Alex Anderson 5/13/2002

HGTV: Welcome to HGTV's hosted chat room. Today, Alex Anderson, quilting expert and host of Simply Quilts, is here to answer your question. Hello, Alex!

Alex Anderson: Hi, everyone! I'm glad to be here in the midst of franticly getting together for Spring Market in Kansas City.

Question: Alex, how many quilts do you make per year approximately, and do you ever hit a slump ?
AA: I don't have a clue how many -- but I tell you what, I did one this weekend from beginning to end -- for Market. With the deadlines around me, I rarely have time for a slump. But I will tell you this, when a project is completed, sometimes I get a little sad. It feels like a slump then.

Q: I mentioned in an earlier chat that I bury knots in my hand quilting every few inches, and you said that sounded like a great idea. I'm curious if you ever tried it, and what you thought.
AA: Actually, I haven't hand quilted in about two and half years. I'm so excited, because after Market, I'm basting a quilt and putting it on the frame. I'll check it out then!

Q: What topics are you researching for 2003?
AA: For the television show, we have lots of international guests who are going to be coming, and I am very excited about this. Personally, I just turned in a book today on choosing appropriate quilting designs and how to create them.

Q: Will you ever offer tapes of your shows for sale?
AA: That is an HGTV request. I think it would be an excellent idea. Please, please send your ideas to: comments@hgtv.com. They do listen.

Q: Where do you get your inspiration?
AA: Everywhere...but probably fabric comes first to mind, followed by antique quilts. I am a very visual person. And get inspired by things I see around me.

Q: I have been looking for a Tulip Wallhanging and can't find it.
AA: An exact pattern does not come to mind. But I would expect it would be fairly easy to create an applique pattern. One resource I cling closely to is Barbara Brackman's Encyclopedia of Pieced Blocks, and she also has an applique encyclopedia. They are a little pricey, but absolutely worth every penny.

Q: Other than the floor, where is the best place to put a quilt together, quilt top, batting and backing, and then baste?
AA: You can use the old fashioned 2x4 basting frames, or a banquet table will do. Often your local quilt shop will let you use the classroom when not in use. Or maybe your library or kid's school.

Q: What is your all-time favorite quilt pattern?
AA: The more I'm exposed to, the less I can pin it to one block. But I am very intrigued by simple, classic patterns.

Q: Hi from the Kolaches lady. I freaked out when I received the note from you with autographed book and more so when I received the quilt block. Thank you very much.
AA: You think you freaked out! When I opened that box at the mail center, I almost had a heart attack! My daughter came home for her birthday and Mother's Day, there was one cherry one left. I figured since she was 19, she's earned it. By the way, for Mother's Day, she was going to try to FedEx a dozen to me, but couldn't remember the name of the bakery. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Q: I'm a beginner. Does the type of thread make a difference?
AA: Yes. Always use a quality thread. At Asilomar this year, one of my students showed me a block that was literally falling apart...use the good stuff.

Q: Cultured Expressions is one of the African-American quilters I've seen on your show -- are there more? Thank you.
AA: We have featured several African-American quilters. I can't remember all the specific names, but I will tell you that I always love what my buddy Rachel Clark has up her sleeve.

Q: Are there any other quilters in your family?
AA: Sadly, no. :^( Apparently my grandmothers dabbled in it. And my daughter has made one. But it seems like I'm the Lone Ranger. Wait a minute... my dad is a quilter. He just won't let you look too close at his stitches -- LOL!

Q: Will you be in Door County soon? Bring Billie Lauder with you. Love your show.
AA: My folks are actually heading off this week, and I don't know if I'll be there this summer...probably not. But my dad has informed me -- we are all going next year for his 80th birthday. I hear there is a new quilt shop in Ellison Bay. If I do go, it will be spur of the moment.

Q: Can I use regular 20-lb. paper to print patterns I've scanned for paper piecing?
AA: You can use any paper, but what I like best is cheapo typing paper. It's kind of hard to find, but worth the quest.

Q: I really like your book Simply Stars. I would like to see more details on specific stars. Will you be doing another book with patterns on stars?
AA: That's not currently in the works. I love that book also. :^)

Q: My grandmother used to make Double Wedding Ring quilts. I want to try to make one. I have her old pattern but it looks pretty worn. Do you know a good book or pattern I should get instead?
AA: John Flynn did a show on that and it made a lot of sense. I'll bet he has a book on that.

