Today we are thrilled to have the team at It’s Sew Emma Patterns and Fat Quarter Shop here to talk about their new book!
The book begins shipping today, and is called “Simply Fat Quarters.” With 10 quilt patterns that can each be made in four different sizes. Read on to learn more about the team’s self-published book and don’t forget to leave a comment at the end for your chance to win one of three copies!
So many people have the bucket list dream to write a book, but not many realize what is involved in the process. Can you tell us a little bit about the book and your patterns business?
Here’s a little background about It’s Sew Emma! We are a dynamic team of four (Kimberly, Debbie, Jocelyn and Sarah) that design and publish patterns together. We each have different talents, tastes and specialties, which works really well. We have been publishing It’s Sew Emma patterns since 2011, which started out from one conversation in the back of a van during Quilt Market some years ago. Writing a book had always been on our minds, but it had to be the right time.
Is there a theme for the quilts/projects included in this book?
Simply Fat Quarters is geared towards using fat quarters to create quilts of all different styles and sizes. It seemed fitting to have our first book focus on fat quarters since our store is Fat Quarter Shop. There are 10 projects, and each can be made in four different sizes: crib, lap, twin and king. All are suitable for a confident beginner. Of course we think they appeal to all!
Did you work with a traditional publisher, or go the self-publishing route? What have you learned through the process?
We chose to self-publish mainly because we wanted to work on our own timeline and have complete creative control. Every step was a learning process. We researched copyrights, binding options, writing styles, distribution methods, you name it.
Establishing the pattern company while still running a fabric store did not leave much room for exploring the book idea, but we finally set a deadline for ourselves. It was a very fun and challenging process, and we like to do things fast. From idea to self-publishing, it all came together within nine months! After we decided to go the self-publishing route (very nerve-wracking to say the least), our concept, then we each submitted lots of designs to consider. After selecting our designs, we picked the fabrics for our samples, wrote instructions, did the photography, edited, tested, and edited some more. We have just finished the process, so it still feels like we’re in that dream!
Where do you find inspiration for writing new patterns? Do you have any ways to overcome the writer’s block that comes with creating designs from scratch?
Usually the inspiration for new patterns comes from fabric, a classic “chicken and the egg” situation! Sometimes you see one print that you know will be the starting point for a new quilt design, and then you take the seeds of design inspiration you’ve had sitting in your mind to do the rest. Some of us start with pencil and paper (or mouse and computer), and some start at the cutting table.
Do you have any advice for someone who wants to write a craft book or design and sell patterns?
Research how the business works and invest in beautiful photos. A great book or pattern cover is paramount. Get together a team of great testers. Most importantly, set a deadline. You will mull over your options designs forever unless you stick to a date!
Giveaway!
Hot off the presses, Simply Fat Quarters has arrived in stock at Fat Quarter Shop, and they are generously giving away 3 copies of the new book!
Leave a comment telling us something you’ve learned from this Q&A for your chance to win. We’ll choose 3 random winners on October 3, 2012. Good luck!
Congrats to our three winners, #19 Libby G., Diane and #90 Linda S.!
271 comments
I didn’t know that such a beautiful book could be done in just 9 months!
I learned how sometimes you start with the fabric then build the pattern around it. I always pick out a pattern then find fabric for it so I am going to try the other way.
I was surprised that the “It’s Sew Emma” patterns have only been published since 2011. Great team and great patterns! Keep it up girls with more patterns and now more books.
I think it is amazing they could set such an optimistic deadline and stick to it. Well done.
I learned that the process of creating a book is a long one. I also loved the advice at the end of the article about research and the value of great pictures…this is so true!
I love some of the patterns I am seeing. Congrats to them all.
I learned how they can get their inspiration and sometimes pencil and paper can be one of them.
…that the book contains 10 projects, in 4 sizes (each), and are mainly made of FQs (which is totally wonderful for me)!!!
Oh my, those are some beautiful quilts – I wish I had more time and money.
I never really thought of it but inspiration is kind-of a chicken and egg situation. Just like with any project you will either be inspired by the available materials or the process of finding the perfect materials for the final outcome.
The Zap pattern is beautiful; even if I don’t win a book I’ll be adding it to my “Things I want for Xmas” wishlist!
