Quilting Me Softly: My Unforgettable Netflix & ill Experience at Houston Quilt Market 2023
The Best Laid Plans of Quilts and Women
In a parallel universe, yours truly, Brigitte Heitland of Zen Chic, would be gliding through the aisles of the Houston Quilt Market like a quilting queen. Flashing new fabric line "Flirtation," taking selfies with my adoring fans, and schmoozing at the hippest industry parties.
Weeks of prep—four quilt samples and a plethora of smaller projects like cute bags and boxes—all courtesy of my tireless Heinzelmännchen (those are German house gnomes, FYI).
A Cough, A Sneeze, and A Whole Lot of "Nope"
Ah, the best-laid plans. Instead of finalizing my packing, I was feeling something not-so-chic—a fever, a scratchy throat, and a night of tossing and turning. A cough decided to make a grand entrance the next day. Imagine, a cough so dramatic, it deserved its own runway show. "Just a seasonal flue," I told myself, clutching a negative COVID test. So, onward to the plane, with an arsenal of painkillers courtesy of the flight attendants.
Netflix and Ill—My Houston Experience
Touchdown Houston! I managed to drag myself and my jam-packed suitcase to the exhibition hall. Then it hit me, like a failed quilt pattern: This was no flue. Another COVID test confirmed my worst suspicions. My grand Houston soiree had been canceled by a virus. But fear not—Moda, the rockstars they are, offered to set up my booth and save the day. So while my sewing marvels were turning heads, I was in bed turning Netflix episodes. Parties? Nope. Designer dinner? Uh-uh. Networking? Let's just say my network was limited to Wi-Fi.
When Life Gives You Lemons, Make a Quilt(or Just Watch Netflix)
So there you have it. My Quilt Market experience was less glam, more jam(mies). But hey, I got to have virtual meet-and-greets via video calls! While I missed the buzz and the people, I found a new appreciation for health—and for Moda, who turned my quilt dreams into reality even when I was out of action.
And you know what? It's all material for the quilt of life. Sometimes you're the vibrant pattern, sometimes you're the backing fabric. This time, I was definitely the latter, but as we all know, every quilt needs its support.
So here's to the adventures that never go as planned but make for fabulous stories. Let's just say, Quilt Market 2023 was one for the (quilt) books. Just don't ask me for a Netflix recommendation; I've seen them all by now.
Featuring my BLUISH fabrics available through Moda Fabrics Finished size: 41" x 41". This small wall quilt is a fun challenge with Y-seams for the experienced quilter. The faceted gem is the focal point of this calm and centered composition. Ready to craft your own? Join our exclusive class this fall 2023! Secure your spot on the waiting list today. ➡️ Enroll now: https://www.brigitteheitland.de/globe-online-class
This item is a digital product and no physical product will be sent. Upon checkout, you will be emailed a link to download, save, and print your pattern. Instant download items are not able to be refunded, exchanged, or canceled.
Featuring my BLUISH fabrics available through Moda Fabrics Finished size: 61" x 61". Three Charm Packs provide a rich variety of quickly sewn hst for a lap-sized quilt.
This item is a digital product and no physical product will be sent. Upon checkout, you will be emailed a link to download, save, and print your pattern. Instant download items are not able to be refunded, exchanged, or canceled.
Featuring the collection FILIGREE available through Moda Fabrics Finished size: 65 "x 65 ". A new twist on a classic pattern. These" geese "fly in all directions and soon land in your home thanks to basic fabrics and the clever no-waste-flying-geese technique.
Watch also our YouTube tutorial here https://youtu.be/phdD5mXw7dQ
This item is a digital product and no physical product will be sent. Upon checkout, you will be emailed a link to download, save, and print your pattern. Instant download items are not eligible for refunds, exchanges, or cancellations.
Featuring my Filigree fabrics available through Moda Fabrics Finished size: 61" x 61". This easy to sew quilt in a light and airy palette is great for beginners. Order and simplicity lend sophistication to this youthful pattern.
This item is a digital product and no physical product will be sent. Upon checkout, you will be emailed a link to download, save, and print your pattern. Instant download items are not eligible for refunds, exchanges, or cancellations.