A Favorite Free Pattern + Spring Cleaning Ideas

Hello friends! Thanks so much for reading my newsletter! This week I've got some great spring-cleaning inspiration, an introduction to a new website of inspiration and organization just for quilters, and a look at my favorite spring quilt + where you can find the free pattern.

How to Spring Clean Your Sewing Machine

How often should you clean out your sewing machine? Or change your needle? For optimum use, it might be more often than you think.

Since it’s spring I thought I’d share some quick tips on how to clean your sewing machine at home as well as other sewing machine maintenance tips to help keep your machine running smoothly.

It’s really easy to follow a few simple routines that will improve your sewing machine performance as well as prolong the life of your machine.

Fun Finds on the Web: More Spring Cleaning Inspiration

I'm writing this list somewhat selfishly today because my sewing room is in dire need of some serious spring cleaning!

Sherri McConnell from A Quilting Life has an inspiring post to help you spring clean your sewing space with lots of practical ideas​

Jeni Baker also shared an motivating post about keeping your sewing table neat and clutter free. (Plus, I always love peeks into other people's sewing rooms.)

If you're looking for some help with organization, Sew What Alicia has a simple tutorial for clear zipper pouches to help you keep all of your supplies handy and easy to find.

Spring is a good time to take air out your quilts and refold them. Shelly from Ma Tante Quilting has a great tutorial for folding quilts on the bias for better storage (and fewer long term creases.)​

Meet A New Online Space Just for Quilters

I have a fun guest post to share with you this week from Barbara and Ula, the creators of Quiltie. They’ve built a new platform just for quilters, and if you enjoy finding pattern inspiration, tracking your projects, and connecting with other makers, I think you’ll love seeing what they’ve created.

I've been playing with Quiltie over the past week and am really enjoying the site. To be honest, it reminds me a lot of Flickr from 15 years ago. Just photos and sharing; no ads, no algorithms, no distracting Reels (if you find those overstimulating or distracting like I do). Just lots and lots of quilt inspiration.

I also like the organizational aspect of it where you can save ideas to your own profile as well as easily access patterns you want to try. If you give it a try, I'd love to hear what you think.

A Favorite Recent Make—and the Perfect Pattern for Busting Your Stash

Last spring I had so much fun working on this Easter-inspired Checkered Garden quilt and this year I'm thoroughly enjoying it displayed on my banister railing for spring. This quilt was made using a free block pattern and is perfect for using scraps, Fat Quarter bundles or Jelly Rolls.

Each block is like a mini quilt, perfect for playing with different color and fabric combinations. It has that perfect scrappy-patchwork look while still feeling really organized and timeless. This pattern lets a mix of fabrics shine while still creating a beautifully cohesive quilt.

What's on my mind this week...

If you're feeling like the world feels full of chaos, know you're not alone! I'm still trying to navigate what it looks like to stay engaged with current events and not get overwhelmed. It's never felt more challenging.

And close to home, so many loved ones are dealing with hard, hard stuff. We lost a dear friend to cancer this week, and other friends are deep in the cancer-fight, taking care of aging parents, etc. It can feel overwhelming to know how to be effective helping when there are so many I want to help. You all can relate, I'm sure.

I'm learning to start small - to do what I can, with my own limited capacity - for individuals in my sphere of influence. Just like my friend Xiong that I shared about last week. And hold on to the reminder that the cumulative efforts of many who are doing small things really does make a difference in the world.

If you're looking for a way to help, Stacey Lee is kicking off her annual quilt donation drive for kids in foster care. It's a great opportunity to help a sweet cause as well as connect with other great quilters. Click the link above for all of the details. She's got prompts and prizes to help us stay motivated.

Happy Easter weekend to all who are celebrating. 🌸

I personally love Easter. For me it's a reminder that hard can become holy. Life is full of Friday's where life feels bleak and where are hopes feel shattered. Easter reminds me to not give up hope that Sunday will come.

See you next week. 🌸

xo,

Amy

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