It's been a while since the DK Quilt Guild got together, but we're going to make a big push to re-initiate the group and the diary series. Of course, to have a diary series, we need people to write diaries. Topics could include almost anything quilt-related, including skills/techniques, color sense, layouts and design, block construction, lessons for beginners... You think of it, you can write about it.
If you're willing to write a diary for one (or more!) of the following Sundays, please message me or comment below. If you're not yet a member of the group, message the group to request an invitation.
1/22
1/29
2/5
2/12
2/19
2/26
3/4
If we don't get volunteers for writing, there are some older diaries in the queue that may be re-released. Also, it could be fun to have one week a month just for show and tell. What do you think?
When the series first started, the weekly diary would post on Sundays, 3pm PT. This time doesn't seem to step on the toes of the WAYWO group, as they post a little later. Does this time still work for most people?
What ideas do you have for building our community of quilters?
Speaking of getting organized, as the new year starts, I turn again to cleaning up my financial life. This includes sorting papers, reviewing accounts, preparing for taxes, and re-thinking my insurance and will. In a former life I served as an investment manager, and now I teach a university class on wealth management. I think about this stuff all the time, and want to share some thoughts with you that pull quilting and my work together.
First, do you have good protection for your quilting and sewing equipment? This includes things like surge protectors for your electronics and other expensive electrical equipment, as well as dust covers for items less used. Do you keep your fabrics and threads out of direct sunlight and away from some of the insects that love them? Is their storage dry and mildew-free? Does your iron have automatic shut-off?
Protection includes insurance. Take an inventory of your studio. List the makes and models of the machines, and do at least a photo inventory of your fabrics and notions. You need to know the value in order to claim it, in case of a disaster. At $10 a yard, even your fabric needs to be recorded. Quilting books are pricey; those not in print can cost a lot to replace, so keep a list or photo inventory of them, too.
Have you talked to your insurance agent about whether you need additional coverage for your high-end tools? How about business insurance for those of you who sew or quilt for a living? Have you had your antique quilts appraised so they can be insured for the correct values?
Though this is a side topic, when you think of protection, remember your personal safety. Like knives, rotary cutter blades are less dangerous when they are sharp, because you cut with the correct force. But even when they are "dull," they cut through flesh in a hurry. (Ask me how I know...) So change your blades regularly. Think about your cuts before you start, and make sure you know where your fingers are. Consider wearing a "klutz" glove. Pay attention to your sewing machines, also. Anyone who's had a needle through their finger can describe the pain, and the difficulty removing the needle. Hurts just to think about it. Know whether your iron is hot or cold. If you use basting spray or other chemicals, make sure your ventilation is adequate. Protect your back and other parts by sitting and standing with good posture.
Next, have an estate plan for your quilting or crafts studio. Consider how you want your stash and equipment distributed in the case of your untimely death. I have read too many stories of people whose stashes were discarded because family members were not interested and had no idea of the value. Make a plan. Write it down. Tell your family members – and those who are to receive items – of the plan. They can’t do what you want if they don’t know what that is.
What tips, ideas, or links do you have for organizing or managing your quilting life? How do you document the value of your equipment, stash, and projects? We'd love to hear.