by Kim Jones

On a recent excursion to a quilt shop, which was a means of breaking up the continuous sitting during a quilt retreat I was attending, I became excited to learn that it had been acquired by new owners. Yes, a quilt shop, no matter who owns it, provides an opportunity to explore new fabrics and possible new projects. But the idea of new ownership means that, even though I may have visited this shop previously, there may be a new feel to the shop along with new product discoveries.

A quilting friend of mine has a knack for finding quilting products that she seems to be unable to resist and has acquired quite a collection of what she calls “gadgets”. It could be anything from a bobbin winder (upon finding she had two of the same, I became the recipient of one of them), to any number of rulers and things meant to make our sewing experiences easier and more efficient.

So, I started thinking…with the holidays coming up and never quite knowing what to tell my kids about possible gifts I might like to receive, why not suggest to them some quilting gadgets! Oh, the possibilities! I could ask for a new cutting mat, since I haven’t replaced the one that I’ve had since I first started quilting. It has been sliced and diced, and its edges ripped ragged from being moved from here to there. Or, how about that new ruler that lets you cut continuous fabric strips of various sizes, or, oh gosh, I could go on and on.

If you find yourself needing to assist your near and dear ones with their holiday gifting ideas, visit a favorite quilt shop and start making a list! Not only will you be setting yourself up to receive a gift you want and will use (SWEET!), but you’ll also be supporting that new or long-time quilt shop owner. It’s a win-win-win situation for everyone. Happy Holidays!