How would you describe your particular craft style? I don’t think I can narrow it down to just one style. I usually prefer clean and uncluttered, with softer prints and tiny florals being the ones I reach for first. But sometimes I do get the urge to go bold and bright.

Did your distinctive style happen over time or was it immediate when you started stitching? I think the clean and uncluttered style has always been there for me. I like for there to be a focal point that stands out without competing elements.

Are you good at all the crafts you have tried? Definitely not! I tried on many occasions to learn to knit, but my stitches were always so inconsistent. I do think I’ll try to give crochet a go at some point.

What sorts of crafts do you avoid like the plague? I’m really averse to clutter and hobbies that utilise lots of tiny pieces, so scrapbooking is one that I’ve avoided. I’ve seen homes taken over by scrapbooking supplies, and it gave me nightmares! It’s easy for sewing supplies to get out of hand, too, so I’m forever trying to pare down what I own.

Other than crafting, how do you like to spend your time? I love to be with my family. My husband and daughters are my world. Living in California means that we have access to so many incredible activities and year-round good weather to do them. As our girls get older, we loved introducing them to new things.

Is your stitching a great diversion from tasks you’d prefer to avoid (eg: housework? Always! (Isn’t this the case for everyone?) My sewing room is just off my bedroom, so as I’m folding clothes or tidying up, I can see my in-progress projects, and if it’s something I’m particularly excited about, I find myself just wandering in there while I should be finishing folding or making the bed.

If the good fairy granted you three wishes, what would you like them to be? I’d love the ability to drop back to the day my girls were born any time I wanted. To experience holding them and seeing them again for the first time is something I’d love to relive over and over! I know “world peace” is rather over used, but I think it’s one we’d all especially wish for today. To slow down time (unless my girls are throwing a tantrum).

Do you listen to music/radio or watch TV while you sew? I usually listen to audiobooks. There are so many books I want to read, and this lets me accomplish two goals at once.

Do you like craft shopping alone or with friends?I prefer to fabric shop with my friends, although I seem to do the most damage whenever I shop online late at night.

Melissa LeRay, Oh, how sweet!