Not Your Granny's Quilt Show

Amanda Oros

A slightly chaotic podcast about all things quilting. Join Amanda as she discusses the ups and downs of quilting, interviews famous and not-so-famous quilters, and navigates life as a modern millennial maker. Trust us, this is not your granny’s quilt show. Follow Amanda on Instagram at @notyourgrannysquiltshow

  1. Meet Brent McGee! Sculptural Quilter | Fiber Artist | 3D Quilt Art - Ep. 209

    2d ago

    Meet Brent McGee! Sculptural Quilter | Fiber Artist | 3D Quilt Art - Ep. 209

    This week on Not Your Granny's Quilt Show, I'm joined by Brent McGee, a textile artist whose creative journey has taken him from the stage to the sewing studio. Before quilting became his calling, Brent lived a life immersed in the performing arts. A professionally trained musician, he performed in musical theater and spent several years entertaining audiences in a New York City piano bar. Creativity was always part of his life, thanks to a family that encouraged artistic expression. Everything changed during the 2020 lockdowns. Taking an unexpected break from live performance, Brent's sister commissioned him to create a textile art piece for her new home. The satisfaction of completing that project awakened something new. What began as a single commission quickly became an artistic obsession fueled by curiosity, experimentation, and a desire to explore the possibilities of fiber. Brent's early work explored hand-dyed fabrics and intricate hand quilting, culminating in his award-winning piece Intertidal Invertebrates. But instead of settling into a style, he challenged himself once again. Today, Brent primarily works with unbleached muslin and wool batting, creating sculptural textile art that embraces the natural qualities of the materials. Rather than forcing the fabric into a preconceived design, Brent listens to what the fabric wants to become. Through that process, he has found a deeper connection between creativity, intuition, and spirituality. In this episode, we talk about: Transitioning from professional musician to textile artist Finding a new creative path during the 2020 lockdowns Hand quilting and sculptural textile art Working with unbleached muslin and wool batting Letting materials guide the creative process Curiosity, experimentation, and artistic growth Creativity as a spiritual practice We also discuss Brent's piece Apollo and Python, which has been accepted into Quilt Visions at the Visions Museum of Textile Art. The exhibition runs from October 24, 2026 through January 16, 2027. If you love contemporary quilting, textile art, hand quilting, or conversations about creativity and artistic growth, this episode is for you. Follow Brent and explore his incredible work:@brentmcgeequilts on Instagram Subscribe for more conversations with the artists, makers, and innovators shaping the future of quilting. Episodes are recorded, edited and produced by Amanda Oros.Logo art by Myranda Mondry. Want to see more? You can find it here: Find Podcast Merch here! nygqs.printify.meFollow along on Instagram: Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/notyourgrannysquiltshow Long-arming - https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeadesigncompanySubscribe to YouTube: https://youtube.com/@notyourgrannysquiltshowSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/notyourgrannysquiltshowWant to be on the show? Send us a message

    2h 14m
  2. Carolina Oneto on Color Theory, Quilt Art, and Finding Your Creative Voice - Ep. 208

    Jun 22

    Carolina Oneto on Color Theory, Quilt Art, and Finding Your Creative Voice - Ep. 208

    This week on Not Your Granny's Quilt Show, I'm joined by Carolina Oneto, an internationally recognized quilt artist, teacher, and soon-to-be author whose work beautifully blends color, design, and artistic expression. Born in Chile, Carolina's path to quilting was anything but traditional. Like many quilters, she began her professional life in engineering, working in the field for several years and teaching at her alma mater before ultimately pursuing quilting full time. As Carolina developed her quilting skills, she sought out opportunities to learn from respected artists throughout South America, including mentors in Argentina and Brazil. A pivotal moment came when she studied color interaction and color theory with Lucia Stacchetti. That experience transformed the way Carolina viewed her work and helped her shift from seeing quilting as a craft to embracing it as an art form. Today, Carolina creates award-winning quilts, teaches online and in-person classes around the world, and exhibits her work internationally. Her quilts are known for their striking use of color, movement, and thoughtful design, inspiring quilters to think differently about their own creative process. In this episode, we talk about: Transitioning from engineering to professional quilting The role of color theory in quilt design Studying with influential quilt artists in South America Viewing quilts as art Teaching quilting around the world Finding and developing your artistic voice Carolina's upcoming book project We also discuss the evolution of Carolina's work and how continuing education, experimentation, and curiosity have shaped her creative journey. If you're interested in color, quilt design, textile art, or hearing how artists develop their unique perspective, this episode is one you won't want to miss. Learn more about Carolina, her classes, workshops, and newsletter:Carolina Oneto Official Website Follow Carolina on Instagram:@carolina_oneto Subscribe for more conversations with quilters, artists, educators, and creatives shaping the future of quilting. Episodes are recorded, edited and produced by Amanda Oros.Logo art by Myranda Mondry. Want to see more? You can find it here: Find Podcast Merch here! nygqs.printify.meFollow along on Instagram: Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/notyourgrannysquiltshow Long-arming - https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeadesigncompanySubscribe to YouTube: https://youtube.com/@notyourgrannysquiltshowSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/notyourgrannysquiltshowWant to be on the show? Send us a message

