Designer Tidbits: Brenda Riddle


The Fat Quarter Shop is excited to welcome Brenda Riddle to the Jolly Jabber. Brenda’s latest fabric collection is Durham Anew from Lecien Fabrics.





Q: What was the first seed that grew into the Durham Anew collection?
A: My inspiration for this Durham Collection was a lovely vintage paisley fabric piece which ended up as one of the first fabrics in my collection. The colors in the original paisley piece were all wrong for Durham's look. It was all golds and greens, but it was wonderfully faded & the softness & beautiful paisley design was perfect. I'm thrilled with the re-coloring of the design & the new Durham paisley is a treasure to me!

Q: If your collection had a soundtrack what would be on the list?
A: I think the soundtrack to 'Miss Potter' (which I listen to regularly!) would fit it nicely. It also reminds me of the English countryside - which is always in the forefront of my mind when it comes to the Durham Collection.

Q: What single print/SKU in the collection is your favorite?
A: That is a toughie of a question! (. . . like asking to pick a favorite child!..) So, I'll say the print that has captured my fancy is the main floral (especially in the white colorway). As I open up the fabric, I find that the finished design reminds me so much of a vintage sheet. It wasn't even intentional. . . (and I love vintage sheets!)!




Q: What is your favorite project you have made using this collection?
A: I'm still 'working' (playing really!) with the fabrics but I am finding that I'm making a bunch of things for my home: pillows, some little quilts with words for wall hangings & nine patches. . . I'm currently a wee bit consumed with making nine patches!




Q: What is your favorite part of working in the fabric industry?
A: For me, it is a dream to be creating fabrics that I can create things with, as well as the emails, notes, and photos I get from others who have created special things with the fabrics I have had a part in. It touches my heart in ways I wasn't prepared for.

Q: Can you give us a sneak-peek of your next fabric collection?
A: Oh how I wish I could!. . . but since I've not yet received any strike offs, I'm afraid I can't. . . yet. What I can tell you is that it is called 'Hill Farm' . . . and that I can't wait for it to arrive (should be in the spring/summer 2012).

Q: What is your absolute favorite thing in your house?
A: These are some of the quilts that my Grandmas made. They are extremely precious treasures to me.




Q: Which project stands out in your memory as your all-time favorite?
A: One of my latest designs, 'By My Hand', is one that is very special to me & was so very fun to create. It is going to be hung in my studio to remind me of what I love about what I get to do!




Q: Where do you do your best thinking? Can we see a photo of your studio?
A: I actually do my best thinking when I'm out on a walk. . . I think the fresh air has a bit to do with it!




Q: What is your favorite snack food? Can we see a photo of your fridge or pantry?
A: Oh, that's easy… I love my mocha's! I get the mocha powder from Starbucks & make one at home almost every day!




Q: What is your one guilty pleasure in life?
A: This little guy (my little Bailey). . . I'm overly blessed with this little 'fluffybump' of personality that I get to share my days with!




Labels: ,