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Measure Twice, Cut Once: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Susan Smith
...and other life and business lessons learned from quilting. Makers have stories! And crafters have skills! In these casual chats and interviews, I (often with a guest) talk honestly about creativity. The joy, and hope, and even healing it can bring, and the businesses we can build doing the things we love.
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The most recent episodes — sign up to get AI-powered summaries of each one.
- May 14, 202518 min
Why I Created the Free Motion Quilting Masterclass
Send a text In this episode, I share the story behind my Free Motion Quilting Masterclass, explaining how I discovered my passion for longarm quilting and developed techniques to help others master freehand quilting without patterns or templates. Resources Mentioned: Free Motion Quilting Masterclass: Available at stitchedbysusan.com under the "Learn" tab YouTube Channel: "Stitched by Susan" featuring live quilting demonstrations on select Fridays Pinterest: "Stitched by Susan" with a board called "My Gallery, Edge to Edge" showcasing quilting designs Special Offers: Cozy Earth bamboo sheets: 40% off with code "MEASURE" at cozyearth.com Registration for the Free Motion Quilting Masterclass opens twice yearly (currently May 2025) Six weeks of bonus live sessions with Susan for new class participants About the Free Motion Quilting Masterclass: Comprehensive training for domestic and longarm machines Teaches over 25 specific quilting designs Focuses on practice methods to advance skills Teaches thought processes to create original designs Especially helpful for quilters intimidated by freehand work Emphasizes affordable "edge-to-edge" designs for everyday quilts Upcoming Events: Live, informal sessions on YouTube throughout May 2025 New "KNOT of Freehand Quilters" group launching soon Connect with Susan: Website: stitchedbysusan.com YouTube: Stitched by Susan Pinterest: Stitched by Susan Want to try free motion quilting but don't know where to start? Here's 3 simple steps to get going. Support the show ------------------------ If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review here. Resources: ADVANCE, my monthly subscription membership FREEHAND QUILTING MASTERCLASS, an on-demand comprehensive course ALL-OVER FEATHER, sign-up for a FREE quilting class And here's where you can find more of my work: YouTube - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED episodes Website - for more information on classes and quilting services Facebook - current projects and photos Instagram - current projects and photos Pinterest - photo galleries and tutorials
- May 7, 202537 min
Meet Blair Stocker of Wise Craft Handmade
Send a text In this episode, Susan interviews Blair Stocker of Wise Craft Handmade, discussing Blair's unique approach to color and value in quilt making, her journey as a crafter, and her revival of the vintage stitching technique called "chicken scratch." About Blair Stocker Blair is known for her creative approach to scrappy quilts, focusing on value rather than strict color theory. She comes from a background in apparel design and fashion merchandising, bringing a unique perspective to quilt making. Key Topics Discussed The Ruby Ruler A multi-purpose tool Blair created in 2017 Functions as both a cutting ruler and a value viewer Uses red film technology similar to what landscape painters and photographers use Helps quilters see value contrast (the "sunshine and shadow") in fabric selections Alternative to the black-and-white photo technique for assessing value Resources Mentioned Wise Craft Handmade website Blair's Block of the Month programs The Ruby Ruler for color value assessment Blair’s first book - Wise Craft: Turning Thrift Store Finds, Fabric Scraps, and Natural Objects into Stuff You Love Sponsor The episode is sponsored by Susan's Free Motion Quilting Masterclass, an on-demand course for m Want to try free motion quilting but don't know where to start? Here's 3 simple steps to get going. Are you looking to ADVANCE your machine quilting skills? Machine quilting can be very solitary, especially on a longarm. It's just not that easy to pack up your machine and head to a friend's house for the day, right? But it's important to have that community - that sharing of ideas and tips, encouragement and motivation. For more information and to sign up, visit our website. Support the show ------------------------ If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review here. Resources: ADVANCE, my monthly subscription membership FREEHAND QUILTING MASTERCLASS, an on-demand comprehensive course ALL-OVER FEATHER, sign-up for a FREE quilting class And here's where you can find more of my work: YouTube - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED episodes Website - for more information on classes and quilting services Facebook - current projects and photos Instagram - current projects and photos Pinterest - photo galleries and tutorials
