The Quilt Scouts Podcast

In this special crossover episode, I’m joined by Emily, host of the Patchwork Revival podcast, as we continue our conversation on the history of quilting in America.This is Part 2 of our series, so if you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, be sure to head over to the Patchwork Revival podcast first—we cover early American quilting through the 1930s and set the stage for everything we dive into here.In this episode, we pick up in the 1930s and explore how quilting evolved through the Great Depression, World War II, the Quilt Revival of the 1970s, and into the modern quilting world we know today. We talk about how quilters adapted during times of scarcity, how community shifted from small local groups to nationwide connections, and how quilting grew into the creative, expressive craft we love today.We also chat about quilting co-ops, feed sack quilts, the rise of quilt guilds and shows, and how television (hello PBS!) helped shape how generations of quilters learned new skills.This episode is all about connection—how quilters have always found ways to gather, create, and share knowledge, even as the world around them changed.In This Episode, We Cover:Quilting during the Great Depression and WPA-era programsFeed sack quilts and resourcefulness in times of scarcityQuilting co-ops and community-based incomeThe Quilt Revival of the 1970s and the BicentennialThe rise of quilt guilds, shows, and exhibitionsLearning through television with early quilting showsHow quilting shifted from necessity to creative expression🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned:Listen to Part 1 on the Patchwork Revival podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/patchwork-revival-a-quilting-podcast/id1729505286Patchwork Revival Podcast: https://patchworkrevivalstudios.com/podcastPatchwork Revival Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patchworkrevivalstudiosPatchwork Revival Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PatchworkRevivalStudiosInternational Quilt Museum: https://www.internationalquiltmuseum.orgA New Deal for Quilts by Janneken SmuckerOld Patchwork Quilts and the Women Who Made Them by Ruth FinleyThe Romance of the Patchwork Quilt in America by Carrie Hall & Rose KretsingerLet’s Keep Exploring:If you loved this episode, come join me inside Quilt Scouts where we turn ideas like this into hands-on projects, badges, and creative adventures.And if this episode sparked something for you, I’d love to hear—what part of quilting history surprised you the most?

What really happens inside a quilt shop?In this episode, I’m sitting down with Sandy, owner of Little Sandy’s Quilt Shop in Arvada, Colorado—a cozy, community-centered shop that started as a spontaneous idea and quickly became something much bigger.Sandy shares the story behind opening her shop during a season of life that was already full (hello, five kids 😅), and what it’s actually like to run a quilt business—from inventory and emails to balancing family life and the unexpected emotional role quilt shops often play.We talk about how quilt shops become more than just places to buy fabric. They turn into gathering spaces where friendships are formed, stories are shared, and people move through some of life’s biggest moments—new babies, grief, celebrations, and everything in between.We also dive into:What surprised Sandy most about owning a quilt shopHow quilting helps people process life and tell their storiesWhy shopping in-person hits different than onlineWhat it looks like to run a Quilt Scouts Base Camp without a classroom spaceCreative community experiences (like stargazing on quilts under the Colorado sky ✨)How small shops create big impact in their local communitiesThis episode is a love letter to local quilt shops—the heart, the people, and the magic that happens between the bolts of fabric.Resources Mentioned:Little Sandy’s Quilt Shop website: https://littlesandysquiltshop.comLittle Sandy’s Quilt Shop Newsletter: https://www.littlesandysquiltshop.com/newsletter.htmLittle Sandy’s Quilt Shop on Instagram & Facebook: @littlesandysquiltshopQuilt Scouts: https://quiltscouts.comGarden of Quilts (Utah event)Lori Holt fabrics (Bee in My Bonnet)Connect with Quilt Scouts:Join the Quilt Scouts membership: https://quiltscouts.circle.soFollow along on Instagram: @quiltscoutsListener Love:If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow the podcast and leave a review—it helps more quilters find their way to the campfire 💛Happy trails,Megan

