Interview with Stacey Sharman of Peppermint Pinwheels

I make handcrafted quilts in a modern, traditional style.

I believe in making things that are beautiful and functional. I am also working on a line of patterns because I know there are a lot of crafty and creative people who love to make things for themselves, but need a place to start.

How did you get started? Have you worked in other creative areas before the kind of work you’re doing now?

I am a textile junkie. I started sewing on an antique treadle sewing machine at the age of 8, did needlepoint through-out high school, began collecting vintage textiles while working at an antique/auction house after college and am currently working in antique carpet restoration. I love the gorgeous colors and patterns that surround me day to day and love the history of a handcrafted piece.

I started making quilts to sell after years of making them exclusively for close family and friends. I had always held back from selling the things I loved making because I was afraid that the joy would go out of it. I’m still a bit scared of that happening, but for now, I’m excited about the possibility of doing something I love and making money at the same time. Plus, I have a huge closet overflowing with wonderful fabrics that deserve more than just being stacked on a shelf!

Do you work alone? With a team? Do you engage your family or friends in the work? What is your process? How do you ensure you get your work done yet still have a life?

In many ways, my “day job” in antique rug restoration is very much how I imagine quilting bees used to be in the past: a bunch of women working with needles and thread and talking about their lives. Because I get so much support from these ladies during the day, I always feel inspired to go home and work all evening on my own pieces.

Making a quilt can be a very long and labor intensive process. It normally takes at least a week for a very basic quilt to be finished. That is what I love about what I do – the process of choosing patterns, color, textures- and I’m always happy to be doing it. I do, however, have a husband, a small child, a dog, a cat, two fish and a job, so my challenge is often finding enough time to fit it all in.

Where do you sell your work? Which venues are your favorites? Do you prefer selling online or in person? Do you attend shows or fairs? Is your work in a gallery or brick-and-mortar store?

I’ve only recently begun this endeavor of making my work public. I do have a website at www.peppermintpinwheels.com as well as an etsy site at www.peppermintpinwheels.etsy.com. I have had a lot of success in selling to people that are able to touch and cuddle with my quilts up close, but I’m still a bit shy about selling in person.

Do you have any favorite handmade shops or sellers you’d like to recommend?

www.papaververt.com

What inspires and motivates you?

Every day I’m surrounded by beautiful color and pattern, and that’s what inspires me most. It doesn’t hurt that I live in an area that has abundant sewing , quilting, and thrift stores and there are always new and exciting fabrics to be found.

Thanks Stacey! And if you want to be interviewed next, just head over to DIY Interview.