- Apr 30, 202517 min
The Sweet Spot Between Excellence & Efficiency
Send a text In this episode, I discuss how excellence and efficiency can coexist in creative entrepreneurship. Episode Highlights: Finding the balance between providing excellent service and maintaining profitability The difference between excellence and perfection Creating a "sweet spot" where excellence and efficiency intersect The importance of developing signature techniques and systems Key Insights: Excellence means quality work without getting trapped in perfectionism Efficiency requires developing systems, signature techniques, and time management Tracking time helps establish fair pricing and improves profitability Batch processing tasks (client meetings, invoicing) increases productivity Developing expertise in a limited set of designs/offerings creates both quality and speed Resources Mentioned: Machine quilting for beginners course YouTube live stream playlist for quilting shortcuts Pricing spreadsheet for quilters: stitchedbysusan.com/pricing Sponsor: Cozy Earth bamboo sheets - Use code "MEASURE" for 40% off at cozyearth.com Want to try free motion quilting but don't know where to start? Here's 3 simple steps to get going. Support the show ------------------------ If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review here. Resources: ADVANCE, my monthly subscription membership FREEHAND QUILTING MASTERCLASS, an on-demand comprehensive course ALL-OVER FEATHER, sign-up for a FREE quilting class And here's where you can find more of my work: YouTube - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED episodes Website - for more information on classes and quilting services Facebook - current projects and photos Instagram - current projects and photos Pinterest - photo galleries and tutorials
- Apr 23, 202533 min
Meet Erynn Truexx: The Creative Mind Behind The Panto Shop Revival
Send a text In this episode, I speak with Erynn Truexx, the creative force behind True Threads Quilting and The Panto Shop. The conversation explores Erynn's journey as a quilter and entrepreneur, focusing on her experience with longarm quilting and her recent acquisition of the Panto Shop, a digital pantograph marketplace. Key Topics Discussed Erynn's introduction to quilting through the Modern Quilt Guild and QuiltCon Her experience working with Innova at quilt shows The acquisition and revitalization of the Panto Shop Explanation of pantographs and digital quilting designs The challenges and benefits of different pantograph designs Erynn's vision for elevating edge-to-edge quilting designs Her experience creating a Chicago jacket from a quilted project Organization systems for quilting materials and projects Special Offer Erynn is offering podcast listeners 20% off their entire order at the Panto Shop. Use code SBS20 at thepantoshop.com Pearls of Wisdom Erynn shared two important pieces of advice: "Take imperfect action" - Don't wait for things to be perfect before moving forward "Perfection doesn't exist" - Focus on the journey and continuous improvement rather than an unattainable perfect state Additional Resources The Panto Shop - Digital pantograph marketp Want to try free motion quilting but don't know where to start? Here's 3 simple steps to get going. Are you looking to ADVANCE your machine quilting skills? Machine quilting can be very solitary, especially on a longarm. It's just not that easy to pack up your machine and head to a friend's house for the day, right? But it's important to have that community - that sharing of ideas and tips, encouragement and motivation. For more information and to sign up, visit our website. Support the show ------------------------ If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review here. Resources: ADVANCE, my monthly subscription membership FREEHAND QUILTING MASTERCLASS, an on-demand comprehensive course ALL-OVER FEATHER, sign-up for a FREE quilting class And here's where you can find more of my work: YouTube - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED episodes Website - for more information on classes and quilting services Facebook - current projects and photos Instagram - current projects and photos Pinterest - photo galleries and tutorials
- Apr 16, 202518 min
The Courage to Learn New Things
