Sew & So...

• Pat & Walter Bravo – Art Gallery Fabrics. Partners in Every Aspect of Life

  Our guests today come to us from the world of fabric design as we welcome Pat & Walter Bravo from Art Gallery Fabrics- Textile Manufacturer in Miami, Florida. Both born in Buenos Aires Argentina, Pat got the sewing bug beside her mother as she sewed…as she dreamed of painting her world with fabrics.As Pat created a gallery in their home with quilts, their son named it an Art Gallery and an idea was born. So, Pat and her husband Walter turned this passion into a company and Art Gallery Fabrics was born. Pat’s life always revolved around art, history, sewing and later quilting – while Walter's was all about Entrepreneurship and Commerce regarding awards and accomplishments Pat and Walter have one son, two new puppies Sol & Luna –and many stories to share!(1:42) Pat’s mother taught her to sew starting at age 9. Hear the stories of her early journey and why she liked it so much from the start. (3:10) Pat always dreamt of “painting the world with fabric”. Hear what this truly means to her. She takes us through the wonderful progression of events that eventually led to the founding on Art Gallery Fabrics. (7:40)The Art Gallery Fabrics website features a video tour of the Art Gallery Fabrics office. Pat walks you through the features of this video and their office.(10:21) Walter tells how he and Pat met (they’ve been together now for 40 years!) and why they came to the US.(11:31) Walter initially worked in the carpet industry in Argentina, moving to the garment industry when he moved to the US. He shares the story of his work and the move to Miami.(13:10) Walter explains his extensive role at art Gallery Fabrics. When it comes to the operations…he does it all!(14:15) And…how does each of them feel about working with their spouse!? Mutual trust is the secret.(16:22) Pat and Walter speak fondly of their team and why they have become family.(19:28) Next, they talk about their different designers and how they choose the patterns that become their fabrics.(21:28) What is the look or stye that they work exemplifies? Pat explains how to tell if something is part of Art Gallery Fabrics.(25:14) Both Pat and Walter walk us through the process of dreaming up a design to taking the fabric to the public. Listen for the word “evocative” !(31:48) Do Pat and Walter get to see the creations made from their fabrics? Absolutely! Hear how much that means to them! And quality…? This is the most important aspect of their products…hear why!(33:12) Many of their designs are inspired by experiences and cultures. Pat talks about her favorite…the Indie Collection. (36:04) You’ve heard their dogs Sol and Luna in the background throughout our conversation. Let’s hear their story!(39:11) So, what’s next for them…and what’s their dream?(41:28) Is there any question that I didn’t ask? Well Pat says…I love my husband so very much” and Walter says he feels the same! Partners is every aspect of life.(42:30) What’s the best way to contact Pat and Walter? [email protected] , Instagram and Facebook too! 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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• The Sisters...Sue Nickels & Pat Holly. We've Always Played Well With Each Other

  In this special family-themed episode we're delighted to welcome sisters Sue Nickels and Pat Holly, renowned figures in the quilting community. Both have dedicated more than four decades to the art of quilting, earning numerous accolades and inspiring countless enthusiasts worldwide.​Pat Holly was born in Lafayette, Indiana, during her father's tenure as a flight instructor in the Korean War. Though the family relocated to Michigan when she was just six weeks old, Pat proudly embraces her Hoosier roots. She pursued biology at the University of Michigan and later worked as an electron microscope technician at the Ann Arbor VA Hospital. It was there she met her husband, a pathology resident. Following their marriage, Pat returned to the University of Michigan School of Art to study graphic design, weaving, and fabric design. Her fascination with textile creation and historical textiles from around the world continues to influence her quilting designs. Sue Nickels was born in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and spent most of her life in Ann Arbor. She attended Eastern Michigan University, majoring in Art. Sue married in 1976 and welcomed her first daughter in 1978. Inspired by her sister Pat's baby quilt gift, Sue embarked on her quilting journey by enrolling in a class at a local quilt shop, where only hand techniques were taught at the time. Over the years, she transitioned to machine quilting and has been teaching machine techniques for more than 30 years. Sue's dedication to quilting has earned her numerous awards, including the 1998 AQS Best of Show for "The Beatles Quilt," a collaboration with Pat.Beyond their collaborative projects, Sue and Pat have contributed significantly to the quilting community through teaching, writing, and sharing their expertise. Sue has authored several books and has developed her own rulers for machine quilting. Pat's work reflects her deep appreciation for historical textiles and her background in graphic design and weaving. (3:10) How did Pat and Sue learn to sew? Their mother of course! Hear the story of the genesis of their sewing/quilting careers. Were they good at sharing their only sewing machine? Hear about that right here! Oh, learn about the Troll doll cloths too!