Sew Off Kilter Podcast

On this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Ian and Becca are joined by Di Cluff from Sister Chicks Quilts for a conversation that blends creativity, business, and a whole lot of quilting wisdom. Di shares her journey from working as a seamstress to becoming a passionate quilter known for her love of scrappy quilts. She talks about how her style evolved over time and what led her to build a business centered around quilting and community. The conversation dives into the world of quilting retreats, including what it really takes to host them and why they mean so much to the people who attend. From the logistics to the magic of bringing quilters together, Di gives an honest look behind the scenes. They also get into the realities of running a YouTube channel and making it financially sustainable. Di opens up about monetization, multiple income streams, and what it takes to turn a creative passion into a working business. It is a thoughtful, honest, and often funny conversation about what it looks like to build a life around quilting.

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Brandy from Quilter on Fire to talk about her journey from firefighting to quilting, and how creativity became a lifeline during her battle with PTSD. Brandy shares how quilting helped her process trauma and rediscover herself, turning pain into purpose through fabric and storytelling. We also dive into what really makes a quilt stand out at shows like QuiltCon, including why originality, strong narratives, and great photography matter just as much as technical skill. Plus, Brandy gives us a behind-the-scenes look at judging. She breaks down how to approach feedback, why understanding the criteria is key, and how patience and persistence can take you further than chasing perfection.

On this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Ian and Becca sit down with Steven Bland and his husband Walter for a fun and insightful conversation about quilting, creativity, and community. Steven shares how he went from paper crafting and teaching high school English to becoming a quilting content creator on YouTube. He opens up about building his platform, hosting virtual retreats, and what he’s learned along the way, both behind the sewing machine and behind the camera. The group dives into favorite projects, tips for quilters at any level, and how technology, including AI tools, is starting to play a role in the creative process. Along the way, there are plenty of laughs, honest moments, and a reminder of just how important community is in the quilting world. Whether you’re brand new to quilting or have years of experience, this episode is packed with stories, inspiration, and a fresh perspective on finding your creative voice.The Idiot Quilter Spring Retreat will be held on Saturday April 18, 2026. This is a virtual retreat and it is free but in order to reserve your spot, you will need to register by sending me (The Idiot Quilter) an email message stating your name(first and last) and the email address you wish to be contacted at. Registration opens at 9:00 AM eastern time on Saturday April 4. You can find my email address in the about section of any of my You Tube videos. Click on the link below to view a short video that will explain all the details (like prizes, guest speakers, and fun events) of the retreat.The Idiot Quilter Retreathttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iWJyKl5gcE8

What brings someone to QuiltCon? In this episode, Ian and Becca take The Sew Off Kilter Podcast on the road and hit the show floor to find out. Armed with microphones and plenty of curiosity, they chat with quilters from all over, asking a simple question: Why did you come to QuiltCon? The answers range from heartfelt to hilarious, with stories about creative inspiration, community, favorite quilts, and the excitement of being surrounded by thousands of people who love quilting just as much as they do. These quick, man-on-the-street style interviews give a fun snapshot of the energy on the show floor and highlight the many different reasons people make the trip to QuiltCon each year. Join Ian and Becca as they share the voices, motivations, and inspiration of the quilting community, straight from the middle of the action. 

Join us as we relive the vibrant experiences of QuiltCon 2026, from favorite moments and quilts to the community connections that made it unforgettable. Discover insights into the event's highlights, challenges, and the inspiring talent on display.

In Episode 32 of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Ian and Becca sit down with Kim Moore, the creative mind and handler behind the tiny skeleton we all adore, Mr. Bones Sews. What starts as a chat about quilting projects and QuiltCon prep quickly turns into a lively conversation about creativity, community, and a surprisingly strong love for fictional cats. Kim shares the story behind her stop motion animations featuring Mr. Bones, her background in synchronized swimming, and what it felt like to see her very first fabric collection come to life. The trio dives into the excitement and social dynamics of QuiltCon, the realities of creating content for social media, and the inspiration behind the wildly fun Derpy Tiger block influenced by K Pop. Kim also walks us through the design process behind her Mr. Bones fabric collection and hints at what could be next. Plus, stick around for a rapid fire round where Kim reveals her quilting preferences, dream collaborations, and a few unexpected favorites. This episode is packed with humor, heart, and the kind of creative energy that makes the quilting community so special.

