Quilting on the Side

Andi Stanfield and Tori McElwain
  • 4.8 (19)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Co-hosts Tori McElwain of HeyTori and Andi Stanfield of True Blue Quilts share real talk about what it takes to grow a successful quilting business while balancing full-time work, family life, and creative energy. Whether you're into quilt pattern design, longarm quilting, teaching workshops, or selling handmade products, you'll find practical tips and honest conversations here. We cover everything from digital marketing and course creation to time management and the mindset shifts needed to build a sustainable, fulfilling side hustle. This show is your go-to guide for running a profitable quilting business on the side - with encouragement, strategy, and plenty of real-life stories from the stitching trenches.

  1. 3D AGO

    Collaboration Over Competition: Actions to help grow the quilting industry as a solopreneur

    Send us a text In this episode of Quilting on the Side, Andi and Tori discuss the importance of building a community within the quilting industry. They explore mindset shifts necessary for collaboration, overcoming self-doubt, and creating a welcoming environment for all quilters. The conversation emphasizes the value of featuring each other's work, forming symbiotic relationships, and engaging in local business collaborations. They also touch on the significance of sharing platforms and personal stories, networking, and the need for fair pricing strategies. The episode concludes with a call to celebrate wins together and support one another in the quilting journey. Additional Resources Mentioned in the Podcast:  Click here to listen to the Collaboration Episode Click here to listen to the Price to Thrive Episode Rachel Rodgers We Should All Be Millionaires Don’t miss an episode! Like, comment, and subscribe for more quilting stories, tips, and industry insights. Chapters 00:00 Building Community in Quilting 03:38 Mindset Shifts for Collaboration 07:31 Overcoming Self-Doubt in Business 10:22 Creating a Welcoming Environment 12:29 Featuring Each Other's Work 14:50 Symbiotic Relationships in Quilting 18:32 The Power of Local Meetups 21:53 Sharing Stories to Connect 25:58 Pricing Strategies for Success 31:39 Celebrating Wins Together Want More Quilting Business Content? 🔗 Support us on Patreon for exclusive perks 🔗 Grab Tori’s new book, Workshops Unleashed 📌 Follow us on Instagram Co-Hosts: Tori McElwain @heytori.tech Andi Stanfield @truebluequilts Support the show If you want more support with your quilting business, make sure to hit follow.

    41 min

  2. OCT 21

    The Art of Quilt Design with Laureen Smith

    Send us a text In this episode of Quilting on the Side, host Andi and co-host Tori welcome Laureen Smith, a prolific quilt designer and former chemical engineer. Laureen shares her journey from the corporate world to quilting, detailing her early experiences with needlework and how they shaped her passion for quilting. She discusses her transition into quilt design, the challenges of working with fabric manufacturers, and her innovative approach to three-dimensional fusible applique.  The conversation also touches on the business side of quilting, including pattern writing and the importance of community engagement. Laureen's insights into the creative process and her rapid-fire responses provide a comprehensive look at her quilting journey and the industry. Chapters 05:48 Laureen's Journey into Quilting 11:23 The Business of Quilt Design 18:12 Navigating Fabric Manufacturer Relationships 23:53 The Art of Pattern Writing 33:18 Exploring Three-Dimensional Fusible Appliqué 34:14 The Art of Fusible Applique 39:27 Innovative Techniques in Quilting 43:13 Building a Quilting Business 49:43 Inspiration and Creative Process 54:24 Connecting with the Quilting Community Connect with Laureen Smith www.TourmalineThymeqQuilts.com  IG @ttquilts FB @tandtquilts YouTube @tourmalinethymequilts3628 Want More Quilting Content? 🔗 Support us on Patreon for exclusive perks 🔗 Grab Tori’s new book, Workshops Unleashed 📌 Follow us on Instagram Co-Hosts: Tori McElwain @heytori.tech Andi Stanfield @truebluequilts Support the show If you want more support with your quilting business, make sure to hit follow.

