Q: So that is how you started teaching?
A: At first I couldn't imagine myself teaching, but when I discovered all the tools that were available, like rotary cutters and special rulers, it opened up a new world to me. I was an accountant, but I had decided to stay home with my kids when they were smaller, so I had the time to quilt and start into some teaching. Then I started writing books, and doing training videos for Viking and Pfaff. We eventually moved to Texas, and then I could teach all over the country, which had been difficult when I was in Alaska. I became heavily booked up. Then 6 years ago I suffered a personal tragedy, but I was so booked, I just kept going to fulfill all my bookings. When I finally stopped, it all hit me and I found myself unable to teach or create at all for years. Certain companies like Hoffman Fabrics and WonderFil Threads continued to support me and didn't forget about me. That meant the world to me. I eventually spent six months struggling to work out a specific pattern for Hoffman, and once I got through it, I was able to start teaching and creating again.
Q. What are your favorite WonderFil threads?
A. I have been working a lot with wool lately, so I absolutely love Razzle, Dazzle and Sizzle (8 weight rayon with percentages of metallic). The shine of the rayon and metallic look so great with the wool. I have also just started digitizing for machine embroidery, so I am looking forward to trying more of your embroidery threads, like Splendor.
Find out more about Trish Stuart and her incredible work on her website: trishstuart.com
With Love and Threads,
WonderFil