(6:00) What inspired each of them to transition from being sewists to quilters? Their grandmother and a special baby quilt!(9:14) Learn about the influences of Illinois Quilters Inc. and Jinny Beyer, Ruth McDowell, Harriet Hargrave and Gwen Marston.(11:27) Sue, learned to quilt from Harriet Hargrave’s book “Heirloom Machine Quilting” with the help of Pat who had taken a workshop form Harriet in the Chicago area. This was in 1987 and other quilters in your area had not discovered machine quilting. Was it hard to make the transition to machine quilting?(15:43) Both Pat and Sue talk about the influence of Gwen Marston and the Beaver Island Quilt Retreat.(18:40)In the late 80”s Pat moved to Muskegon, MI and began the PALS (Patchers at the Lakeshore) Quilt Guild. Here she talks about this move and the genesis of this endearing group of quilters.(20:09) The sisters talk about what it’s like to collaborate on their work…and what it’s like to win awards together.(23:42) What moment or event stands out for Pat and Sue? Well…there are many and then there’s the Beatles Quilt. And for Pat it was her miniature quilts.(26:53) Learn more about the Beatles Quilt of 1998 Best of Show. It’s beginning and how they created it.(30:56) Both Sue and Pat are BERNINA Ambassadors. They talk about how they became a part of the first class of Ambassadors and why the program means so very much to them.(34:35) Pat and Sue talk about their special exhibit “The Two of Us” featured at Quilt Week at Paducah 2025. Learn about what’s in the exhibit and how they’ll be implementing QR codes. Also to be features will be the Beatles Quilt and Pat’s miniatures.(38:37) Learn some never before shared secrets about this exhibit and Pat’s miniatures!(42:03) Any future sewists or quilters in their family?(44:51) What’s next for Pat and Sue and what are their dreams?!(45:54) What didn’t I ask. Sue talks about when she taught at Harriet Hargrave’s retreat, and when Gwen Marston asked Pat and Sue to take over Grew Marston’s retreats and called them The Holly Girl’s Retreats. Pat mentions that they are both amazed at what quilting has given them and the places it’s taken them.(48:23) Do you want to reach out to Pat or Sue. Sue is at www.sue-nickels.com, and Pat is at www.Pink-Elephants.net 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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• Beth Donaldson – The Quilt Index

  Our guest today is Beth Donaldson, quiltmaker, quilt book author, and Associate Director of the Quilt Index www.quiltindex.org an online repository of quilt information housed at MATRIX: Center for Digital Humanities & Social Sciences at Michigan State University (https://matrix.msu.edu/),East Lansing, Michigan. Born and raised in suburban Detroit, Beth made her first quilt in 1974. She taught quilting beginning in the 1980’s and has written two books on quilting, Block By Block, and Charm Quilts and co-authored two others, Quilts and Human Rights and Quilts and Health.She’s taught, lectured and run quilt retreats…and in 1997 got a job in the quilt collection at the MSU Museum where the Quilt Index was developed.Beth has since retired from the MSU Museum but still works on the Quilt Index which now contains 96,860 entries.Beth has two adult children, one grandson and she and her husband of 45 years make their home in Lansing, MI. Hello Beth and Welcome to Sew & So(2:05) Beth’s mom and sister both sewed…Beth learned from them and especially her7th grade Home Economics class. This first quilt had 5 later! After 5 years is collapsed under its own weight. Favorite quilt…1873 “We Wish You A Merry Christmas Mrs. Haft!” (2:56) 1974 as a high school junior, Beth and her friends created their first quilts.(5:15) Beth is deeply involved in the quilting community starting in 1984 with the Kansas City Quilt Guild. Elected VP…she served for a month until the President left, and she stepped up to run the guild. “When you volunteer, you make friends!”  (6:50) Beth talks about the special moments she holds from her teaching. Quilters may not say yes…but they sure know what they don’t like!(8:00) Beth explains machine quilting as-you-go.(9:43) Beth taught classes in her sister’s historic hotel in Petosky, MI. She explains how this came to be and why her classes became so popular so quickly. Learn why she hired, fired and then rehired herself as a teacher for these classes.