    1h 2m

  3. OCT 14

    Creative Solutions for Quilt Samples

    Send us a text In this episode of Quilting on the Side, Andi and Tori discuss the challenges quilt business owners face with accumulating sample quilts. They explore various options for managing these samples, including giving them away, repurposing them into wearable art, and selling them. The conversation delves into the difficulties of pricing handmade quilts and the importance of finding the right market to sell them effectively. The hosts share creative ideas for repurposing quilts and highlight the significance of targeting affluent areas for selling quilts. Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Quilt Sample Dilemma 04:00 Creative Repurposing of Quilts 06:50 Selling Samples: Challenges and Opportunities 12:56 Finding the Right Market for Quilts 18:35 Planning for Fabric Samples 21:34 Choosing Timeless Color Schemes 23:19 Dealing with Mistakes in Quilting 25:58 Creative Solutions for Quilting Errors 29:09 Community Engagement and Selling Quilts Want More Quilting Content? 🔗 Support us on Patreon for exclusive perks 🔗 Grab Tori’s new book, Workshops Unleashed 📌 Follow us on Instagram Co-Hosts: Tori McElwain @heytori.tech Andi Stanfield @truebluequilts Support the show If you want more support with your quilting business, make sure to hit follow.

    34 min

  4. OCT 7

    From Hobby to Business: Our Chat with Tasha Haynes

    Send us a text In this episode of Quilting on the Side, host Andy welcomes Tasha Haynes, a passionate quilter who transitioned from a hobbyist to a business owner. Tasha shares her journey of starting quilting in 2015, the challenges of turning her passion into a business, and the importance of community in the quilting world. She discusses her experiences with selling patterns on Etsy and her personal website, the growth of her YouTube channel, and the balance of family life with her entrepreneurial endeavors. Tasha also offers valuable insights on lessons learned in business and the importance of focusing on one strong lead magnet for email lists. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tasha Haynes and Her Quilting Journey 02:46 Transitioning from Hobby to Business 05:44 Navigating Sales Channels: Etsy vs. Personal Website 08:50 The Growth of Tasha's YouTube Channel 11:48 Creating a Supportive Quilting Community 14:53 Exploring Future Business Avenues 17:48 Balancing Family Life with a Quilting Business 20:51 Lessons Learned in Business 23:15 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts Connect with Tasha: Membership: https://clubhouse.tashaquilts.com/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TashaQuilts  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tashaquilts/  Website & Blog: https://tashaquilts.com  Want More Quilting Content? 🔗 Support us on Patreon for exclusive perks 🔗 Grab Tori’s new book, Workshops Unleashed 📌 Follow us on Instagram Co-Hosts: Tori McElwain @heytori.tech Andi Stanfield @truebluequilts Support the show If you want more support with your quilting business, make sure to hit follow.

    36 min

  5. SEP 30

    Lessons from 75 Episodes of Quilting on the Side

    Send us a text In this celebratory episode of the Quilting on the Side podcast, hosts Andi and Tori reflect on their journey through 75 episodes, sharing lessons learned, the importance of authenticity, and the value of community. They discuss the challenges faced in podcasting, the significance of structure and organization, and how technology has aided their efficiency. The conversation emphasizes the power of real stories and the growth of their community, highlighting that success is not just about numbers but about meaningful connections. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating 75 Episodes: A Journey of Perseverance 06:57 Real Stories Over Perfect Advice 12:04 Navigating Struggles: Monetization and Promotion 17:28 The Importance of Structure and Preparation 24:45 Community Over Algorithms: Building Connections 34:28 Exploring Pattern Design and Technology 37:24 Networking and Organic Growth in Quilting Want More Quilting Content? 🔗 Support us on Patreon for exclusive perks 🔗 Grab Tori’s new book, Workshops Unleashed 📌 Follow us on Instagram Co-Hosts: Tori McElwain @heytori.tech Andi Stanfield @truebluequilts Support the show If you want more support with your quilting business, make sure to hit follow.

    36 min

  6. SEP 23

    The Crossroads of AI and Quilting with Theresa

    Send us a text In this episode of Quilting on the Side, hosts Andi and Tori welcome Teresa, the AI Quilter, who shares her journey from the semiconductor industry to the world of quilting and artificial intelligence. Teresa discusses her passion for teaching AI concepts to various audiences, including quilters, and addresses the ethical concerns surrounding AI-generated art.  She emphasizes the importance of understanding AI's capabilities and how it can enhance creativity without replacing the human touch. The conversation also covers marketing strategies for solopreneurs and concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal Teresa's inspirations and insights into the quilting community. Don’t miss an episode! Like, comment, and subscribe for more quilting stories, tips, and industry insights. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Teresa, the AI Quilter 04:42 The Journey into AI and Quilting 17:09 Ethics and Copyright in AI Art 23:55 Leveraging AI for Creative Processes 35:57 Marketing Tips for Solopreneurs 44:32 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts Connect with Theresa: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaiquilter/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAIQuilter  Get her book, Digital Muse: Bringing AI Into Your Creative Process, and her patterns: https://theaiquilter.com/shop  Heard about the Self Publishing Incubator? Click here to see more.  Want More Quilting Content? 🔗 Support us on Patreon for exclusive perks 🔗 Grab Tori’s new book, Workshops Unleashed 📌 Follow us on Instagram Co-Hosts: Tori McElwain @heytori.tech Andi Stanfield @truebluequilts Support the show If you want more support with your quilting business, make sure to hit follow.

