Welcome to a new feature on the KMQG website, our monthly Member Spotlight! We're kicking things off with one of our guild's founders, Emily Doane.
KMQG: How long have you been quilting?
Emily: Since 2009 (12 years?!)
Who or what inspired you to start quilting?
My mom, Pat.
Tell us about the first quilt you ever made.
Well, the first quilt I ever made was in high school. My mom was making an Irish chain quilt and I thought it would be fun to make one too. So I made a blue/orange Irish chain quilt out of Wal-Mart fabric, then tied it to quilt it together. I gave it to my then-boyfriend. And then took it back when he broke up with me! That was in 2001. But I didn't make a quilt again until 2009 when my mom invited me to a Dresden plate quilt class. I walking into my very first quilt shop - less interested in quilting and more interested in just spending some time with my mom. This is what I consider my "first" quilt I guess. It was a Dresden plate quilt I made with 1930's reproduction fabrics. It still brings me joy.
What is your favorite quilt you’ve ever made?
"Made in GDR 26" is definitely my favorite quilt. It was inspired by a vintage teacup design and I absolutely love the shapes and the colors. I happened upon the teacup motif when my friend Melissa text me and said "This looks like you! You should totally make a quilt out of it!". I can't say enough how wonderful it is to have friends that love quilting and encourage you in your creativity!
What kind of sewing machine(s) do you have?
I have a used Janome 6500. It really needs a tune-up. Where's your favorite spot to get Janomes tuned up?
What is your favorite sewing tool or notion?
Clover wonder clips!
Who is your favorite fabric designer?
Melody Miller
What are your favorite colors to use in quilts?
Aqua, Red-Violet, Coral, Mustard
Describe your quilting style in one word.
Mid-century
What other hobbies do you have?
Cooking, sewing, knitting, cross stitch, video games
Do you collect anything? (Other than quilting fabric, of course!) If so, what?
Cookbooks
What is your favorite book?
Ender's Game
Who is your favorite author?
Julia Child
Do you have a celebrity crush and who is it?
Adam Driver
Anthony Bourdain - He knew how to eat, had beautiful stories, insight, and compassion for humanity.
What is your favorite food?
Cheese!!!
Coffee or tea?
Tea
Sweet or savory?
Savory
If you were a dessert, what would you be and why?
Panna Cotta - a little sweet - and versatile!
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what five things would you want to have with you (not things you need to survive, but things you would want to have)?
a puppy, needles, thread, an iron skillet, a sheep
What is your dream job?
Cyber Security Architect
Where is your dream vacation destination?
Paris
Which is your favorite season?
Fall
If you won millions in the lottery and had to selfishly spend it on yourself, what would you treat yourself to?
Retirement.
Do you prefer the beach or the mountains?
Beach!
When was the last time you did something for the first time?
Well, I'm always working on a new recipe or craft - but I guess, on a larger scale, I kayaked down some rapids in the summer. I don't think I'll do that again.
Would you rather be able to run at 100 miles per hour or fly at 10 miles per hour and why?
Run at 100 mph - I could see more places!
Want to learn more about Emily? Check her out on Instagram: @MissEmilyTaylor.
We'll be back next month with an all new Member Spotlight featuring another KMQG member!