Interview with Diane D. Knott
Posted by Deirdre Quirk on Apr 27th 2017
Diane D. Knott is the author of the popular book Scrap Quilt Secrets. We sat her down for an interview and got her to spill the beans on her inspiration, her number one quilting tip, and more.
Where do you find your quilting or sewing inspiration?
Everywhere, all the time! I see quilt patterns or block designs every day. I see them in floor mats, or tile work or even clothing designs. My last quilt block was inspired by an industrial flooring mat at my local printer's office. I am constantly looking for fun shapes and patterns everywhere.
Who has inspired your creativity?
Oh so many people! I take as many quilt classes as I can. I enjoy learning new techniques. I think it's important to continue to learn and explore new ideas no matter how many years I've been quilting.
How do you stay up-to-date on new trends?
I work in a local quilt shop so that helps a lot! I really enjoy reading blogs and magazines and getting lost on Pinterest for far too long. And I buy lots of quilt books, too many!
What is something we might not know about you?
I was an international flight attendant for American Airlines for almost ten years. I traveled to dozens of countries and enjoyed the adventures. I still love to travel, but I also love sleeping in my own bed every night.
What was your favorite part of the book writing or production process?
Making the quilts was the most fun, but holding a copy of my book for the very first time was the most exciting moment!
What are your go-to colors?
All of them. Have you seen my quilts?
What projects are you working on right now?
My next book of course.
What’s your favorite project that you’ve made?
That would be like asking me to choose a favorite child.
Where do you shop for fabric?
Did I mention I work in a local quilt shop? The temptation is constant!
Can you share with us one quilting or sewing tip?
Use your favorite fabric now. So many quilters are saving their favorite fabric for that special project one day. When one day finally arrives, they are going to have new favorite fabrics. So cut into the good stuff now and enjoy it! Quilt with no regrets!
How did you come up with the idea for your book or product?
I teach quilting classes and workshops frequently, and I noticed I was getting the same questions over and over from different groups. There were so many comments about how challenging it was to work with scraps. I decided to explore some specific steps to explain how to DESIGN with scraps. No one wants a quilt that looks like their scrap bin exploded on it! Making some good choices and using scraps in specific ways can lead to gorgeous quilts, even if they are from scraps.
Thanks, that was fun!
