Designer Tidbits: The Quilted Fish













The Fat Quarter Shop is very excited to welcome Amanda Herring of Quilted Fish to the Jolly Jabber. Amanda’s latest fabric collection is Delighted from Riley Blake.


Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Delighted collection?
A: This is always such a hard question for me! I have a hard time pinning down where the initial inspiration came from. I was finishing it at the same time that my last grandparent (my Grandma Smith) passed away. She was on my mind a lot and she was an amazing gardener. She would always let me pick bouquets from her yard. When we were cleaning out her house I found lots of vintage linens and doilies. They are all tied together in my mind.

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: Well, I listened to Mindy Gledhill the whole time I was designing it, so I would have to say that there would be a lot of that on there. I would also add in some Ingrid Michaelson, and some Joshua Radin. I don't know if that is because it matches the fabric, though, or if it is because it is my fave!

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite (can only pick one!)?
A: This is like picking a favorite child! Okay, maybe not THAT hard, but still! Since I can only pick one, I will say the mosaic print. But tomorrow I might change my mind!



Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: I have been working on a project for a few weeks now, but it isn't finished. It will be my first hand sewn quilt. So I will just show you a sneak peek:



Q: What is your favorite part of working in the fabric industry?
A: Definitely the people. The people I work with at Riley Blake are amazing, the store owners are wonderful and I absolutely love hearing from the people that purchase my fabric to make things out of. I love the touchy feely part...and I don't just mean touching the fabric!

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: I can't....yet! But I can tell you that it is called Apple of my Eye and it will be out next Spring. I am really excited about it because even though it is still very much my style, it was a bit of a departure for me. I think you are going to love it!

Q: What is your absolute favorite thing in your house?
A: My family!



Q: Which project stands out in your memory as your all-time favorite?
A: It was a quilt that I made for a gift that I don't have pictures of! My Grandma (same one mentioned earlier) worked at a sewing factory for many years. She would save stacks and stacks of scraps. Some she gave to my mom. My mom had one particular fabric that she saved for over 30 years. When I started quilting I made a quilt for her using that fabric. It hangs in her home now. It is a special tie between my grandma, my mom and me. I love it!

Q: Where do you do your best thinking? Can we see a photo of your studio?
A: This might be a little personal, but in the shower! I would love to share photos of my studio. Good thing I cleaned it this week.



Q: What is your favorite snack food? Can we see a photo of your fridge or pantry?
A: Right now my favorite snack food is Wheat Thins sticks in the fire roasted tomato flavor. I have to put a small amount in a baggie and move away from the box or I will eat them all! I also drink a lot of Crystal Light (as you will see in the truly embarrassing photo of my pantry!)



Q: What is your one guilty pleasure in life?
A: Magazines. Lots and lots of magazines!



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