On this episode of the Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian are joined by paper crafter, designer, and educator Cathy Zielske for a thoughtful and honest conversation about creativity, design, and building a life around making. Cathy shares her journey from competitive roller skating to graphic design, and how those experiences shaped her approach to scrapbooking, storytelling, and teaching design principles. Together, they talk about why design matters across all crafts, from quilting to paper crafting, and how the shift from traditional scrapbooking to digital tools has changed the creative landscape. The conversation also dives into the realities of content creation, balancing personal challenges with professional deadlines, and what it really takes to turn a creative passion into a sustainable career. Cathy, Becca, and Ian discuss branding, authenticity, community support, and the importance of having multiple income streams in today’s crafting world. This episode is a mix of practical insight and creative encouragement, with plenty of reflection on why we create, how we grow, and where crafting might take us next.

On episode 30 of the Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian sit down with Sean from The Guy Who Sews for a wide-ranging conversation about quilting, community, and finding your place in the sewing world. Sean shares his quilting journey, what it is like quilting in Australia compared to the U.S., and his experiences entering quilts in competitions and state fairs. The three also talk about sewing machines, quilt shows, travel plans, and why putting your work out there matters, even when it feels intimidating. They dive into the growth of the online quilting community through live streaming and podcasts, and how those connections continue to shape the way we quilt together. The episode wraps up with a fun and fast-paced So Speedy Round where Sean, Becca, and Ian share a few personal favorites and quilting preferences.

On episode 29, Carrie from Chick A Dee Quilted Treasures joins Becca and Ian for a great conversation about what it looks like to sew and go live on TikTok while living full time in a fifth wheel. Carrie talks about selling her house, embracing a mobile lifestyle, and finding joy in creating while on the road. She shares what she loves about RV living, what surprised her, and how she keeps her creative routine going even in a small space. If you have ever wondered what it takes to quilt in an RV, or you just enjoy hearing how other makers set up their spaces, this one is a fun listen. As a quick programming note, this is the final episode of 2025. We are taking time to be with our friends and families for the holidays. We will be back in January with more Sew Off Kilter chaos.

Adam from AdamSews joins Ian for a relaxed and lively chat while Becca takes a short break from the mic. They dive into their quilting journeys, their love for Tula Pink’s fabrics, and what it is really like to experience QuiltCon from different angles. The conversation moves easily between personal projects and commercial work, the joy of exploring fabric shops in different countries, and the lessons learned while building a creative business. Adam also talks about his upcoming pattern release and how the pandemic sparked a new wave of makers. Together, they explore everything from the mystery of the elusive banana fabric to the role of color in quilting, plus a few fun side quests into ribbon, prototypes, and creative chaos. The episode wraps up with a rapid-fire round that gives listeners a peek into their personal preferences and creative quirks. If you love stories, fabric, and a good laugh, this one is for you. Becca will be back next time.

In this episode, Ian and Becca are joined by quilter and content creator Amy Dement for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation about all things quilting. Amy shares her personal journey, from learning under the guidance of her mentor to finding her voice as a creator in the online quilting community. Together, they dive into the world of scrappy quilts, the emotional stories behind handmade creations, and the joy of making quilting accessible to everyone. They also discuss how quilting has evolved, the importance of authenticity in content creation, and how community plays a central role in keeping the craft alive. Plus, stick around for a fun rapid-fire segment where Amy shares some of her personal favorites and quirks!

In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian are joined by the one and only John MacPhail from Art East Quilting Co. for a lively, laugh-filled conversation that dives deep into the intersection of theater and quilting. John shares how his background in costume design and theater shaped his approach to quilting, storytelling, and pattern design. The trio discuss the creative process, community support in the quilting world, and the ethics of pattern sharing in today’s digital age. From tackling the challenges of turning a passion into a full-time career to exploring the joy and humor that make Art East’s designs so beloved, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who loves creativity, color, and a good laugh. Stick around until the end for a rapid-fire round where John reveals some fun personal favorites and maybe a few surprises!

It’s our one-year anniversary of the Sew Off Kilter Podcast, and we’re celebrating in true Off Kilter fashion with laughter, confetti, games, and maybe a few surprises Becca didn’t approve! In this special episode, Ian and Becca look back on a year of quilting chaos, creative breakthroughs, and unforgettable moments. They’re joined by a special guest as they play hilarious quilting-themed games, spill behind-the-scenes stories, and share fun stats about how far the podcast has come. Expect plenty of humor, a little friendly competition, and some heartfelt reflections on what quilting (and community) really mean to them. From memory quilts to quilt show stress, from music vs. silence debates to piles of unfinished projects, this episode is packed with laughs and relatable quilter moments.