Send a text In this episode of Measure Twice, Cut Once, I explore the process of learning new skills and capabilities, both in quilting and in business. I share personal stories about taking on challenging projects—from creating a quilt from vintage blocks to building an online course business—and break down the four stages of growth: courage, commitment, capability, and confidence. This episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to expand their creative skills or transform their passion into a profession. Note: Some links below are affiliate links, which means that if you use them to purchase the product, I'll earn a small commission at no extra charge to you! Key Points My experience with the "Ava" quilt challenge and how it prepared me for bigger challenges The Four C's Formula by Dan Sullivan: Courage, Commitment, Capability, and Confidence The importance of giving yourself permission to be a beginner and take time to learn Why celebrating small gains and progress is essential for growth Resources Mentioned The Four C's Formula by Dan Sullivan: Link to booklet The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy Sponsor This episode is sponsored by Susan's Free Motion Quilting Masterclass, an on-demand comprehensive course for mastering freehand quilting skills and design decisions. Learn more at stitchedbysusaon.com/learn. Questions for Reflection What vision are you holding that's bigger than your current skills? What would taking the first step of courage into something new look like for you today? How can you better celebrate your small gains and progress? Want to try free motion quilting but don't know where to start? Here's 3 simple steps to get going. Support the show ------------------------ If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review here. Resources: ADVANCE, my monthly subscription membership FREEHAND QUILTING MASTERCLASS, an on-demand comprehensive course ALL-OVER FEATHER, sign-up for a FREE quilting class And here's where you can find more of my work: YouTube - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED episodes Website - for more information on classes and quilting services Facebook - current projects and photos Instagram - current projects and photos Pinterest - photo galleries and tutorials
- Apr 9, 202532 min
Sarah Becvar: Threading Stories Through Fabric & Cards
Send a text In this episode, I welcome Sarah Becvar, a textile artist from England with over 20 years of experience creating machine embroidered textiles and greeting cards. Sarah shares her unique technique for creating beautiful machine embroidered cards and offers practical advice for listeners interested in trying this creative art form. Sponsored By Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set - Use code MEASURE for 40% off About Sarah Becvar Based in England 20+ years experience (approaching 24 years) in textile arts and card making Creates machine embroidered textiles and greeting cards Offers in-person workshops at her home studio More information can be found on her website at sarahbecvardesign.com Current Projects Spring-themed floral notecards featuring: Daffodils Primroses Bluebells Lily of the Valley (May birth flower) Cards inspired by: Flowers around her studio Wildflowers from country walks with her dogs Garden flowers (especially dahlias in summer) Sarah's Card-Making Process Begins with simple line sketches to plan composition Selects small-print fabrics (tiny designs add interest to the finished product) Cuts small fabric pieces without templates Arranges fabric pieces on card to plan placement Uses freehand machine embroidery technique directly on card Sews around fabric pieces while holding them in place with fingers Writes flower names on cards using pencil for a subtle, sophisticated look Oft Want to try free motion quilting but don't know where to start? Here's 3 simple steps to get going. Are you looking to ADVANCE your machine quilting skills? Machine quilting can be very solitary, especially on a longarm. It's just not that easy to pack up your machine and head to a friend's house for the day, right? But it's important to have that community - that sharing of ideas and tips, encouragement and motivation. For more information and to sign up, visit our website. Support the show ------------------------ If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review here. Resources: ADVANCE, my monthly subscription membership FREEHAND QUILTING MASTERCLASS, an on-demand comprehensive course ALL-OVER FEATHER, sign-up for a FREE quilting class And here's where you can find more of my work: YouTube - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED episodes Website - for more information on classes and quilting services Facebook - current projects and photos Instagram - current projects and photos Pinterest - photo galleries and tutorials
- Apr 2, 202532 min
Amy Lollis: Breaking Free from Creative Burnout & Finding Joy Again
