Friday Fun Day - An Interview with Angela Walters and a Giveaway

Hi Everyone,

 I am not going to say "I want to introduce you to Angela Walters", I am sure you already know who she is: Fabulous Long Arm Quilter to the Stars, Quilting Book Author, and Fabric Designer for Art Gallery Fabrics.  Maybe, we can learn a little something new about her today though....

Angela has a new fabric collection coming out in September called Legacy.

Look at these gorgeous prints:

  

Ms. Angela has graciously offered to let us interview her...

IT:  It was so wonderful to be able to attend Art Gallery's Schoolhouse at Spring Market. I was inspired by your story of the inspiration behind Legacy. Can you share that with our readers?

AW: My grandpa played a huge role in my life by showing me how to make quilts and encouraging me in everything that I did. I wanted to pay tribute to him in some way, so I named the collection Legacy in honor of him. Even though he is no longer with me, his Legacy continues.

IT: How long have you been working with Art Gallery Fabrics? How did that partnership come about?

AW: I have been with Art Gallery Fabrics for almost a year, my first collection was announced at Fall Quilt Market last year. I was introduced to Pat, the art director and founder, by a mutual friend. They have been great to work with and have really helped me develop as a fabric designer.

IT: Your books are a huge hit in our shop. Is there anything that surprised you about the process of writing a book? What is your favorite part about being a quilting author?

AW: The thing that surprised me the most was how much I loved the process. I never thought I would like writing as much as I do, so that was a pleasant surprise! My favorite part about being an author is the fact that I not only get to quilt, but I get to talk about quilting! It really doesn't get much better than that for me!!

IT:  Do you have any advice for aspiring fabric designers? 

AW: The biggest piece of advice that I would give is to stick with it. It took me awhile to get my first collection picked up, and I almost quit several times. It can be hard to get rejected, but don't let that stop you. Keep putting yourself out there!

IT: My friend Jennifer had such a wonderful time meeting you and getting some personal advice on quilting at Market. What is one thing that you think aspiring Long Arm Quilters should do to improve their skills?

AW: When I started quilting, I would practice drawing out the designs all the time. It allowed my brain to figure out how the design flowed so when I was able to get to my quilting machine, I already felt comfortable with it.

Here are our favorite fun questions:

IT:  If you could meet anyone from any time in history who would you pick?

AW: Mark Twain......I would sit on his front porch and have him tell me stories. 

IT:  Slippers or barefoot?

AW: Socks! All the time. My feet are always cold so I am hardly ever barefooted!

IT:  If you were a Superhero what would be your super power?

AW: The ability to produce a latte out of thin air.....think of how much I could get done then!

IT:  What is the best piece of advice you have ever been given?

AW: Pick your battles. I have reminded myself of that piece of advice in all areas of my life; marriage, parenting and even quilting. I try not to get worked up over the little stuff.

IT:  If Legacy had a theme song what would it be?

AW: I guess it would have to be Legacy by Nichole Nordeman. It talks about wanting to leave a legacy, and remembering the important things in life. I feel like Grandpa did just that, I hope to be able to do the same!

Thank you so much for being our guest today, Angela!

Angela and Art Gallery Fabrics have graciously offered to sponsor our Giveaway today. One lucky person will win 2 one yard cuts of fabric from Angela's new collection, Legacy. 

oooh fun!

To be entered in the drawing please leave a comment here telling us your favorite print from Legacy. You can find pictures and names of the whole collection here on Art Gallery's Website:

The Giveaway is open until Midnight next Friday night 8/30/13

Please remember to leave a way for us to contact you if you are a no reply blogger.