Sew & So...

• Phyllis Elmore – Quilt of Souls and “Righting” Your Story

  Our guest today is Phyllis Elmore, a remarkable woman whose story is as unforgettable as the quilts that helped shape her life.Phyllis is the author of Quilt of Souls, a powerful and deeply personal memoir that has touched readers across the country. Born in the Detroit and raised by her grandmother Lula in rural Alabama, Phyllis found herself immersed in a world of deep wisdom, quiet strength, and generational resilience. It was there, surrounded by women who stitched their pain, perseverance, and history into quilts, that Phyllis discovered healing—and the true meaning of family.In 1973, Phyllis joined the United States Air Force and was one of the first female Aircraft Pneudraulic Specialist for the B-52 Bomber. After leaving the Air Force she attended the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sociology.  In 2001, she joined the Army National Guard as an active-duty guard member. It’s also noteworthy to mention that Phyllis was one of only a handful of women in the military who served in three major military conflicts including the Vietnam Era where she served a temporary duty assignment to Vietnam before the 1975 fall of Saigon.  She was also deployed to Saudi Arabia as a member of Operation Desert Storm, and in December 2003 as a member of the Army National Guard where she was deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.In her civilian career she worked as a counselor for incarcerated youth and for women who were victims of domestic violence. She also spent ten years as a Substance Abuse Counseling Supervisor. In her remarkable book Quilt of Souls, Phyllis shares stories that were nearly lost stories of the Black women who raised children not theirs, who held families together through hardship, and who passed down their heritage through hands that stitched, cooked, comforted, and carried so much.Her writing is rich, lyrical, and full of love—an act of remembrance and a celebration of the strength it takes to keep going, and to keep telling the truth.(3:11) Phyllis recounts being uprooted from Detroit at age four and sent to rural Alabama to live with her grandmother, Lula. She describes the powerful emotional refuge of Lula’s quilts—especially one that made her feel truly safe for the first time.(8:03) We get to know Grandmother Lula, an indomitable force who stitched not only quilts but entire communities together. Lula lived to be 105 years old and was threading a needle at 100.(15:55) Phyllis reflects on her return to Detroit as a teen, where she was labeled “incorrigible”—and how those experiences shaped her decision to join the U.S. Air Force.(23:57) After her military service, Phyllis worked as a counselor for incarcerated youth and women facing domestic abuse. Hear how she channeled her life experiences into serving others.(27:30) What inspired Quilt of Souls? Phyllis shares the moment she realized that the stories she carried could—and should—be written down.(30:39) She recalls a particularly poignant story unearthed during her research—one that stuck with her and shaped the book’s message.(34:27) Meet Miss Jubilee and hear about the extraordinary quilts and lives Phyllis encountered while researching her memoir.(40:43) Discover the Quilt of Souls Preservation Project and get a preview of Phyllis’ upcoming Quilt of Souls Gathering in June 2026.(46:15) Phyllis reveals what she hopes readers take away from Quilt of Souls—and why she believes it’s never too late to “right” your story.(51:00) What didn’t we ask that she wishes we had? Phyllis gives us a thoughtful answer.(52:10) Want to connect with Phyllis? Visit www.thequiltofsouls.com or email her at [email protected]. Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

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• BERNINA University - 2025 Salt Lake City, Utah