I learnt that self-published books are much more likely to have had the patterns tested whereas books published by a big publishing house probably haven’t…
Congratulations on publishing your book and for making the investment in great photos! They will sell the book! Am anxious to learn more about Sew Emma. Thank you for this opportunity.
Ellen
The wide range of quilt sizes for the patterns in this book is sure to appeal to a lot of quilters. It’s nice to have options!
A lot of work goes into publishing a book. I’ve also learned that I would love to have this book in my quilt book collection. So many inspiring patterns that look so fun!
What a great little Q+A! I learned that patterns often start with the fabric first before the design comes, which I love! I love that they are all fat quarter patterns bc I love a good fat quarter bundle!
The book is written by a dynamic team of four
I liked the idea that some inspiration for a new quilt idea can actually start at the cutting table – that you could begin by playing with fabrics that appeal to you and start working them into a potential pattern, rather than starting with a particular pattern in mind. I think that would really lend itself well to contemporary designs. Would love to win the book but if not will likely purchase a copy!!
I’m new to the quilting game and learned tons of things from the FAQ. The main one I learned was regarding inspiration. I have all these great ideas in my head of what I want a couple of quilts to look like, but thought I had to look for a pattern first and none of the patterns match these ideas I have. I guess from movies that have quilt-making as a theme point and some T.V. shows i thought there was a certain canon that had to be followed. But, now I know that I can be creative as I want and I can make my own pattern and start at the cutting board. Would love to win the book since it is suitable for confident beginners, though if not, will probably buy it.
I learned that the book was self published and in a short amount of time. Would love to win this book.
I learned that you can publish your own book. I thought you had to always go through a publisher. I was excited to find out Fat Quarter Shop did a book. That’s so awesome.
I think what I’ve picked up mostly from this interview, is that, when women decide to roll up their sleeves and work together, they can accomplish anything. Can’t wait to see the book! 🙂
I learned that there is way more to writing a book than I want to deal with. Pattern testers, photography. I am happy just stitching my quilts.
I think the biggest thing that I learned is there suggestion to invest in a good photography to take good pics of your work in order to get the book sold. I think that is so true because that is what entices me to the book in the first place based on the “look” of the cover. I think they did a great job with the photographs that I have seen so far. I would love to win a copy of the book.
I learned that the projects in the book are suitable for a confident beginner–so maybe they wouldn’t be too hard for me!
I’m appreciating the teamwork it took to self-publish in nine months! And I never really thought about hiring a photographer to take pictures of my projects but it makes so much sense.
love that there are directions for four different sizes for each quilt.
I learned the importance of setting a deadline and sticking with it. I think sometimes I should do that with craft projects so I can get more of them done. 🙂
I didn’t realize the book was self-published! That’s so cool!
Scheduling out your sewing time is important, don’t overwhelm yourself
I was surprised that they could create such a fantastic product in only nine months, but they seem like a very strong team! Thanks for the interesting interview and for the chance to win!
I learned that you four are amazing. It takes a lot to get any book published, and yay, do did it.
I learned that the patterns are often inspired by the fabric! That is awesome! Thanks for the great interview! This book looks fabulous! 🙂
I didn’t realize that It’s Sew Emma Patterns and The FQ Shop were the same gals! I love both!
I’m pleased to learn that “Emma” is actually a team of very talented ladies. And to see the axiom “if you want something done, ask a busy person” still holds true. The book looks like just what my library needs!
Amazing how much work of 4 went into this book
Don’t be scared of self-publishing. Lovely looking book – makes me want to start quilting!
It sounds like a big undertaking but worth it with the end result. I learned that to create a design is sometimes just random but the end result is very impressive. I am excited about getting a book
This Q&A was a most needed word of encouragement today…Reminded once again, it is never to late to follow your dream!
Would love the book:)
I learned that the 10 projects in the book can each, be made in four different sizes: crib, lap, twin and king.
That is SO cool!
love the book
I love the idea of finding a fabric that i love then building a pattern around that. I have some great fabric that I haven’t used because patterns just don’t do it justice. Thanks
Congratulations on publishing this wonderful book in such a short time. Kudos to all. The photos are great. I learned that the patterns are often inspired by the fabric. That is such good news for all creative quilters. I would love to win this book. Thanks for the opportunity.
