Hello to everyone popping in from Willard (or wherever you’re popping in from)! MUSICA (sorry that the Musica doesn’t work unless you can open two screens at a time on your device. If you can, click on the link, then come back to this page while it plays) . . . Welcome to my pink kitchen!
Well, it’s not really pink. But there’s yesterday’s sunrise . . . see what it did to my kitchen . . .
You can see the reflection of the sunrise from the windows directly across from these . . . turning daffodils, walls, and Beatrix Potter People sunrise pink!
The stove was splotched in pink too . . .
Morning sun sent rays across my dishes cupboard . . . had to grab the camera! Such a nice way to start the day! 
Later on, a breeze came up from the harbor and under blue springtime skies, out went our sheets for . . .
. . . a little flight in the cool salt air . . .
And that reminded me, of a really good idea I had, of the perfect 30th Anniversary Giveaway for some lucky person . . . I thought perhaps a vintage quilt would be just the thing! The Grand Prize I mentioned in WILLARD. . .
I actually decided to do this way last summer . . . you can tell by the leaves on the trees and the green . . . to give away this quilt, the one closest to us in the picture, white with the patches of color . . . I’m not sure where I got it, I’ve had it for so long. Be sure to sign up for it at the end of this blog. I do this A. because I have lots of quilts and it’s fun to share the wealth. B. It’s the 30th Anniversary of Heart of the Home and that would never have happened without YOU ♥. And C. In honor of my dad who told me to 
Here I am in 1999, thrilled because I had just gotten my first collection of fabrics with Springs Industries. They put me on the cover of Giftware Business (which I don’t think exists anymore), wondering, in the headline, “Who the heck is this person?” So this was an unexpected thrill. I never imagined my cookbooks could lead to designing fabric (I couldn’t even imagine cookbooks!). We won a prize for our booth at the 
International Quilt Show in Houston that year.♥ My corner of their huge showroom was set up as a bedroom, furnished in white wicker, a bed (the headboard), chairs, desk, even a hope chest, and the Springs people had made everything in it from my fabric, pillow cases, duvet covers, throw pillows, dolls, dresser scarves, cushions, quilts, book covers, wall hangings, lamp shades, table toppers, you name it. At a time when so many quilting fabrics were tea stained, we stuck out, not like a sore thumb, more like a rainbow on a sunny day. I’ve always loved sewing and quilts and embroidery and every kind of needlework so designing fabric with my watercolors just seemed like a natural to me, and now they were actually letting me do it! How could it be anything but fun?!
And it was fun! After Springs Industries, I was lucky again to be approached by RJR and I designed fabrics and quilts for them for several years. The only thing about fabric designing I didn’t like was that they would print the fabric only once and after it was sold out, that was it, they didn’t make any more. You’d blink and it would be gone. Like everything you see above, all gone. So it wasn’t all roses in that respect. And it was hard to get the fabric stores to know you existed, because consistency was impossible.
See those cute little teapots? I was heartbroken when they sold out and no more were made. “Why?” I wailed . . . But, it was fun while it lasted and I did love having fabric, I loved designing.
I had so much fun piecing together quilt design ideas with paper on my living room floor.
I’ve loved quilts ever since my grandma gave me one that her mom made. That was it, I was hooked, and since then I have looked for old quilts wherever I go, antique stores, flea markets, anywhere and everywhere.
I used to quilt a little bit myself, but then I learned that I could paint quilts faster than I could sew them. So when the time came, I was thrilled to design my own fabric. I just wished it could be around longer.
But no, I was not in charge, it was all gone, no cupcakes, no blue flowers, no hearts with teacups in them, no flipping tea balls. Months of work, on the parts of so many people, only six months on the market, it was all gone.😳
The licensing business has gone topsy turvy in the last 15 years, along with many manufacturers and many fabric houses. Huge wonderful Springs Industries, for all practical purposes, doesn’t exist anymore. So I have waited, still getting letters all the time from you asking for fabric, wishing and hoping and thinking, maybe someone will find me again someday.
Gone↓
But so far I’m still waiting. And while they were not finding me, wonderful things were happening on the Internet. New ways of doing things were being invented. Even our small studio could give you free bookmarks and stationery to 
print out. We could send you patterns, via email. A new world was opening. And somewhere else, genius people were learning how to print fabric on demand. ON demand!!! Which meant a designer could put a fabric design onto their website, a customer could find it there, and get just what she needed, a quarter of a yard, 10 yards, whatever. The customer had a choice of designs that were available in no other place. And those print-on-demand sites have just been getting better and better.
And now, in case you haven’t heard of them, I’d like to introduce you to Spoonflower.com. Because all by myself, with no contract to sign and nothing standing between me and you, I can upload any fabric designs I want to this site, and you can get them there, in a magnificent almost unbelievable choice of 20 (twenty!) different fabrics. And you know what else? Not only can I do this, YOU can do it too! You can design your own fabric, and they will make it! Anyone can! Your child’s drawing could be fabric! They will send you one of their little swatch books for $1 (like the one above and below) so you can see all the different fabrics, check the quality, touch it and feel it. Too good to be true.