Q: I appreciate you doing these chats and learn a lot, but even I see the same questions coming up over and over. And you're a professional teacher, so you must hear them constantly! How do you keep from getting frustrated?
AA: Any time I can open a door or unlock a mystery, the answer is worth repeating, even if it is the millionth time. We were all beginners once upon a time.

Q: Hi, Alex. I enjoy your show and get lots of ideas. What is the best way to store a fabric stash?
AA: This is a little costly but its my favorite. I LOVE my wire pullout basket system. But it must be in an enclosed space, like a closet, so your fabrics won't fade. By the way, I see a lot of my buddies from the board... thanks for checking in today!

Q: I'm starting my first machine quilted quilt. What's the most important tip you can give me?
AA: Make sure it is basted taughtly and a lot. The key is in the basting.

Q: I was hoping to let Alex know she is the reason I am hooked on quilts. I saw a show, I think it was an baby blocks, and I have been hooked ever since.
AA: And that's the great news -- LOL! Probably the coolest part about hosting Simply Quilts is hearing when someone has discovered quilting (as a cause of it). Everything else comes in second.

Q: Is pin basting enough for machine quilting, or should I baste also?
AA: Yes, pins are enough. Use small safety pins and pin every two to three inches. That should do it.

Q: Where can I sell a hundred year old quilt top?
AA: First off, if it is a family piece: don't do it. Secondly, if you are sure it is okay to let this go. I would check out Ebay.

Q: I have heard you have a fabric line. Who is your manufacturer, and where and when can I see it?
AA: Well, last year I came out with Color Bridge. And within days, you'll see my new line, which is called Redwork Romance. They are both with P & B Textiles. The quilt I made this weekend is with Redwork Romance, and it is absolutely fabulous. It has mock redwork patterns along with beautiful, romantic coordinating prints. I guess you can tell I'm pretty excited about it.

Q: Dear Alex, can you recommend sewing machine features that I should have on a sewing machine?
AA: Yes, I love the knee lift and needle up-needle down on my Bernina. The knee lift allows your hands to be free because you don't have to use the manual presser foot lift. Needle up -- needle down allows the needle to stop in either position. It was those two features that sold me on this machine. But most importantly, no matter what machine you end up getting, make sure that the dealer is reputable. That is super important.

Q: Today's program had the ivy cottage buttons. Do they have a website? Where can I find them if I do no live in California? Thanks.
AA: The show you saw today is about 4 years old. And I remember from the last time it aired that it was difficult to track them down. I can't remember the specifics. However, please post the question on my message board (www.alexandersonquilts.com), and I bet Deb Silva will have the answer. ;^)

Q: I would like to know why your current shows give weeks instead of show numbers.
AA: I don't know. That's something that comments@hgtv.com might be able to answer for you.

Q: Hi Alex, do you have any suggestions for a spin star?
AA: I'm not quite sure what pattern you are asking about specifically. But the friendship star is very easy and kind of looks like it's spinning.

Q: Hi! I received a 1925-ish hand pieced 6 pointed star top. Will I ruin it if I quilt it by machine? If so, can I lightly hand quilt it as I have little experience, in fact it will be a first?
AA: Please, do not machine quilt it. And if you do decide to hand quilt it, make sure that everything you do reflects that time frame. Otherwise, just keep it as a top. It might well be most valuable unfinished.

Q: How many new shows will you do this year?
AA: It was very difficult who was going to be on or not. There were so many good ideas out there. I will say that most of the guests you'll see on the new shows haven't been there. This year HGTV ordered 39 shows. Hope this makes sense. Moving along...LOL.

Q: As a beginner what type of block would you recommend?
AA: Anything that is simple and made of squares or rectangles, like 9 patch or log cabin.

Q: What is the best choice for a few quilt project
AA: There are so many choices out there, you need to pick something that speaks to you. And keep them small so you can move on to the next one.

Q: Alex...You're getting ready for Kansas City, when will you visit Columbus, OH?
AA: As most everyone knows, my travel days have been cut severely. On one hand, it makes me sad, but on the other hand, it gives me more time to quilt. :^) By being at home, I'm actually making a friend -- LOL!

Q: Hi Alex, my favorite guest you have on is Billie Lauder. Can you tell me how she makes a 9-patch from 2 squares of fabric??
AA: We all love Billie Lauder. She presents things so clearly. Unfortunately, I don't remember that one -- LOL.

