MEET THE QUILTER: OON
We talk to Oon of Grape Soda Studio about her quilting origins, fabric faves, and quilty life lessons…
How did you first get into quilting?
One of my good friends was expecting a baby and for some reason I thought it would be a good idea to make her a rude A–Z quilt inspired by a TV show we both loved (Green Wing). I didn’t know how to use a sewing machine and I didn’t have a clue what I was doing. I used all brushed cotton fabrics, I didn’t know what a seam allowance was (I drew rectangles in pen on the back of the ‘blocks’), I hand stitched all my appliqué pieces, I hand embroidered words for each block and my mum had to sew all my blocks together for me – sorry, Mum! My mum then gifted me her old Janome, showed me the basics and I have been figuring it out as I go since then!
What’s your all-time favourite quilt pattern?
I know this might come across as a shameless plug, but I think it’s got to be my latest pattern, Sticky Paws (above, right)! So many hours went into writing it and it’s such a versatile pattern. I love how at a glance it looks like a really simple, traditional pattern but the more you look at it, it sort of becomes more complex. Also, Bear Paw blocks are just the cutest!
Have you ever encountered a quilt block or quilting technique you didn’t like?
Oh my gosh, binding, hands down. I hate binding so much. I can see how it should be enjoyable and maybe even therapeutic, getting to put the finishing touches on your new quilt, but it is just the worst. Binding inner seams is even more ‘the worst’, I would rather take an extra few days to figure out a drop-in lining method than have to do them!
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from quilting?
That nobody is judging you as harshly as you’re judging yourself. Nobody is going to notice the mistake you think is glaringly obvious – and even if someone does notice, they’re not going to think less of you for it or even remember it in a week! Be kinder to yourself and just do the best that you can.
What advice would you give to a beginner quilter?
That everybody starts somewhere and most people are happy to help. The quilting community is such a fantastic resource for inspiration, information and unexpected friendships! If you don’t know how to do something, or can’t figure it out, reach out and ask! You won’t be the first to ever wonder if you’re doing something right.
What fun things can we expect from you in the future?
I've got a couple of patterns in the works: a super traditional one inspired by Welsh double weave blankets and a fun 90s pattern inspired by Pom Pom, my little classic Fiat Panda! I’ll also be making more quilted sneakers and would love to pull together a little tutorial (shoetorial?) to make them feel achievable for more quilters!
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