Do You Still READ Quilting Blogs?
I’m feeling a bit skeptical today!
I have a simple question for you today: are you still reading quilting blogs?
I have this sneaking suspicion that our behaviors online have changed. Let me give you an example:
Today I wanted to find a sugar cookie recipe that is keto friendly and uses Swerve as the sweetener. Can you imagine searching a Betty Crocker cookbook for that? Never! This type of diet-exclusive recipe is perfect for Pinterest searches though.
I opened Pinterest and scrolled through a mix of cookies and annoying ads and clicked on the prettiest photo. It looked like a winner so I clicked through to the blog post where the picture came from.
I scrolled, scrolled, scrolled to the bottom of the post because that’s where most recipe websites stick their recipes.
I checked the ingredient list. Yep, Swerve was the sugar and it was a fathead dough base that sounded good. (Note: The Keto diet will win you awards on weirdness. If you don’t think mozzarella cheese should go into a sugar cookie, this one isn’t for you! LOL!)
I clicked to print out the recipe, then closed out the website or blog. I honestly don’t know which one it was.
I didn’t take the time to read the post. I didn’t really care about the pretty photos. I definitely didn’t take the time to pick up the name of the website or the person that wrote the recipe. And I didn’t feel the need to subscribe to an email newsletter or follow.
I got what I wanted. Then I left.
I’m Not Reading. Are you?
Sooo…what’s the problem?
The problem is someone took a lot of time to write that post! There were at least 10 pretty, magazine quality photos of the cookies as well. And the recipe was made and obviously tested before posting.
All of that was a lot of work and effort made in the hopes of getting something in return: a newsletter subscription, a comment, a like, an interaction of some sort or at least 5 minutes of my time so my traffic actually ranked on Google.
But I didn’t even give them that. I felt entitled to a diet-specific, holiday themed recipe for free, found it, and left nothing in return.
If I’m doing it, you can bet millions of other busy moms and 20-30 year olds are acting the same way.
So I’m left wondering how is blogging sustainable?
Yes, I’ve shared free tutorials for years. I got on the quilting map in 2009 because I was one of the very first to share videos on free motion quilting. But that was 10 years ago and now it’s feeling quite crowded in this space.
Attention spans are shorter than ever. Most of my videos run 15 minutes long, and once a week I put up an hour long podcast. I just checked my YouTube stats for the last 28 days. The average length of time someone watches a video is 5 minutes 47 seconds.
I don’t need to tell you how much time goes into making a single quilting tutorial. A LOT!
But it would take a lot less time if I didn’t bother writing a clever post and shooting extra pretty photos, editing those photos, branding them, then uploading them to the site. My question is should I continue to bother with those steps?
Don’t get me wrong, I’m not asking to quit, I just want to make the most of my very limited time. So if you have a minute, before you click away and head off on another quilting adventure, answer just two questions for me in the comments below:
What are you still consuming? What do you regularly enjoy and spend time watching, listening or reading?
What would you want to see MORE of? We have millions of free patterns now. We have tons of free tutorials. What are you still looking for online?
Let’s go quilt,
Leah Day
I have about 6-10 blogs (quilting) that I read daily (or as often as they are updated). I read them for the ideas, but also the person behind them. Photos are good, and explanations are better. I only go to videos when I need to.
I don’t read food blogs. I do search for recipes. There’s the difference.
Thank you for sharing Ann Marie!
I’ve only just started quilting and free motion is what grabs me. Your tutorials and blogs are fantastic and I’m just working my way through the 1st lot from 2012. So don’t think they are no longer needed. Thanks for all you’ve done online to share an amazing craft.
You’re super welcome Mary! I’m so glad you’re working back through the first quilt along!
I still read blog posts and enjoy all the pictures. I appreciate all the input. But of course if the subject matter isn’t what I am interested in, I will pass on it. For example, if it is a quilting blog but the posts drifts off into travel, kids etc, then I don’t continue to read.
Good point Loretta. Typically if a post is a tutorial, I keep it straight to the point. If I’m blogging about something personal, it’s personal all the way through.
Yes I read blogs, I enjoy reading what other people are sharing about their thoughts and what they are doing. Instagram isn’t the same. I have a few regular sewing and quilting blogs, which cover sewing and life too. I know that it takes a lot of time to write and illustrate a blog post, and I so appreciate those people who do this regularly! (for instance, you!). For certain blogs, I can’t post a comment because they want linky stuff that I don’t have.
And yes, I do go back and read past blog posts.
Thank you for sharing Kathryn. I do appreciate your input and I’m glad to hear you found commenting here easy.