    1h 5m
  3. What Your Longarm Quilter Wishes Every Quilter Knew | Longarm Quilting Tips - Ep. 207

    Jun 15

    What Your Longarm Quilter Wishes Every Quilter Knew | Longarm Quilting Tips - Ep. 207

    This week on Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show, the guest is... me! When I'm not behind the microphone, I'm running my longarm quilting business, Sweet Pea Design Company, helping quilters finish their projects and bring their quilt tops to life. In this episode, I'm sharing my updated guide to preparing a quilt for longarm quilting. While I've covered some of these topics before, it felt like the perfect time to revisit the process, answer common questions, and explain the reasoning behind many of the requests longarm quilters make. Whether you're sending your very first quilt to a longarmer or you're a seasoned quilter looking for a refresher, this episode covers practical tips to help your quilting experience go smoothly. We'll talk about: How to prepare your quilt top for longarm quilting Backing fabric requirements and common mistakes Choosing the right batting for your project Different batting options and how they affect the finished quilt How to select a pantograph design Why longarm quilters have specific preparation requirements Building a successful relationship with your longarm quilter Every longarm quilter has their own preferences and process, but these tips are based on years of experience and my commitment to delivering the best possible results for every quilt that comes through my studio. Most importantly, I hope this episode helps demystify the longarm quilting process and encourages quilters to communicate openly with their longarmer. The relationship you build with the person finishing your quilt can make all the difference. Have questions after listening? Reach out! I'm always happy to help fellow quilters better understand the longarm quilting process. Thank you for listening, watching, and supporting Not Your Granny's Quilt Show. I appreciate every one of you. Episodes are recorded, edited and produced by Amanda Oros.Logo art by Myranda Mondry. Want to see more? You can find it here: Find Podcast Merch here! nygqs.printify.meFollow along on Instagram: Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/notyourgrannysquiltshow Long-arming - https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeadesigncompanySubscribe to YouTube: https://youtube.com/@notyourgrannysquiltshowSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/notyourgrannysquiltshowWant to be on the show? Send us a message

    40 min
  4. Steph Skardal on QuiltCon 2027, Modern Quilting, and the Quilty Solid App - Ep. 206

    Jun 1

    Steph Skardal on QuiltCon 2027, Modern Quilting, and the Quilty Solid App - Ep. 206

    This week on Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show, I’m joined by Steph Skardal, quilter, fiber artist, software engineer, and the featured artist for QuiltCon 2027. Steph’s work has been exhibited in quilt shows and featured in books and magazines, earning recognition for her innovative approach to quilting and textile art. Whether she is designing quilts, experimenting with color, or exploring new artistic concepts, Steph is always pushing the boundaries of what quilting can be. By day, Steph works as a software engineer, and that analytical mindset led her to create Quilty Solid, a free app designed to help quilters make more confident fabric and color choices. The tool allows users to explore and compare solid fabric collections from multiple manufacturers, making it easier to visualize color combinations before cutting into fabric. In this episode, we talk about:  Preparing for her featured artist exhibit at QuiltCon 2027  The intersection of technology and quilting  Using color intentionally in quilt design  Developing the Quilty Solid app  Creativity, experimentation, and artistic growth  Pushing boundaries in modern quilting Steph also shares insights into her recent work and the creative process behind building a cohesive body of quilts for a major exhibition. We discuss how her perspective as both an engineer and artist influences her design decisions and why she is passionate about creating tools that help quilters spend less time second-guessing fabric choices and more time making. We also chat about her recently announced color palette for the Windham Fabric Challenge and what excites her about the future of quilting and textile art. If you love modern quilting, color theory, quilt design, technology, or seeing artists challenge expectations, this episode is for you. Learn more about Steph, her quilts, classes, and creative work: https://www.stephskardalquilts.com/ Follow Steph on Instagram: @stephskardal Episodes are recorded, edited and produced by Amanda Oros.Logo art by Myranda Mondry. Want to see more? You can find it here: Find Podcast Merch here! nygqs.printify.meFollow along on Instagram: Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/notyourgrannysquiltshow Long-arming - https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeadesigncompanySubscribe to YouTube: https://youtube.com/@notyourgrannysquiltshowSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/notyourgrannysquiltshowWant to be on the show? Send us a message