If you have a fabric you love you can always create around it making your own pattern
The importance of photography. Good to know. Makes sense.
Wow, it’s crazy that they did it all in only nine months.
I had never heard of It’s So Emma before. How neat that four creative women can work together to produce such nice things! And they have been at it for over 10 years! Where have I been?!?
I learned that you need to invest in good quality phots and pattern testers. thanks
I learned some tips for self-publishing.
I just learned how inspired you guys are over there, awesome!
how fun! congratulations to the self-publishing team – what a great accomplishment! I learned that 10 projects in the book can each, be made in four different sizes: crib, lap, twin and king, which is a nice feature!!
I learned that it is worth the investment to hire a good photographer. They did an amazing job getting the book done so quickly. Thanks for the chance to win a copy.
I am loving these patterns! It is so inspiring to see them put together all of these projects from scratch all in house from start to finish. Their research and time invested is definitely evident.
Wow, I love the idea of self publishing.. it really lets the creative process be truly that of the author!
I think it’s great that they’ve self published, very interesting to see how and why they went that way.
The book is exciting. Help with fat quarter projects is a great idea.
It sounds as if a very attractive cover seems key to the initial success of a new book! awolk at rogers dot com
It was great to hear about the self-publishing route. Beautiful book!
Love the cover. It is eye catching. Seems that self publishing a book is not an easy task. I like the fact that you gave 4 different pattern sizes for each quilt. I will be ordering mine soon!
It was interesting to hear about the different steps to publishing a book. And the importance of testing and retesting. Thanks for the chance to win one of these beautiful books!
The book looks great!
Thanks for the giveaway!
I learned that there is a lot more that goes on “behind the scenes” of writing a book, than just making a bunch of pretty quilts!!
What I learned that all of the projects can be completed by a confident beginner, meaning I don’t have to pick and choose from a selected few. Good news!
What I learned was that all of the projects can be made by a confident beginner, i.e., me! It can be discouraging to eagerly by a book only to discover your skills aren’t adequate to actually make them. This is great news!
I learned that it’s important to have a deadline. Usually I like to work at my own pace, but sometimes having a deadline is a real motivator, especially if you want to do more than one project!
Thanks–can’t wait to see it!
I think that the comment on investing in good photography is a very important component. If you do all the work of a great design and writing a wonderful pattern and then the photo on the cover isn’t great… that can keep you from selling the pattern. A great photo sells your design! Bottom line!
I learned that you can get inspiration from more than just a pattern
I am amazed at the process itself, to say nothing of the gorgeous quilting! Congrats on the book, it looks wonderful!
I learned that Its Sew Emma is made up of 4 designers! I LOVE that quilt on the cover of the book!
Looks like an amazing book!
I learned that a book can be finished in 9 months! That’s crazy!
From the Q&A I learned that having pattern testers and sticking to a project timetable is important when writing and publishing a quilt book by a deadline. Otherwise, there is a tendency to overthink all the design possibilities with the patterns.
Having ordered from FQS a few times, i get curious of the persons behind it! Therefore it was fun to see what they look like, and to know that they have different tastes when quilting. Thanks for this giveaway!
It’s important to invest in great photos.
Oh it looks lovely! I love that each quilt can be done in 4 sizes. I was very surprised and impressed to read that they self-published in only 9 months!
I was amazed to find out that each pattern can be done and has instructions for 4 different sizes.
I didn’t realize the awesome folks at Fat Quarter shop had a book! What great teamwork!
i love the fact that you show how well self-publishing can work for someone who really wants to control every aspect of the process. it’s exciting to contemplate……………
I can’t imagine pulling that all together in only 9 months! Also, I’m seeing a bunch of patterns I’d like to try!
I am impressed they self published. I am sure having a deadline was the key to getting this project doen.
Congratulations on your book. It is full of colorful pictures that already are making the juices flow. I have lots of fat quaters and am always looking for ways to use them up. I think I found it!!
I learned some tips for self publishing. Great job!
I design and sell my own crochet patterns so the Q&A’s about the books and design pictures really helped me. Thanks for sharing!!
Melissa
I didn’t know that “It’s Sew Emma” was 4 people!!
