Episodes

Monday Feb 04, 2019
Episode #138: EE Schenck
Monday Feb 04, 2019
Monday Feb 04, 2019
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking running a wholesale distribution company with my guests Stan and Brittany Gray.
Stan Gray is the owner of E.E. Schenck Company, which is a distributor, converter and wholesaler of all types of fabrics and sewing notions servicing customers throughout the world. After 51 years with the company, he is still involved in the day-to-day operations and enjoys his interaction with customers, employees and vendors.
Brittany is the General Manager of EE Schenck Company, and Stan’s daughter. After starting her career in the fashion industry in New York City, she moved back to her hometown of Portland, Oregon in 2014 to work for her family’s business.
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Today’s episode is sponsored by June Tailor, Inc., a USA manufacturer of quilting and sewing tools. Our unique and innovative tools help you complete your quilting or sewing project with professionally finished results. Win one of 10 kits containing a Shape Cut Ruler and a set of 6 “Quilt As You Go” placemats. Simply post your favorite quilt project to Instagram and include the following: #myfavoriteproject #junetailor @junetailorinc @abbyglassenberg Check out all of June Tailor’s products at JuneTailor.com. Giveaway ends the 12th.
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Monday Jan 21, 2019
Episode #137: Katarina Roccella
Monday Jan 21, 2019
Monday Jan 21, 2019
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about becoming a fabric designer with my guest, Katarina Roccella.
Katarina was born in 1975 in Belgrade, Serbia where she lives with her husband and three kids that are true inspiration for her work. In 1998 she graduated from the Faculty of Applied Arts at the Department of Graphic Arts and in 2003 got a master’s degree. She started on her PhD thesis in Applied Arts and Design in 2014. Nina work as a licensed artist for Art Gallery fabrics and has created 14 fabric collections for them.
We discuss her life growing up with artist parents, discovering textiles and sewing when she became a mother, beginning to sell online through eBay, and pitching (and being rejected) her surface designs to fabric companies. Katarina talks about her first visit to the United States which was to attend Quilt Market, and learning to quilt (she serged the seams on her first quilt!). We also talk about her children who are competitive ballroom dancers in Belgrade.
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This episode is sponsored by Studio Art Quilt Associates.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Studio Art Quilt Associates is an international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the art quilt and the artists who create them. SAQA offers a wide range of exclusive resources and professional opportunities for its members, including access to a museum-quality exhibition program that travels artwork around the world.
If you want to see and hear more about art quilts, join SAQA's global community of over 3500 artists, professionals, collectors, and art quilt enthusiasts. Visit www.saqa.com/join to find out more details about SAQA's membership benefits. Use the discount code NAP to receive $10 off your first year of membership.
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Monday Jan 07, 2019
Episode #136: Megan Eckman of Studio MME
Monday Jan 07, 2019
Monday Jan 07, 2019
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about product development and building an embroidery business with my guest, Megan Eckman of Studio MME.
Megan is the owner and head designer of Studio MME, a company that creates approachable embroidery kits for modern stitchers. After failing her grandmother's embroidery lessons as a kid, she came back to the craft in 2014 and realized it needed a major update. She now makes kits that help others learn embroidery in a fun and easy manner. It's crafting with hand-holding. Over the past five years, she's landed her kits in almost 100 shops across the country, partnered with DMC, hired her husband, and currently runs an embroidery-of-the-month club for her most adoring (and addicted) fans.
If you have a product-based business or are thinking of starting one, this episode is for you. Megan shares her real numbers and she isn't afraid to tell us what worked and what didn't. She and her husband now own a creative business that supports them both which is pretty amazing.
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This episode is sponsored by the Craft in Style subscription box by Pop Shop America. The Craft in Style subscription box allows you to explore lots of fresh and stylish crafting and different techniques from terrariums to chalkboard lettering, from watercolors to paper marbling. Choose from one month, three months, and beyond; the longer the subscription, the more a subscriber can save on the box price. Every Craft in Style Box is super stylish and beginner friendly. Boxes ship within three business days so you don't have to wait like other boxes! It's a fun way to craft every month without spending a fortune and you won't end up with extra supplies you don't need.
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Monday Dec 17, 2018
Episode #135: 2018 Community Episode
Monday Dec 17, 2018
Monday Dec 17, 2018
As we wind up 2018 I’m taking a minute to look back on the podcast this year. We’ve had so many of interviews with guests I truly admire including a whole roster of other artists and designers who have built independent creative businesses that are incredibly inspirational.