    1h 37m
  5. Meet Marion Keller! of Carrefour: European Quilt Show - Ep. 205

    May 25

    Meet Marion Keller! of Carrefour: European Quilt Show - Ep. 205

    This week on Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show, I’m joined by Marion Keller, the Lead Artistic Program Designer for Carrefour European Patchwork Meeting, one of the most unique and internationally celebrated quilt events in the world. Marion never expected to work in the quilting industry or spend her days surrounded by quilts and textile art, but after six years with Carrefour, she considers herself an honorary member of the quilting community. In this episode, Marion shares the story behind the show and explains why the breathtaking valley of Alsace creates the perfect setting for this immersive four-day quilting and textile arts experience. We also dive into the fascinating history of the event. The original 1995 symposium in Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines commemorated the 300th anniversary of the Amish movement. Because Sainte-Marie-aux-Mines is considered the birthplace of the Amish faith, the gathering brought together historians, descendants of Anabaptist communities, textile enthusiasts, and artists from around the world. That symposium eventually evolved into the internationally recognized Carrefour quilt show. What makes Carrefour so distinctive is its curatorial approach. Rather than displaying individual quilts from many makers in one shared exhibit, invited textile artists present cohesive bodies of work that transform each venue into a complete artistic experience. The exhibitions are spread throughout four villages in the valley, creating an unforgettable mix of quilting, textile art, history, architecture, and culture. In this episode, we talk about: The history of Carrefour European Patchwork Meeting Quilt exhibitions in Alsace, France Textile art and curatorial design The connection between Amish history and quilting International quilting communities Creating immersive artistic experiences through quilts Learn more about Carrefour and upcoming events: https://patchwork-europe.eu/en/home/ Follow along on Instagram:@carrefour_patchwork If you love quilting, textile art, quilt history, or dream of attending an international quilt show, this episode is for you. Episodes are recorded, edited and produced by Amanda Oros.Logo art by Myranda Mondry. Want to see more? You can find it here: Find Podcast Merch here! nygqs.printify.meFollow along on Instagram: Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/notyourgrannysquiltshow Long-arming - https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeadesigncompanySubscribe to YouTube: https://youtube.com/@notyourgrannysquiltshowSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/notyourgrannysquiltshowWant to be on the show? Send us a message

    1h 30m
  6. Meet Kenneth D. King! Author | Couture Designer | Educator - Ep. 204

    May 18

    Meet Kenneth D. King! Author | Couture Designer | Educator - Ep. 204

    This week on Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show, I’m joined by Kenneth D. King, couture designer, author, educator, and lifelong maker whose work spans custom fashion, doll couture, and museum exhibitions. Kenneth is the author of Doll Couture and Doll Couture: Red Carpet, two books that showcase his extraordinary talent for designing and constructing high-fashion garments for dolls. He also teaches at the Fashion Institute of Technology and has created custom couture pieces worn by Elton John. Yes, that iconic hat from the 1987 Diet Coke commercial launch? Kenneth designed it. Kenneth’s love of dolls and fashion began in childhood. Growing up in rural Oklahoma, he quietly used fabric scraps from his mother’s sewing to create clothing for dolls he inherited from his sister. What began as a private creative outlet eventually became an internationally recognized career. In 1980, Kenneth moved to San Francisco, where he built his design business before relocating to New York City in 2005. In this episode, we talk about: Kenneth’s journey from rural Oklahoma to the world of couture fashion Designing custom pieces for Elton John Teaching couture sewing techniques at FIT Writing the Doll Couture books The artistry and technical skill behind doll fashion Creativity, identity, and following your artistic vision We also talk about Kenneth’s glamorous “assistant,” Lola, along with Crazy Bella, two dolls who have become stars in their own right. Lola will be featured in the Dressing Dolls exhibit at the Museum at FIT from September 2026 through January 2027. Explore Kenneth’s books, courses, and couture work:Kenneth D. King official website Follow Lola and Crazy Bella on Instagram:@lolatheshowgirl24 If you love sewing, couture, doll fashion, and stories about creative lives, this episode is not to be missed. Episodes are recorded, edited and produced by Amanda Oros.Logo art by Myranda Mondry. Want to see more? You can find it here: Find Podcast Merch here! nygqs.printify.meFollow along on Instagram: Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/notyourgrannysquiltshow Long-arming - https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeadesigncompanySubscribe to YouTube: https://youtube.com/@notyourgrannysquiltshowSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/notyourgrannysquiltshowWant to be on the show? Send us a message

