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!
So neat to see your fabric available again! Looking forward to a good read soon, too!
Thank you for your inspiration!
I am thrilled to hear about a way to get your fabric!!!!! I love old quilts too and hoping I win this one. Ive never won anything in my entire life so this would be absolutely amazing!!
Susan – may I request some designs for Spoonflower … would you please submit the one that matches the blue calico mug that you painted? Also, there was a MV Watercolor design that had many tiny drawings with quotes on white fabric … and the Little Boats design that came in pink and blue? Thank you! oh – and of course the little house with “Polka Dots & Moonbeams” quote? That would make a darling pillow! Too many ideas …
I’ve been writing things down . . . We are going to have so much fun with this! Thank you Elizabeth!
Susan – ps … I completed a “Suggest a Purchase” form online with our local library for MV Isle of Dreams and now the library website shows they bought 5!
Thanks for your creativity. Looking forward to more fabric designs and whatever else you come up with!
Love your designs and Spoonflower sounds great. I’m reading your book this week. I can’t wait to get to evening when I can read. Hello from another island across the country in the Puget Sound.
Susan, I echo those sentiments about coming to the Dallas/Fort Worth area. We’d LOVE to meet you. Until then – a huge GOD BLESS YOU , as we are kindred spirits. And, I too hope that Julian has something new for us by Winter. Or at least something to dream on!
May your travels be effortless. And rich in every way. XO
I am so excited about being able to custom make my fabrics. I want to re-upholster my dining room chairs! I love old quilts and hope to get an opportunity to win this lovely old one! Keep on posting, I love your website 🙂
Such beautiful pictures of sunlight on the dishes and figurines. I’m so enjoying your blog and have loved your artwork for years but embarrassed to say I just discovered your books which have already intensely lightened up my life! I could have been more enlightened, comforted and happier all these years:). Thank you, thank you! Suddenly, they showed up this difficult winter and gave me hope and laughter and knowledge of a kindred spirit…someone else who puts Beatrix Potter figurines on their windowsill and loves England, etc., etc. Your French phonetics on “Michelle” cracked me up!
I was SO excited you were coming to Utah (miracle), but I bought my book from you and the bookstore said I had to buy the book from them to get in. I offered to buy another one of your books or just pay them money. “No”, they said. I am SO disappointed. I know you have nothing to do with these things and I’m not finished with them yet. At least I’ve found this wonderful blog and your books, website, and MUSICA! Looking forward to reading “Willard”. So happy to find you on Spoon Flower (polka dots!). You’ve inspired me to finally design something there. My daughter put a hand-written recipe of her grandmother’s on their fabric and made wonderful tea towels. REALLY hoping to see you…and safe travels on your tour.
That is so ridiculous. I have never heard of a bookstore turning customers away. Even when you offer to buy another book or just pay the money? That is crazy. Just pay the money take the book and give it as a gift. I’m so sorry. Lately I’ve noticed there are more bookstores having requirements, but I’ve never heard of this before. SO very nice to hear from you . . . hope I get to say hello in person! xoxo
Susan, I have no idea how blog comments work! You may never see this. Thanks for your reply…I’ve made my peace with the bookstore in SLC and so look forward to seeing you talk on Tuesday! Looks like there is another “Jan” so I’ll be “Janette J.” now. Currently re-reading Isle of Dreams and couldn’t stand for it to end. So many similarities and a HUGE comfort to me. I hope you have a beautiful trip thru the Rockies!
Yay! Then I’ll see you tonight! The Rockies were amazing!!! I kept thinking about the covered wagons the entire time!!
Susan,
Am sooo excited and thrilled to hear about your fabric! I love the birds!! Tea pots and tea designs would be wonderful – even teabags! Just returned from watching our five grandchildren while Mommy and Daddy were away on a business R&R trip – enjoyable, memorable, and exhausting. 🙂 Off to check out the fabric!!