In Episode 24 of the Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Ian and Becca are joined by the incredible Todd the Bear Quilter! The three share how they first met at QuiltCon, dive into Todd’s quilting story, and talk about the shocking lightning strike that destroyed his sewing equipment. Along the way, they even take a detour into yoga and how it connects to creativity and life as a quilter. Get ready for a mix of heartfelt storytelling, humor, and inspiration from Todd’s journey. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just love hearing about the unexpected twists in creative lives, this episode has something for you.The Bear Quilter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebearquilter/The Bear Quilter TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebearquilter

In this episode of the Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian sit down with Kim Moos, the creative force behind Cotton Cuts. Kim shares her inspiring journey from a career in biomedical engineering to building a quilting community that’s loved around the world. We talk about her path into sewing and quilting, the story behind Cotton Cuts, and how community, retreats, and creativity all play a huge role in her work. Along the way, Kim opens up about her favorite quilting moments and what keeps her inspired. Plus, we end with a fun twist you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of the Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca’s youngest sister, Alicia, joins Ian and Becca to share what it’s like stepping into the quilting world as a beginner. Together, we talk about the joys and frustrations of starting out, from navigating sewing patterns to choosing the right tools, and even when it’s okay to let go of projects (hello, “quilt bankruptcy”).Alicia draws fun parallels between quilting and cooking, reminding us that creativity often thrives in a clean space and with a supportive community. Along the way, we share personal stories, laugh at our own stumbles, and celebrate the growth that comes with stitching by hand or machine.Whether you’re brand new to quilting or a seasoned maker, this conversation is a reminder to find joy in the process, embrace mistakes, and lean on your quilting community for encouragement.

In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca shares her unexpected journey from swearing off handwork to falling in love with hand piecing and stitching. She talks about the tools and notions that make the process enjoyable, and how slowing down to stitch by hand has given her a peaceful, quiet mind. Meanwhile, Ian holds firm to his machine-loving ways, proving once again that there’s more than one path to creativity in quilting.Join Becca and Ian as they compare perspectives, laugh at their differences, and explore what makes hand stitching so special for those who embrace it.Affiliate Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/sewbecca

This week, Becca and Ian are joined by Mac Cox of M.A. Couture Crafting and Leo Ransom of Lion’s Den Quilting to talk about what it’s like stepping into the role of a quilting teacher. How do you know you’re ready to teach? What surprises come with leading a class? And what happens when chaos breaks out mid-lesson? (Spoiler: it involves a lot of laughter.) Whether you’re dreaming of teaching or just here for the antics, this episode is full of stories, insight, and more than a few off-kilter moments.

In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian are joined by the awesome Josh Dunn from Lifting and Stitching to talk all things pattern design! From where inspiration strikes to how an idea turns into a full-blown pattern, Josh shares his process, tips, and what he’s learned along the way.Whether you’re a quilter dreaming of writing your first pattern or just wondering what goes into the magic of design, this episode pulls back the curtain with humor, insight, and a few off-kilter detours (as always).🧵 Grab your sketchbook—or at least your seam ripper—and join us for a fun, honest chat about the world behind the pattern.

It’s a special episode of Sew Off Kilter and this time, Becca’s taking a break while Ian is joined by four incredible male quilters: Chris Marchini (Rose City Originals), Todd Leavitt (The Bear Quilter), Matt Harr (Harrcraft Goods), and Michael Eason (Quilchemy). In this all-dude discussion, they dive into what it’s like to be a man in a female-dominated quilting world, the challenges and surprises that come with that, and the friendships that changed everything. From finding each other at QuiltCon to forming a creative brotherhood, this episode is all about connection, community, and quilting from a different perspective. Expect laughs, honesty, and a whole lot of bonding—plus a little thread-based chaos, of course.

This week on The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian tackle the wild world of feedback—the good, the bad, and the hilariously awkward. From constructive critique to the dreaded “sh*t sandwich” method, they dive into what helpful feedback really looks like (and what to avoid). They also explore how feedback plays a role in their professional lives and how it weirdly connects back to quilting. Whether it’s unsolicited comments on your quilt or advice from your boss, this episode is packed with honest reflections, a few seagull dive-bombs, and plenty of off-kilter laughs. Grab your seam ripper and settle in—it’s time to talk about growth, communication, and not crying over critique!