I learned that every pattern is made from fat quarters. THANKS for the chance!
ourbusylittlebunch(at)hotmail(dot)com
I did not know that “It’s Sew Emma” or “The Fat Quarter Shop”, where really 4 people. They are all very knowledgable in quilting and run two great business! This book should be very exciting. I would love to make some of these quilts!
I learned that inspiration comes from all sorts of things, fabric being just one.
Learning about the inspiration for writing a pattern being the fabric was surprising to me.
Interesting to learn about their self-publishing process, as compared to the normal publishing that you’ve described in previous interviews. More details for them to keep track of, but a shorter process over-all. Thanks for the chance to win this great new book.
I didn’t realize you could self publish! Very nerve racking indeed! The cover and all pictures shown look gorgeous. There are at least 2 quilts I’d like to make already!
I love that this lovely group of 4 ladies uses fabric as their project inspiration. It’s backwards from what most crafters do. Be especially blessed, Kathy
I learned that self publishing is the way to go if you can be disciplined enough to stick to a self-imposed deadline.
I learned that self publishing is a do able thing!! I’ve always thought that you really had to have a publisher to do a book!! It looks amazing!
I love that all the patterns can be made in four sizes! this looks like a good one!
Congratulations on the new book – it looks fabulous! I didn’t know It’s Sew Emma and The Fat Quarter Shop were the same people. It’s wonderful when a team can bounce ideas off one another. Much success!
I have already ordered the book from my LQS. I asked her to order one for me and she ordered more for her shop. I told her ‘this will be a great seller’. I learned with 4 designers, working on the book, that it was doable to ‘self publish’ a great book in 9 months. Great job ladies!! BTW should I be lucky enough to win a copy, I will have a great Christmas gift ready to wrap in October. Thanks for the chance!
I learned that there is one more reason to love the Fat Quarter Shop! Lol! Thanks for the opportunity to win. =)
I learned that they based the designs to fit fat quarters since it’s their first book and the name of their shop.
I learned that when women put their heads together, anything can happen!
Congrats on the book!!!
I don’t know that I “learned” this – but it reinforced the fact of setting a deadline to make decisions. I am one that would “think” about it for a long time. Would LOVE to write a book and so admire you for taking the plunge and coming up a winner!!
It was super interesting to here about someone going the self publishing route. I’m very excited about this book.
I am thinking about writing a book and it was interesting to learn about the self publishing aspect. It was not an option I had considered and have now been inspired to do some further research into it. Thanks!!
book looks fabulous – congrats! thanks for opportunity to win and get a preview of the book lots of info included in book
I love the ‘Poppy’ quilt!
I learned that in writing a book, as in most else in life, you have to just let go at some point and FINISH!
I’ve learned that it’s possible to have a group of people’s ideas come together and result in beautiful patterns & even a book!
I always thought self publishing seemed really difficult-and it sounds like it is!
I learned that each of the 10 projects cqn be made in 4 different sizes. That is definately a plus.
Wow! I learned that FQS has a book! I did not know that. They’re way more than a fabric store. Very neat.
I learned about what is involved in self publishing a book. I love that the quilts comne in different sizes too.
I hadn’t really thought about the “pattern testing” aspect of designing patterns. I’m sure this is a critical step to success. Also, I had no idea self publishing was an option. Congratulations on the new book!
This book looks amazing and the thought of having options of size for each pattern is truly fantastic. I always have to either change the pattern or trim off the extra in order to change the pattern. Plus, I love fat quarters. So many choices.
Congrats on the book. It looks great
I love reading about the creative process used by other designers and quilters. It goes to show what you can do if you set goals for yourself and you have chosen something you truly love. I would love to have a copy of this book. It looks wonderful. Thanks for a chance to win.
I learned how you mesh well as a team even though you each have a different approach, the book looks amazing Congrats!
Thanks for introducing me to this book. I didn’t realize it used fat quarters to create a variety of different size quilts. Looks like fun.
I learned that it is very important to set deadlines for yourself when self publishing – I guess you have to keep yourself in line! The book looks great!
Self published, that was a pleasant surprise. I think too often we are dependent on the middle man to get us from the start to the finish. But if you know Kim at all, you know she is an independent thinking kind of gal and isn’t afraid to run forward with ideas. Good job ladies, the quilting world has been done proud.
