Episode 74: Dealing with Sewing Funks and How to Get Out of Them
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 ม.ค. 2023
- In this episode, Sherri and Chelsi discuss what to do if you fall into a sewing funk. They share their past experiences dealing with sewing funks and talk about what some of the causes tend to be. They then give advice and tips on how to get out of these funks and slumps to get back into a productive quilting life.
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To get out of a quilting funk I usually sew something else. Tablecloth, curtains etc. Also go to a good quilt store and fondle fabrics...lol
I’m just the opposite. Social media inspires me. Especially watching tutorials where they actually sew on camera. I don’t know why but something about watching someone matching seams and building blocks sends me right to the sewing room.
Same here!
Same here!
I love your shades of purple when you use them. So many designers shy away from purple so when you add them in, they are a double delight.
I love purple ! 💜💜💜
My scrap basket is over flowing! My goal the next few weeks are 30 minutes a day in scraps to get a handle on them.
I feel the same. I was going to do 4 weekly quilt alongs plus monthly. I was so overwhelmed. When will I walk the dog? When will I clean the floors? I ended up not doing any. Now I’m starting the monthly and going from there. And yes, social media is depressing! Thank you Ladies!!
Great advice on micro goals. I do tend to look at what I didn't finish versus what I finished. If I lose my sewjo, I will clean and organize my space, look through stash fabrics and patterns, and try to match the patterns and fabrics into projects to get excited to sew again.
Ladies & Billy, I've said this before but wanted to reiterate how very much I enjoy watching y'all!! You touch on so many things folks might be going through. I'm not on any social media, so all that doesn't bombard me with ideas, etc. I do watch & follow several people, do some of their quilt/sew alongs, but yes, we can't do them all! I'm retired so if I wanted to, could sew all day. Sometimes I do 😊😊 But there are days I just crochet alot.
I'm already getting Sherri's newsletter & signed up for Chelsi's newsletter-so glad to hear about that. Looking forward to seeing your next fabric line!!
They have the stands you’re looking for on Etsy for the clover needle threader. Love your videos!
I keep several projects going at the same time. If I become frustrated or bored with a project, I move to another. By the time I go back, I am excited and ready to resume. The other thing I do is consistently challenge myself to learn new skills and see how I can make a pattern my own by changing or rearranging things. Also, I write any ideas onto the page in my daily planner, then when I have time I research the idea. I find using social media with a purpose is good. It can be depressing to do anything passively. Just a few thoughts! 💕
When covid hit I thought I would get all my UFOS done. Living in a small country and being
TERRIFIED everyday by government warnings I couldn't see the point in sewing or knitting.
I'm now planning to get back to sewing. I wrote out a list of simple quilt patterns I will make.
I don't usually look at podcasts because I feel some are very self-serving but when I saw
in a funk I had to look. All the best to everyone for 2023. Happy Sewing.
I think the social media thing is different for all of us. It isn’t the worst thing for some of us. I feel that it helps me to stay inspired and get back into my quilting mood when I see what is out there. ❤❤
Got a tremendous amount of relief from this help!😌 Thank you!
Thanks!
Love your discussions. So helpful, learning about what is out there in so many different subjects.
So glad to hear it's helpful. We appreciate the support!
I don't know why Martingale closed, but I did get some really good deals! I was very sorry to see them close and wrote them a letter letting them and their staff know that I thought they produced beautiful well photographed and designed books and I appreciated all their effort and was sorry to see them close and hoped that if the employees wanted that they would be able to find other employment and would keep them in my prayers. And thanked them for the amazing opportunity for the discount they were giving us.
Chelsi, and Shari, can you share great books…books on keeping life on track and staying focused or just great reads? I love quilting and sewing but sometimes getting lost in a good book is a life renewing!
Ok, off to organize my sewing space so I can find my creative flow again! Thank you for all you do. It’s so refreshing to spend mornings with you.
I use my clover threader to bury threads on my longarm.. so easy . watching from Virginia
When im in a sewing funk, i wind bobbins and tidy up sewing space. Or make a single block i havent made before or some simple bag, key fob just simple stuff.
I loved your session today. I look at all these folks I call over achievers and why can’t I do all of this and I need 28 hours to do all my stuff. It’s so hard not to compare yourself to everyone else. As a society we are so pulled in many directions. Love your discussion today, bless you all.
2022 has been a challenging year for me and my family. Sewing has often been low on the priority list. Thank you for sharing ways to get the ball rolling and get inspired.
A sewing funk is a great time to assess and document your sewing tools and supplies or, if you've already done that it's a good time to update your inventory list with any new purchases of rulers, patterns, kits etc, and remove anything you've consumed or donated. Also take some pictures and send to your insurance company to put in your file. Should disaster strike your insurance company won't reimburse without documentation. If you've been sewing for years you may have quite a bit of money invested, would be a shame to start from scratch again.