Not only can you provide your own designs, but you can shop Independent Designers from all over the world. And they have twill, they have organic cotton, they have silk Crepe de Chine, they have poplin, they have stretchy! You choose the fabric you like, and then you choose what weight you would like it in. You can cover chairs in their fabric! You can line picnic baskets! And you know what else? Let’s say you like a fabric so much you wish it was wallpaper. Guess what? You can have any of the fabric designs in wallpaper! AND in wrapping paper!!!! I am beside myself.
So I asked them to send me a fat quarter sample of my Martha’s Vineyard Toile in “Linen-cotton canvas” so I could check the quality, and this is what they sent. I wish you could feel it. It’s gorgeous. Digitally printed, eco friendly. You could make a bag out of it, or heavy drapes, or thick pillow covers. But you can also get this design in quilt fabric, you could make poplin jammie bottoms, it could be curtains, it could be wrapping paper. It could be wallpaper. And you can do this with any fabric on their site. All of it designer, all of it one of a kind.
My samples came fast too. Took maybe a week.
I asked for samples of my birthday fabric designs . . . and here’s what they sent. I thought it was wonderful. And this is a new design for me, it was never made! So we’ve decided to go ahead and let this fabric make its debut on Spoonflower! I see napkins, I see pillow cases, I see an apron. I see wrapping paper! I even see wallpaper used as drawer paper, polka dot drawer paper!
I’m a pros and cons person, so I really thought about it ~ the pros for doing fabric this way far outweighed the cons: Spoonflower fabric is made in America! No one can discontinue my fabric but me. I could wallpaper, make drapes, cover a chair, and make a duvet all in the same pattern. It ships internationally so my Australian and German and Japanese Girlfriends can get some if they want!♥
(Does anyone recognize those shoes on the window sill in my sewing room! Agnes!)
The other thing is that Spoonflower isn’t my business. They will sell my designs, but Spoonflower is responsible for the business side, not me. They take care of the customers, answer questions and are responsible for quality control. Once I upload the designs, they take over. And they carry so many choices of fabrics, they even have patterns you can buy that come with the pieces all cut out for sewing. And believe it or not, there is no minimum order! The Pros go on all day. I think they offer an amazing service. And they started their business the same way I started mine, at their dining room table. So I get to support a small business.
My wheels keep turning . . . I can have a line of Baby fabric again! My Teds! Lamb wallpaper! Lamb wrapping paper! Lamb curtains!
There is only one con that I can see, better known as a drawback . . . but even that has a pro side. It’s the price. Print on demand and “made in America” doesn’t come cheap. And their fabric isn’t available anywhere else! But prices aren’t really as bad as you might think, especially for the heavier weight fabrics ~ compared to other designer prices, it’s 
affordable. And the bright side of this “con” is that Spoonflower does not compete with all the wonderful little quilt stores that we love and want to stay around forever, because for all of this amazing service, they really can’t compete with quilt-store prices. The good side of that is that the shops don’t carry Spoonflower fabrics, and Spoonflower doesn’t carry the shop’s fabrics. They are the same yet entirely different.♥
And you can make a lot of pretty things with just a little bit of fabric. You can edge pillowcases, and make tiny quilt squares . . .
You can have sweet little appliquéd dish towels with way less than a quarter of a yard.
You can appliqué cupcakes for almost nothing. You can line a bread basket or make a window valance, or a scarf (because they also have 100% silk). You can cover boxes or line your shelves in the peel and stick wallpaper. You can use the wrapping paper as scrapbook paper. And I’m sure, with your kind of creativity, you can think of a jillion other things to do with it.
A little fabric goes a long way . . . someday I’ll design an I Love England collection. I’ve been playing with paper ever since I learned about this. I love the birds, that will be next.
Gone, but not forgotten. ↓
Just so you know, this is not paid advertising, or even unpaid . . . I have never spoken to anyone at Spoonflower, we’re not connected in any way. They don’t know me from Adam. I just like them and knew that if you didn’t already know about them, you would want to. You can follow them on Twitter, along with their 33,000 other followers, of which I am one, at @spoonflower. So NOW:
As of today, we’ve put up three collections, 15 designs, HERE. And we’re just beginning . . . The first is called “They Say It’s Your Birthday” ~ the second is the “Martha’s Vineyard Watercolor Collection” ~ and, lastly, just in time for the think-
ahead people, our “Christmas Watercolor Collection.” And we will just keep adding on . . . we’d love to hear what you want, you want the big Santa face that looks like Joe? No problem! We will always do our best. Slowly, over time, when we are not crazy with new books or on the road traveling the country, we will add more collections and build up a nice little store where the fabric designs stay up forever and ever and ever. Ahhh, the Internet, how I love thee, let me count the ways.