As we wrap up the year I wanted to turn to you, my listeners, and hear your voices on the show. I make this show for you, and it’s because of you that the show is a success. This is our third annual community episode and it’s one of my favorite episodes of the year.
A few weeks ago I put out a call on my blog and in my newsletter asking you to record yourself and I got so many entries. Thank you! Specifically, I asked if you would recommend something you’re loving right now. Those of you that listen to the show regularly know that towards the end of the interview I always ask my guests to recommend great stuff they’re enjoying. This is the third annual Community Episode!
And to help me out today I’m joined by my longtime friend Stacey Trock. Hi Stacey! Stacey and I first met on Twitter, many years ago and she co-hosted many of the early episodes of the podcast with me.
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This episode is sponsored by Cultured Expressions.
Cultured Expressions offers a unique mix of African prints, batiks, mudcloth, precuts beads, kits & more for sewing, quilting, crafts and décorating.
Visit CulturedExpressions.com, your African Fabric Lifestyle & DIY Destination, and use the code “ABBY” to save 20% thru Jan 15, 2019.
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Monday Dec 03, 2018
Episode #134: Erin Dollar
Monday Dec 03, 2018
Monday Dec 03, 2018
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about building a business as a surface designer with my guest, Erin Dollar.
Erin Dollar is the textile designer behind the home decor brand Cotton & Flax. She's known for her minimalist-modern approach to surface pattern design, and her textile home goods have been stocked in indie retail shops around the world, as well as on the shelves of stores like CB2, Need Supply, and West Elm. In 2016 she launched Arroyo, her first fabric collection for Robert Kaufman Fabrics, and this month her second collection, Balboa, arrives in stores.
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This episode of the While She Naps podcast is sponsored by Search Press North America, bestselling books for sewing, quilting, knitting, fine art and many other crafts. Award-winning titles include the A-Z embroidery books and the Half Yard sewing series. Whether you are a beginner or an expert looking for new inspiration, Search Press delivers consistent, step by step instruction books for all crafters. You can find Search Press books in all major craft stores, as well as specialist retailers around the world. Use the discount code WSN102018to receive 20% discount off books on the Search Press North America website plus free shipping.
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Monday Nov 19, 2018
Episode #133: The State of the Quilting Industry, Quilt Market 2018
Monday Nov 19, 2018
Monday Nov 19, 2018
This is my second annual State of the Quilting Industry show recorded at Fall Quilt Market in Houston, Texas. The show is only open to the trade and it’s a time for quilt shop owners, pattern designers, notion makers, and fabric manufacturers to come together and do business with one another.
In this episode, I sit down with quilt shop owners to talk about how business is going. I did man-on-the-street style interviews with shop owners I’d never met before, walking up to them while they were in line for Sample Spree or sitting down with them at the round tables outside of the Schoolhouse classrooms. Some of them knew me, but most of them didn’t.
Quilt shop owners are on the front lines, serving customers every day. They are out there buying and selling the fabric and patterns and books, selling the classes and booking the teachers. They know a tremendous amount about the industry and I’m really excited to bring their voices and perspective to the show.
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This episode is sponsored by Crosscut Sewing.
Located in Melrose, MA or online at CrosscutSewingCo.com, Crosscut offers fun and modern fabric for all of your sewing projects. Shop their Black Friday sale now for the best selection. Use the code THANKS18 for 25% off fabric, notions patterns and gifts through November 26th. Most orders ship same day and orders over $40 ship for free!
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Monday Nov 05, 2018
Episode #132: Ursula Morgan and Julie Roehm of Creativebug
Monday Nov 05, 2018
Monday Nov 05, 2018
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast, we’re talking about online learning with my guests Ursula Morgan and Julie Roehm.
Ursula is the CEO of Creativebug, the award-winning DIY art and craft instruction site with 1,000+ videos for all skill levels. For $9.95/month, consumers have an all-access, no boundaries pass to all their creative interests. In her role as CEO Ursula grew subscriptions by 533% in her first year, a further 75% in year two, and 60% in year three. Creativebug under Ursula’s stewardship was acquired by JOANN stores in April 2017.
Julie Roehm is the Founder and now Vice President of Partnerships and Operations at Creativebug. Before founding Creativebug she spent 15 years in the financial services industry where she managed a team of user experience designers to create exceptional customer experiences.
We begin this conversation by talking about what Creativebug offers today and how Julie and her co-founders came up with the idea for the company originally. Creativebug has been bought and sold several times and last year was acquired by JOANN. Ursula and Julie explain the synergy they feel with JOANN and how the new arrangement is working for Creativebug.
