1.   How did you get started in quilting?

After the Camp Fire, my husband and I bought a house in Chico. Both my neighbor and a friend each gave me sewing machines, as I had lost mine in the fire. I retired from teaching in Paradise and then came COVID. I started sewing again to make masks for family and neighbors, using the fat quarters from Honey Run. I was even mailing packs of masks off to anyone that needed them or would use them. One day, Sheri at Honey Run told me that if I could sew a mask, I could make a quilt! So, I decided to try a quilting kit, and wow! It actually turned out ok! I was excited to meet Terri Clary and signed up for three of her quilting classes at Cathy's. I learned so much in her classes! Thank you, Terri!

2.   What is one quilting notion that you can’t do without?

Definitely my rotary cutter. And I love my Quilter's Select non-slip rulers! Especially my 2 ½" x 6 ½" and my 6" x 12" rulers. These come in handy when I'm working with small fabric cuts. Of course, my trusty Clover seam ripper is my best friend.

3.   If you’re willing, please share a funny quilting experience that taught you a memorable lesson.

 I’ve made lots of mistakes along the way. But, I just have to look at the problem and fix it the best I can. I used to hate taking out a seam! But, now I realize it’s just part of the art of sewing.

4.   If it’s possible to choose just one, what is your favorite quilt that you’ve made?

I love all of them! But, I really like how my Ohio Star Quilt turned out. It’s made with blue, green, and white batiks. I used an Ohio Star Quilt cutting die by Accuquilt. I love all of the Accuquilt strip dies. So that the cuts are precise, I use my Accuquilt dies. This has been a game changer for me!     



5.    What do you do with your quilts?

I love making quilts for my grandkids! But, they are Hawaii kiddos. So, I can’t inundate them with covers. It’s just too hot! I’ve given several away as Christmas gifts or just friendship gifts. Though, I’ve kept many that I just couldn’t part with yet.

6.    Have you ever received a quilt as a gift? If so, please share a bit about the experience.

Yes. When I was a young adult, my aunt made a strip quilt for me that I loved and used on my bed for many years. It was made from fabric leftovers and very random. But, it was just so special. It was tied and not quilted. 

7.    What type of quilting do you most enjoy?

I love taking classes and learning new skills. I just finished the Hanging Gardens Quilt Top. The class was taught by Patti Taylor. I used the same Christmas Jelly Roll as she used in her quilt and I just love it. The quilting skills in Terri’s Quilting 103 class were helpful with the "on point" design and the border design. Thank you, Patti and Terri.



8.    We would love to include some personal details about you (anything you’d like to share) such as your profession, interests outside of quilting, future plans, etc.

My yellow lab, Bodie, is my constant friend. He gets me outside for a daily walk and lays at my feet when I’m sewing. Thank you, Bodie!

I taught primary grades in Paradise and at Pine Ridge in Magalia. I retired in June 2019 after teaching 36 years for Paradise Unified. After losing our home in the Camp Fire, we finally found a home in Chico. It’s not too far from Cathy’s Sew and Vac. I never thought I could make a quilt. It looked so difficult! But, the wonderful staff at Cathy’s and Honey Run have been so very helpful and encouraging. They are truly an amazing staff and I sincerely appreciate all of their help and support.