Do you remember your very first craft ‘triumph’? If so, what was it and did you keep it? Quilting skills didn’t exactly come easily to me, so I’m a great example of practice makes (nearly) perfect. Regardless of the imperfect points and wonky seams, I’ve always been proud as punch of each and every quilt I’ve made.  

Why quilting? Like so many people, I was looking for something to fill nap time after our first child was born. My mum had picked up a magazine and was giving quilting a go, so I thought I’d do the same. I haven’t looked back since and I don’t think I ever will.

Did you have professional training in stitching crafts? I’m completely self-taught, which is probably why it took me so long to get the hang of patchwork quilting. After my first class, I really did wonder why it had taken me so long to join in with a group of other quilters to learn important skills.

Do you ever tire of your craft and want to take a break? Oh boy! I’d love to say never, but these days, quilting is my hobby as well as my job, so sometimes I have to force myself to take a break. I never get tired of quilting, though, because there are always so many things I want to make.

What sorts of crafts do you avoid like the plague? Paper crafts. I love seeing what other people are doing with paper crafts but I’m not great at it, so I avoid it like it’s worse than the plague!

Other than crafting, how do you like to spend your free time? I’m a mum to two girls, so there are always plenty of kid-based activities that fill up my free time. I also love reading and make sure I get in at least 15 minutes of that every day. 

If you weren’t doing this, what would occupy your time? Can you believe accounting?!?! Accounting was my day job for a long time, and it’s something I enjoy, but I’m very happy to be focusing on quilting full time now.  

What does this craft mean to you? Sewing and quilting is like meditation for me. It’s my ‘me’ time and it’s good for my soul. I feel calmer and more relaxed after a good sewing session. I also love the practicality of quilting; not only do you get to make beautiful things, but they can be put to good everyday use, too.

How would you describe your style? What makes it unique? I’d describe my style as modern traditionalism. I love old quilt blocks and don’t think there’s anything more fun than seeing them done in new ways. When I’m designing patterns, I love to put a little twist on a second, mini version of the design by adding something in (or leaving something out). 

Peta Peace, SheQuiltsALot –