This month we are honored to feature Michelle Terhune of Ruby Mozelle’s Quilts as a guest contributor. She lives in South Texas with her four (yes, four) dogs. She remembers being a little girl and having her paternal grandmother show her how to sew.
She remembers asking her grandmother questions about the quilts she was hand stitching and learning that the piece of cloth used to be curtains. Michelle thought it was so fascinating how her grandmother could turn a dress or shirt or even curtains into a beautiful quilt. Her granny’s name was Ruby Mozelle and she chose to name the shop after her.
Michelle says she has always enjoyed crafts and the beautiful things that can be made out of a simple bolt of plain fabric (or old clothes!). She recently had the opportunity to start her own quilting business so she can use the skills passed down from previous generations.
What are you contributing to Rootsy this month?
My video is on how to “quilt as you go”, specifically for a placemat. This method can be used for regular size quilts as well. Basically, when you’re done stitching the top together you have already quilted it to the back. It is a super simple method and quick too.
What aspects of handmade gifts are you most interested in? Any other areas of homesteading or simple living about which you are passionate?
I absolutely love handmade gifts, especially quilts. When I see old hand-sewn quilts I wonder what inspired the women to make the quilts. Was it just for warmth or was there a special occasion?
Last year I started growing some of my vegetables and herbs, and this year my garden area has grown to twice the size of last year, so we will see what comes up next.
My granny was also a painter. I have her paintings all thru my house. I recently took up painting and I have to say that it’s super fun!
What was your inspiration or push for this lifestyle?
Well, I have always loved to quilt. I made my first bed size quilt when I was 16. Through the years since then, I have worked outside the home (quilting was more of a hobby) until 2015 when my husband went on disability. I left my job so that I could take care of him. He had brain cancer and passed away in May of 2016. We didn’t have any children together so it’s just me and my dogs now. After his passing, I decided to take the plunge and start my own business journey. So far I love it!
How did you pick up your sewing skills?
My granny was the first person to introduce me to quilting. My mother also taught me quite a few things about making clothes – dresses for homecoming, etc. Most of my quilting knowledge I picked up here and there.
When I was younger (before the internet) I would check out quilting books from the library. In my early thirties, I went to once a month classes at a little quilt shop. Now I study quilting mostly online.
What’s your best piece of advice for the beginner crafter?
My best advice would be to never give up and never, ever listen to that voice in our head sometimes (you know we all have this voice sometimes) that says you can’t do it, it’s too hard, you are not talented enough. You CAN be and do whatever you put your mind to.
Find Michelle at These Links: Ruby Mozelle’s Quilts – Facebook – Instagram – Pinterest
Blog Posts: Embroidered Kitchen Towels – Christmas is approaching Fast – You May Need a Tissue – Fall is Finally Here