10 patterns in four sizes and of course the reminder to deadlines. I can sit and look at groups of fabrics all day. If I don’t dig in and start, they can sit for quite awhile.
Looking forward to the book.
wow, I love how they took the publishing business on themselves. therefore getting exactly what they are looking for. it is important to set goals and stick by them.
I am amazed that a book can be done in 9 months… the end result looks amazing and I’ll love to have a copy of it on my shelf.
I learned that they self-published. I think that is awesome.
Well, I learned that the FQS girls wrote a book! haha CONRGATS to them! 🙂
Love the “looks” of the book. Good to know that I am not the only one who starts with the fabric, then trys to find the right pattern for it. 🙂 Also learned that 4 different thinkers can collaborate together and come up with such a stunning book!
Great interviews! I learned that self publishing a book seems like it takes less than than going through an established publisher. I’ve heard of some books taking over a year, amazing they did it in only 9 months with several edits! Great job 🙂
I learnt that it took 9 months to put together this book. The quilts are so nice. I can’t wait to get more quilting experience!
I didn’t know that It’s Sew Emma was four designers, I always assumed it was just Kimberley! It makes so much sense though, because of the amazing variety of styles!
love the designs! I have to agree with a number of other people in that i would not thought it possibale to get a book out in 9 months from start to finish.
I found it incredible that your book was developed and published in only a span of 9 months!! That is amazing!! Bravo! Hope to win a copy – it looks awesome too!
This looks like a very well-made book. I had no idea it was self-published. This interview made me aware of that, and changed my opinion of the potential of self-published material. (Naturally, anything coming from the FQS gang is going to be of great quality.)
I learned that usually the inspiration for new patterns comes from the fabric.
I didn’t know that The Fat Quarter Shop and It’s Sew Emma designs were the same team, no wonder I like both they are some very smart and talented women.
I learned the book was self published and the patterns are for confident beginners so very doable. Thank you for the change to win.
karen608 at yahoo dot com
What I learned is that I don’t think I want to self-publish a book but I’m really grateful for those that do! Love The Fat Quarter Shop…this book looks wonderful!
Taking great pictures and having testers is a great idea, setting yourself a deadline, really gets you going, Some really lovely tips and thoughts in this Q&A. This looks like a fantastic book, well done.
Since I was considering self-publishing a pattern, it was informative to me to see the process behind the book publishing….lots of great information there. Love that “Truffles” quilt!
Congrats on the new book and I although I know of the Fat Quarter Shop and had heard of the Book for some reason I didn’t link it to It’s Sew Emma, and for some other reason I never caught on that it wasn’t just one “Emma” but four. Good luck to all!
Self-publishing a book is awesome! It gives hope to those of us who dream… Love the fat quarter patterns. Fat quarters are my favorite fabric choices.
she started a publishing co. to publish her book and patterns thanks for the giveaway
Hello! What a nice giveaway!
I learned that this book’s project are for confident beginners>that’s me!!!!! Thanks for a chance at winning it!
I learned that the projects have size options. That’s a great feature.
I like that the patterns are given in four different sizes
You Ladie’s did allllll this yourselves, in nine months time….quite a Birth!! Soooo in Awe of you 4!! (PLUS keepin’ up with Store, and Family stuff!! AWESOME JOB!!!! Just proves to me, we can do ANTYTHING we set our minds to do…to make that first step, take that chance…LIVE EVERY MOMENT TO THE FULLEST!!
Thanks for chance tow in your Book!! 🙂
Didn’t know that you could self publish and what a great way to meet the challenge of a diverse audience then to use several contributing authors! Great job! good points about setting dates and sticking to them otherwise you can get into a procrasitnation spiral.
I like that the book is for the Confident Beginner which is what I am, and that you select the fabric first then the pattern, which is what I always seem to do. I would love to have the book especially for that Truffles pattern! Oh thank you for a chance to win.
Learned you can publish your own book and it doesn’t always takes long. What a great book to win. Thanks for the chance.
Great book to have! Publishing this book yourself was something I learned and that great pictures in it make a difference.
I enjoyed learning about the pattern business!