Jan
Must add that I love the “blues” – blue and white!! I can see a small size wall quilt for my dining room.:)
Susan,
I am so excited about the fabrics. I have been collecting your books since “Heart of the Home” was released. Looking forward to the updated version. I cannot tell you how much “Isles of Dreams” has meant to me. So many things in there that I remember from my own childhood and your courage and perseverance during some difficult times is an inspiration to me in my own journey. Thank you.
I can’t tell you what it means to me to hear that. Thank you Joyce! xoxo
I am a quilter who especially loves traditional fabrics and quilts.
I had a red letter day yesterday! It was something like a perfect storm and somehow, suddenly, I found myself home alone with a pot of tea and Isle of Dreams! I mentally composed at least five letters to you over the course of the day. I’m certain I have Heart of the Home in the bookcase (hidden behind my daughter’s things, because she, too, had a Cliff). She has found her tall bearded man, will soon marry again and I expect I will find my stack of your lovely books to enjoy all over again. Thank you for the beautiful moments! I’m so happy that you found Spoonflower! Of course! It’s a perfect fit!
LOL, a perfect storm! xoxo
This is a second comment Susan, but I just read Willard & I have to say that you are truly an amazing person. A one of a kind, very kind person! (Ten exclamation points!). Also a very blessed person. I’m ashamed to say I am a teeny bit jealous. You live on Martha’s Vineyard for one, which is just the most beautiful place on earth, you’ve been to England & had the most amazing experiences there. You’ve written multiple delightful books, all of which I have lost myself in. Actually that’s not true. I am currently immersed in your latest one & I am trying so hard to take it slow. It is just lovely Susan. I know I am going to enjoy every word, & delight over every watercolor. Anyway, just wanted to let you know that I thoroughly enjoyed this Willard & I am a huge fan of yours. Have a safe and adventuresome trip. I look forward to all your tales about it. Lucky, lucky girlfriends who get to meet you. I hope to one day myself! Ten exclamation points!
So sweet of you Debbie! I’m touched by your thoughtful words . . . I don’t know how I got this lucky. Thank you so much!!!
So love your style, I’m excited to see more of you available through Spoonflower. So many possibilities!
DEAR SUSAN,
LAVE IT TO YOU TO COME UP WITH ANOTHER WONDERFUL CREATIVE IDEA
TO SET OUR IMAGINATIONS ABUZZZZ!!!
THANK YOU FOR THE INSPIRATION!!
JUDITH JOHMSON
Thank you back Judith!
I love the quilts. They remind me of all of the quilts that my grandmother has made entirely by hand over the years, giving one to each grandchild when they got married and to each great-grandbaby when they were born – at my count that would be 23 total. She still likes to make quilts every winter.
Such history there, Cheryl!
YHISS IS A “PS” TO THAT LAST MESSAGE….
I HIT THE WRONG KEY WHEN TYPING MY LAST NAME. THE “M” SHOLD BE AN “N”. ALSO THE FIRST WORD SHOULD BE “LEAVE”. GUESS I NEED TO FILE MY NAILS!
JUDITH
Your beautiful fabrics makes me want to start quilting again. Love, love, love your designs! 😄
Hi Susan,
Just went to Spoonflower and looked at your new fabric! Love, love, love it all!
Don’t what to make first – thinking a tote with the Martha’s Vineyard toile. Will try to get it and have bag made by the booksigning.
Having trouble signing up for vintage quilt giveaway. I am 60 and don’t know much about computers. Received my copy of Isle of Dreams last week. It’s wonderful!!!!
I Just finished reading “Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams”…..Sigh……I didn’t want it to end, so now I have to re-read “A Fine Romance”! Thank-you for sharing your story with all of us. Wow! What a life you’ve led! It just reaffirms to me how God can turn anything around and use it for good! And He’s not done yet, and neither are you!
Wishing you Blessings in all your new adventures!
Dear Susan,
It is with some trepidation that I post on this blog and thereby enter into your gloriously generous giveaway. You’ve given to me in ways truly indescribable. It seems gluttonous to want for more. There is an essence permeating all you do and is akin to much of what I’ve always held so very dear and close to my heart.