Hold on to your scraps—Becca and Ian are back with special guest Chris from Rose City Originals! With no set agenda, they dive into QuiltCon memories, Accuquilt dies, fabric scraps, and a whole lot of friendly chaos. Expect laughs, tangents, and a healthy dose of quilting chatter in this lively, unfiltered episode.Visit Chris's Website: https://rosecityoriginals.com/

In this episode of Sew Off Kilter, Ian and Becca take a stroll down memory lane to uncover the moment they each finally embraced the title quilter. From first quilt shops (or, in Ian’s case, not remembering the first shop at all) to the awkward, funny, and sentimental milestones that shaped their quilting identity, this episode mixes heartfelt reflection with the usual laughs. They also touch on how their quilting journeys have evolved—and what “being a quilter” really means. Whether you’ve been quilting for decades or just picked up your first fat quarter, this one’s all about those ah-ha! moments that stitch us to the craft.

Becca and Ian dig deep (literally and emotionally) into their fabric stashes to confess just how big their collections have grown. From irresistible fat quarter bundles to that fabric they swear they’ll use “someday,” they explore the habits, hilarity, and heartbreak of being a fabric hoarder. Tune in for laughs, relatable stories, and a few tips for managing your stash (or at least pretending to). No judgment here—this is a safe space for fellow fabric fanatics.

It’s a big episode, y’all—we’ve got our very first guest! 🎉 This week, Becca and Ian sit down with the fabulous Rachel Pierman, owner of Crafty Monkies and host of the Breaking the Blocks podcast. We dive into Rachel’s creative journey, from her start in the industry to building a global crafty community.We talk teaching, the magic of connecting with other makers, the ups and downs of creative careers, and of course—why quilting and community go hand in hand. There are laughs, a few heartfelt moments, and some seriously good insight from one of the best in the biz.Grab a cuppa and come get to know Rachel better with us!Crafty Monkies Website: https://www.craftymonkies.comBreaking The Blocks Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@BreakingTheBlocksPodcast

Pack your projects and grab your travel sewing machine—this week, we’re diving into the world of sewing retreats! In episode 12 of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Ian confesses he’s never been to one (gasp!), while Becca spills the thread on the few she’s attended and why she loves them. From stitching with strangers who become fast friends to what to bring (and maybe what to leave at home), we share our thoughts, stories, and a few handy tips for anyone considering a retreat of their own.As always, it’s equal parts humor and heart, with a side of sewing talk you didn’t know you needed. Tune in for retreat chatter, laughter, and our usual off-kilter takes!

Is AI the future of quilting, or will it just judge our fabric choices? In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian dive into the world of artificial intelligence—what it is, how it works, and how it’s creeping into the sewing world. They chat about AI’s potential in quilt design, the challenges it could bring to quilt shows, and what the future of sewing might look like with a little robotic assistance. Will AI be a quilter’s best friend or its biggest competition? Tune in for a mix of insights, laughs, and maybe a little existential dread about sentient sewing machines!

Celebrating amidst the creative whirlwind of QuiltCon Phoenix, we kick off with exciting news of Becca's third-place ribbon for "Excluded" at the Dallas Quilt Show. This sparks our deep dive into the transformative power of QuiltCon, where we've witnessed our own evolution from craft enthusiasts to finding our true quilting tribe.Between the overwhelming inspiration of 400+ exhibition quilts and the electric energy of content creator meetups, QuiltCon has become less about the show itself and more about the connections formed there. We share candid stories from rooftop gatherings where barriers between "tiers" of creators dissolved, spontaneous conversations around remarkable quilts, and even an unexpectedly thrilling adventure in a rented electric Mustang that felt like riding a roller coaster.The magic of QuiltCon lies in its ability to transform solo quilting journeys into a vibrant community experience. We discuss how Ian's identity has shifted from "Off-Kilter Crafter" to "Off-Kilter Quilter," attracting a dedicated quilting audience and creating unexpected friendships with creators he once admired from afar. For anyone planning to attend QuiltCon Raleigh 2025, we offer practical wisdom: join the Modern Quilt Guild for early registration perks, bring comfortable shoes (plus a backup pair!), pack essentials like water and portable chargers, and come prepared with tradable stickers – the unofficial currency of QuiltCon.Want a piece of QuiltCon Phoenix to call your own? Send us a self-addressed stamped envelope, and we'll mail you our limited edition stickers from this unforgettable event. The quilting community awaits – will you join us in Raleigh next year?