And here are a few more reasons to love the Internet ↑ Giveaways! And we can connect in a way we never could before. This back and forth we have together is just amazing.♥ When I was in my twenties, I had to have my wisdom teeth pulled, and they gave me some sort of knock-out drug. While they were waiting for it to go into full effect, I started talking to my mom in a drugged-up-loony-bin-way about how someday, la-la-la . . . I wanted to have a knitting store, la-la-la, Mommy, where all my girlfriends could come and we could sit around and knit and embroider and drink tea from a tea pot and watch soap operas and teach each other things. The idyllic world. And guess what? If you count Downton Abbey as a soap opera, which I do, I got my dream! Pretty darn close, anyway!
So Girlfriends, Happy my Anniversary! Please be sure to leave a comment at the end of this blog. Just any little comment will enter you in the drawing . . . there will be three winners, three names drawn in a week or so, each getting a set of books (the trilogy) PLUS a well-used paintbrush, a pencil stub, a blotter bookmark, and a seed package from my own driveway . . . And then, ONE MORE name will be drawn, for the Grand Prize . . .
This gorgeous old quilt ~ and of course, a package of wisteria seeds. Because I know you. ♥ Happy Almost Mother’s Day! ♥ See you at the bookstores! ♥ Lots to look forward to in 2016!
Dig and be dug Girlfriends! Wob you!
Oh, Susan.. I am so excited about the fabrics… I love the one with the lambs!
That quilt is absolutely, positively gorgeous. I haven’t won any of you contests and maybe it’s because I am meant to win this one 😉 I sure hope so!
What a marvelous Willard today. I have loved quilts ever since I was first married 55 1/2 years ago and got a quilt my grandmother made and gave to me. How devastated I was when my husband took it out of town on a job and someone stole it. I tried to quilt at one time, but not a quilter. Your fabric designs are amazing. I love all your artwork and your writings and photos, also. Hoping to see you in May in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Safe journey as you travel here and there.
Perfect news for a fabric junkie! can’t wait to check out Spoonflower, and thanks for the ideas for small projects.
Congratulations!!!! <3 <3 <3 It will be so fun to check out the fabric! I LOVE the new book…I read a bit at a time and then, stopped reading halfway through and took a break…just to make it last longer. 😉 Thank you for sharing your life with us!!
Congratulations on your new fabric designs, Susan! Just beautiful…To win your quilt would be heavenly and I need one for my bed! Thanks for sharing~you are an elf!
Love the new fabrics. Best wishes on your trip.
Hi Susan,
Thanks for WILLIARD! I enjoy all things “Susan Branch”! Keep it comin’!
Oh,our sheets went out for the first time this past weekend. Line dried sheets are the best aren’t they?
The quilt is lovely! Although we would all enjoy having it, being such good friends we are happy for all the winners even so!
Thank you for your wonderfully delightful blog posts:)
Happy Spring!
Love the creative ideas for fabric ! My new favorite passion, making things for granddaughters! I would love to visit your beautiful part of the country. Happy Spring and thanks for sharing😄
Dear Susan,
More fabric — HOORAY! I have a mouse pad made from your “Afternoon Tea” fabric (my hand is on it now). Will look forward to more Susan Branch in my life.
Thank you, Elf!
P.S. Your books are amazing!
Susan, you are making some folks so envious and….. you know that is a sin for
us? LOL God has given you so many wonderful talents and great ideas. But I am so truly glad He did cause I get to enjoy your many blessing right along with everyone else you send to. 🙂
I am doing what I do best and that is praying for you and your trips and days ahead. Oh of course reading your wonderful books!
Love to you,
Hi Susan!! I absolutely could not put your new book down!! So inspirational! Thank you so much for writing your story! I love the meditation dicipline you talk about. I think it is so important that women discover their true potential! Also, I an so happy that there is a way to get your fabric again! I bought some from you when you brought your mom to a talk in Orange County! It was at a Women’s group or Club! It’s so cute I couldn’t bear to cut it up for a quilt! Now I can! Can’t wait to see you in Monticito!
Susan,
The fabrics are so beautiful!! It is so wonderful we will have access.
I received my book last week and basically read it straight through! It is simply wonderful. Thank you for sharing your journey and giving us food thought.
You friend,
Kathy
oooooh these are treasures!
Happy Anniversary!
Oh what exciting news! Love the quilt … Hint, hint;)
Great post, great drawing, woohoo! I am loving the new book! I feel like I’ve been waiting your whole career to hear the story of how you went from California to the East Coast and started writing fabulous cookbooks with real stories in them and decorating ideas and everything else! I did something similar when I moved from MN to Vegas for 7 years, but I did not become famous, or make thousands of girlfriends while I was there. Still waiting ha ha. I can’t tell you how much I enjoy your work. Always uplifting and inspiring.
Cheers!
How exciting about the new fabric! I am so excited to be visiting Martha’s VIneyard for the very first time in June after falling in love with it through you after reading about it all these years! I would love to buy the Martha’s Vineyard Toile and make a pillow so I can always remember this special vacation.
I love Spoonflower! I can’t wait to pick up some of your fabric on there.
Susan, LOVE your talent and your gift of sharing . I love our trips together, as a Senior retired teacher, quilter and reader you are my gal friend in so many ways.
