Today we are introducing yet another fabulous contributor to our ModBLOCK Magazine! We were so thrilled to be able to work with Moda fabric designer and author, Amy Ellis! She’s the greatest! Enjoy this little Q&A we did with her!
Meet Amy Ellis
Amy’s projects in ModBLOCK are ‘River Log Cabin’ featuring her new fabric line, ‘Modern Neutrals‘, ‘Rainbow Dreams’ and ‘Star Dust’
What is your sewing/quilting/crafting/art background?
I learned to sew garments as a girl, and loved all things fabric, even in college when I didn’t have time or the means to sew, I would wander through fabric shops just to pet the pretty fabrics. I then taught myself to quilt when my kids were young, and I needed some creative therapy in my life. Almost seven years ago now, I started a blog (AmysCreativeSide.com) and was inspired to make quilts that I had been designing in my sketch book.
How did you get started in this business?
I got started writing books, by taking the first step and submitted a proposal. It’s been a whirlwind of creative messes and busyness ever since!
Tell us about your collection(s) and /or pattern style.
I love clean and clear colors, with geometric shapes and pattern in my fabric. My quilt patterns are unique and modern, while still being a little traditional in the construction methods, and settings.
What are you inspired by?
I love to take everything in, but most often I’m inspired by home decor trends. Graphic wall papers, rugs, even tile work, and throw pillows have made it to my inspiration boards!
How would you describe your style?
Modern in that I like to design original quilt blocks, but still traditional in that the techniques I use are the tried and true methods that quilters have been using for years.
What are some of your greatest challenges in your design process?
I love to share what I’m working on, as I work on it, and when I have tons of secret sewing, it’s a big no, no to share it. Not sharing a pile of book quilts for almost a year is a huge challenge!
Do you have an online presence on social media?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyscreativeside
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/parkcitygirl/
Instagram: @amyscreativeside
Are there any releases or upcoming events you have coming up that you’d like us to know about?
Think Big : Quilts, Runners, and Pillows from 18” Blocks (Dec, 2014)
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be?
Hardanger – my grandma loves this needlecraft, and I think it could be an exciting texture addition to my quilts. (Pretty random though, huh?)
What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?
Writing a book in two months was a huge challenge! Thankfully I had some friends that were willing to help with piecing, and everything was delivered on time.
Do you have a signature color? If not, what would it be?
Any shade of grey, I love the depth and dimension in the various shades together.
What is your favorite fabric line of all time?
Wonderland by Momo with the new Avant Garden being a close second.
Is there an experience or accomplishment you are most proud of?
Submitting that first proposal, was a really big risk personally! It was so hard to take my ideas and hand them over, and wait for the verdict, but it paid off, and I’m proud of the accomplishments that have accumulated since then too!
Thank you so much, Amy! Don’t miss the other Q&A’s on the ModBLOCK contributors! 🙂
