Craft to Career

Meet Darrin Stern, the visionary leader behind H+H Americas and the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival. In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell sits down with Darrin to uncover how these two powerhouse events came to life, and why they are transforming the fiber, fabric, and crafting industries.

While some claim the quilting or fabric industry is "dying," Darrin shares a very different story. His work proves that creativity, community, and craft are thriving more than ever. H+H Americas has quickly become one of the most exciting annual events for makers, brands, designers, and businesses alike, drawing global attendees to Chicago each year.

At this dynamic multi-day gathering, you'll find:

• Runway shows featuring fabric and fiber artistry

• Ice-cream socials, happy hours, and community meet-ups

• Live podcast recordings

• Classes, panels, and hands-on demos

• Retail opportunities for customers (Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival)

• Wholesale and business-focused exhibits (H+H Americas)

Although the event is young, just three years old, it continues to grow rapidly as word spreads about the uniquely vibrant energy it brings to the crafting world.

Whether you're a quilt pattern designer, a shop owner, a fabric lover, or simply curious about what a major industry event looks like, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at what makes these shows so special.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• How H+H Americas began and how Darrin Stern brought the vision to life

• Why the fiber and fabric industries are thriving, not declining

• The difference between H+H Americas and the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival

• What attendees can expect at the Chicago event—from runways to networking

• How the show has evolved over its first three years

• Why these events are becoming must-attend gatherings for both customers and business owners

• How creators, designers, and brands can benefit from participating

• Why this is the place to be for anyone in the quilting or fiber world

Episode Highlights

• Darrin's personal journey and what led him to the craft industry

• A look at how events like these shape the future of quilting and crafting

• Behind-the-scenes stories from past H+H Americas shows

• Opportunities for business owners, educators, and influencers

• The growing excitement around the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival (the consumer show held the day before H+H Americas)

If You've Ever Wondered…

• Should I attend H+H Americas as a business owner?

• What is the Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival and who is it for?

• Is the quilting industry shrinking—or growing?

• What happens at a major fiber and craft trade show?

• What opportunities exist for designers, makers, or shop owners?

…this episode will answer all of that and more.

Tune In

Whether you are planning to attend, dreaming of attending, or simply curious about what a world-class craft event looks like, you won't want to miss this conversation. Darrin shares the heart, strategy, and passion behind an event that is shaping the future of our industry.

If you've ever dreamed of building a thriving longarm quilting business—or you're looking to grow the one you already have—this episode is packed with valuable insight. Elizabeth Chappell sits down with longarm expert Tia Curtis, a sought-after quilter known for her artistry, efficiency, and strong client relationships.

Tia has grown her longarm business into a full and flourishing creative career. In this conversation, she shares her journey, the lessons she's learned, and the business strategies that have helped her stand out in a growing and competitive industry.

Whether you're a brand-new longarmer, a seasoned quilter, or a pattern designer looking to add longarm services, you'll walk away with practical guidance and inspiration.

What You'll Learn in This Episode 1. How Tia Got Started in Longarm Quilting

Hear how Tia first discovered longarm quilting and what drew her to the craft, and how this is the most lucrative part of her business.

2. Pricing and Profitability Tips

Tia breaks down how she prices her work, how she sets boundaries, and what it takes to run a sustainable longarm business.

3. How to Build Strong Client Relationships

Great longarmers don't just deliver beautiful quilting. They deliver a great experience. Tia shares her approach to communication to create loyal (and happy) repeat clients.

4. Mistakes New Longarmers Should Avoid

Tia offers honest, encouraging advice on what to watch out for, what to prioritize, and how to grow confidently.

Who This Episode Is For

• New longarm quilters looking for guidance

• Quilt pattern designers wanting to expand into longarm services

• Seasoned longarmers wanting to grow their client base

• Makers who want to turn quilting into a profitable business

• Anyone who is curious about the longarm quilting industry

Why You'll Love This Episode

Tia's approach to longarm quilting is both artistic and strategic. She is generous with her knowledge and transparent about what it really takes to grow a thriving business. This episode will leave you inspired, encouraged, and equipped with actionable steps you can apply immediately.

In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell sits down with Cindy Cloward, owner of Riley Blake Designs, one of the largest and most influential fabric manufacturers in the world. Riley Blake is known for its high-quality quilting cottons, stunning designer collaborations, notions, patterns, and its iconic Garden of Quilts event.

Cindy shares the inspiring story behind the company's beginnings, how it has grown into a global brand, and what exciting things are on the horizon for Riley Blake. From manufacturing insights to brand-building, this conversation offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a powerhouse in the quilting industry.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• How Riley Blake Designs began Hear the origin story of the company, why it was created, and how the Cloward family stepped into the world of fabric manufacturing.

• Behind-the-scenes insights into fabric manufacturing Get a peek into what it really takes to run a large-scale fabric company that serves quilters and sewists around the world.

• What makes Riley Blake unique Learn about the products, designers, and events, such as the beloved Garden of Quilts, that set the company apart.

• Exciting new things coming to Riley Blake Cindy shares upcoming launches, innovations, and future plans.

• How Cindy turned her craft into a thriving career Be inspired by Cindy's business journey and her passion for creativity, community, and quality.

Why You'll Love This Episode

If you've ever wondered who makes the fabrics you adore, how the quilting industry operates behind the scenes, or what it takes to build a company that supports thousands of makers, this episode is a must-listen. Cindy's insights into entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership will inspire any craft-lover dreaming of growing a creative business.