Wonderful to know about Spoonflower, Thank You, once again.
Waiting for Willard, Blessings, Brook. In Sunny California.
I finished “Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dream” I love love love it. It has taught me so much. Not easy I’m past 70. However you stopped too soon. You left me with a lot of questions. So after you take a break and , well deserved vacation will you please bring “The Story” up to date.?
I do love antique anything but mostly quilts.
Thank you for sharing your dreams.
Dear Susan,
You never fail to brighten our days with your sunny, creative, colorful gifts – truly you
light up our lives! I haven’t quilted in years but am now energized and excited to begin again!
Thank’s Susan!
Mary
up our
Thank you, Susan, for your kindness and generosity in offering these giveaways. Even if I don’t win, it is fun to try. 🙂
Love your blog, your books and now your fabrics. I don’t sew but appreciate your designs. My mother in-law gave me my one and only antique quilt – it means a lot to me. Thank you for keeping all of us girlfriends sane during these crazy times.
Ah, the best thing when dreams come true!
Thank you for all of the beauty you bring to the world.
xo Lori
Adore quilts! Spoonflower is a great idea!
Yea I love when Vanna helps out!! So excited about your fabrics cant wait to order,and get sewing. Looking forward to the day you say that Lenox is going to makes your glass designs. I can dream cant I??
As always you inspire me.
Thanks again for another chance at a lovely giveaway ~ that is so very kind of you. I just finished your latest book; loved it so much. (so interesting to know the background about the quotes; I have collected them for many years)
Hi Susan,
I have been a fan of yours for over 20 years and LOVE your books. And I rarely cook! When I read “A Fine Romance” I would read less and less each night because I didnt want it too end. I’m also a quilter and have my own stash of your fabric. So glad there is new source with SpoonFlower. I hope you pick me as the grand prize winner! 🙂 Congratulations on all your success!
Susan
What a gorgeous quilt. There is nothing more comforting than a quilt except maybe warm chocolate chip cookies.What wonderful information on spoonflower. Thanks for all the joy you share.
Susan
I love your fabrics. I am a quilter. I have made one of each of my seven grandchildren and lots more. You are an inspiration because you are always finding new ways to share your many talents. Thank you for that. Enjoy this beautiful spring weather, especially by hanging your sheets outside, which I also do from about March until October. Pat Holland
All those beautiful prints!! Makes me want to start stitching things for my home and for gifts – even the smallest snippets can become a “treasure”! Always enjoy your posts – like having a “visit” from a special friend.
Susan,
Although I’ve yet to use Spoonflower, I continue to read from various sources, what a great company they are. I still have some of your cute cupcake fabric; will use it only for special projects. Oh boy, I’d love to win that gorgeous quilt or a set of your books. I read “A Fine Romance” and loved it. I know the other books must be winners also!
It is sooooo hard to find great fabric. Most of our sewing stores have closed. So this is wonderful! Thank you. Inspiration begins now.
Thank you Susan! I was introduced to your blog some time ago and I have loved it ever since. I also read your first two adventures and can’t wait to read the third…..anticipation!!!!
Thank you so much for adding such joy and delight to my world!
~ Anita from Whidbey Island, Washington
Hi Susan!
I’m so excited about “Heart Of The Home” being reussued!!! It’s what I’m giving to all the girls in my famiky for Christmas this year!
I will be introducing a whole new generation to your world. So exciting!
((Hugs))
Laura
One more thing in your quill of truly wonderful blessing you give us. The fabric I mean. You are just such a bright soul.
Hi Susan! Enjoying Isle of Dreams soooo much… about half way through and don’t want it to end. My hubby & I are hoping to retire next year and start our “trip across America”. I, like you, have always wanted to spend longer than just a week of Fall on the East coast… just to get the whole experience of New England during other seasons of the year. Hoping to make it to Martha’s Vineyard too! Choose well Vanna, we’re all hoping for the quilt. See you in Danville, CA, Susan, when you come through the end of May! Stay Safe. xoxo
oh, fabric, how wonderful! that’s my biggest weakness. 😀 And count me happy to have a shot at winning the trilogy or a quilt, yahoo!!! Happy Springtime! ♥
Just love your sun splotched kitchen! Thank you for sharing it. It made me smile. I will go back and enjoy it again with a cup of tea on a rainy day. Such happy photos.
Susan, Thank you so much for always thinking about us (your girlfriends). I am really excited about the fabric. I’m a teacher, so I am thinking about what gifts I can make this summer with your fabric. Your giveaway is truly wonderful!
OMG OMG OMG ! Sorry for the shouting, I’m so excited. I can’t believe it. I’m a quilter, have been for close to 60 years, ( yes, I’m 80), quilting is my heartsong.
I absolutely love this quilt, in fact, I’ve saved it and have it as one of my backgrounds. ( I hope you don’t mind.) This is so generous of you. And what fabulous news about Spoonflower. I’m excited about checking out your fabric designs. Yes, I recognize Agnes’ baby shoes. Your Isle of Dreams is such a treasure. I’m still living in it. Thank you just for being You.