In this episode, I’m joined by Brooke Bauman, a communications specialist with the National Park Service (NPS). Brooke works in the Water Resources Division, supporting more than 430 park sites across the country — not just the big-name national parks, but also national seashores, monuments, recreation areas, and more.Her role? Helping scientists translate complex research about lakes, rivers, groundwater, and marine ecosystems into stories that everyday visitors can actually understand. In other words, she helps make the science behind our parks accessible and meaningful.And here’s what makes this conversation extra special for us: Brooke is also a quilter. She learned from her grandmother, an incredible maker who passed down both skills and stories. From family reunions at Rocky Mountain National Park to quilts inspired by Alaska wildlife, Brooke’s story beautifully weaves together creativity, patience, family tradition, and conservation.In This EpisodeWe talk about:What science communication inside the National Park Service actually looks likeThe surprising scope of the 430+ sites in the NPS systemHow storytelling deepens our connection to parksLeave No Trace principles and how small habits protect big landscapesThe parallels between quilting and nature (patience, seam ripping, and accepting what’s out of your control)Junior Ranger memories — and how kids can still participate todayWays creatives can engage in conservationHiking with quilts and photographing them in natural lightPlus, we wrap with a rapid-fire round: sunrise vs. sunset, favorite park smells (hello petrichor), classic PB&J trail snacks, and machine vs. hand quilting.Resources MentionedNational Park Service: https://www.nps.govFind Your Park tool: https://www.nps.gov/findaparkJunior Ranger Program (in-person + virtual): https://www.nps.gov/kids/junior-rangers.htmVolunteer Opportunities: https://www.nps.gov/getinvolved/volunteer.htmArtists-in-Residence Program: https://www.nps.gov/subjects/arts/air.htmNational Park Foundation: https://www.nationalparks.orgYou can also find individual park social media accounts through each park’s page at nps.gov.Want to Blend Quilting + Adventure?If this episode sparked something in you — maybe a desire to hike with a quilt, stitch inspired by landscapes, or slow down and notice the details — you’re going to love Quilt Scouts.Quilt Scouts is an online membership for adventurous quilters who want more creativity, confidence, and connection in their quilting life. Each month includes a new badge theme, tutorials, patterns, and creative prompts designed to help you try something new.✨ Learn more or join us at: https://quiltscouts.com

In this episode, I’m joined by quilt photographer Megan Saenz, known online as The Quiltographer, to talk all things quilt photography — from her start in high school darkroom classes to becoming the photographer behind five quilt books.We chat about:What makes quilt photography different from other types of photographyCommon mistakes quilters make when photographing their workEasy lighting and editing tips (even if you’re using your phone)The behind-the-scenes reality of photographing full quilt booksHer epic rainbow balloon arch shoot in Harper’s FerryIf you’ve ever wanted your quilts to shine on Instagram, in a pattern release, or maybe even in a future book of your own, this conversation is packed with both encouragement and practical advice.🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned📸 Follow Megan on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/the_quiltographer🌐 View Megan’s portfolio & galleries:https://megansaenz.smugmug.com🎈 Rainbow balloon arch shoot:https://www.instagram.com/the_quiltographer/p/Cug5ugiODZc/📚 Books Megan has photographed:Merry and Bright: Modern Christmas Quilts for All Year RoundRetro Curved Pieced Quilts by Erin GroganModern Day Quilter by Kylie FeronsStylish Quilter: Traditional Craft for a Modern World by Kylie Ferons, Megan Saenz, and Elyse ThompsonWant to Earn Your Quilt Photography Badge?Inside Quilt Scouts, we have a dedicated Quilt Photography Badge to help you document your quilts beautifully and confidently.Explore the membership and all the available badges at:https://quiltscouts.comCome join us and turn your next finished quilt into a full-on photo adventure.

Grab your comfiest quilt and a warm drink because today’s episode is extra cozy. I’m chatting with Abby Luchsinger of Abby Maed (pattern designer, Art Gallery Fabrics fabric designer, Nine Patch Quilt Collective pal, and now… published author!).We talk all about Abby’s brand-new book Cozy Quilts for the Modern Home, including what it felt like to finally hold the physical copy (spoiler: newborn baby energy), why the book is organized by seasons, and how she designs quilts and fabric with real-life making in mind. Plus: creative ruts, mom-life rhythm, and a lightning round that reveals Abby’s one-word creative season right now: playful.In This Episode, We Chat About:How Abby describes what she does and why she keeps it open-ended for whatever comes nextWhat it’s like to write a book over nearly two years and then finally hold it in your handsWhy seasonal structure made sense for Abby (Wisconsin’s four distinct seasons = big inspiration)The surprising deeper meaning behind the Watercolor Hearts quiltDesign “rules” she loves to break (multi-sizes, multi-colorways… maximum options, maximum effort)The hardest part of creative business life as a mom of four (and the constant balancing act)The best surprise: the deep friendships that come from the quilting communityUpcoming: Abby’s Social Bee Collective collection Summer Homestead coming in MarchQuiltCon Heads-Up ✨Abby plans to be at QuiltCon and will do a meet & greet / book signing at the Art Gallery Fabrics booth on Saturday (time is approximately 2pm—check her updates for the final details).Links + ResourcesAbby Maed Website: abbymaed.comInstagram: @abbymaedBook: Cozy Quilts for the Modern HomeWhere to buy: Abby’s site (signed copy if you’re in the US), plus Amazon, Barnes & Noble, C&T Publishing, and additional international retailers listed in Abby’s IG book highlight.Contact Abby:Quick question: Instagram DM (@abbymaed)Longer question: email abbymaedstudio@gmail.com