(11:22) Beth explains how she came to work for the Michigan State University Quilt Index. It began with “Quilt Documentation” and the American Quilt Study Group. In 1984 Beth got involved with the Michigan statewide project…after documenting she volunteered to help choose which quilts would go into the quilt books. What happened after that? Listen here to find out!(16:10) How did Michigan State University become the location for keeping the Quilt Index?(17:28) How is all of this documentation coordinated? Learn about the MATRIX system at Michigan State. Also, learn how the documentation data differed from state to state and why…if you don’t ask the question, you won’t get the answer! Learn the enormous complexities involved in finding and coordinating quilt records. Do you have records you think might be of interest to Beth? Email her at [email protected]. Of find her contact information on the Quilt Index webpage.Have a quilt to submit – go to the Quilt In(24:10) Did you know that Rosa Parks and Susan B. Anthony were quilters? Learn about their work and that of Ruth Clement Bond who designed quilts in the 1930’s as they worked on the TVA in the 1930’s…known as The Lazy Man Quilts. Learn how the phrase Black Power was used for the first time. Also hear about the Sears Century of Progress Quilts. Marikay Waldvogel and Barbara Brackman’s book on this contest talks of the 25,000 entries. Do you know Bertha Stenge, the queen of quilting in the 1940’s? learn about her here too!(28:30) Want to learn how to use the index? Beth explains how…right here! www.quiltindex.org . Hear her tips and tricks for navigating the site.(35:40) Her favorite thing about the quilt index? It’s not curated…they want everything!(37:05) What’s next for Beth? Find out here?! (37:58) What’s next for The Quilt Project? So very much…learn about it all here!Questions about the Quilt Index? Reach out to Beth at [email protected]. On the Quilt Index site…fill out the contact form and that will go right to Beth as wellThank you for joining the fascinating episode about Beth and The Quilt Index. If you reach out to Beth, be sure to tell her you learned about The Quilt Index on Sew & So.  Subscribe & Listen: Don’t miss future episodes! Follow Sew & So Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.  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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  40:34
• Harvey Fierstein - Life Only Changes When You're Brave Enough to Say Yes

  Today we have a very special guest. From the stages of off-Broadway to the bright lights of Broadway, from his unmistakable voice to his performances in 30+ movies, Harvey Fierstein has spent a lifetime telling stories that matter. With four Tony Awards to his name—two for writing, two for acting—his work in Torch Song Trilogy, La Cage aux Folles, and Hairspray has redefined representation on stage. But beyond the accolades, there’s the man: a Brooklyn-born artist whose journey has been shaped by family, resilience, and an unyielding belief in telling the truth. Harvey also has a deep love for sewing and costume design. Before becoming famous Fierstein studied art at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York and worked as a costume designer in the off-off-Broadway world. He has spoken about his passion for sewing in interviews, reminiscing about how he used to design and create costumes for drag performers and theater productions which helped shape his deep understanding of theatrical presentation and character development. His early work in costume design was part of his immersion in the vibrant New York theater community of the 1970s, where he collaborated with experimental and LGBTQ+ artists.Even as his career in theater took off with Torch Song Trilogy and Hairspray, sewing remained a part of his life. He has mentioned that working with fabric and creating garments is a meditative and creative outlet for him. His appreciation for costume design also extends to his theatrical work, where he often acknowledges the impact of great costume designers in bringing characters to life.So today we go beyond the footlights to explore the moments that made him—his early days, the influence of his parents, why Ridgefield, Connecticut became his adopted hometown and, why sewing has been an anchoring thread in his life. (2:15) We welcome the inimitable Harvey Fierstein! He shares how he first picked up sewing—starting with an industrial machine in his father’s handkerchief factory—before setting his sights on becoming a Disney animator. But, things changed for him and as Harvey puts it, “Life only changes when you’re brave enough to say yes.”(5:27) A deep dive into Harvey’s quilting journey, from discovering HGTV and Alex Anderson to creating story-driven quilts today. His first quilt? Alex Anderson’s Strips that Sizzle!(9:25) Growing up in a conservative Jewish household, Harvey learned the power of storytelling from his family. Education, art, music, and Broadway were all part of his upbringing, shaping the creative force he became.