Ohhhhh what a great suggestion / “micro” things . Doing A little at a time / each day doing 3 things . Love it . Thank you
I'm also very sad that Martingale is closing. Many of their books are in my quilt book library. They are all top-quality. This company and their fine publications will be missed.
I totally think that all the angst and stress we feel is mostly self-imposed. Most of us don’t have someone standing over us telling us that we HAVE to do it all. We just really need to stop and figure out what really NEEDS to be done and then maybe something we WANT to get done. I heard a while back that people tend to wear our busyness like badges to make us feel like we CAN do everything in other people’s eyes. Are we trying to impress at the expense of our physical and/or mental health? Really something to think about in the beginning of a new year.😊Thank you for your podcasts!
Chelsie great advice on getting things done love your reasoning ❤ we are all human 😂I have to let go of all scraps they overwhelm me 😢
Me too. X
Sherri please post that cinnamon roll recipe on your blog. I too have always wanted to make and never tackled.
Q-Could you provide a link to the perfect cinnamon roll recipe? They would delicious!
I ❤ to see Christmas quilts! 7:07
I was in a sewing funk due to some unexpected family obligations right at a time that I had four baby quilts being made a the same time. Then when I would go in my sewing room, I felt pressure that the babies were already born and I just couldn't get motivated. But, I know that if I just go into the sewing room I feel so much better. Now, three of the four quilts are ready to put on my longarm (made larger to be more toddler sized) and the fourth is my foster grandson's quilt which is in progress now. One way that I got back in the swing of sewing was attending my guild's retreat a weeks ago. Sewing with friends is so inspirational!
I am excited for your heart a day sew along. I have started my Cutting and am using flower pot by lella boutique. I'm using a layer cake, charms and mini charms. Thank you, Chelsi for this new quilt along. I am patiently waiting for happy go lucky sew along in March with you Sherri.
I enjoy so many textile hobbies that I guess I never get in a funk, always too many projects, too little time. I also have a lot of UFO’s so I can pick up something that interests me at the time. Variety is the answer. With quilting, I enjoy both hand and machine work, piecing, appliqué, etc. I make all sorts of quilty small items. Researching quilt history. I like to cross stitch, embroidery, crochet and have knitted. So what ever calls to me is what I do and family members are also requesting projects so if for a second I don’t know what to do..haha. If you are in a funk, try something new is my advice.
You’ve mentioned it before but I don’t think I heard it today- when in a funk focus on small projects- always fun to get new potholders in your drawer. Also, you’ve inspired me to make a list of projects for this year as so much is jumbling around in my head.
TH-cam does inspire me. This is how I learned how to Sew and Quilt. I have learned so much from Sherri & Chelsi and other Designers from their teachings. I am very grateful for that. I have tons of post it notes...maybe I should start using them. 😉
You all make me smile. Thank you. I've ordered your new fabric from my local brick and mortar quilt shop. Happy sewing~
I made the stitch pink quilt for my mom. It turned out just beautiful!
Oh my gosh, this is the most helpful information! Thank thank you
Sherry, you are a great motivational speaker.
Chelsi, I love what you shared today too. Thank you
Love it if you would share your cinnamon roll recipe!
I’ve not been online for a while. I like that you don’t always do quilts! I have no need for quilts, but like the idea of more table toppers, runners, cushions etc bags etc. Thanks for sharing your beautiful blocks and fabrics. ❤️🇦🇺
Yes! Share Trader Joe’s and Costco finds!
Micro goals sounds like a good idea. I struggle with doing a little bit at a time. I want a long period of time to work on something but I’m going to try to make some small goals that I can sew for a short time each day. I think I need to plan small tasks. 😀 Thank y’all!
It seems to me that a slump is usually caused with our mind or body telling us that we need a break. Take the opportunity to do some self-care!!! If you have been under a lot of pressure or sick or coming off holidays with a lot of family company or activities then enjoy a nap, a walk, a staycation. You will get it back. Also just set a timer and finish a project in small bites or use the timer to organize your space..
You are both a pleasure to watch!
I’m so thankful I purchased the Home for the Holidays book
I always do a clean up and reorganization. Then I assess everything and get rid of things I know I won't use, whether it's fabric, tools, patterns and books, or projects. I make lists of things I want to do and ones I need to do (work-related or gifts) and figure out what I need to complete and gather everything together. I have other hobbies that I'll go to for a while and when I get my sewjo back I start with something small or easy. Sometimes that's finishing something, such as binding a quilt. I do watch videos, but I don't focus only on a tutorial or chats, I switch it around frequently. I listen to videos like this while working and tutorials when I'm on the treadmill or taking a break in my sewing room
Looking for A Quilting Life is my top priority every morning when I get up. I go to Etsy and your shops is also a priority every day several times a day. I love everything you guys do.
