December 20, 2023
Artist Spotlight: Teresa Coates
Teresa Coates is nationally adored for all things fabric. She teaches, she quilts, she writes. And, she designs patterns for her own company, Crinkle Dreams.
As a National Educator for Shannon Fabrics, Teresa has partnered with Missouri Star to teach the magic of sewing with Cuddle. From quilt backs to Santa hats to super-soft stuffed animals, our collection of Teresa tutorials is a true treasure trove.
We are inspired by Teresa’s sense of adventure and creativity. Read on to learn more about this cutting-edge quilter:
What is your favorite part of the quilting process?
- The home stretch of piecing, when I’ve got blocks made and getting it put together into a whole quilt top. I love seeing it all coming together (hopefully, as planned!)
Who are your favorite fabric designers?
Carolyn Fridlander, Philip DeLeon and Rashida Coleman-Hale
What notion or sewing tool are you most dependent on?
My ByAnnie Stiletto! I use it for every project.
How were you introduced to sewing and quilting?
My mom was an avid sewist when I was a child and my great grandmother was a quilter, so it was just always a part or my life.
What was the most frustrating sewing project you ever worked on?
My first attempt at making a circle with 80 wedges was super frustrating, but it taught me the importance of angles and consistent seam allowances. My first attempt remains unfinished, but I made the whole thing over again and it became my Dare Mighty Things Quilt, which I’m very proud of!
What do you do to find inspiration/encourage your creativity?
To foster my own creativity, I love looking at other forms of art—painting, bookmaking, sculpture. It inspires me to think differently about what I see in my own work.
What occupation would you like to try if sewing/making wasn’t an option?
I think I’d be National Park Ranger. I love the outdoors and getting to share information with others. I’ve visited a lot of our parks and I’m always amazed at the knowledge they share.
Who is your favorite fictional character?
Mary Poppins—I love both her pragmatism and optimism.
What fabric have you been hoarding/saving the longest?
I have a bit of fabric that’s from a dress my mom made for herself in the early 70s and some knit that was hers, too, that she’d used to make me a top when I was small.
Describe your perfect day.
Coffee on the porch while I read for a bit, then spending the rest of the day in the sewing studio creating a new project with no deadline or expectations, just exploring different techniques and fabric combinations. I’d sneak in some snacks and enjoy a late dinner with my family.
It’s always a party when Teresa Coates comes to town. She pushes us to stretch our skills, build confidence, and find joy in the creative process.
We are delighted to feature Teresa in BLOCK Magazine. Pick up volume 10 issue 6 to see what she has dreamed up now!
More information: https://www.teresacoates.com/
Follow Teresa:
Join Teresa's Facebook Group
Published by Danae M.