(11:45) Family isn’t just who you’re born to—it’s also who you find. Harvey talks about his “found family” in the theatre, the people who call him “mama” and “papa,” and what it means to always be true to yourself.(13:32) Ever wonder what a Harvey Fierstein Stitch & Bitch session looks like? He spills all about his quilting experiments and creative process.(16:03) From bold colors to playful designs, Harvey shares his favorite fabrics and how he keeps things fresh alternating between challenging and just plain silly projects.(20:15) Picking a favorite quilt is like picking a favorite child—but Harvey gives it a shot!(23:20) The costumes that left a mark: Harvey reflects on the magic of theatrical costumes, the collaborative art of design, and why theatre itself is an act of faith.(27:07) Favorite roles—on stage, in film, and yes, even Death to Smoochy!(30:30) Writing his memoir I Was Better Last Night was a journey in itself. Harvey shares what inspired him to put his life on paper.(31:20) When did he finally feel accepted? And what really led him to move Torch Song Trilogy to Broadway? It’s not the story you think!(32:31) A mother always knows! The moment Harvey’s mom saw her own earrings on him during Torch Song Trilogy—and her priceless reaction.(34:00) What’s the secret to his success? According to Harvey, it’s all about taking that unexpected fork in the road.(38:38) The quilting class that changed everything: What Harvey learned from Kaffe Fassett, Brandon Mably and Liza Lucy.(39:10) Quilting vs. theatre—two creative worlds, two very different communities. Harvey compares the two.(40:54) The key to keeping every performance fresh? Harvey reveals how he does it.(43:06) Why Bridgefield, CT has been home for 40 years—and how Harvey’s house reflects is unique perspective on life and art.(46:00) “As much as it hurts, tell the truth.” Harvey explains how this philosophy, shaped by his father, has guided his life and career.(47:25) What’s next—what’s left on Harvey’s bucket list?(52:18) Want to connect with Harvey? Find him on Facebook and Instagram! Subscribe & Listen: Don’t miss future episodes! Follow Sew & So Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. 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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  53:52
• Inside BERNINA’s Annual Dealer retreat: A Gathering of Passion, Creativity and Community

  Just about 40 miles west of Chicago, nestled in a quiet office and industrial park, you'll find the headquarters of BERNINA of America. In one building, the heart and soul of the business hums—sales, marketing, operations, and so much more—where a dedicated team works passionately every day to bring BERNINA’s incredible sewing machines to dealers and customers across North America.But just a stone’s throw away, in a building filled with inspiration and creativity, lies something truly special—BERNINA’s Creative Center.On a chilly, grey January morning, we stepped inside and were immediately welcomed by the warmth of community. A small gathering of women from BERNINA dealers across the country had come together, as they do each year, to share stories, sewing tips, and business ideas—all while strengthening the bonds that make this community feel like family.In this special episode, we had the pleasure of sitting down with four groups of these remarkable women to learn more about their journeys, their businesses, and their dreams for the future. Their passion and camaraderie are truly what make BERNINA more than just a brand—it’s a family.So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join us as we take you inside the very essence and meaning of BERNINA’s Creative Center.We started off the morning with a duo eager to be the first to talk with us. Meet Alyssa McDonnel of Aurora Sewing Center, New York https://www.aurorasewingcenter.com/ and Jessica Whitley 0f Byrne’s Sewing Center, Pennsylvania. https://www.byrnesewing.com/ (2:18) So, what inspired these ladies to open their dealerships? As in many things BERNINA, it’s all in the family.(3:30) What gave them each the courage to step in and take over the businesses? Did they each sew?(4:03) How about some stories about their first days/months in business? Were tears a part of it all?(5:37) What were their biggest challenges and triumphs? Machines, staffing, anticipating the market and getting enough sleep! Pinterest helps a lot!(7:06) How has the industry changed during their tenure in business? Virtual business,(8:35) What aspects of being a BERNINA dealer mean the most to them? (10:55) What is it about BERNINA that makes customers so loyal? Quality, the standards, creativity. (11:55) And what are their hopes/dreams for the future? BERNINA began and remains a family-owned business. And so many families…generations of them…are now part of the BERNINA family. Meet mother and daughter Marilyn Gattinella from Close to Home in Connecticut https://www.closetohomestores.com/  and Denise Lopez from Nuttall’s’ in Salt Lake City, Utah https://www.nuttallbernina.com/ (13:47) What inspired each of them to open their dealerships? Hear their remarkable stories and how Denise married within the sewing community having met her husband at BERNINA University. (16:58) What special memories do they have from their days as a dealer? How about the days they had 67 990’s delivered and had to enlist their sons to help get them ready?!  (19:06) What are Marilyn and Denise’s takes on the evolution of the industry? Many things and especially to Marilyn…what’s old is new again! And of course, technology and social media! (21:37) Have they had to adjust in their businesses to keep up with things? Reaching out into the community to different community gathering places to meet people where they are. (22:58) And the joy and fulfillment of being a BERNINA dealer? Well, most of them watched Denise grow up…it’s truly family. (25:15) What are their hopes for the future? For Marilyn, for their sons and their children to continue and thrive. For Denise to see the whole family continue and thrive as well. Many next generations to come! Across different states and generations, the passion for sewing unites BERNINA dealers in unique ways. Jess Rediske Red-Roxy Quilt Company, Iowa https://www.redroxyquiltco.com/ and Jenny, The Sewing Palace, Montana, https://www.thesewingpalacebernina.com/ share their experiences—some strikingly similar, others uniquely their own. (28:35) Each of these women share their stories of how they decided to open their stores. (31:11) How about the memories of their early days. Working with mom would be at the top of the list! (32:44) And how have they seen the market change? From primitive feeling, to color, to reaching the younger generation through social media! (34:09) And how have they addressed these changes? Going out into the community! And using the tourism aspect of the Northeast corner of Iowa. (36:35) Why do each of them love being a BERNINA dealer? (38:20) What are their hopes for the future? (39:16) Is there anything we didn’t ask that they wish we had asked? They both agreed that this is an industry that’s made up of many powerful women who come together to help each other! In the spirit of collaboration and community, we handed the mic to Maggy Urso, BERNINA’s Marketing Manager for social media. With her lively energy and deep connection to the brand, Maggy guided a spirited conversation with sisters Tracy and Debbie of Linda Z’s Sewing Center https://www.lindazs.com/ (Linda’s Daughters) along with Dari, a cherished member of the Nuttall’s’ Dealer family. https://www.nuttallbernina.com/ (41:05) Maggy leads off with asking the sisters how they got into working with their mom Linda Z. (42:50) And did Tracy and Debbie want to really do this? Well…30 some years later it seems so. (43:39) And how did Dari get into the business? Born into it as well! And talked about it forever! (44:45) How about some memories from the early days? Debbie starts out by telling us about Grandpa Cooper. And hiding in the lingerie tents. Dari – early bird Saturdays, the yellow tickets, donuts, Easter Eggs…and inventory. (47:30) Biggest challenges and triumphs? Getting everyone to agree and keeping up with growth. (49:05) How has the industry changed? Drawers and drawers of patterns, push button sewing, embroidery cards, sergers, and a “crazy” amount of change. (51:00) What gives each of them the most fulfillment? Giving to the community and getting so very much in return! (52:15) What makes BERNINA unique and why are so many so passionate? It’s in the generations of families. (43:54) Hopes and dreams? Keep growing and within the family.  Even distance couldn’t keep us from hearing the heartwarming insights of Dori's mom, Rhonda Lopez Nuttall’s’ Sewing Centers, https://www.nuttallbernina.com/ who joined us remotely from Salt Lake City, proving that the BERNINA family knows no boundaries.(55:10) What inspired Rhonda to get into the sewing business? (58:10) How had the sewing industry changed during Rhonda’s tenure? The evolution of quilting was a big part of this. And it’s no longer an industry of need. (1:01:00) Proudest moment? Seeing her kids become a part of the family business. And then there was the day at BERNINA University when she received a standing ovation from her peers.(1:03:02) What’s her hope and vision? That people in her market continue to look to them for their needs well into the future. As our time at the BERNINA Creative Center came to a close, it was clear that what makes this space truly special isn’t just the machines or the materials—but the people. The passion, the dedication, and the unwavering support these women share for one another and for BERNINA are what transform a brand into a beloved family.We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who shared their stories with us—your insights, laughter, and wisdom made this experience unforgettable. And to our listeners, we hope you’ve felt the warmth, creativity, and inspiration that radiates from the BERNINA community. 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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