Send a text In this episode, I welcome Amy Lollis, a quilt pattern writer, fabric designer, podcaster, crocheter, and Oklahoma homeschool mom. About Amy Lollis Quilt pattern writer, fabric designer, podcaster, crocheter Oklahoma homeschool mom Creator behind Amy Lollis Creative Unofficial motto: "Make every day just a little bit more magical" Topics Discussed No-Spend Challenge: Amy discusses her current 365-day no-spend challenge, designed to get off the "hamster wheel" of constantly buying the newest fabrics and tools Industry Pressures: Insights into the pressure of keeping up with trends and how the quilting industry changed during and after COVID Business Evolution: Amy shares her journey from brand "Happy Hippie Studio" to her current more authentic approach Fabric Industry Inside Look: Amy's experience working on a contract basis within the fabric industry and seeing how things work behind the scenes First-Year Business Mistakes: Lessons learned about authenticity, simplifying processes, and avoiding burnout Pattern Testing: Why Amy decided to stop using pattern testers and how she simplified her pattern development process Homeschooling Reality: An honest look at balancing homeschooling with running a creative business Managing Depression: Amy's candid discussion about dealing with depression and PMDD while running a creative business Where to Find Amy Instagram: @amylolliscreative Website: www.amylollis.com Sponsored By Want to try free motion quilting but don't know where to start? Here's 3 simple steps to get going. Are you looking to ADVANCE your machine quilting skills? Machine quilting can be very solitary, especially on a longarm. It's just not that easy to pack up your machine and head to a friend's house for the day, right? But it's important to have that community - that sharing of ideas and tips, encouragement and motivation. For more information and to sign up, visit our website. Support the show ------------------------ If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review here. Resources: ADVANCE, my monthly subscription membership FREEHAND QUILTING MASTERCLASS, an on-demand comprehensive course ALL-OVER FEATHER, sign-up for a FREE quilting class And here's where you can find more of my work: YouTube - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED episodes Website - for more information on classes and quilting services Facebook - current projects and photos Instagram - current projects and photos Pinterest - photo galleries and tutorials
- Mar 26, 202518 min
15 Quilting Tools Hiding in Your Hardware Store
Send a text In this episode, I explore unconventional and budget-friendly quilting tools that can be found at your local hardware store. As part of Season 5's focus on building a creative business, this episode offers practical tips for quilters looking to save money while enhancing their craft. Hardware Store Quilting Tools: Tools Section: Magnetic Bowls - Deeper than typical pin dishes, perfect for holding pins, especially heavy-duty long arm pins Magnetic Bars - Used to secure quilt tops when floating them on a long arm machine Telescoping Magnetic Handles - Great for retrieving dropped pins or reaching into tight spaces Scissor Sharpeners - For extending the life of all-purpose scissors (not recommended for high-quality sewing shears) Small Inspection Mirrors - Helpful for checking the bobbin area or viewing the back of a quilt without flipping it Paint Department: 6. Painter's Tape - Susan's "all-time winner" for marking boundaries, creating guides, securing loose seams, and making cutting jigs 7. Rubber Mallet - Perfect for flattening bulky seams that won't fit under machine feet, also useful for snaps and grommets Measuring Section: 8. Yardstick - Longer than typical quilting rulers, useful for holding side clamp straps at the long arm machine Storage & Organization: 9. S-Hooks - Great for hanging rulers on pegboards or temporarily displaying quilts 10. Wire Shelving with Wheels - Space-saving storage that can be rolled when needed 11. Snap-Together Storage Bins - Perfect for organizing small supplies like seam rippers and marking tools 12. Mesh Drawer Organizers - Good for visible storage of color-organized scraps 13. Closet Organization Hardware - For storing batting rolls using closet rails and PVC pipe Lighting: 14. LED Stick-On Lights - For additional task lighting under machines - Tip: Use a floor lamp with adjustable neck for "quilting by shadow" on dark or busy prints Building Materials: 15. Plexiglass Sheets - For auditioning quilting designs wit Want to try free motion quilting but don't know where to start? Here's 3 simple steps to get going. Support the show ------------------------ If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a rating and review here. Resources: ADVANCE, my monthly subscription membership FREEHAND QUILTING MASTERCLASS, an on-demand comprehensive course ALL-OVER FEATHER, sign-up for a FREE quilting class And here's where you can find more of my work: YouTube - LIVE & UNSCRIPTED episodes Website - for more information on classes and quilting services Facebook - current projects and photos Instagram - current projects and photos Pinterest - photo galleries and tutorials
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About Measure Twice, Cut Once
...and other life and business lessons learned from quilting. Makers have stories! And crafters have skills! In these casual chats and interviews, I (often with a guest) talk honestly about creativity. The joy, and hope, and even healing it can bring, and the businesses we can build doing the things we love.
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