Quilts in our family were like a scrap book. At a family gathering recently, a bunch of us first cousins identified each square of a quilt Gram made, citing what the fabric was made into and who it was for. Gram made jumpers as well as special dresses for Christmas, Easter and the first day of school. The rhythm she had on that Singer Treadle Sewing machine was mesmerizing to me as a child. Quilts, the unsung of great story-tellers.
Happy and safe travels as you embark on your tour in the next week. Hoping to see you on the tour; not sure if it will be this side of the Atlantic or in the motherland.
Cheers, God Save the Queen and may you have a “right royal knees up” of a time on your travels!
Carrie
Susan, my mom sister and I cannot wait to meet you in new hope!! Thank you so much for all the beautiful things you create for us all!!!
I love your drawings, books and calendars. They always bring a smile not just to my lips but also to my heart <3
I have two possible dates on my calendar for the book signings. I could possibly make the Cincinnati trip or go across Atlanta to the Woodstock location. I will enjoy one of them for sure! All this information about designs for material, wallpaper, and who knows what else is so exciting!! Thank you for taking the time to explain how it all works. And the Santa is one of my favorite drawings. I think I will try a pillow! See you soon. Enjoy the drive and all the fine people you will see again or like me…..for the first time .
So excited about the new fabrics! I can’t wait to sew a project (or two, or three…) using them!
I’m so excited! I have some of your fabric in my stash, cannot wait to add more and make a quilt.
I love quilts too! They are so beautiful especially the one you are giving away. Thanks for sharing from your collection. And let me just say that I could read from your blog all day!
Hi Susan,
Your wonderful “Willard” and latest blog post came when I needed them most, but I had to wait a few days to read them. As I’m sure you saw on the news, Houston got clobbered with rain a week ago and there was massive flooding. My house was fine (small ceiling leak, but no biggie), but as a police officer, I spent most of the week working extra-long shifts at one of the shelters set up for those displaced. The out-pouring of support from ordinary citizens was wonderful to see, but we also had to put up with the Noteables who were turning up for the photo-op, “doing good work.” Before the start of each day, I’d sit drinking my coffee, not sure whether to drink it or soak my feet in it!
Fortunately, my shelter closed yesterday, with the people being moved to better situations, so I’m in recovery mode, wallowing in Willard and the blog. What a perfect end to a VERY long week! Still in all, I’m the lucky one…my home and kitty were/are safe. I’d love to win one of your drawings, but I consider myself a winner, just staying safe and dry when so many others here in the greater Houston area weren’t as fortunate.
Time for more tea…
I am in so much trouble with my bookclub because I am reading your book instead of the assigned reading!
Happy Anniversary!! Can’t wait to see you at the Tattered Cover in Denver!
Susan, i really enjoy your blog and your books! Everything reminds me of my early years, my grandmothers, their quilts and love of flowers. Thank you for sharing all of your creativity with us.
Oh Susan, just received your new book Thursday night, and couldn’t put it down……when I had to, like making dinner and doing laundry……I couldn’t get it out of my mind. As I read, I felt like God had this purpose for you all this time, and WOW, look what blessings he showered on you, much deserved. I’ll add this book to all my other ENCHANTING books of yours, I have them all. The Susan Branch Collection all started with your very first book I received from my husband as a Christmas gift. He thought the book was ME!! He was right. Love and gratitude from Missouri.
What delightful news, your own line of fabric line, forever–or as long as you want! Blog Daddy’s advice to ‘be an elf’ was spot on, Susan. He knew the talent of his firstborn!
I love seeing the morning sun streaming through my kitchen windows too. In fact, that’s why I bought my house–I start my day welcoming the dawn with my first cup of coffee and end it watching the sunset from my living room sofa. If it were any other way, it would be cattywompous in my mind! 🙂 Life is good when we take the time to welcome creation’s splendor with a thankful heart.