  We begin with a reflection on the roots of sewing in Salt Lake City, stretching back to the arrival of Mormon pioneers in 1847. For these early settlers, sewing was not a pastime but a necessity—a way to preserve life, create comfort, and build community. Their quilts, made from scraps of old clothing, flour sacks, and church shirts, stitched stories of faith, hardship, and hope. Today, that legacy lives on—not only in museum collections but in the humanitarian efforts of modern Relief Society members and in the passionate quilting community that continues to grow.Against this rich historical backdrop, the 2025 BERNINA University welcomed dealers, vendors, educators, and international guests from BERNINA’s headquarters in Steckborn, Switzerland. It was a time for learning, connection, innovation—and yes, celebration. With so many creative minds gathered in one place, the energy was palpable, and we were there to capture it all.From an opening ceremony that left the crowd buzzing to new product announcements, fashion shows, and the kind of spontaneous conversations that can only happen in person, BU 2025 delivered. Hear from first-time attendees and long-time BU veterans, from award-winning dealers to BERNINA executives, designers, and makers who help power this beloved brand around the globe.(3:15) Meet the team from Ann Arbor Sewing and hear what brought them to BU 2025.(3:45) We check in with Dawn from The Tilted Quilt, and Dawn from Hudson, IL, who share their first impressions and goals for the week.(4:50) Christy Burcham kicks off the opening ceremonies and welcomes the charismatic Nick Verreos to the stage to MC a special fashion show (6:08) Christy, joined by Julian Collins, introduces new BERNINA products, giving attendees a first look at what’s next in stitching innovation.(7:33) Yaya Han joins via video to introduce a brand-new machine—cosplay fans, take note!(8:05) Paul Ashworth joins Christy on stage to unveil even more exciting technology.(9:00) HP Ueltschi, ,Owner and Chairman of BERNINA, and Jeanne Delpit, National Events Manager, offer a peek behind the scenes and reflect on BERNINA’s enduring legacy.(12:42) Michaelynn Rose, VP of Marketing at BERNINA of America, shares her joyful take on BU 2025 and unveils a major Paris Sweepstakes in collaboration with Project Runway.(15:12) We meet Jessica Rose, BERNINA Ambassador and one of the stars of the promotional video for the Paris campaign.(16:31) Get to know key members of the BERNINA and bernette teams:Vince NuttCarolyn Kinder (bernette Product Manager)Rebecca Hood (VP of Sales BERNINA of America)Danielle Trier (VP of Marketing, BERNINA International)Sarah Caldwell (BERNINA International Training & Education Manager)(25:43) We catch up with past Sew & So guests including:Amanda MurphyToni Smith (Quiltoni)Pam MahshieGail YellenJulian CollinsJoe Vecchiarelli & Tania NorrisNick Verreos & David Paul(44:55) Marilyn Gatinella from Close to Home joins us to reflect on her journey since last BU.(46:35) Hear from Shelancia Daniel of Creativity Shell and Kaye England, who talks about her emotionally resonant project: Odette’s Journey.(49:45) Back at the Merchant Market, we connect with:David from BenartexMadison from BrewerMitch from MetzlerJordan from OESD(53:43) Meet Maggy Urso, Social Media Manager for BERNINA of America, and Sylvain Bergeron, BERNINA Educator celebrating his 29th BU.(55:10) Kai Hildebrand, CEO of BERNINA International, shares his excitement for what lies ahead in the coming year.(55:58) Paul Ashworth closes out the week with heartfelt remarks about growth, gratitude, and what makes BU truly special.And so, the journey does indeed continue—as we look ahead with excitement to BU 2026 and all the inspiration it will bring.This special behind-the-scenes episode of Sew & So offers more than just a glimpse into an event—it’s a window into the heart of the BERNINA experience. From the Ueltschi family to the passionate quilters and sewists who bring BERNINA and bernette machines to life, this is a celebration of innovation, creativity, and community.Each year at BERNINA University, that spirit shines brightest. And as the sun sets over the Salt Lake City skyline, those who gathered here return to their corners of the world—carrying with them new tools, fresh ideas, and renewed friendships that will continue to inspire until we meet again.  Our sincere thanks to all who gave us their time and shared their stories and to BERNINA for making this Episode possible.  If you know someone you think has an outstanding story – a story that should be shared on this podcast, please drop me a note to meg@sew&sewpodcast.com  or complete the form on our website. Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our guests.  Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

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• Kristine Frailing and The New York Sewing Center