I love Spoonflower! So glad your fabrics are on there. Thanks for the giveway chance.
Yes, please!
So enjoying your wonderful blog! And soooo love all your old fabrics! Especially want the lambies reproduced… pretty please!!!
Oh my goodness Susan, you already have way over a thousand comments, this is going to be a big one!! Or should I say anniversary party?? You are amazing I have never heard of fabric on demand and will be checking it out!!! Amazing!!! I love quilts, my grandmother was a master at quilting! She gave me my first one as a wedding gift!! Thank you for giving us a chance at winning these wonderful items!! Blessings dear lady!!
I love the first “Heart of the Home” and can’t wait for the new edition. Thank you too or telling us about Spoonflower. I would love your quilt. How generous you are!
What a lovely May/pre-Mother’s Day gift, Susan! The pretty quilt and the wisteria seeds are so homespun and delightful. Thank you for thinking of us in such a nice way.
What beautiful fabric, Susan! My mother has made me quilts and I adore them and I would love to learn how to quilt. I have saved a lot of pieces of my children’s favorite clothing when they were little and would like to make a children’s quilt for them. Now to find the time, but I will, whether now or in the future.
Thank you so much for sharing this fabric making website with us! What fun, the creative wheels are turning nonstop. I love quilts!
I can’t believe you’ll be in Ohio in just a few weeks! Can’t wait to meet you at The Learned Owl. Drive safe!
Susan,
I have loved your fabrics for years. I am so glad to hear it is in Spoonflower. I didn’t really know what Spoonflower was, so it will be a fun place to do some browsing and shopping. I love quilting and all kinds of handwork. Thank you for being such an inspiration!
Susan,
I love our fabric and your giveaways. Thank you for being such a great girlfriend and elf.
I am new to the Susan Branch Sisterhood. My son who lives on Martha’s Vineyard got me my first signed copy of The Fairy Tale Girl from Bunch of Grapes Bookstore. I have enjoyed getting to know you and all of your adventures both on the island as well as your travels. We have traveled to your magical island for several years and now this summer we have a wedding to attend. Yes, our son and his fiancé are getting married on July 9th at the Polly Hill Arboretum. We are so excited. Thanks for sharing your life experiences and I am planning on seeing you at the Tattered Covered Bookstore in May.
~Happy Happy Anniversary!!! I am so excited about you offering your wonderful fabrics thru Spoonflower and can’t wait for more choices … My mind is whirling with all the possibilities!
I LOVE YOU!!!!!! APRIL 19th is my birthday. kindred spirit. MY DREAMS & WISHES ARE LIVED THROUGH YOU. THANK YOU
I have been a lover of your work since I first saw the Heart of the Home book when my (now adult) children were young. To this day I still experience real joy from all that you do. Even using a post it note with one of your designs brightens up my day! Thank you Susan for sharing yourself with the world.
Fabric! You can never have too much fabric!
Oh Susan, I am back after too long!!! I beat my Cancer, but unfortunately my beloved sister did not!! After caring for her for three years I lost her last August. Shortly after loosing her I was diagnosed with Macular degeneration. Have had five surgeries so far and finally got wonderful news this past Friday that FINALLY there is improvement in my vision. My children’s museum in northern Wisconsin has been on hold for over two years now, but I am in hopes as my eyes improve I will finally be able to return up,home and continue my venture for the children. I am in hopes I can make my way to Winetka May 10th to FINALLY!! meet you after all,these years. I have missed soooo much of what you have been doing. And will be looking forward to purchasing your last two books that I did not even know about until I found the add in one of my magazines. Just reading this news letter has brought back the joy of being such an admirer of all,you are. Loosing my sister has left such a hole in my heart, but Susan Branch will help fill that void. Bless you Susan, and I am praying I will be able to see you at the book store in May. That will be my Birthday gift to me!! How exciting!!! Gayle Hall
Thanks,Susan, for the fabric connection. My granddaughter is an art student and I’d love to see her drawing on something like gift wrap. Love your blog.
OMG! So excited about getting the fabric I missed out on. Love the crabapple gingham. Excited as I can be!!! Thank you so much Susan!
❤ Happy as can 🐝. —<—-@ Randi
I received a text today from my sister, “Have you seen S. Branch blog about fabric and quilts?!”
I was not able to check at the moment and couldn’t wait to get home to see what you had written about. It was like I had a package waiting at home to open!! I love everything about your blog! The first thing I take in and savor is the music that you have selected. Have you ever selected “Deep Purple” sung by Helen Forrest and music by Artie Shaw? I’m told by my uncle that this was a very favorite of my great-grandmother. You make me realize that there are so many wonderful songs out there that we have never heard! Thank you!
My sisters and I are all into the quilts, tea, tea cups, Downton Abby and all that good stuff! I turned her on to your site and now she’s letting me know when you have a new post to make sure I don’t miss my email!!
Happy Anniversary and again thank you for making our day!