I love that they show an idea and persistance can pay off a bit of every ones input and a great book for us to enjoy after all their hard work.Thank-you so much to them and youselves
I learnt that sometimes setting a deadline, even when busy already, can be the motivation to get something done. And that some of these quilts look like I need to make them!
I am super impressed that it only took them 9 months! And it’s always fascinating to hear behind-the-scenes info. Thanks for sharing!
I learned that even the professionals struggle with some of the same issues we do and if they can do this than so can I.
I didn’t know that Miss Emma is really 4 people.
Great advice to set a deadline. I find it very easy to keep mulling over a design or project and not get anything else done.
I didn’t know much about self-publishing, so it was fun to hear about their experience.
I was surprised to learn this book was self-published.
I loved the fact that the material has an input into the design and tat so much can be done with fat quarters. I also learned how much I really want this book!!
I learned that it’s great to have a team to lean on, especially when you have a tight timeline.
I learned that I need this book so I can use some of those fat quarters I am hoarding!
I didn’t know that you could write a book like this in just 9 months, and then to publish it yourself! Wow.
Wow – all sizes of quilts, cannot wait to read this book
I love the discipline that comes from setting a deadline (and not changing it a million times!) Thanks for a chance at winning the book. Looks interesting.
It was self published. Each pattern has 4 sizes.
It was self published. Each pattern has 4 sizes.
I love the idea of self publishing. Knowing that you need to set yourself a deadline, and stick to it is a great idea. I didn’t know that so much research was involved. Thanks for sharing these tips and for a wonderful giveaway!!!
I was very impressed on the 9 month time frame. That is amazing. The idea to use the self-publishing route sounds interesting and intense! Thanks!
I learned that even craft books can go the self-publishing route! Looks like a great book!
I am going to add this book to my library regardless, i love the sample quilt Poppy. I never knew that a quilt book could be self published! I am very excited for this one!
I’m impressed that you self-published this book. You’re so right about having a great cover photo for your book. Many times I won’t even thumb through a quilt book if the cover photo is uninteresting, and as a result, I don’t even consider buying it.
A book is a great undertaking, great job on the hard work. I’m have just started quilting doing BOM quilt right now and am learning what fat quarters are. Hoping to learn more. Your have invested in the future quilters to come. thank you.
I always thought – pick the pattern and then get your fabrics – nice to see it the other way around! thanks!
I liked hearing about the self publishing process and neat to think about setting your own deadlines!
I had no idea you could self publish books. Will have to look into it.
I learnt that it was self published and how to go about self publishing. Lovely book 🙂
I love that the quilts are offered in four different sizes!! As for something I learned– self-publishing sounds very rewarding, but also a LOT of hard work! 🙂 Thank you for the chance to win this wonderful book!!!!
I learned that excellent photos are so important for many parts of craft making.
To maintain more control, self-publish.
I learnt that setting a date and beautiful photos are important. I’d love to one day write a craft book and I can see that if I didn’t set a date I’d never get it finished!
I learned what a lot of planning and work it is to achieve such a wonderful end product. Thank you for the chance with the giveaway.
I learned that you don’t need a Publisher and a group of women can indeed succeed on THEIR terms. Congratulations!
I learned that It’s Sew Emma Patterns started out from a conversation in the back of a van at a quilt market!
Ideas can begin anywhere, including a van! Just follow that goal and you can achieve anything with lots of hard work!
This is the kind of book that I needed at this moment.
thanks for the giveaway and wish I could get one copy.
I learned that some designers start designing with paper and pencil, some at their computer, and some start designing with fabric and fabric cutters.
I’m very impressed with the self-publishing of this book!
Very inspirational to see how the publishing process can be! I really like the patterns too – nice twist on the traditional & I love scrappy quilts.
I learned that each of the 10 projects can be made in 4 different sizes.
What gumption it takes to write a book. And, the pictures are beautiful.
I, myself have just started quilting and I have to tell you that I am truly amazed of everything that goes into a project such as publishing a book! Congrats! P.S. I sure would love to win this book!
Congratulations! It is nice to know that a group of women worked together to achieve a goal from start to finish and most times I pick out the pattern first and then the fabric but if I am reading correctly they picked out the fabric and then created the quilt which I will have to try…thanks for the chance to win a copy.