  In this episode of Sew & So, we sit down with Kristine Frailing, founder of The New YorkSewing Center, a vibrant, hands-on sewing school with two locations in New York and virtual classes that reach students in all 50 states. A fashion designer, entrepreneur, and mom, Kristine brings her passion for sewing and empowering others into everything she creates.Kristine shares how her love for sewing began with her great aunt and blossomed into a fashion career that took her to top names like Ford Models, J. Mendel, Gurhan, and David Yurman. She later launched her own clothing line, K.BANASIK, which was sold in stores around the world.We explore how her move to New York City — a place she says "fuels" her — inspired her to open The New York Sewing Center in 2014. With a focus on creativity and confidence, the center teaches students of all ages everything from basic machine skills to upcycling, embroidery, and garment-making.Kristine talks about building a supportive, creative community both in-person and online, how she came up with the idea for affordable open-studio hours, and the powerful role the center played in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic — including a viral video that sparked a nationwide mask-making effort.She also reflects on her love of movement and making, what inspires her, her favorite creations, and her dream for the future.Whether you're a beginner or an aspiring designer, this episode is filled with inspiration, entrepreneurial insights, and a deep love for the art of sewing.Kristine can be reached at [email protected] Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

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• Tania McKnight Norris - The Story of A Magnificent Lady and Purple Wallpaper

  At times we have the opportunity to deviate a little from the tried-and-true conversations this podcast has become known for as opportunities occur for us to sit down with a very special person, perhaps not known as a sewist or quilter, but as someone who has made an indelible mark in the world of creativity. Our guest today is a woman whose life and work have helped shape some of the most iconic spaces and moments in American design history – and whose personal story is just as remarkable as her professional one.Tania McKnight Norris was born in Scotland and lived in London and Zimbabwe (then Southern Rhodesia) before relocating to Los Angeles in 1963. With a refined eye for detail, a love of elegance, and an independent spirit, she made her way to the United States and found herself working at the highest levels of interior design—at a time when few women were given a seat at the table.She joined the design team at Walt Disney Productions in the 1960s, becoming the only woman on the original five-person team responsible for creating the interiors of Disneyland’s New Orleans Square and the elegant Club 33—an exclusive private club hidden behind an unmarked door that has since become the stuff of legend. Tania designed the club’s original logo, handpicked furnishings, and helped shape its iconic look and feel, combining European sophistication with imaginative flair.Norris left Disney in the 70s, working as a project designer for the RMS Queen Mary before relocating to central California and opening an antique shop. She also anchored a weekly radio show about antiques and participated in antique shows throughout the United States while running her shop.Her interests include gardening, photography travel, cooking, needlepoint and botanical art – she is a member of the American Society of Botanical Artists.Today, Tania joins us to reflect on a life lived with imagination, strength, and purpose. From her early days as a curious girl in Scotland to becoming a design icon in her own right, she has so much to share—and we are honored to have her here to share it with us.(3:42) Tania shares stories of her youth…being born before WWII. She lived in a castle Culzean in Scotland which had a special floor that was given by the people of Scotland to President Eisenhower. Did you know that Scotland has palm trees along the coast. And that at the age of 8, Tania decided she wanted to decorate homes?! She even met Lady Churchill, Margo Fountain and the royal family. She arrived in America in November 1963, 2 weeks prior to the assassination of President Kennedy. She marveled at the resilience of this country. Then…there was THE call about the job at Disney. What follows is a rich recount of her early days at Disney.(13:30)Tania talks about Walt Disney and the gracious way he treated her. He “never said no” to her about her ideas. Learn what Disney would do if he didn’t like someone’s work…or wanted something more. And…how the ladies room got to be bigger than originally planned.(19:05) What’s Tania’s favorite attraction at Disney World! Find out here and why she chose this particular one. Learn about some of the behind-the-scenes things done at Disney World…things you probably never knew!(21:50) And now…the purple wallpaper. Tania tells of its creation.(24:46) Tania’s hands have been reproduced many times at Disney. Hear this story and how much she was paid. Any why Mitzie Chandler got paid more.(26:22) What’s it like for Tania to walk into a haunted mansion and see her work? What happened when she saw it on a maiden voyage of a Disney cruise ship?(27:33) Tania is a sewist. How did she learn to sew and what are her favorite things to make. How did WWII influence her sewing? And what’s she up to with Joe Vecchiarelli?(33:10) Tania has visited +130 countries. Her some of her wonderful tales of adventures. Let’s start with Antarctica. Then there’s Mongolia where she saw the eclipse, Siberia for a wedding and Albania to interview students with whom she travelled to Macedonia. Oh, and what about 1000 miles down the Amazon.(35:02) Where has she not traveled to…but wants to go to…? West Africa and several places in Europe. Have toothbrush will travel!(35:37) She talks about her endowment for botanical art at the Huntington in San Marino. She explains why botanical art is so meaningful to her. She tells of the Virginia Robinson Gardens. She also explains botanical art.(38:30) Who is someone she’s met in her life that really left an impression. Well…JoeVechiarelli…and Charles the King of England! Michael Jackson, Madonna.(40:12) What inspires her? Inquisitiveness! She tells of a dinner one night at the Getty Museum and…!(41:22) What’s next for her? Retirement…most likely not!(41:53) What didn’t I ask? Well, hear about her radio show The World of Books(43:14) How can you reach out to Tania? [email protected]. Be sure to follow, rate and review this podcast on your favorite platform. Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