Spoonflower sounds great. I live in Wake Forest NC and Durham is close by so I may have to take a trip there. I of course love the Martha’s Vineyard design. Remembering my childhood summers there, that fabric would be great to make a pillow or such. Looking forward to reading your new book about Martha’s Vineyard. I have a YO-Yo quilt that my grandmother started and my Mom finished and I treasure it…especially since my Grandmother passed away before I was born. I feel I have a part of her handiwork and just know I would have loved her. Hope you and Joe have a wonderful time on your book tour and a safe journey.
Thank you for this chance ~ and for all that you create and share!
Hi Susan, I’m just so thrilled when Willard appears! I have saved all of my paper ones and read them every once-in-awhile. I keep them in my Susan Branch notebook I put together a few years ago! I am sure looking forward to going back to England with you and on to Scotland also! By the way that quilt is lovely! Thank you for this giveaway.
Kathy L in Colorado.
Emergency root canal today:( Ugh, but to aid in my recovery I had you and all the GFs to keep me company . A blog post and a Willard all in one day?! The musica, the beauty of your art and photos and all the fun comments. Maybe it wasnt such a bad day after all;). You always cheer me up and get my creative juices flowing. All this excitement with your books being released traveling fabrics movie/ tv possibilities. So much is happening for you and I am just as excited as if it was happening to me. You deserve all the best and it so fun to go on the ride with you. I am so excited for your fabrics. For Us and for you. I am so glad you explained about getting the swatches. That is really helpful and inexpensive. I am going to pin it on pinterest. I hope they go wild for it. I pinned MVIOD and have received a number of repins. Yay! This doesn’t really read well but I’m on pain meds sorry and thank you for all that you do and share with us. You are a true blessing in my life.
Ps I found the Scottish Bakehouse recipe book on ebay and I love it. Can’t wait to try when I can chew again.
Ps I am giving a neighbor your book, AFR, tomorrow for her birthday . Plus, I found Magners pear cider and ordered your lovely organic tea to go with it. I printed out Willard and a copy of the blog. Hopefully, I will get you another recruit. I know she will love it and share with her 2 daughters and her 4 granddaughters. Xoxo
Love the cozy world you are making. That’s the way it goes. The things you like, then life is your own. xoxo Hope the dentistry was quick easy and OVER with success!!!! xoxo
Thank you:)) yes, a success, but with more to come. I think I feel about dental work the way you feel about flying… I am just sure I am going to die in some painful way. I meditated through it. It helps as much as meditation can with a screaming drill in your mouth. LOL
If there was a train ride to go on instead of the dentist, I would go on it. Screaming drill seems to be only way through, but invent something new and I am there. Anyone ever hear the word “muffler?” How ’bout it dental inventors? 😋
Yaaaayyyy – a new fabric store, and with your designs in it! Life is good!
I just finished your new book, Susan. LOVED IT SO MUCH! And of course, I always look forward to Willard and your blog posts!
Quilts are part of my heritage. I am blessed with quilts that date back to mygreat grandmother..stitched with her own hands. The cotton seeds can be felt in the batting. I would love to welcome your’s into my collection. You are one talented and enterprising elf, Susan. Thank you for your blog. It is a joy to slow down the pace and spend a bit of time in your creative world!
Such a lovely heritage Vickie!
WOW! I am excited about the fabric! … going to look and hope to order soon!
My friend just finished your latest book… I have been waiting to get it when I go to the book signing. Now, I am feeling a bit envious and getting worried that I will be assigned overtime and not get to go!
Thank you thank you for your blog, the ray of sunshine that you are in my life.
🙂
Anti-overtime here! At least for that one day! Hope you can make it Daralyn!
I would love to be entered into your latest give away. I love old quilts, your books and wisteria! Happy Spring and safe travels to you and Joe.
Susan,
Love your fabric designs. I am a quilter so I appreciate your vintage quilts. Will definitely check out Spoonflower. What a great idea. Thank you for sharing this info with us.
Hi Susan,
I have a complete collection of all your wonderful books, but I think the last two are very special! In the Fairy Tale Girl, I think you have described better than any of the hundreds of other books written about the seemly overnight changes of the late 1960’s…it was a very confusing time for some of us. There is so much good information for women of all ages in Isle of Dreams, especially for someone who, for any reason, is suddenly heartbroken and living alone.
Love the bluebird print you mentioned in this Willard. Are you going to add it to your collection on Spoonflower?
Cher
Thank you Cher . . . I really was hoping my book would be helpful. It’s good, for one thing, to know you’re not alone. Yes, those changes came at us, rather unbidden. And I bet that’s true for the 20 year olds of today. We are all forced to deal with it. In a way, I think corporations have learned to harness the power of the young, idealistic, and inexperienced to use them for their own devilish ends, war, style, politics, whatever. But hey, what do I know?
Happiest of Tuesdays from the west to the east!