My number-one source of information is blogs! Instagram and Facebook are really just quick snaps that don’t provide any details, podcasts are difficult to follow without the pictures or videos, especially those where people talk over top of each other, videos often don’t provide the written instructions that many of us need and a blog compiles the best of all of those sources. Please don’t give up – there are thousands of us who still read (and write) blogs.
Thank you for sharing Terri. That’s a very good point!
Wow, Leah, what a lot of comments you’ve garnered! I DO read a lot of quilting blog posts, though if the post is not of interest to me, I will only skim it. Videos are hit or miss—if I have time, and am interested in the subject, I will watch. I rarely read cooking/baking blogs, though I often use on-line recipes.
Thank you for sharing Mrs. Plum! I’m kind of the same myself!
Hi Leah,
I am new to quilting and listen to your podcasts all of the time. I still have to start the eternal love goddess quilt, and plan to do so right after the holidays. I watch your videos about once a week, and you are an excellent teacher. I am not sure I have read much in blog space. I am enjoying your book, though as it reads very well! You are so inspiring and innovative and I am a fan.
Thank you Kristine! I’m so glad you’re going to make Eternal Love! Thank you for sharing and letting me know you’re enjoying the videos. I think there’s definitely a case for both.
I read the posts & watch the videos if they’re of interest to me. Often I will go back & search & read/watch something older that wasn’t of interest at the time.
Hi Leah, I read various craft posts; cooking, sewing, quilting etc. Although I have been cooking for 50+ years I do look for new recipes especially for quicker menu items as I like the newer trend of simplifying recipes for use in slow & pressure cookers. Regardless of the reason or type of post I visit I do read the post as I am interested in the how and why as well as in the what of the post. I also read the comments of others for further insights. If I download a recipe or a pattern I do write a short comment thanking the person who authored the post. I would say that comes back to old fashioned courtesy when we always wrote Thank You cards when we received a gift. If we want to receive we should also give.
I completely agree Deb-Ellen! Now that I’ve seen how frankly entitled my behavior has been, I’m going to make an effort to take more time and show more appreciation. I appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts!
Oh Leah Day, You are so inspiring! I watch a bit of everything you provide – with a promise to myself to go back later and really embrace your ideas. There is so much I want to learn, and only so much time. Thank you for all you do. I love your gentle demeanor and quality ideas and work. I’ll be watching as long as you are sharing!
Wonderful Dianna! I sincerely appreciate hearing this!
I read blogs all the time. I think I’ve been reading yours for years. I read quilting, cooking and knitting blogs and a few general interest. I don’t do instagram or much on facebook. My time is limited and I get the most out of reading the blogs I choose.
That’s wonderful to hear Connie. Thank you for sharing!
I’m also guilty of grabbing a recipe and running with it. Thanks for the reminder to stop and give thanks for the time and effort that others put into sharing.
I don’t usually read blogs unless I’m searching for something I’m interested in and it just pulls up in my search. However I just joined your 2019 quilt along and I’m looking forward to following your blog in the process. I’ve listened to a few of your pod casts the last few day as well.
I learned to FMQ through your videos on youtube a couple of years ago. I’m so thankful to you for sharing your talent with all of us!
I feel the same Catherine. I’ve resolved to change that behavior and show more appreciation. I’m so happy to hear you’re joining the Friendship Sampler Quilt along! That’s wonderful!
YES! I still read blogs and also usually watch videos that are of interest to me to completion! Yours is one of the best and your videos are top notch. Thank you for all you do!
Thank you so much Bev!
I still read and enjoy blogs. I do not consume FB. I am on Instagram. Watching an hour long podcast or video wont happen for me. I do watch videos to see techniques I am interested in.
As this is a business venture for you, you should do whatever makes the most sense and will work best for your business model. Your following will adjust to your new model.
Very good point Mary! Thank you for sharing!
I still read blog posts, and enjoy yours very much! I like to see patterns, but don’t watch many videos because my data plan isn’t sufficient to support that.
That’s very good to know Angela. I find I have little patience for video if I don’t have enough wifi to support it, but I’ll happily read so long as the website doesn’t have annoying ads or so many photos it won’t load on my phone.
I still read blog posts almost every day, but I rarely comment (I don’t have a Blogger or Google+ account and that makes posting a comment very difficult on most sites). I love seeing what people create and are willing to share with the world. I don’t mind technique videos — they can be very helpful sometimes — but it irritates me to have to sit through fifteen or twenty minutes to get information I could read in two. Conversely, I love the meandering “I’m just quilting and I’d love you to join in” videos like yours and Bonnie Hunter’s — but I’ll be sewing myself during that time, not just watching.
