Please start by telling us a little about yourself and your studio.

I am passionate about rag quilts. My biggest sellers have been the Dallas Cowboy and Texas Longhorn-themed items. I try to be as creative as I can and try to never duplicate any item. Sometimes it is just a simple fabric change or even a layout change.

What role does your family play in your art?

My husband is my biggest cheerleader and a partner in my fabric addiction. He has a great eye for color. Of course when he goes fabric shopping with me I end up with twice as much as I set out to get.

Where do you live and what is it like?

I live in what is called northeast Texas in Longview. We are on the edge of the Piney Woods. We are 60 miles west of the Louisiana border and a 120 miles east of Dallas. I love it here. Normally we have mild winters, and lots of sunshine and trees everywhere.

Where did you learn your medium?

I learned to sew over 30 years ago and started quilting about 20 years ago. My love for quilting came from my Mamal who passed away in 1985. Looking back at her quilts you find where she used what she had on hand. Family members gave her old clothing and she used it for her piecing. That is my inspiration for using as much recycled denim and other fabrics as I can in my creations.

What are your goals with your ArtFire studio?

Hopefully I will reach goals of 10 sales per week in my ArtFire studio. After several years on eBay I got tired of paying high fees and having a majority of buyers not appreciate the fine art of handmade.

How did you come to selling online?

I started selling online almost by accident. I was getting rid of some unwanted items when I happened across handmade items. I listed a few things and the rest is history as they say.

How did you come to find a home on ArtFire?

I was looking for another venue when I noticed a few fellowquilters were using ArtFire. I contacted them and asked about their experiences. When I got glowing recommendations I gave it a shot.

hat is the best piece of advice you can give other artists?

The best advice I can give is to not give up. Keep listing and eventually you will make a name for yourself. I was amazed at how quickly I made my first sale on ArtFire.

Why do you think that buying and selling handmade products benefits society?

Handmade items are the original cottage industries. When you educate others about the process of handmade and help them to understand the love and attention that each item receives, they will see the benefits. Selling handmade items online allows mothers to stay home with their children, elderly to make a little extra income and most importantly, may encourage someone to express their own creativity.

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