I love old quilts too! My great-grandmother made a gorgeous colorful tulip quilt that was passed on down the line (never! used!). Just sitting…in my grandmother’s cedar chest, until she passed it on to my 11 year old daughter two years ago. We are guessing it is around 80+ years old. And so perfect and beautiful! Fabric from way-back-when feels so different, doesn’t it? Anyway, I am happy to report it is keeping my sweet daughter warm and cozy and living the life it was born for. <3
Grateful for these treasures and so happy your beautiful fabrics will foster the imaginations, and decorate grand-daughter's beds, for generations to come!
Love Love your blogs! So inspiring are your blogs and your photos and your books! Can’t wait to meet you on your book signing tour when you come to Texas!
Oh Susan, that’s just the best news!!!! I have many of your previous fabrics and I LOVE them! I can’t wait to go look at spoonflower! I’m hoping to see you in California!
I always enjoy reading your thoughts from the other side of the country. Thanks for sharing, and I know that one day I will be able to boast to friends, “I won that from Susan Branch” – ha!
Oh your fabrics!!!! I love them all, have a stash hoarded away, so hard to cut into a piece! I
Did make a queen size quilt with your fabrics before, a basket block, and with scalloped edges, like your hat quilt.
Can’t wait to shop spoonflower.
Hey, Sue…
What a gift you give everybody — an internet find. And this one is a jewel. All of your designs are gorgeous, and I look forward to this new experience. I don’t quilt (cross stitch is my passion), but trust me, I can always find a use for beautiful fabric.
Sharon in Houston with fingers crossed for the drawing (as always)
You know I’m living vicariously through you, don’t you? I could never find the time to do all the lovely creative things that you inspire me to pursue! And this post inspires me with all kinds of lovely ideas! Thank you <3
Oh you are so fun! Love your books, calenders and quilt material. Looking forward to meeting you at the book signing in CO.!!
I have had my copy of Martha’s Vinyard, Isle of Dreams for a week and I am desperately trying to save it for this coming weekend away with my husband…but it is so hard to wait!! Every time I pass my desk, the book calls to me and I take a little peek inside. Your book is my reward for endless meetings and paperwork and I am so excited to read it!
Dear Susan,
The fabric “on demand” via Internet is an incredible concept!
What’s not to love about quilts?!
Thanks for another g eat visit,
Aloyce
The Spoonflower thing is waaaay cool! Marshmallow World will make the most adorable Christmas wrap, and wouldn’t it be fun to match napkins, apron, etc with gift wrap? Your designs are gorgeous, as always, and I love your gift of inspiring others to be creative. Your giveaways are incredibly generous and wonderful, like you!💕
Very cute idea Rosanne!!
Oh the hours spent at our favorite fabric store growing up. I always minded my mother who told me not to touch the bridal and special occasion fabrics on the left hand side of the store, but oh how I could touch, smell and visually drink in all the waves of those gorgeous bolts of color and pattern!! Spoonflower is a dream come true! Thanks for sharing this little slice of heaven Susan!
Inspiration!
You are such an inspiration, how I love your books, and thoughts, and artwork.
After seeing the little stove in your kitchen pictures, it reminded me that
my daughter had an old stove in her college apt, and the knobs were red.
So I searched high and low, for a little mini stove, with red knobs for her Christmas present.
Always look forward to seeing what you have been thinking about, and working on.
Did you find one?
Count me in! BTW, do you have time to read new responses to your older blogs (in this case, the one dated April 4)? Just curious…I got a mite overzealous and left a comment there a few minutes ago…I was catching up on your blog…should’ve waited and posted it here! I wanted you to know how much I LOVED the new book. LOVED it! (I am much more effusive with my compliments in my other comment, if you care to zip over to April 4 and read that, too. LOL :-D) See you in Kansas City!
All comments, no matter on what date they are made, come up in the same place, right here! So, yes, I just read and LOVED your wonderful words about my new book, there wasn’t a speck of overzealousness in there, just wonderfulness! Thank you so much, and see you in Kansas City!!!
You know that old saying, “You know you’re a quilter if you pet fabric.” I could pet yours all day Susan. I LOVE the Martha’s Vineyard Toile! So pretty!! …..crossing my fingers for the give away. Thank you for being You! We all love you and your beautiful art.~
I pet fabric!!! I even like to iron! That’s a true fabric mavin! See you in Prescott, Lisa!
Hello Susan
I don’t sew (and a little envious of those that do) but love quilts of all kinds, especially in the light colors. They add such a cozy feel to any room.
Also am a fan of all your products and books. Always enjoy browsing your shopping section to see what’s new. You have such a talent. Maybe you could publish a “how to draw” book for beginners 😃 ?
Warm Regards,
Sharon
Maybe someday . . . I talked a bit about it in The Fairy Tale Girl, how I did my first drawing . . . I hope that would help.
Love knowing about Spoonflower, and that your fabrics will be available! It is such a wonder how the internet is bringing us the creativity of others displayed on our own desktops to use to embellish our own dreams. Exciting and inspiring. Wishing you a wonderful journey, both book tour, and across the sea. Glad your kitties can stay safely in the home they love and have good care while you are gone.