I have to admit I would absolutely love it if dear Vanna somehow found my name amongst the nearly 3,000 other girlfriends’ names, but if she doesn’t, I still am a winner to have your wonderful blog and you in my life.
I bet there will be quite a few beautiful quilts pieced from your fabric, Susan. Can you imagine? What a lovely surprise for you someday. Blessings on you and Joe on your travels! 🙂 Sara. 🙂
My mother was a quilter although I don’t have any of them. Someone else got
them all. The fabric you are showing from the past, I think I bought some of them. And I think I still have some. Must go check. Can’t wait for your website to come around. Such easy calming writing. Love you. Nell
As you write your words in books, create your beautiful art or post pictures and posts on the internet, I know it must be interesting to imagine the lives of your readers and the influence you have. I am so very grateful to you and am excited for the new adventures ahead for you and your dear husband.
susan, again you continue to amaze. your creative mind and heart speak to me, and so many of us girlfriends. thank you for sharing your energy and spark, we are the same age, and so alike in what we love that it’s always like being with a best friend.
My mother was a quilter and all by hand. Every inch. I love them!
Just finished your new book last night. LOVE!!!!!
I love old quilts especially one that belonged to you, Susan!
The old quilts remind me of a few treasured family ones I have in my antique closet. I am a quilter myself, most recently having worked on mission quilts for the needy….such a satisfying project. I hope I win something!!
kathy
Susan, you have outdone yourself again…love love love your fabrics…will certainly use that site soon.
The drawing is fantastic…hope I am the lucky one!
Enjoy your travels
Suzanne
So fun to be able to get the fabric! I’m already having ideas for a quilt and baby bedding!!! You really are an inspiration and I am thankful for you and the brightness you bring to life!
I am so proud to have been a fan of yours since the beginning with your 1986 publication of The Heart of the Home and a First Edition of Christmas from the Heart of the Home. I so enjoyed all the Susan Branch products produced in years gone by, and shopping at your store in Arroyo Grande, CA was the best. Lots of love from Southern California!
Susan, I have finished all the trilogy and loved it and now re-reading a fine romance…you are so wonderful through and through. Happy belated birthday and truly hope to meet you one day! P.s. I made your cheesecake this past thanksgiving and it was to die for! I definately agree to making it more often!
That is wonderful news. So glad that your fabrics are back.
What a week! Testing at school, upended schedules, etc. and then to come home and find a package from you!!! Your wonderful book…I’m trying to make it last, but then I can quit whenever…just as soon as I finish this chapter. Ha! And Willard! I wish you were coming through Northern VA (which when I last checked you were not 🙁 I’m so thankful for you including all of us on your journeys and showing us all the beauty around you through your wonderful photography. Thank you for sharing your gift with us all. I know it’s helped me look at the world around me differently. I expect to find wonder and I’m not disappointed! And many, many thanks for sending your Chinese version of A Fine Romance and your delightful tea blend. Have a wonderful book trip. Lots of lucky Girlfriends out there!
Your blog make my day. I love it!
Greetings and Happy Anniversary from England. Love your designs and books.
Susan….This is the second attempt to leave a comment. I wrote to you yesterday after I bought my ticket to your second stop of your book tour. I got a message about waiting for moderation or something like that. I’ll give it another try. I did proclaim to be your biggest fan though. I’m certain of that!!! I’m going to your book signing in Madison CT next Sunday and I’m so excited to meet you. I’m going to travel a distance to get there but I’m sure it will be worth it. I have introduced my students to your art work and lettering. I have some of your art work hanging in my classroom. I teach art in an inner city school and always encourage my kids to dream big! I would love love love a used paintbrush or a smudged up paper of yours!
I wish you loads of success with your latest book! Safe travels. ~karen mac
Thank you for introducing me to Spoonflower — so cool.