Ever stared at a wall of fabric and felt completely overwhelmed? You’re not alone! In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Ian and Becca dive into the struggle of picking the perfect fabric for a project. They share their tips and tricks to make the process easier—while keeping things lighthearted with their signature humor. Becca opens up about her battle with decision fatigue, and Ian offers insight on how to narrow down the endless options. Whether you’re a fabric hoarder or just trying to make a choice without overthinking, this episode is for you!

In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Ian shares the knowledge he’s gained from entering quilt shows and winning an impressive 14 ribbons so far, while Becca reflects on her own quilt show journey, including her first ribbon and dreams of earning more. Together, they discuss the importance of reading the rules (seriously, don’t skip this step!) and the challenge of picking the perfect category for your quilt entries. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just curious about quilt shows, this episode has plenty of laughs, insights, and inspiration to offer.

In this reflective and laughter-filled episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian look back at 2024, sharing their wins, losses, and all the moments in between. From Ian’s big move across the country to Becca’s exciting upgrade with Pro Stitcher, they dive into the year’s milestones with their signature blend of humor and heartfelt insight. Looking ahead, they discuss their hopes and goals for 2025, sharing what’s inspiring them as they step into a new year. It’s the perfect way to close out one chapter and begin another—don’t miss it!

In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian are joined by their friend and fellow quilter Mary to tackle the ever-important topic of organization. Together, they chat about how Mary worked her magic to help them organize their sewing spaces and share personal stories about creating systems that fit their unique personalities. With plenty of laughs and insights, this episode is perfect for anyone looking to bring a little order to their creative chaos. Tune in and get inspired to sew organized!

In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian chat about the joy of finding “your people” in the quilting world. They share personal stories and practical tips for discovering quilt guilds, what to expect when you join one, and alternative ways to connect with fellow quilters—like sewing retreats and informal groups. Whether you’re looking to join a guild, meet new sewing companions, or just expand your creative circle, this episode is packed with insights and laughs. They also want to apologize for some minor tech issues as they continue fine-tuning their setup—but the great conversation more than makes up for it!

In this episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian dive into a topic every creative can relate to: losing the muse of inspiration. With their signature blend of humor and insight, they share personal stories about the times their creative spark seemed to vanish, what it feels like to face a project slump, and the tips and tricks that helped them find their way back. Whether you’re struggling to reignite your creative fire or just want to hear some relatable tales from two quilters who’ve been there, this episode is sure to inspire—and entertain—you!

In this special episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian take listeners behind the scenes to share their personal paths to becoming the quilters—and YouTube personalities—they are today. Tune in as they reminisce about how they first got into sewing and quilting, the spark that led them to launch YouTube channels, and the memorable moments that have shaped their creative journeys. With their signature blend of humor and insight, Becca and Ian reveal what it’s like navigating the world of content creation while following their passion for quilting. Perfect for anyone curious about starting their own creative journey or just looking for a good story, this episode is one you won’t want to miss!

In this lighthearted and informative episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian are back to chat all about one of the most important parts of a quilter’s life: the sewing space! Whether you’re working from a cozy corner, squeezing your supplies onto the kitchen table, or dreaming of a sprawling studio, they’ve got plenty to say about making it work. From clever organization ideas to the all-important treats to keep you going (because, let’s face it, snacks are a must), they dive into everything that helps transform any space into a creative haven. Plus, what are they watching or listening to while working on their latest projects? Tune in for a fun and relaxed conversation full of tips, tricks, and a few laughs!

In the debut episode of Sew Becca and Off Kilter Crafter Ian’s brand new podcast, they dive into a topic many quilters know all too well: moving! Join Becca and Ian as they share laughs, tips, and personal stories about what it’s like to pack up a sewing life and start fresh in a new space. From the chaos of organizing fabric stashes and transporting fragile sewing machines to finding a new creative corner and navigating all those mixed emotions, they’ve got it all covered. Whether you’re currently moving, planning a move, or just love a good laugh about the ups and downs of quilting life, you won’t want to miss this episode. Grab your favorite quilt, get comfy, and let’s chat about the art of relocating—quilter style!