Yes, I know they love home just slightly more than they love me… xoxo
My daughter introduced me to you through your book, “A Fine Romance”. She also made a gift of your book to me at Christmas 2015. I am now plugged into your blog and hope to make the trip to see you at Barnes & Noble in Cedar Rapids, Iowa May 13, 2016 for your book signing. Your heart and spirit are a blessing to all those you touch in word and deed. Thank You for sharing so much of yourself.
Hope to see you there Pamela, and hello to your daughter!
I LOVE Spoonflower!! I’m a quilter and I love designing a special label for a special quilt. I upload my design and voila! It really just makes the quilt when it’s all stitched on. 🙂 I’m so excited to see your designs on there now. Of course I came late to the party and can’t find your fabric anywhere. But now I can! Thanks Susan!!
I love the Spoonflower testimonials. I so hoped it would be the right thing ~ it warms the cockles of my heart to hear your good experience with it!
Happy belated birthday Susan!🎉🎂🎈It is on my bucket list to come to Martha’s Vineyard and hopefully see you someday at one of your events. Needless to say I am ecstatic you are coming to Texas!!! I have been following you for a long time. Looking forward to hopefully meeting you.
Have fun on all your travels! Thanks for sharing your sweet spirit with me.
Hope to see you there Anne!
AM so excited for you and finding a source for your fabric designing. I went on their site but couldn’t find any of your fabric even after typing you in the search area. No mention anywhere I could find on prices except the 5dollar charge for a sample.
Your sunrise was stunning. Would love to win the quilt!
Linda from Idaho where it is getting very hot-high 70s int mid 80s by thursday. Our plants and trees are not sure what they should be doing right now–as confused by the weather as we. THe robins are so fat right now–all those good worms from all the gardens being tilled!
I put a link to my fabric in the blog . . . Spoon flower is such a big site, but HERE’S WHERE you go to see my things . . . Hope this helps!
Thank you–took me right to it..posted it on my Facebook to help spread the word—you should pin it on Pinterest cause I can’t pin to my over 6800 followers from Facebook–will try from Spoonflower however—thanks again.
Thank you so much for spreading the word Linda! XOXOXO
Happy Anniversary, Susan!!!!!! I love, love, love all your fabrics. They are beautiful!!!
Even here in Las Vegas I have a beautiful wisteria plant, my first ever. I love the smell and watching the bees buzzing around gathering the nectar to make their honey. Wisteria flavored honey, how tasty that must be! I love all you do and wish you a hearty congrats on your 30 year anniversary. You aren’t coming to my town but it sounds like a good idea for a road trip! Safe travels and thanks for a chance to win little pieces of your talent and love. Hugs to you and yours.
There will be an amazing tea party in Prescott Arizona, if you’re in the mood! xoxo
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, Sue, and OH!!!! I cannot even express how excited I am that these fabrics will be available! I am in love! I used to sew constantly, but with fewer and fewer fabric stores, had gotten away from it. NOW, I am inspired to get out the sewing machine! First thing, kitchen curtains! And OH!!! That quilt is the most beautiful thing, and what an amazing generous spirit you have to think of letting it go. You are indeed an Elf Queen!
PS- Am reading the new book and finding it hard to put down long enough to do anything else. It is…. miraculous. I was surprised at how heavy it was, and so excited to see all the treasures inside– the greatest of which is your willingness to share your vulnerabilities along the way. It has filled me with such a spirit of hope and belief that all things are possible… even though I’m in my sixties! I truly love and appreciate you beyond words, and wish so much that I knew you in real life.
Well, this is definitely the next best thing . . . our little clubhouse here on the Internet! Thank you so much Becky, it’s wonderful to read your sweet words. Thank you for being here. xoxoxo
I told myself I would read your book slowly and savor it, but alas, I could not! I gobbled it up just like the little boxes of Whitman Sampler chocolates we would get for Christmas as kids! It was every bit as delightful as I imagined it would be. Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful life with us. As for that wonderful quilt, it would be a treasure and a privilege to win! I love to sew quilts and am so excited we will have options for buying your fabrics once again. ❤️
Thank you so much dear Becki! xoxoxo
PS– (Sorry I’m writing so much)– wanted to comment on how it seemed almost like Agnes was there in the house with you, blessing you.
Also… wanted to share the quotes blog that my daughter started back when she was not yet 20… quite a few years ago now.
seedofwonder.blogspot.com/
Distilled genius! Good for her, your little spreader of light. xoxo And yes, I felt the same about Agnes.
What a wonderful way to celebrate so much wonderfulness. Where to even begin? The fabric, the anniversary, the books, the quilts, the sewing? It’s ALL good. All so inspiring. It makes me sad that sewing is becoming a lost art–let’s all infect the world with a love of sewing. This is a perfect way to celebrate and thank you for once again inspiring us all. xxxooo
Making for ourselves and our loved ones is one of the joys of life. Better than staring into a phone. I’m just sayin’.
Other than my family, stitching quilts is my joy in life. Love fabric and thread and needles and patterns… Your fabric is going to be fun to add to my collection!
Oh boy Michelle! I’m so happy to hear that!