I am so happy for you that your writing projects are done and now you will have a year of traveling and (hopefully) relaxing! A well-earned reward. It is fun to go with you on your travels from the comfort of my easy chair. *-*
I am LOVING Martha’s Vineyard, Isle of Dreams! I’m reading it slowly. There’s so much to take in and enjoy. Now I want to read my Heart of the Home cookbook all over again. I will appreciate every page even more. Thank you Susan for giving us so much joy with you work.
Thank you back Sharan!!! So happy to hear that!! xoxo
I love quilts too! They each have such a story to tell. Yours are beautiful.
Love your quilts! As the saying goes “A bed without a quilt is like the sky without stars.”
Hi Susan,
The Blog and Willard are wonderful, so many new and exciting things happening. I am looking forward to your summer travels, and then the fall trip that we are coming on!!! The new fabrics are terrific. The vintage quilt is gorgeous and such a generous give away! My husband and I antique and have collected many treasures. I see quilts a lot, but I am not sure how to decided if it’s truly vintage. You have inspired me to do some research and become educated on vintage quilts so I don’t have to pass them up in the future. I just purchased a Fine Romance Falling in Love with the Engish Counrtyside, for my mom for Mother’s Day. I just love giving your book as a gift. They are so beautiful. Your books bring me such joy, I want to spread the feeling to all the people in my life! I would be beyond thrilled to win any of the giveaways, and the Wisteria seeds would be so amazing. I can just see a Wisteria plant growing in my garden that is from Martha’s Vinyard and you!!! Oh boy my fingers and toes are crossed.
I read A fine Romance again and loving it more the second time around. You are so talented. I have all your cook books and use them a lot. It will be fun to have a new heart of Home.
My husband just came into my office. I was reading your blog, Susan. I said to him, “I just love this Susan Branch, she is such a happy “girl”. (We will always be girls, Susan!). Thanks for radiating “sunshine”!
Thank you Jackie!
Oh, who wouldn’t love that beautiful quilt. I hope it’s me. I would give it a wonderful home in my tiny log cabin here in Montana. I will keep my fingers crossed.
I have not sewn in quite a while, knitting is way more my thing. (So of course I liked your knock-out drug knitting store vision. LOL)
But…wow….after seeing all of your fabric designs, I might decide to come up with a project!
I am about half way through the new book. I love your writing style. It is real and you share the ups and downs but you have such a great positive spirit that just seems to keep popping up like a cork in water. I might have shed a few tears after finishing Chapter 4, though. xxoo
Me too, chapter four was sad. It gets better, I promise. xoxo
So glad you shared about spoonflower.com!
I’m sooooo excited you’ve designed more fabric!!!! I have always loved your sweet fabric designs. Can’t wait to used them in making somethings for my 5 granddaughters!
Dear Susan,
I don’t know where to start……just finished Isle of Dreams and want to say Thank You! Thank You!, Thank You!! A hundred times Thank You! Unbelievable adventures and inspiration on every page! I don’ t think that I could have been that brave to do what you did……And all the quotations……have written down some of my favorite ones! There were so many! It was the best read and I definitely think my favorite of the trilogy…..then again……Everything that you write is the best!! Can’t wait for your next best seller! I am so looking forward to meeting you next Saturday in Plainville along with my daughter-in-law and she has also fallen in love with your books after I passed on The Fairy Tale Girl to her.
I am sure that the week ahead will be busy for you as you get ready to leave on your road trip. You have made such an amazing impact on our lives and we appreciate that you have shared your journey with us. I can’t thank you enough and will see you on Saturday. To you and Joe I wish a happy and safe trip as you hit the road to meet and greet all your adoring fans! P.S. Can’t wait to explore Spoonflower! And all your beautiful designs! Thanks!!
OH that was SO nice Trisha . . . made happy tears in my eyes. Thank you so much. 😂 Yes we’re frantically preparing to GO, and very much looking forward to it. It will be a good separation for me to get away from the art table . . . Looking forward to seeing you and your daughter in Plainville! Thank you again, means so much to know my newest baby is having a good time in the outside world! xoxo
Gosh, it’s kind of shocking to say I’ve been a fan for decades. Gulp. Where does the time go? But thank you for all the wonderful things you’ve shared with us throughout the years.
