SEAMSIDE: Exploring the Inner Work of Textiles

Marlee Grace, a writer, dancer, and quilter based in rural Michigan, shares their journey of self-identification as non-binary and how it shapes their creative expression. They discuss feeling like an outsider in the quilting world and advocate for inclusivity in quilting education. Marlee reflects on the emotional and historical significance of quilts, the importance of personal connections, and the therapeutic power of vibrant colors in their work. They emphasize creating art for personal fulfillment rather than external validation.

Udita (website and @uditau) and me dream up a quilt that 1) has a snake resting on a branch, and 2) is also a stained-glass windowCall the CRAZY QUILT HOTLINE open 24/7 at (828) 278-8211‬ and leave me a message anytime of day or night⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK

In this conversation with quilter Judy Martin, we explore: ① the tole time plays in our work② how we can meet ourselves in our materials③ how our creative arc shifts over timeYou can learn more about Judy on her website and instagram.⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK⤷ Theme music: Roll Jordan Roll by the Joy Drops

Hannah (@_hagtime and @ragfairtextiles) and I dream up a quilt that will 1) help you survive a trip over Niagara Falls, and 2) is inspired by a goldfishWant to be on the show? All contestants are asked to call the CRAZY QUILT HOTLINE open 24/7 and leave me a voicemail (and don't worry, it won't actually ring my phone so call anytime. The number to call is >>> (828) 278-8211‬

Victoria Gertenbach and I sit down a year later to catch up on where her work has taken her since we last talked. Have you heard our original conversation? You can listen to it hereSupport SEAMSIDE alum Lou Gardiner who been re-diagnosed recently with cancer. You can find her Gofundme page here.

In this conversation with quilter Coulter Fussell, we explore: ① role community plays in her work② maintains hope in the face of conflict and turmoil③ the South and family historyYou can learn more about Coulter on her website and instagram.⤷ Get your free trial to the THE QUILTY NOOK⤷ Theme music: Roll Jordan Roll by the Joy Drops

I have wanted to follow up with Maura ever since she first joined us on SOFT BULK. Her candor and generosity radiate easily in this conversation as we discuss:① the balance of tensions between art-making and parenthood② the work and writings of sculptor Anne Truitt③ how to build a sustainable commission process for yourselfYou can learn more about Maura on her website and instagram.

Beverly Smith catches us up with where her textile work has taken her in the last year since we talked. Have you heard our original conversation? You can listen to it here

Kathryn Greenwood Swanson is the owner of Swanson’s Fabric and purveyor of secondhand fabrics. In this conversation, we discuss:① the role of the communal stashhouse in a community of fiber artists② the shame so often associated with our fabric stashes③ and how to start your own secondhand fabric store like Swanson’s FabricsYou can also watch that episode of Good Morning America from 1999 that Kathryn appeared on here. It’s incredible to see just what a powerhouse Kathryn already was at 15 🙆‍♂️You can learn more about Kathryn and Swanson’s Fabrics on instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.You can learn more about Kathryn and Swanson’s on instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.

Emma Freeman catches us up with where her textile work has taken her in the last year since we talked. Have you heard our original conversation? You can listen to it here