Fat quarters are wonderful time savers. It is amazing to see a book published on just fat quarters. Thanks
I learned that making a book is a ton of work!!!!
A really insightful book/interview – so useful to see that I am not the only one who considers the fabric before deciding what I am going to embark upon. Also how from a brief talk how the future can develop.
I think it’s great 4 women could collaborate on such a project and still remain friends when it’s over!
[email protected]
It fun to read about your inspiration for patterns. Looks like a great book.
What creative souls – congratulations. Blessings on your endeavors.
Wow, self-publishing a book, running a successful fabric store, and it all started with a few friends in the back of a van! Looks like a great book! Thanks for the opportunity!
I learned to try to pick the fabric first, then the pattern. I generally have a pattern in mind first. I think I’ll try it the other way around! 🙂
I learned that these amazing woman are very talented and that I would love to visit there shop! Congratulations ladies. I hope that this is just the beginning of your publishing talents! May God bless!
These ladies kept complete creative control by self publishing.
I learned that they self-published. I didn’t know sewists did that, but it sounds like it was a good option for them.
Who knew that It’s Sew Emma wasn’t one person named Emma! Now I know it’s the 4 of you! Thx for the chance to win.
Your book is so lively, colorful and fun looking. My 8 year old daughter and I love to sew together and think this book would be great to make some projects together!
Girl power. Love the fact that this book is self published by the power of 4 business minded women!
I never knew anything about self-publishing and it seems like a lot of work. These four ladies with different styles prove that it can be done! Thank you for the opportunity to win!
I love that they reinforced my personal goal of setting a date and sticking to it! It worked for them and they turned out a beautiful book!
Since I have several hundred fat quarters, this book really calls to me. Loved the process used while writing the book. Gives us all a peek into what it takes and we should be glad there are those who have the talent to get the job done.
Bravo, job well done!
The book looks gorgeous
Thank you for offering the giveaway
I would love to win this book!
I didn’t know you could publish your own book. It sounds like a lot of work but I’m sure it will be well worth it.
I didn’t know it was self published. Lots of challenges but I’m sure its a satisfying feeling too.
I re-learned that it is ok to start with the fabric. I sometimes fail to do a project because I can’t find the right fabric. I need to put the fabric first.
I learned that you can form a pattern around the fabric.
lag110 at mchsi dot com
I look forward to seeing the book! Didn’t realize this was self published! thanks for the giveaway!
Love fat quarter quilts! Congrats on the new book-It looks fabulous!
I love that they self-published and I’m amazed that it came together so quickly! There are so many things to learn and decide on with self-publishing so it usually takes longer.
Hello – what a beautiful book. I am in the process of deciding what quilt I want to make – this looks yummy. Mim
That’s amazing how quickly that came together! I’m still always surprised at how fabulous the quilts can look with such a small amount of special fabric.
I was interested to see that a quilt can begin with the fabric and then the quilt design can come. Fabulous concept. I must try it.
I’m now inspired to start my own self-publish book! I’d love to know more about what resources they used to learn about the industry (beyond the writing, editing & photos) & actually getting in to production.
Looks like a great book! I learned there are many things to think about when writing a book, like copyrights, getting excellent photos, whether to self-publish or not, etc.
Great book==would love to win!
letting fabric be the inspiration for the pattern surprised me! thanks for the giveaway
Great work…I’m new to quilting and anxious to learn all that I can. Love to sew and make gifts for others. Appreciate the opportunity to win your book.
I have learned that the It’s So Emma line isn’t designed by just one person but a team effort.
Wow! I didn’t realize you could do SO much with just fat q’s. Amazing!!! I would love to check out this book and learn more. Ty for a great giveaway!
I like that they didn’t go with a publisher so they could set their own deadlines & have more control.
I LOVE the designs–hope I win~~!
I learned you can make your dreams come true in a very short time.
Looks like a great book to add to my collection!
What a cool book! I’m always looking for ways to use up my fat quarters. 🙂
I learned I’m not the only one that has to give myself deadlines in order to complete something! Seriously, though congratulations on your new book. And way to go that you chose to self publish. I like that idea!
Fat quarters are so much more than I imagined!
I learned that the patterns in the book are available in 4 different sizes! Thanks.