I love fabric, although I usually use it to make kitty toys! This site looks so neat, can’t wait to explore. Thank you for inspiration! ✂️
I have several of your books, which I love –for the beautiful art work, recipes and stories!!
You are such an inspiratiin. My heart sighs when I settle in with one of your books or blog post entries. Xxoo, Michele
I love Spoonflower and I love, love, love all your quilts. I just made three pillowcases today for my grandchildren. I can see some of your wonderful fabric being made into three more!
I must tell you that I’ve just started your book and absolutely love how you purchased the cottage—full speed ahead! Goodness, you were brave. Wish I didn’t have to go to work tomorrow so I could read all day (but I did peek at the photos and artwork to get a hint of what’s next and, of course, we all know your story flows into a fine romance!).
Buying Holly Oak was a very good accident!
A friend sent me a link to your site. Enjoyed it very much. Looking forward to picking up one of your books to start what sounds like a great read.
Cannot wait to read and savor the new book!
One day I was browsing through the books on the shelves at our local library when I found a delightful little treasure by Susan Branch — a lovely mix of stories, quotes, recipes, and art, and a much-needed breath of fresh air. What a find! 🙂
As always, you inspire the creative side of me! I think I shall sew tomorrow!
I love fabric and am fascinated by the idea of spoonflower.com Thank you for describing it to us and for uploading some of your designs to the site.
So excited to see your fabric at Spoonflower – especially the toile. And to think it can be wrapping or wall paper too! Now in addition to a fabric stash, I’m afraid I’m going to have to find room for a wrapping paper stash!
I am excited to learn about your fabric and about the spoonflower website. The creative juices are flowing! I’m going to bed dreaming about the possibilities!
Kay
So great that you are expanding your fabric line. Am reading isle if dreams and cherish each and every word I will read it again just to make sure I did not miss anything. I applaud you for your endurance during your journey in becoming the extraordinary and extremely talented person you are. I am just so looking forward to meeting you at the book signing at Booksellers in Memphis, Tn. Have fun while trekking cross country to see us all. Carolyn
Thank you so much Carolyn, see you in Memphis!
I’m very much enjoying your latest book and sure do hope that your story will become a TV series–or a movie.
That would be fun if it happens! Thank you Judy!
Thank you for the Willard they are such a special present!
Love reading your blog. Thank you so much for the chance to win!
I love the fabric!
It is 3:00am and cannot sleep so decided to get caught up on some emails. Thank you for such relaxing and enjoyable reading. I can go back to sleep now and dream of sweet things, cute prints and wonderful people.
Susan,
Thank you so much for sharing the information about designing your own fabric!
That has always been dream of mine, so thank you thank you! And yes, I do love quilts too, especially when they are old and a bit tattered, I have a quilt the 1800s that I cherish 🙂
Wow, Susan!…So MANY comments! …I hope I have a CHANCE to WIN!!
Just wanted to wish you and Joe a wonderful and blessed trip adventuring around the countryside on your road trip!! You have accomplished so much. I am
so excited FOR you!!
Take care…And thanks again so much for all you do!
You inspire all of us to dream…and help us to not be quite so
“nervous” about going in the direction of them!
HAPPY TRAILS!!
<3
P.S. I THOUGHT that Santa Claus face looked familiar!! 😀
You definitely have a chance Judy!! xoxo
I would LOVE to win! Thanks for the chance.
Oh, oh…I am so excited about your fabric!! That just made my day!!
I hope you have a wonderful trip! Such fun. Enjoy every minute. The quilt is absolutely beautiful! I love old quilts, they give us the chance to see a piece of what it was like “back then”, and of course to wonder about who made it and all the material they chose to use. So very nice of you to share one of your many treasures. Your books are so wonderful, thank you for all of the great stories you share with all of us.
Have a blessed day!
So wonderful that you fabric is available again and that you can control what and for how long it’s sold this time.
