We all love fabric and it's always a real treat to see the up and coming fabric collections, sewing patterns, gadgets and notions... But the best part of Quilt Market is always, always, always the people. We speak the same language, we understand each other, and we are all each others' biggest fans. People come from all over the world to attend Quilt Market. The best people ever. I'm sure of it. Here are just a few of them.
Bari Ackerman of Bari J. (whom I first met at market 5 years ago and now she's my local bestie!) and Jane "Quiltjane" Davidson. I love both of these women and I'm lucky enough to get to see Bari often since we both live in the Phoenix area. But Jane lives in Brisbane, Australia (where the BeeGees grew up!) and I only get to see her at market. She's simply the sweetest, funnest gal and she showers us with TimTams. I love her.
Here is my pal Scott Hansen stitching during school house. I'm pleased to say he finished his project in time and then spent some time at a "Man Spa" getting all shaved and spiffed up for the rest of market. The life of a man-quilter. You can also find Scott on the cover of the Shirtless Man and Spicy Burrito Calendar (it's for a good cause and you can look at shirtless men, burritoes, and quilts all year!).
Here are Mary and Barb from Me and My Sister for Moda. I don't get to see them as much since Mary moved from Phoenix to New Mexico (dangit). They are always loads of fun and giggles.
This is Valori Wells' booth but that's Jenean Morrison cracking up about something in it. Jenean had a great school house presentation. Her presentations are always fun because they feel interactive (she asks questions and we ask questions and it's all a hoot). She's the best.
Here is Vanessa Christenson of V and Co. in her booth over in the Moda corridor. I like Vanessa. She's chipper and kind but spunky. Oh, and beautifully talented. My kind of gal.
Here is my friend (and neighbor!) Heather Bailey chatting with some gals at her booth. Sometimes I run into Heather when I schlep up to the corner market here at home but there's something fun about getting to chat at Quilt Market. It's a special event and we are both wearing makeup.
The Modern Quilt Guilt Meet-up is always loads of fun and another opportunity to run into some great folks. Here are my homies Christy Fincher of Purple Daisies, LLC (her business with her mom Sharon Schamber) and Alyssa Lichner of Pile o' Fabric, and Bari. They are all my local friends and for some reason it's just exciting to get together at market even though we can get together at home any time.
Here is Camille Roskelley and her cute husband Jarom. I always wonder what the husbands think about having to stop and pose for pictures all the time. Jarom looked like he had it all figure out by the time I came around for a picture. Camille is a warm, fun gal and she gave me some great Disneyland advice (we're both fans).
Here are Alyssa Haight Carlton and Jacquie Gehring giving away prizes (lots and lots including a baby lock serger!) at the MQG Meet-up. They were very popular that night. I didn't win anything but that did not lower my opinion of them in any way.
And Scott again (check out those new sideburns from his man spa visit) chatting with the ever nice, Kate Spain. Two nice people have a nice (I'm sure of it) conversation (while being stalked by me). Nice.
These are just a few of the people who make market worth the trip (and expense). I've never met a mean person at quilt market (well, maybe just one but I've banished her from my psyche). The folks are just as friendly as they are talented. That's why it's worth going.