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This episode is sponsored by Culler Creations. You may still be enjoying fall colors where you live but, eventually, the leaves will fall and the temperatures will drop. Winter will come! You could be ready to stay warmer and enjoy winter more if you make your own insulated Snow Skirt with a pattern from Culler Creations.
With a Snow Skirt over your regular clothing, you will be warmer walking your dog, waiting at the bus or subway, watching your kids play or maybe even getting out and making a snowman with grandchildren. Get a complete kit with everything included from fabrics and pattern to zippers and matching thread. There are many colors of ripstop fabrics and trims to choose from, so your Snow Skirt can be warm and as unique as you are! Check it out at CullerCreations.com.
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Monday Oct 15, 2018
Episode #131: Molli Sparkles
Monday Oct 15, 2018
Monday Oct 15, 2018
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about building a career as a quilter with my guest, Molli Sparkles.
Molli Sparkles is a multi-award-winning quilt maker who describes himself as a quiltmaker to the stars, fearless leader of the Glitterati, and spiller of truth tea. He blogs at MolliSparkles.com, and is a regular columnist for Make Modern and Textile Fibre Forum Magazines. His quilts have been exhibited and sold internationally, with a flair for humor, subversion, originality, and self-worth.
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This episode is sponsored by Quilt Photography Co. Beautiful photos of your quilts are within reach. We've made it easy for you - pick your package online, drop your quilt in the mail, then sit back and relax. Your quilt will be pampered and mailed back, and you can access your online gallery with the simple click of a button. Use the coupon code WHILESHENAPS to get 50% your first order. Visit Quilt Photography Co. today!
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Monday Oct 01, 2018
Episode #130: Anne Weil
Monday Oct 01, 2018
Monday Oct 01, 2018
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about going from blogger to author and teacher with my guest, Anne Weil.
Anne is the creator of the blog Flax & Twine and a designer of patterns and projects that have been published by Martha Stewart, Design*Sponge, Elle Decor, Real Simple, and the Huffington Post. The author of Weaving Within Reach (affiliate link) and Knitting Without Needles (affiliate link), Anne teaches classes nationwide at art retreats and local yarn stores and online at Creativebug.com and Craftsy.com. She lives in Denver, Colorado, with her family.
I was lucky to have Anne visit me in my studio for this interview while she was in town as part of her book tour. It's always especially nice to be able to record an interview in person.
Catch up with Anne on Instagram to see what's she's up to and visit her shop to browse all of her books, patterns, supplies, and kits.
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This episode of the While She Naps podcast is sponsored by Search Press North America, bestselling books for sewing, quilting, knitting, fine art and many other crafts. Award-winning titles include the A-Z embroidery books and the Half Yard sewing series. Whether you are a beginner or an expert looking for new inspiration, Search Press delivers consistent, step by step instruction books for all crafters. You can find Search Press books in all major craft stores, as well as specialist retailers around the world. Use the discount code WSN102018 to receive 20% discount off books on the Search Press North America website plus free shipping.
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.

Sunday Sep 16, 2018
Episode #129: Courtney Courtney
Sunday Sep 16, 2018
Sunday Sep 16, 2018
On today's episode of the Craft Industry Alliance podcast we're talking about building a handmade clothing brand with my guest, Courtney Chu, of the handmade clothing brand CourtneyCourtney.
Courtney Chu was trained as an industrial designer and worked as a children’s fashion designer. She’s obsessed with transforming and saving clothing from landfills through children’s and pet clothing. Currently, she’s creating memorable, lasting pieces that enhance any adventure through her brand, Courtney Courtney! According to Courtney, every color goes together, or she makes them go together. I love this mantra!
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Today’s episode is sponsored by Amy Barickman founder of Indygo Junction. IndygoJunction.com is your source for books & patterns in both print & PDF format. Indygo Junction produces designs for home & fashion as well as an extensive selection of apparel patterns including their popular Indygo Essentials line. Be sure to visit Indygo Junction's blog for fabric & notions giveaways celebrating as well as inspiring projects, videos, and tutorials! Join the Indygo Junction Sewing Pattern Facebook Group community of creative spirits sewing and sharing Indygo Junction patterns! Sign up for Indygo Junction's newsletter to receive a 20% off coupon code.
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Please note that this show used to be called the While She Naps podcast. The name has changed, but the content and host have stayed the same.
To get the full show notes for this episode, visit Craft Industry Alliance where you can learn more about becoming a member of our supportive trade association. Strengthen your creative business, stay up to date on industry news, and build connections with forward-thinking craft professionals. Meet with show host, Abby Glassenberg, each month for our Craft Business Roundtable, get access to courses and webinars taught by industry leaders, and much more.