Research and great photos are the key to a successful craft book.
Hello! I learned that research is a key to a great book! Thanks for sharing!
I learned that It’s Sew Emma is 4 women creating patterns. I think that is so cool that they work so well together creating patterns and a self-published book!
This looks like a book my daughter and I would enjoy. Thanks for the chance to win a copy!
I like that the quilts have instructions for FOUR different sizes each – so many times it is just 2 sizes. My fat quarter stash yearns for this book!!!
I soooo want that book, I hope I win it! I learned that when I get an idea for something to get right at it, set a deadline.
I am crazy about Fat Quarters and scrappy quilts right now. I will really enjoy this book. Patsy
I was just informed yesterday that I’m going to inherit a fat quarter stash from a quilter’s daughter. I don’t have a lot of fat quarter friendly quilt patterns so this book would be a Godsend! Thanks for opening up this wonderful giveaway…I’ll be keeping my fingers crossed. I see some incredible quilts I would love to create!
Love some of your patterns that come in different sizes.
But would love to be a tester.
Congratulations on the book
Wow, to be able to write a book in nine months!! That takes some real talent.
I think the most important thing I learned is that you need to just set a time limit and then just do it!!
I like: “Usually the inspiration for new patterns comes from fabric…”
This book looks awesome. I hope I win!
I’ve learned that nine months is doable for a self published book! I never would have believed it. 🙂
I learnt to buy the fabric first then decide on a pattern. And I have also learnt that I really, really want to own a copy of this book, I hope I can win one of the 3 copies you have for this giveaway. Thanks for the chance.
Well if you only spend 9 months with teh book, I can not imagine what you will create soon.
Thanks for the giveaway.
Ale
Costa Rica
I like the idea that they find inspiration from fabric first.
I had no idea you could self publish!
But I have learnt from this article, that doing so would be wayyyy beyond my abilities lol
So much respect to this ‘team’ !
I adore the quilt on the cover……its a delight!
I learned that the book is for quilts made of mostly fat quarters. They can be made in several different sizes. Looks like a beautiful book.
Today I start a project from the pattern and I have learned that you can start from the fabric and flow from there 🙂 The book looks amazing- what a great givaway!
I’m impressed that the patterns can be made to different sizes.
And the photography is beautiful!
I was not aware the authors also run the Fat Quarter Shop (which I love).
I would have thought self publishing would be a hard process but seems like in some cases the smart way to go! If I don’t win a copy I will certainly buy one!
love what i see i been do quilts for years i love seeing new patterns and ideas every day iam aalways up for the challenge thanks every time a new book comes out i must get it thanks again for the chance
Great to hear about the self publishing. Fat quarters- I have lots of them waiting to be made in to a masterpiece. I would love this book. Thank you.
9 months…now tat is fast and interesting to learn what ave you the ideas and how you decided to make a book…especially for beginners. Even us ” seasoned” quilters lie an easy pattern and I see a baby one I would love to make…o hope I win! Thanks a bunch and congrats on your new book! I ill buy it if I do not win it….great patterns!
I always get lost in fabric choices, so having a deadline would force me to pick one & continue with that.
I learned that you can self publish so you can work on your own time, and definitely not to give up on one’s dreams. Thanks for sharing, and thanks for the giveaway.
I was surprised to read that sometimes ideas for patterns come to them from the fabric. Very interesting! Sure hope I win, this sounds like a good book to own!
I didn’t realize Sew Emma was made up from Four creative people!
The book looks great!
Love fat quarters, love fun patterns, great fun
This book is written by 4 people.
When women set their mind to something, there is no stopping us! Congratulations on your book!
I love making fat quarters quilts and getting the combinations right is so totally fun.
Lots of research required.
love to use precuts!!
Not only are you creative but you also are very disciplined!!!
Wow 9 months! I thought it would be much longer!
Learned: that some designers realize that consumers need options, like the four different sizes in patterns. It’s so frustrating to see for example, a table runner that would be perfect for your bed, but you have to do all the re-designing yourself!
Each pattern change with different fabrics, so is too exciting to see what is it at the end! Tres bravo! Very nice book
I’m excited to have won a copy of the book….thank you & the Fat Quarter Shop so very much!!!