Q: Alex...I was wondering if you would ever be doing an east coast retreat?
AA: Wouldn't that be wonderful? The problem is that there is so much preplanning that goes on with the hotel. And so much stuff I would have to bring that it would have to be in my back yard. Truthfully, if you want to come to the fall retreat just check for really cheap air fares. Southwest often has screaming prices.

Q: Would you comment on what instances one might want to use "quilters grid"?
AA: I really haven't worked with that product. Post your question on my message board, and you will probably get lots of input (www.alexandersonquilts.com).

Q: Quilt pattern for pinwheel quilt at beginning of every show
AA: Yippee, I am so excited -- this next season we are finally getting to do a show on it. It is the number one-asked question I get. It will be the show with Bonnie Browning.

Q: What if you can't afford the premium quilter's cotton yardage?
AA: I know exactly where you are coming from. We've all been there. I remember when all my children were young, I often purchased flat folds to establish my stash. Check very carefully at the fiber content, and finishing processes. I want to make it clear that I am not suggesting that this is the best way to go because the quilting world would not be where it is today without the independent quilt shop. So as soon as it is within your means support them. Because it is really sad when they close.

Q: Will you be at any shows near Palo Alto, CA in June, July, August or early September?
AA: No, actually we are taping this summer. I am the featured artist at the Marin Quilt Show on Labor Day. Maybe I can meet you there. Whoops -- Friday, Saturday, Sunday of Labor Day weekend.

Q: I got the very end of your broadcast today and need info on how to do the T-shirt quilts. I have tons of my sons sports t-shirts and would love to try one of these.
AA: Look on hgtv.com under episode QLT-507.

Q: Where can I find Debbie Caeffrey book Quilting Season?
AA: Again, I would go to hgtv.com, find the Simply Quilts page and type in her name.

Q: I have seen the advertisement for your new book on paper piecing, can I learn it just from reading your book or should I also look for a class?
AA: I'll tell you what, the photography in it is exceptionally clear. It takes you step by step using simple traditional patterns with clear, colorful photographs. But, without knowing how you process information, a class might be a better choice. Personally, I am a seer and a doer, not a reader.

Q: Do you know a good resource for choosing how to quilt your project?
AA: Well, LOL, that's the book I just turned in today! Watch for it next spring.

Q: Howdy Alex. Thank you for the show on T-shirt quilts. A friend wants me to help her with her husband's precious shirts, and I was a little nervous! Question: what pattern would you recommend for a party designed to introduce non-quilters to the world of quilting?
AA: What a great idea! Pick something really simple that you are incredibly comfortable with and have at it. Wouldn't this be a great idea for a bride's shower -- making her a signature quilt You may want to pre-cut the fabric for everyone.

Q: Hello, can you tell me about tying a quilt? I just watched HGTV, and she said something about making it have a fuzz. How do you do that?
AA: I don't know, and I don't remember. But I know my grandma's quilt had a fuzzy ball where it was tied. Post that question on my website -- I'd like to see how everyone answers it.

Q: I watched your show today on making quilts out of t-shirts. I didn't hear the last part. How far apart can I tie this type quilt? Thank you
AA: Whenever you are quilting or tying quilts, you must read what the manufacturer of the batting recommends. It is different with every product.

Q: Alex, how do you decide the topics for your show?
AA: It's a group effort. The producers and I meet, and we look for new ideas or subject matters that have yet to be covered.

Q: Alex, with the airline securities now, I figure my embroidery scissors are a no-no, do you know if they will allow something like a dental floss cutter, that is the only solution I could think of? Any suggestions?
AA: Yes, better than that. Clover has a little round disc you can wear on a ribbon, and it looks like jewelry. I simply took it off and dropped it in the little dish, where all the men put their keys, then put it back on (when I went through the metal detector). It worked perfectly.

Q: Alex do you have time to quilt for your own personal pleasure and not for an upcoming book?
AA: Once in a blue moon, I do. In fact, I made my daughter's graduation quilt last spring. But even though quilts are for books, it doesn't mean I'm any less passionate about them. In fact, one I'm putting on a frame next week is very cool and I'm really looking forward to working on it.

HGTV: Well, everyone, our chat hour has ended. Thanks so much for joining us today and for asking such great questions. And thank you, Alex, for spending your afternoon with us.

Alex Anderson: And I'd like to say thank you for everyone for checking in today. And by the way, the questions were great! If you are going to be at Market in Kansas City, please stop by and say "Hi!" I'll either be at P & B Textiles or C & T Publishing.