Measure Twice, Cut Once

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In this episode, I discuss how excellence and efficiency can coexist in creative entrepreneurship.

Episode Highlights:

Finding the balance between providing excellent service and maintaining profitabilityThe difference between excellence and perfectionCreating a "sweet spot" where excellence and efficiency intersectThe importance of developing signature techniques and systems

Key Insights:

Excellence means quality work without getting trapped in perfectionismEfficiency requires developing systems, signature techniques, and time managementTracking time helps establish fair pricing and improves profitabilityBatch processing tasks (client meetings, invoicing) increases productivityDeveloping expertise in a limited set of designs/offerings...

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In this episode, I speak with Erynn Truexx, the creative force behind True Threads Quilting and The Panto Shop. The conversation explores Erynn's journey as a quilter and entrepreneur, focusing on her experience with longarm quilting and her recent acquisition of the Panto Shop, a digital pantograph marketplace.

Key Topics Discussed

Erynn's introduction to quilting through the Modern Quilt Guild and QuiltConHer experience working with Innova at quilt showsThe acquisition and revitalization of the Panto ShopExplanation of pantographs and digital quilting designsThe challenges and benefits of different pantograph designsErynn's vision...

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In this episode of Measure Twice, Cut Once, I explore the process of learning new skills and capabilities, both in quilting and in business. I share personal stories about taking on challenging projects—from creating a quilt from vintage blocks to building an online course business—and break down the four stages of growth: courage, commitment, capability, and confidence. This episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to expand their creative skills or transform their passion into a profession.

Note: Some links below are affiliate links, which means that if you use...

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In this episode, I welcome Sarah Becvar, a textile artist from England with over 20 years of experience creating machine embroidered textiles and greeting cards. Sarah shares her unique technique for creating beautiful machine embroidered cards and offers practical advice for listeners interested in trying this creative art form.

Sponsored By

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set - Use code MEASURE for 40% off

About Sarah Becvar

Based in England20+ years experience (approaching 24 years) in textile arts and card makingCreates machine embroidered textiles and greeting cardsOffers in-person workshops at her home...

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In this episode, I welcome Amy Lollis, a quilt pattern writer, fabric designer, podcaster, crocheter, and Oklahoma homeschool mom. 

About Amy Lollis

Quilt pattern writer, fabric designer, podcaster, crocheterOklahoma homeschool momCreator behind Amy Lollis CreativeUnofficial motto: "Make every day just a little bit more magical"

Topics Discussed

No-Spend Challenge: Amy discusses her current 365-day no-spend challenge, designed to get off the "hamster wheel" of constantly buying the newest fabrics and toolsIndustry Pressures: Insights into the pressure of k...

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In this episode, I explore unconventional and budget-friendly quilting tools that can be found at your local hardware store. As part of Season 5's focus on building a creative business, this episode offers practical tips for quilters looking to save money while enhancing their craft.

Hardware Store Quilting Tools:

Tools Section:

Magnetic Bowls - Deeper than typical pin dishes, perfect for holding pins, especially heavy-duty long arm pinsMagnetic Bars - Used to secure quilt tops when floating them on...

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In this episode, I explore the power of storytelling in newsletters and email marketing for creative entrepreneurs. She shares how incorporating personal stories can dramatically increase engagement, build connection with subscribers, and transform newsletters from dreaded tasks into effective business tools.

Want to learn how to write story based emails for yourself?  Bill Mueller has one of the best courses to learn how!  For more information, visit his website.  **

**Note: Some links in this episode are affiliate links which means that if you use the link and purchase the pro...

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In this episode, Susan welcomes Carina Gardner, a renowned fabric designer and CEO of multiple companies.  Carina, who has designed fabric for Riley Blake Designs, dies for Silhouette, host of the Make and Design Podcast, creater of Design Suite,  and is the founder of the University of Arts and Design, shares her journey and strategies for building a thriving creative business. 

The episode covers Carina's latest exciting project, her new office 'the barn,' and its role in her content creation and family life balance. Carina also delves into the significance of...

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Join me at QuiltCon 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona! I had the pleasure to speak with vendors, attendees and teachers, and recorded them to share with you. Find out more about them below:

Hollyann of String and Story

Website - https://www.stringandstory.com/

Kristin of Laurastar

Website - https://www.laurastar.com/

Lorelai Kueker of Pigs in a Blanket Quilting

Website - https://www.pigsinablanketquilting.com/

Cheryl Koranda - Longarm League

Website - https://www.longarmleague.com/

Natalie of OESD

Website - https...

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In the latest season of 'Measure Twice, Cut Once,' we dive into the world of creative entrepreneurship and quilting. Join me as I welcome Amy Smart, of Diary of a Quilter, a well-established quilter and fabric designer for Riley Blake Designs. 

Amy and I discuss her journey from blogging to designing fabric, the evolution of her business, her strategies for maintaining balance, and insights on the quilting community's changes over the years. 

Learn practical tips for managing a creative business, the importance of taking breaks, and the benefits of...