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• Amy Barickman - Inspired by the Past, Creating for the Future:

  Our guest today is Amy Barickman. Born in Michigan, raised in Iowa - Amy graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Fine Arts, only wishing it was with an emphasis in textiles versus glass blowing.Always drawn to boutique fashion as well as upcycling and vintage, Vintage Made Modernhas been a theme of many of the books and patterns she produced over the more than 30 the years of product development with the brand she founded in 1990, Indygo Junction.  She is the author of the award-winning book; Vintage Notions: An Inspirational Guide to Needlework, Cooking, Sewing, Fashion and Fun. Most recently her passion for vintage and upcycling, led her to create Treasured Threadz with her manufacturing and distribution partner Colonial Patterns. Her latest project, a gift book Love You to Piecesis a combination of her passion for collecting quilts and sharing handmade treasures along with the history behind them .  She is coming full circle with her new project - a book based on her collection of quilts and stuffed bears and dolls- she’ll also be introducing a collection of doll and bear patterns to companion the book - hoping to add machine embroidery and other products that will inspire the sewing and quilting community. Additionally, she’s working with Colonial Patterns on a new line of embroidery products under ABC Amy Barickman Creative.  Amy currently spends most of the year in Kansas City, though she  enjoys her family home in NW Michigan as well. Her husband is a sixth-grade teacher, and they have two kids who both have graduated college and are working in Kansas City.(2:29) Amy’s mother taught her to sew and her grandmother also provided inspiration. She tells about her Girl Scout project…a wrapped skirt. Learn of her mom’s business and how that also influenced Amy.(4:30) What business did Amy start in High School? And…how did her mom influence this?(7:57) Supporting local businesses is so very important to Amy. She talks about why she feels this way and why it’s important. (9:44) Why the fascination with vintage? Mom and Grandma had a lot to do with this. Hear about the photo with the matching gingham outfits! (12:11) Amy talks about her brand-new line of embroidery products…she’s launching them soon!  (15:04) Amy is excited about the new makers in sewing. She explains why she feels this way and provides examples. (17:46) How did Amy come up with the name of her first company, Indygo Junction? (18:30) Why dies Amy consider herself a historian? Learn that here! (21:00) Mary Brooks Picken is Amy’s muse. Amy tells us Mary’s story and why she’s had such a powerful influence on her. (25:44) Hear about Mend and Make Do…the precursor to upcycling! (27:30) What inspired Amy? Well, would you be surprised if she said Vintage? (28:53) Amy shares the deep connection she has with the sewing community and how important all of this is to her.  (31;59) New book, landing page, launch party! Love You to Pieces is her new book! Amybarickman.com/loveyoutopieces (33:50) What’s next for Amy? And of course, what’s her dream?! (35:09) Anything we didn’t ask?  (35:42) How do you reach out to Amy? [email protected]. Also go to amybarickman.com for more info and to join her community. Be sure to follow, rate and review this podcast on your favorite platform. Be sure to subscribe to, review and rate this podcast on your favorite platform…and visit our website sewandsopodcast.com for more information about today’s and all of our Guests.

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