    50 min

  7. SEP 16

    Navigating Black Friday: Holiday Sales Strategy

    Send us a text In this episode of Quilting on the Side, Andi and Tori discuss effective holiday planning strategies for small businesses, particularly in the quilting industry. They explore the pros and cons of participating in Black Friday sales, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead to maximize profits while maintaining a balance between business and personal life. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement, sustainable marketing practices, and the necessity of preparing for the new year to ensure ongoing success. Chapters 00:00 Holiday Planning for Success 03:55 Pros and Cons of Black Friday Sales 10:27 Strategies for Effective Sales 17:22 Creating a Sustainable Sales System 23:57 Focusing on Community and Engagement 27:22 Planning Ahead for the New Year Don’t miss an episode! Like, comment, and subscribe for more quilting stories, tips, and industry insights. Want More Quilting Content? 🔗 Support us on Patreon for exclusive perks 🔗 Grab Tori’s new book, Workshops Unleashed 📌 Follow us on Instagram Co-Hosts: Tori McElwain @heytori.tech Andi Stanfield @truebluequilts Support the show If you want more support with your quilting business, make sure to hit follow.

    39 min

  8. SEP 9

    How to Handle Controversy, Difficult Conversations, & More with Dara Tomasson

    Send us a text In this powerful episode of Quilting on the Side, Tori and Andi welcome back their favorite coach for quilters, Dara Tomasson, for a timely conversation about mindset, controversy, and emotional resilience in business. Together, they explore how to navigate emotionally charged situations, set healthy boundaries, and separate self-worth from business outcomes - especially in today’s divided social and economic climate (in the US at least!).  Dara shares why reaching a neutral emotional state leads to clearer decision-making, and how curiosity and inspiration in everyday life can fuel both personal and professional growth. This episode is especially relevant for quilt pattern designers, teachers, and longarm quilters navigating challenges like tariffs, scarcity mindset, and conflicting beliefs while growing a sustainable business.    Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Mindset in Business 04:09 Reaching a Neutral State for Better Decisions 06:35 Separating Self-Worth from Business Outcomes 11:47 Navigating Emotional Challenges in Business 18:14 Establishing Boundaries in a Divided Society 26:56 Having Difficult Conversations 31:42 Understanding Mental Health in Business 34:44 Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life Connect with Dara Tomasson: On Instagram On her website: https://daratomasson.com/Sign up for her free Webinar: How To Work With Your Hormones Instead of Against Them September 17th @ 12pm Pacific Time CLICK HEREWant to Support the Podcast and Unlock Exclusive Perks and Content? Join our Quilting on the Side Patreon community! By becoming a patron, you'll gain access to behind-the-scenes content, bonus episodes, and exclusive resources to help you grow your quilting journey. Plus, your support helps keep the podcast thriving! Click here to join. Want More Quilting Content? 🔗 Support us on Patreon for exclusive perks 🔗 Grab Tori’s new book, Workshops Unleashed 📌 Sign up for our weekly newsletter 📌 Follow us on Instagram Podcast Details: Co-Hosts: Tori McElwain @heytori.tech Andi Stanfield @truebluequilts Support the show If you want more support with your quilting business, make sure to hit follow.

    41 min
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4.8
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Co-hosts Tori McElwain of HeyTori and Andi Stanfield of True Blue Quilts share real talk about what it takes to grow a successful quilting business while balancing full-time work, family life, and creative energy. Whether you're into quilt pattern design, longarm quilting, teaching workshops, or selling handmade products, you'll find practical tips and honest conversations here. We cover everything from digital marketing and course creation to time management and the mindset shifts needed to build a sustainable, fulfilling side hustle. This show is your go-to guide for running a profitable quilting business on the side - with encouragement, strategy, and plenty of real-life stories from the stitching trenches.

Information

  • Creator
    Andi Stanfield and Tori McElwain
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    84
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Quilting on the Side
  • Show Website
    Quilting on the Side

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