Thank you for sharing Alison! Yes, that’s exactly why I make the podcast so you have something to listen to while you sew. I love listening myself and I like hearing more about the background of a particular person, not just the fluffy stuff on the top or just the tutorial. When I want to learn, I want to learn, when I want to relax, I want to relax! LOL! Thank you for sharing!
I still read blogs but probably not as many as I used to, I enjoy the more “in depth” experience you can get with a blog. I think Facebook and Instagram are more about quick interactions, not always very satisfying. I think follow Vloggers on You Tube more than I keep up with Facebook.
Thank you for sharing Robyn! Yes, I made the decision to step away from Facebook this year and have been very happy about that!
Had never thought about the other side before! The information I receive from you has been invaluable. Shame on me for not thanking you! This world of computers is new to so many of us and we have no clue as to how to reciprocate. I will try to always leave a comment, ask a question or let you know I was there! Thank you again and always! for instance, what do I put in the “website” spot below??
Thank you Suzanne! Yes, a comment is just like a student raising a hand to ask a question or giving a handshake at the end of class. I helps me feel like I’m not sharing to an empty classroom. As for the website field, you should be able to leave that blank. It’s an optional entry (doesn’t have a star by it) so you don’t have to put anything there if you don’t want to.
Hi! I teally enjoy your blog and tutorials. They are well written and entertaining as well as very effective at demonstrating and teaching techniques that I want to learn. Even though I have Facebook and Instagram, I seldom follow those links when I want to check out a pattern I like. I much prefer the flow of information in a blog. It feels friendlier. Your site is fabulous!
Thank you so much Marlene! I’m the same – I go to Instagram for pretty pictures and to zone out on eye candy. I rarely click through, even when I really like what I see!
Yes sometimes it is the quick get in and get out after a search but it is also a community where the quilting world is. I too do a quick search for food type recipes and skip to the recipe. My reason is because all those pretty pictures are saturated with affiliate ads that make the whole blog post hop and skip and load and it is a whole lot of messing around. In quilting there are a few places I go that have that affilate delay and load problems so of course I don’t dwell on those long. Others I enjoy reading and seeing their stories. The personal connection to quilting and sharing of their lives is what I stay and read for. Stop the ad pop ups, the long loads the ad in the middle of the story they are trying to tell and you might see a different story. I do think we have a popultion heading towards short attention spans but eye candy but in the end I don’t think you can replace the human connection with instant anything for long.
Thank you for sharing Kris! Yes, I hate the pop ups and ads too. I’m going to keep that off the site so it’s not annoying!
I read it all! I still enjoy reading blogs, and do read the whole post, particularly quilting or mixed media blogs. But I do the same as you with the recipes- just go right to the ingredient and steps list. I guess the key is length- finding the right amount of text and photos to keep readers focused. Somehow, while I like Instagram, the brevity of the snippet leaves me wanting more. I can see why it’s used- a quick photo is a time saver- but it’s just not the same. Faster, faster, faster seems to be what most people seek. So I’m unsure of blogging’s longterm future, but I do prefer them for now.
Thank you for sharing Nancy. I’d rather be more engaging with an audience that really cares about what’s going on, than just looking for eye candy so I think I’ll continue writing and sharing photos. I may slow the podcast down or change up some other posts so I can have more time for writing during the day.
And clearly, Leah, lots of people read this blog post! So many interesting responses. I keep a blog partly because I enjoy writing, too, like you. And look- you replied to all of these comments. So yes, keep writing your blog I’m thinking.
Short answer: No, I don’t typically read all of the blogs I follow. I use Bloglovin to aggregate the blogs I follow, and I will check out the topic, and “mark as read” most days. I think of blogs like yours as references. I keep an eye on the topics you cover, and Expect to return and read the blog in more depth at the point where I am embarking on a related project.
I’m an old retired lady, and even I don’t have time to read all of the bloggers I admire on a daily basis. No one has that much time.
Very true Nikki! I appreciate you sharing this!
I do read blogs. I blog. I choose blogs that have meat and personality in them. I have learned much from yours over the years. I have made great friends from blogs. The quilting community is enhanced when people share and explain.
Thank you Linda!
hi Leah, it’s true, alot of time that i could be reading blogs, i’d rather spend quilting or piecing or actually making something myself. however, there are certain exceptions, and for me, your blog, email or whatever you want to call it, is one of them. i look forward to seeing another post from you and am disappointed when there isn’t one. on days when ii don’t have time to watch the entire episode, i can download it to my computer to watch later on and i really do both watch and appreciate what you’ve shared. both the quilting content and the general what’s happening in my life part as well. thank you,
shoshana
,i tried to answer in the comments but my computer wouldn’t do it so i’ve copied my post to here. i’m trying to post this again here on the blog and i will add that your blog would really be missing for me if you stopped writing it.
