Laura Nownes' passion for making quilts is an extension of her love of sewing. From an early age she began with doll clothes, then to making her own garments and often working on projects for neighbors. Her early involvement in 4-H provided her first teaching experience to younger members. After taking her first sampler quilt class in 1979, she knew she had found a lifelong interest. Her connection with Diana in 1980 allowed her to share her talents with students in the classroom. Laura soon became one of the shop's leading beginning quilting teachers. It was then Diana and Laura began the friendship which has led to the creation of five landmark quiltmaking books and a text for beginning and intermediate quiltmaking. In 1986 Diana McClun approached Laura about co-authoring a beginning how-to book. The book was intended to be used just in the shop, however, it was chosen by local publisher Michael Kile of The Quilt Digest Press and shortly thereafter, Quilts! Quilts!! Quilts!!! was born. The huge, immediate success of this book encouraged Diana and Laura to continue writing. The pair has worked together on television programs, with study groups, and in seminars touching thousands of students, giving them a start in the basics of quiltmaking. They founded Teacher Development Seminars as a result of their commitment to the continuing education of quiltmaking. Visit Diana & Laura on the Web at www.dianaandlaura.com.