    1h 22m
  7. Meet Tawnee Kinnebrew! Owner of Wyldwood Creative! - Ep. 203

    May 11

    Meet Tawnee Kinnebrew! Owner of Wyldwood Creative! - Ep. 203

    This week on Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show, I’m joined by Tawnee Kinnebrew, owner of Wyldwood Creative, a modern quilt shop and sewing community built on creativity, connection, and the belief that making should feel welcoming and inspiring. Tawnee has always been creative and credits the women who raised her with instilling a simple but powerful mindset: “How hard can it be?” That attitude shaped her path. After considering fashion design school, Tawnee decided to trust her instincts and made her first quilt, a story she shares in this episode that will sound familiar to many quilters. Before opening her shop, Tawnee worked in a demanding sales career that kept her away from friends and family during important moments. Realizing she wanted a different life, she left her job, ran the numbers, and turned her dream of opening a quilt shop into reality. Wyldwood Creative opened in October 2019 with a vision to create a quilt and sewing store rooted in community and core values. Just months later, the challenges of 2020 forced a rapid pivot to online sales and social media. Tawnee adapted quickly, built meaningful relationships with customers, and continued growing the business. As the shop expanded, Tawnee assembled a team of like-minded creatives who help make Wyldwood Creative the warm and welcoming space it is today. Today, Wyldwood Creative offers quilting fabric, sewing notions, patterns, classes, and workshops designed to support makers at every stage. Visit Wyldwood Creative:Wyldwood Creative website Follow on Instagram:@wyldwoodcreative If you love quilt shops, quilting business stories, and conversations about creativity and community, this episode is for you. Episodes are recorded, edited and produced by Amanda Oros.Logo art by Myranda Mondry. Want to see more? You can find it here: Find Podcast Merch here! nygqs.printify.meFollow along on Instagram: Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/notyourgrannysquiltshow Long-arming - https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeadesigncompanySubscribe to YouTube: https://youtube.com/@notyourgrannysquiltshowSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/notyourgrannysquiltshowWant to be on the show? Send us a message

    1h 49m
  8. Meet Sarah Ruiz! - Ep. 202

    May 4

    Meet Sarah Ruiz! - Ep. 202

    This week on Not Your Granny’s Quilt Show, I’m joined by Sarah Ruiz, a former NASA scientist turned quilt pattern designer, tech editor, and quilting educator. Yes, we are talking actual rocket science. Sarah grew up creative and made her first quilt in the early 2000s using t shirts from running events. After some time away from sewing, she found her way back through a beginner sewing class making pillowcases at Joann Fabrics. From there, her quilting journey took off. Today, Sarah is known for her quilt patterns, technical expertise, and teaching through lectures and workshops that help quilters build skills and confidence. In this episode, we talk about: Transitioning from a career in science to the quilting industry Writing quilt patterns and working as a tech editor Learning quilting as a beginner and returning to the craft Quilt design inspiration and process The intersection of quilting and STEM We also dive into Sarah’s Quarter Moon Quilt, which was being featured across multiple new fabric lines during the Artemis II mission around the moon. Sarah shares her connection to the mission, and we fully nerd out about space, quilting, and the significance of this moment in history. If you love quilting, science, or hearing how creative careers evolve over time, this episode is for you. Explore Sarah’s quilt patterns:https://shop.sarahruiz.com/ Follow Sarah: Instagram: @bysarahruiz Subscribe for more conversations with quilters, designers, and creatives shaping the modern quilting world. Episodes are recorded, edited and produced by Amanda Oros.Logo art by Myranda Mondry. Want to see more? You can find it here: Find Podcast Merch here! nygqs.printify.meFollow along on Instagram: Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/notyourgrannysquiltshow Long-arming - https://www.instagram.com/sweetpeadesigncompanySubscribe to YouTube: https://youtube.com/@notyourgrannysquiltshowSupport the show on Patreon: patreon.com/notyourgrannysquiltshowWant to be on the show? Send us a message

    1h 18m
3.8
out of 5
68 Ratings

About

A slightly chaotic podcast about all things quilting. Join Amanda as she discusses the ups and downs of quilting, interviews famous and not-so-famous quilters, and navigates life as a modern millennial maker. Trust us, this is not your granny’s quilt show. Follow Amanda on Instagram at @notyourgrannysquiltshow

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