At this dynamic multi-day gathering, you’ll find: Runway shows featuring fabric and fiber artistry Ice-cream socials, happy hours, and community meet-ups Live podcast recordings Classes, panels, and hands-on demos Retail opportunities for customers (Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival) Wholesale and business-focused exhibits (H+H Americas) Although the event is young, just three years old, it continues to grow rapidly as word spreads about the uniquely vibrant energy it brings to the crafting world. Whether you’re a quilt pattern designer, a shop owner, a fabric lover, or simply curious about what a major industry event looks like, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what makes these shows so special. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How H+H Americas began and how Darrin Stern brought the vision to life Why the fiber and fabric industries are thriving, not declining The difference between H+H Americas and the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival What attendees can expect at the Chicago event—from runways to networking How the show has evolved over its first three years Why these events are becoming must-attend gatherings for both customers and business owners How creators, designers, and brands can benefit from participating Why this is the place to be for anyone in the quilting or fiber world Episode Highlights Darrin’s personal journey and what led him to the craft industry A look at how events like these shape the future of quilting and crafting Behind-the-scenes stories from past H+H Americas shows Opportunities for business owners, educators, and influencers The growing excitement around the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival (the consumer show held the day before H+H Americas) If You’ve Ever Wondered… Should I attend H+H Americas as a business owner? What is the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival and who is it for? Is the quilting industry shrinking—or growing? What happens at a major fiber and craft trade show? What opportunities exist for designers, makers, or shop owners? …this episode will answer all of that and more. Tune In Whether you are planning to attend, dreaming of attending, or simply curious about what a world-class craft event looks like, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Darrin shares the heart, strategy, and passion behind an event that is shaping the future of our industry. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/39129075

Longarm Quilting Success: Business Strategies from Tia Curtis 11/28/2025

Longarm Quilting Success: Business Strategies from Tia Curtis If you’ve ever dreamed of building a thriving longarm quilting business—or you’re looking to grow the one you already have—this episode is packed with valuable insight. Elizabeth Chappell sits down with longarm expert Tia Curtis, a sought-after quilter known for her artistry, efficiency, and strong client relationships. Tia has grown her longarm business into a full and flourishing creative career. In this conversation, she shares her journey, the lessons she’s learned, and the business strategies that have helped her stand out in a growing and competitive industry. Whether you’re a brand-new longarmer, a seasoned quilter, or a pattern designer looking to add longarm services, you’ll walk away with practical guidance and inspiration. What You’ll Learn in This Episode 1. How Tia Got Started in Longarm Quilting Hear how Tia first discovered longarm quilting and what drew her to the craft, and how this is the most lucrative part of her business. 2. Pricing and Profitability Tips Tia breaks down how she prices her work, how she sets boundaries, and what it takes to run a sustainable longarm business. 3. How to Build Strong Client Relationships Great longarmers don’t just deliver beautiful quilting. They deliver a great experience. Tia shares her approach to communication to create loyal (and happy) repeat clients. 4. Mistakes New Longarmers Should Avoid Tia offers honest, encouraging advice on what to watch out for, what to prioritize, and how to grow confidently. Who This Episode Is For New longarm quilters looking for guidance Quilt pattern designers wanting to expand into longarm services Seasoned longarmers wanting to grow their client base Makers who want to turn quilting into a profitable business Anyone who is curious about the longarm quilting industry Why You’ll Love This Episode Tia’s approach to longarm quilting is both artistic and strategic. She is generous with her knowledge and transparent about what it really takes to grow a thriving business. This episode will leave you inspired, encouraged, and equipped with actionable steps you can apply immediately. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/39129205

Meet Cindy Cloward of Riley Blake Designs: Inside One of the World’s Leading Fabric Companies 11/21/2025

Meet Cindy Cloward of Riley Blake Designs: Inside One of the World’s Leading Fabric Companies In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell sits down with Cindy Cloward, owner of Riley Blake Designs, one of the largest and most influential fabric manufacturers in the world. Riley Blake is known for its high-quality quilting cottons, stunning designer collaborations, notions, patterns, and its iconic Garden of Quilts event. Cindy shares the inspiring story behind the company’s beginnings, how it has grown into a global brand, and what exciting things are on the horizon for Riley Blake. From manufacturing insights to brand-building, this conversation offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a powerhouse in the quilting industry. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Riley Blake Designs began Hear the origin story of the company, why it was created, and how the Cloward family stepped into the world of fabric manufacturing. Behind-the-scenes insights into fabric manufacturing Get a peek into what it really takes to run a large-scale fabric company that serves quilters and sewists around the world. What makes Riley Blake unique Learn about the products, designers, and events, such as the beloved Garden of Quilts, that set the company apart. Exciting new things coming to Riley Blake Cindy shares upcoming launches, innovations, and future plans. How Cindy turned her craft into a thriving career Be inspired by Cindy’s business journey and her passion for creativity, community, and quality. Why You’ll Love This Episode If you’ve ever wondered who makes the fabrics you adore, how the quilting industry operates behind the scenes, or what it takes to build a company that supports thousands of makers, this episode is a must-listen. Cindy’s insights into entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership will inspire any craft-lover dreaming of growing a creative business. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/39119260

From Hobby to Industry Leader: Kimberly Jolly of Fat Quarter Shop 11/07/2025

From Hobby to Industry Leader: Kimberly Jolly of Fat Quarter Shop In this inspiring episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell chats with Kimberly Jolly, founder and CEO of Fat Quarter Shop, one of the most recognized quilting retailers in the world. Kimberly shares her journey from running a small eBay fabric store out of her home to leading a thriving business that serves quilters across the globe. She opens up about how the company began, what fueled its rapid growth, and the strategies that helped it stay strong in a changing industry. Whether you’re a fabric lover, pattern designer, or entrepreneur in the creative space, this conversation is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The Origin Story: How Fat Quarter Shop started as a small home-based business and grew into one of the world’s leading online quilting retailers. The Evolving Quilting Industry: Kimberly’s perspective on how the quilting landscape is changing—and what trends are shaping its future. What Fat Quarter Shop Looks For: As one of the top buyers in the quilting world, Kimberly shares what makes a product truly stand out. What’s Missing in the Industry: Insight into the gaps Kimberly sees in today’s market and opportunities for creative entrepreneurs to fill them. Words of Wisdom for Entrepreneurs: The key lessons Kimberly wishes she had known when she first started—and how you can apply them to your own business journey. About Kimberly Jolly Kimberly Jolly is the founder of Fat Quarter Shop, a leading online quilt and fabric retailer known for its vast selection, YouTube tutorials, and beloved community of quilters. With her deep love for quilting and dedication to exceptional service, Kimberly has built a brand synonymous with creativity, quality, and innovation in the quilting world. SHOW LINKS – Save 50% on your first year of using my favorite email marketing provider. Code: QUILTERSCANDY – Teaching a course or starting a membership? Kajabi is THE platform I use and love! Try it for free with my affiliate link. /episode/index/show/crafttocareer/id/38946550

How Thimtec Turned an Idea Into a Thriving Quilting Product Business 10/30/2025

Mentoring Quilt Pattern Designers & Going Viral on Instagram with Maggie Reno of Snug and Stitch 08/13/2025

How to Make Business Friends (and Why It Matters More Than You Think) 07/22/2025

How to Get Thousands to Join Your Quilt Along: Proven Strategies for Hosting a Successful Online Event 07/14/2025

From Fashion to Freedom: How Christine Lindebak Built a Creative Sewing Business She Loves 06/30/2025

Craft To Career

TOPICS