In this episode of the Quilt Scouts Podcast, I’m sitting down with Amanda Langner-Hurewitz, owner of Hangin' by a Thread in Lafayette, New Jersey and the Quilt Scouts Base Camp leader behind one of the most joyful, community-driven camps out there.We talk about how her shop came to be, what it actually looks like to host a Base Camp, and why quilting spaces don’t have to be serious, stuffy, or intimidating to be meaningful.This is a cozy, honest campfire chat about creativity, teaching, building community, and making room for fun — snacks, champagne, and all.In This Episode, We Talk About:How Hangin' by a Thread grew from a garage business into a thriving quilt + fiber shopWhat a Quilt Scouts Base Camp really is (and what it isn’t)What a typical Base Camp meeting looks like at Amanda’s shopHow Base Camps help build genuine friendships and low-pressure communityWhy Quilt Scouts feels different from traditional quilting guildsMaking space for beginners and experienced quiltersTeaching skills without perfection or hierarchyWhy it’s okay to “suck at something and still enjoy it”Amanda’s favorite Base Camp moments (including some very chaotic binding lessons)What’s coming up next at Hanging by a Thread — retreats, classes, and big ideasFeatured Base CampHangin' by a Thread📍 Lafayette, New Jersey🧵 Fabric + yarn shop offering quilting, garment sewing, knitting, crochet, and fiber arts classes🎖️ Quilt Scouts Base Camp — meets the first Wednesday of every monthHow to Visit or Connect with Hangin' by a ThreadWebsite: https://hanginbyathreadnj.comInstagram / Facebook / TikTok: @hanginbyathreadnjIn-store: 11 Route 15, Lafayette, NJ 07848Shop in-store and Quilt Scouts members get 10% offShop on-line and use the code QUILTSCOUT10Joining a Quilt Scouts Base CampThere’s no special signup process to “join” a Base Camp. You simply have to be a Quilt Scout member and attend events hosted by your local Base Camp shop.You can find Base Camps (and learn how to start one) at:👉 quiltscouts.com/base-campsEpisode SponsorThis episode is supported by HelloFresh — because we have zero time for dinner drama.Use the link 👇 to get your first HelloFresh box FREE and take one thing off your mental load. https://www.hellofresh.com/freebox/MzU1OTcwNjczLTAtNC0xNi1VUwA Friendly ReminderQuilt Scouts is about curiosity, community, and trying new things — not being perfect, productive, or “good enough.”Badges are earned, not owned. Snacks are mandatory. Drama is optional.Love the Podcast?If you enjoyed this episode:Follow or subscribe so you don’t miss future campfire chatsLeave a review — it helps other quilters find the showShare the episode with a friend who could use a little creative encouragementYou can find more episodes, show notes, and Quilt Scouts resources at 👉 quiltscouts.comUntil next time —Happy trails, Scout

Quilting can be a mental escape… but as Ann from Crafty Moose Quilts shares, it can’t always be the physical escape your body needs. In this honest, hope-filled conversation, we talk about chronic illness, injury, grief, and what it really looks like to make quilting sustainable—through adaptations, support systems, boundaries, and seasons when rest isn’t optional.Key TakeawaysSelf-care for quilters is bigger than the sewing room: quilting can be soothing, but your body still needs movement, fuel, hydration, and rest.Adaptation is a skill (and asking for help counts): from reorganizing your space to outsourcing parts of the process, small changes can protect your body and keep you creating.Grief is real—and you don’t have to “set up camp” there: Ann shares practical encouragement for navigating limitations, finding moments of joy, and rewriting the story you’re telling yourself.Guest InformationAnn (Crafty Moose Quilts) is a quilt pattern designer, t-shirt quilt maker, and the owner of a small online fabric shop known for beautiful quilt kits and practical, beginner-friendly resources—especially for quilters who want structure, clarity, and confidence.Links & Resources MentionedCozy Earth – the bedding brand mentioned in the mid-episode break Get 20% off with this link: https://cozyearth.com/SFMHKJVHCrafty Moose Quilts website: craftymoosequilts.comAnn on Instagram: @craftymoose_quiltsQuilt Scouts: quiltscouts.comMentioned by Ann: T-Shirt Tiles patterns (available via Crafty Moose Quilts)Mentioned in conversation: Happy Camper fabric collectionMentioned in conversation: Stargrove pattern (featured in the AGF lookbook for Happy Camper)Quote referenced: “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” — Henry FordIf you enjoyed this episode, follow or subscribe to the Quilt Scouts Podcast so you don’t miss future campfire chats—and if you have a minute, leaving a review helps other quilters find this community too.Social Media & Contact InfoWebsite: quiltscouts.comInstagram: @quiltscoutsEmail: hello@quiltscouts.com

Ever caught yourself thinking, “I really want to try that… but not today”?You’re not lazy — you’re just human (and maybe overthinking your fabric stash again).This week, we’re talking about why trying new things in quilting feels harder than it should — and how to get unstuck with humor, curiosity, and zero perfection pressure.✨ In this episode:• How “beginner mode” messes with your confidence• Why tools and time become fake roadblocks• Simple tricks to lower the stakes and actually start• The mindset shift that makes quilting fun againStart small. Stay curious. That’s enough. 🪡Find full notes + links at quiltscouts.com👉 Follow @quilt_scouts🪡 Join the Quilt Scouts community: quiltscouts.circle.so