I have learned that many times I buy a book for one pattern and that is it. I love the idea of making your books individual patterns and available for purchase especially digitally.
Cozy earth is so expensive & once you go to their site you are bombarded with their ads.
Love your videos and I’m just prepping my needles are slowing down my binding. My needle threader is the same as yours and there’s so many needles it doesn’t work with so frustrating. I usually don’t go beyond three hours on my quilts. And I’ve promise myself to never have more than three quilts in the sewing process at any given time. Thanks for sharing your time. 👍❤️😊
Love your videos. I always learn something
Loved this video. Yes, clutter is distracting. My sewing desk was moved to look out window & it gave me a chance to clean up my area. What a relief! I am so happy my husband bought your book Home For The Holidays for Christmas for me.
Yes, I’m intrigued as well. 😊
Micro goals !!! Love it . Thank you for this suggestion !
I am hoping to learn to quilt this year. Stumbled on your website Sherri and told my hubby about your Home for the Holidays book. Surprised me for Christmas! So happy he did. Loved your podcast today.
Hi Sherri and Chelsi! I was curious to know what seasoned pattern designers look for when recruiting pattern testers. Do you put out an ad? Do people come to you? How much experience in quilting does someone need? This is something I would LOVE to do but am not sure how to get in contact with designers.
Thank you for your time, advice and creativity with each podcast! I learn so much from y'all.
Glad I got a copy of your book🥰
Great episode!! Loved all the sharing and ideas.
Great topic! Y’all bust me up! I used to make jelly roll race quilts when I hit a funk. Quick satisfaction at the sewing machine & I think it’s in line with making small projects. Now I make zipper bags. Same diff right? Keep on keepin on & I look forward to billy’s intriguing question in a future episode. Cheers!
I have favorite peoples work that I like the best. Watch a lot of sewing channels but I don’t stress out about not doing them all. You and your daughter are my favorites. Love your fabric and your patterns. By the way I just got my sashing done on your quilt along. This dose not bother me that it was done before Christmas. ❤
Great podcast today! I love knowing that I’m not alone when I get in a sewing funk! 😂 I really hate that Martingale is ending their business. Who will you look to for publishing your books?
Great episode!
Hi Sherri and Chelsi, this was a great pod cast today. I'm a beginner. How many projects (big or small) do you have going at one time? My OCD brain makes me stay on task with one project. I'd like to start planning and working on 3 so I can switch back and forth. ~~ Lynne
I have been in a funk for several months. This has been due to deaths and illness in my families. I am at a loss where to start getting back to a sense of normal. I walk in my sewing room, and turn around and walk out. I need suggestions!!
Good conversation and tips
thanks
I’m sad to see Martingale go out of business too.
As I was watching today’s episode, Sherri’s cup caught my eye. Where did it come from? I am enjoying the Sincerely Yours quilts that are popping up! ❤️💕
Love the one on your table. I can't see the one on the wall associated with Valentines??
Love all your tips & tricks. Also, your Valentines quilts are beautiful. What is the quilt pattern behind Chelsea? Love it!! Going thru sewing withdrawal. My machine is in getting totally checked out & cleaned.
I enjoy all your podcasts so much. I have the opposite issue --too many ideas and not enough time to sew. I travel for my job and I can't always take projects with me. I treat myself to "virtual quilting" with your daily blog and biweekly podcasts. Thanks so much and keep them coming!
Question - when sewing stripes on as binding, do you add the drips in the diagonal direction or just as a regular seam? Perhaps you do both? I hope my question was clear. Thanks for all you do. I love your podcasts and UTube videos.
What quilting pattern was used on the quilt ladder behind Chelsi? Love your podcast/TH-cam videos. Thank you.
Question - Can you please share the cinnamon roll recipe? I've always wanted to make cinnamon rolls and I tried one, years ago. It turned out to be a fail, so I'm hesitant to try a new one. I realize it could have been user error, but I would love to give your recipe a try.
I listen to your podcasts on my way to work every morning. It's only a 15 min drive, so I'm able to stretch my listening time out over a few days, which makes me happy. I feel like a kid waiting for the next episode of my favorite show! Thank you for filling my mornings with happy thoughts and I especially love Chelsi's energy! Much appreciation!!!
Why is Martingale closing?
I'm hoping 4th of July for the fabric?!?!?! Pleeeeease!! Hm.....that could be refreshing? I think of water or summer with refreshing?
I'm a faithful listener and I have asked this question before but never heard an answer. Maybe I missed it or maybe it's too personal but here it is. I am interested to know what aspect of your business is, as a percentage, the biggest earnings. I have been wondering if fabric sales is the biggest? And now that your publisher is going out of business, which is very sad, do you think you will find another, especially for the planner. I just started using it January 1 and I really like it. I think I will buy a couple more before they're gone.