Hello, Tho I’ve never seen one of my comments published here – there are thousands to hunt thru to check – if you respond, is this the only way to find a response as well? Tho I use my computer daily I’m certainly not computer savy.
I live in the mtns. of Arkansas (Too many quilters to count) but a friend and I plan to visit you when you are in St. Charles, MO. – so hoping it will work out!
I do recognize your name Kedra . . . I know I’ve answered at least one of your comments . . . Watch here, someone will answer your question about how to find your published comments . . . I forget how it’s done, but we have lots of computer savvy Girlfriends who will let you know! xoxo Hope to see you in St. Charles!
Hi Susan
I also wondered about one of my comments I have not seen. Of course not serious. I had asked a question and hoped I would see your answer. I have all my Susan books laid out to see at all times. You are definitely apart of my life. This last book I think was my favorite. Thank you, Susan
Oh darn, I wish you’d repeated your question here . . . sometimes comments seem to go missing, although I can never tell if I haven’t ever seen them, but I’m sorry! xoxo
Kedra, always write down the date and the time that you post. Then you can go back later to see if Susan responds to you. It won’t be difficult even if 5,000 people leave comments. Hope this works for you.
Kathy Hughes
Dearest Susan,
I am in awe!! So many wonderful adventures are in store for you, Joe and us “Girlfriends” on your impending travels!! Cannot wait to go along!!
And the latest Willard was wonderful and this blog……FABRIC!!!! Oh My Gosh!! I hoard fabric and paper!! I have all of your stickers and scrapbook paper designs! Love them all!! I use them too but only for special friends and family! So happy about your new fabrics! Once again a dose of your vitamin “I” inspiration for me to start sewing again!! I would love to be a winner of the giveaway, however I think all of the girlfriends are winners…..having you for a wonderful, generous, thoughtful, brilliant FRIEND!! Thank you Susan!!! xoxo
Love you Candice, such a sweet thing to say!
Susan,
I love every beautiful book and product you design. I have been a huge fan for many years- way before things were easily found on the Internet. I used to have to SEARCH for things here in Tennessee. I have all of your books, scrapbook albums, greeting cards, etc. So excited for the new fabrics. Please keep doing what you do. It’s such a blessing!!
Thank you Cindy! I remember hearing how people had to search for things . . . it’s why we started our little on-line store, because then at least I could know of one place where people could find things!
G’morning from the Sunshine State!
Have loved your art from the first time that I saw it in “Country Living”… waaay back in the day! We always have a Susan Branch calendar hanging on our refrigerator and your books are everywhere. (your fall book being my fav)
I have a small collection of antique quilts and would love to have a chance to win this one!
Such lovely quilts, so much talent!
Just finished Isle of Dreams. A fantastic read!
Just finished reading Isle of dreams. Thanks for keeping Agnes’ treasures and being so open and vulnerable in sharing your life. You are an inspiration for all of us. I’m delighted to learn of a site where we can print your fabrics!!! I feel a new quilt growing in my mind. May God keep you and Joe safe as you travel our beautiful land.
Love the sunrise pictures. It’s so cool when you share pictures like that. Makes the day so much nicer to see them and read Willard.
I just started quilting a few months ago. My daughter and I take classes. I love the idea of being able to get your beautiful fabric! Thank you!
The fabrics look beautiful! I’m a sewer from way back. Love the ball fringe you used – I’m a big fan of ball fringe. I’ve used it on tablecloths, table runners, wall hangings – even made a bathing suit cover up once with angel sleeves – had to trim the bottom and sleeves with ball fringe! I wish you happy travels on the book tour!
Wow! The fabrics are gorgeous. And the giveaways so generous.
Hi Susan! Best wishes for your book tour!! I absolutely love your books and now seeing pics of the beautiful fabric! Oh my goodness gracious!! I love, love, love quilts. My grandmother was an expert quilter. I wish how I had taken up her offer to learn to quilt from her. Take care dear Susan and much love!