What do felt squares, an old sewing machine, and a spark of creativity have in common? For Michael Eason, they were the beginning of a quilting journey that led him to found Quilchemy and become a respected English Paper Piecing educator.

In this episode, Michael shares how he unexpectedly discovered quilting and quickly realized it was far more creative and expansive than he had imagined. Once he found English Paper Piecing, commonly known as EPP, he was hooked. He fell in love with the precision, portability, and endless design possibilities of this hand-stitching technique, and it eventually became the foundation of his business.

Michael shares the story behind Quilchemy, the work he does today, and how he helps quilters build confidence and skill with EPP. We also talk about the common challenges quilters face when learning EPP, what makes the technique so rewarding, and where Michael hopes to take his business next.

Whether you are brand new to quilting, curious about English Paper Piecing, or looking for inspiration from someone who built a creative business in a unique niche, this conversation is full of encouragement and insight.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• How Michael got started quilting with felt squares and an old sewing machine
• The moment he realized quilting could be deeply creative and inspiring
• What English Paper Piecing is and why he fell in love with it
• How Quilchemy began and how it has grown
• Who Michael teaches and the common EPP struggles he helps solve
• What is next for Michael and the future of Quilchemy

Connect with Michael Eason and Quilchemy:

• Website: quilchemy.com
• Instagram: @quilchemy

When I asked, "Which quilt shop owners do you want to hear from?" Cheryl Sleboda's name was at the top of the list—and after this conversation, you'll understand why.

Cheryl is the owner of Muppins Emporium in Paducah, Kentucky, and she's built a brick-and-mortar shop that stands out in a crowded industry.

In this episode, Cheryl shares the origin story of her shop, the fascinating history of the building it's in, and how she's used that history to create a memorable brand experience.

We also dig into the business side: how she thinks about marketing, narrowing a niche, choosing fabrics and products, and what to consider when buying inventory so it actually sells. If you've ever wondered what it takes to run a successful quilt shop, this is a must-listen.

• How Cheryl got started and why she chose to open a quilt shop in Paducah

• How the history of her building became part of her brand story

• Why "narrowing your niche" can be a growth strategy (not a limitation)

• How Cheryl thinks about marketing and standing out to the quilting community

• Behind-the-scenes inventory decisions: fabric selection, product mix, and what sells

• What makes a brick-and-mortar shop worth traveling for

• Muppins Emporium

• Cheryl Sleboda on Instagram

• Dreaming of owning a quilt shop (or already running one)

• Curious how destination quilt shops are built

• Wanting real talk on marketing + niche + inventory decisions

• Looking for ideas to create an unforgettable customer experience

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag me @quilters_candy, and don't forget to tag @muppinsemporium so Cheryl can see!

In this episode of the Craft to Career Podcast, I'm joined by Abby Glassenberg, founder of the Craft Industry Alliance — an organization created to help makers, designers, teachers, and creative entrepreneurs build real, sustainable businesses.

Many creatives start with a love of making, but quickly discover that success requires much more than talent. It requires education, connections, and support. Abby shares why she created the Craft Industry Alliance, what resources are available (both free and paid), and how makers can avoid common business mistakes by learning from others in the industry.

We also talk about the changing craft industry, what opportunities exist right now, and why community may be one of the most valuable business tools a creative entrepreneur can have.

Whether you want to publish quilt patterns, teach, design fabric, or grow a handmade business, this conversation will help you understand where to find support and how to move forward with confidence.

• Why Abby started the Craft Industry Alliance

• The biggest struggles creative entrepreneurs face

• Why business education matters for makers

• Free resources available to creatives

• The benefits of joining the Craft Industry Alliance

• How networking helps grow a creative business

• What the future of the craft industry looks like

Abby Glassenberg is the founder of the Craft Industry Alliance, a professional organization for craft professionals including designers, teachers, shop owners, writers, and manufacturers. She is also a long-time craft entrepreneur and podcast host dedicated to helping makers succeed in business.