This was a fantastic episode Thank you i love the dry social media. It us a time suck as well.
Thank you for mentioning the five dollar pattern and I also what is the name of the quilt on the wall that is so versatile and simple also show cases big prints I love that I could go back and listen to the podcast again.
Heartstrings is on the wall :)
Question: What size and brand of needles do you use with the Clover desk top needle threader? Not all of my needles work with mine. I love it when it works, tho!
regarding christmas quilts i start in january so would love some ideas : ) just glue the needle threader to a piece of wood : )
Hello !! Is the quilt pattern on the right available? I didn’t see it on Etsy ❤
I was wondering if you tip your longarmers? I recently started taking my quilts to someone else because hand quilting is taking too long. I enjoy your podcasts!
Just ordered your pattern of the month, so beautiful! Thank you so much. Sherri any suggestions for fabric? I am guessing the one you used is no longer available? Oh, I have 3 of the needle threaders but I never knew there was a block to go with them. I'm so dissapointed I missed them. Chelsie I think burnout could easily happen to you easier because you still have children at home. Your mother doesn't. I don't either but my issue is you two both have obligations with new fabric designs and patterns and I don't so what happens to me is I'm retired ... may sound great but I have worked full time since I was 16 years (and yes, I have 3 children but raised them as a single mother) so now I tell myself I deserve a rest. I tend to put off things. I will tell myself "Oh, I will do it tomorrow, then tomorrow my little dog will cry when I'm in my sewing room so I tend to tell myself she will miss me, maybe I should spend the day with her and sew tomorrow. I am horrible at making excuses then feel bad when I don't get things done. My job was so stressful! Don't we all say that? I was an accountant for many years then I went to school and became a Registered nurse and did that for 38 years. I am just enjoying life but still feel stressed when I hear Kimberly Jolly say she quilted 30 something quilts last year : (
Yes, the Sincerely Yours fabric is still available--lots of shops have it available still :)
Hey, will you please share your cinnamon roll recipe!
In a prior podcast you had mentioned doing doing a sew along for your “Happy Go Lucky” pattern; have you made a decision yet? I have the pattern. I am waiting for Simply Delightful fabric to come in.
yes, when the fabric arrives :)
Love the quilt behind Chelsea…. What is the name of the pattern? Would be a great red, white and blue quilt!!❤
Heartstrings--and yes, I've made it in red, white and blue, too!
@@sherrimcconnell4094 Thank you for responding but I was referring to the one to the right of Heartstrings with the friendship star
@@sherrimcconnell4094 yes!! I am looking for this quilt pattern as well. I don’t see it in your Etsy shops. What is name and where can I get it?? TIA
You two are my favorite podcast and designers!! I love your spirits and dispositions and you are so inspiring for not just quilts but in life with your organization and ideas!!! 💜💜
@@robertslisa71 It's called Heartstrings and is in my Etsy shop :) thank you!
Needle threader only works with certain needles. I have one...
The quilts are so pretty. I love the one behind Chelsea. What is that pattern?
That pattern is Sherri’s Pot Luck pattern.
Question.... When Val and Marion were on your podcast Marion mentioned that Chelsea needed to clip her threads. What threads exactly was she referring to?
Threads on the back of the quilt that might show through a white background when quilted.
Do you have to use a special needle for the threader. I have one and it does not thread the needle.
I don't...but I'm imagining if the eye is very small it wouldn't work.
Does the threader sit down into the wood base?
Chelsi mentioned a drawing pen she used to draw on an Episode, but I have not been able to find the Episode again. What brand/type of pen does she like? Sorry off topic.
How do I get the pattern that is on the wall? And how do I get the pattern on the table the( pink) one?
They are in my Etsy Shop--links in the description at the top of the comments--click "see More"
Can you zoom in on this item ? Please ( threader )
Look on Etsy I think they have a similar 🎉nee🎉dle t🎉hre🎉ader🎉 base🎉.
What is the churn dash quilt to your right?
Happy Go Lucky!
💚💚💚💚💚
How is the needle threader attached to the board?
It slides in. Great little stand
I have double sided tape, too on the bottom.
Please tell us the quilt name behind Chelsi (blues and green with white background)
It's in the current (February 2023) issue of American Patchwork & Quilting and is called Rainbow Prisms. It's on the cover :)
Thank you!
Who will you have as a publisher in the future?
Still deciding :)
Another must, to tell your quilter is gender neutral, or specific for the quilting pattern.
📸
Are you in a funk or are you procrastinating? My mom had asked me to make her a pair of pajamas. Shortly after, I found myself in a crafting funk. No interest in going in my sewing room. When I sat down and thought about it I realized - I just didn’t want to make the pajamas and my subconscious had decided that I shouldn’t do any crafts at all! Once I buckled down and made the pj’s (which weren’t as difficult as I had imagined) my crafting mojo returned!