Shoshana, this is Josh. Your comment came through just fine this time! Thanks so much for your input and for posting again.
Thank you so much for sharing Shoshana! I really appreciate it. No, like I said, I’m not planning to quit. I just wanted to see and hear lots of perspectives and I certainly got it this weekend!
I am older than your demographic but I do read blogs. I like ones with photos of projects and some step by step explanations. I like to get free patterns and I will sign up for newsletters to get them. The holidays are so busy and that may be why posts get less viewing time.
Thank you for sharing Janice. Do you like videos and podcast, or mostly blog posts?
Oh, my. I just retired and moved long distance so my recent reading has been focused on what I see from Bloglovin. But Leah, you are the one who inspired me to keep learning and trying more FMQinstead of only stitch in the ditch. Like many other comments above, I do FB only to see grandkids doings and Pinterest if I need an inspiration for landscaping. But you are my go-to woman for trying ruler quilting with my domestic (and I am a believer!). Thank you for all your efforts and don’t stop! You inspire me and I have learned much from you. And now I’ve learned you do appreciate the comments so watch for more feedback. Have a wonderful holiday!
That’s wonderful Janie! I’m so happy to hear that. Thank you for your feedback, it is very much appreciated!
I’ll be honest that I don’t consume much of what you put out there anymore. You were my guru when I was new at wuikting, but now I consider myself advanced (though certainly not at your level) . I think I’d like your podcast, but don’t have a time in my day where I’d be able to listen.
I follow you on Facebook and click through if something interests me. I buy any patterns that look neat to me, but it’s been less recently than I used too.
If you ever had some sort of “design your own goddess”, I’d be all over that. Though I’d buy the next goddess you release too.
I think it’s hard to balance helpful to beginners and retain long time readers.
I’m more apt to read a building blog than a cooking one.
And I’d think ten minutes max on YouTube, which makes it tough to get all the info in.
I know this is your job, but I think a content creator has to put out what they enjoy, and the views will follow.
Hi Jessi – Thank you so much for your honesty. Yes, you’re right I’m very good at helping quilters go from beginner to intermediate or advanced. I haven’t put nearly as much attention into serving those intermediate to advanced quilters though. The hard part is that is a smaller pool of people and generally I’ve found them harder to please because most can reverse engineer patterns or make up their own design. So…it’s hard to justify my time, but I have been craving a deeper dive into the more advanced sides of quilting. I will see how I can pursue this in the coming year.
Unfollow many blogs on Bloglovin. I sort them by a few things – folks who are in one of my groups; quilt magazines and companies, island batik ambassadors, and quilting in general. I read the group ones first, island batik, quilting them company. I try to only do it at certain times in the day.
I use Instagram and Facebook too but find Facebook is getting too crowded for me to see any of the content I want. You don’t get details in either of those platforms.
So it is hard to know but my sight has grown over the year or two I have been working harder at it.
Thank you for sharing Kathleen! Yes, the more work you put into anything, the better it will get. The trick is knowing where to put your focus at any given time.
Leah, I’ve followed your blog & watched your videos for years, especially when I was learning to free-motion quilt. Now I tend to keep up with specific blogs via Bloglovin. It keeps me from getting side-tracked & I tend to follow the more advanced free motion tutorials. Growth is good, but I feel there are lots of us out there who still follow specific bloggers. Keep up the good work & give us more intermediate/advanced teaching when you can.
Thank you Sandy! Yes, Jessi had the same suggestion. I’ll see what I can do!
You are different… lets call you the Brittanica Encylopedia set that we all used and wanted as kids, just you are the free motion quilt project version! We can always go here for details, direction, ideas and just to be awe inspired, it is like a whole quilting encylopedia.
Aw! Thank you Lisa! That is so sweet!
Wait, what are we commenting?
Just kidding. ? I DO read quilting blogs – sometime I skim through them, if they do on and on about something, but for the most part, I DO read them. If I am looking for a recipe, though, I do the same thing you did, scroll through the pictures quickly and get to the recipe. With videos, I want to get to the point, I don’t need the extra frou frou.
Good to know Linda! I appreciate your input!
Hi Leah! This is a great question and very timely, as I agree things are definitely changing overall. For me, listening trumps reading every day of the week. I can listen while I am crafting or doing things around the house, which means I can learn while I work! Reading requires me to sit down and focus all my attention, which is not a bad thing, just that if I’m going to do that it will more likely be a book with a story I can get lost in :-). That is not to say blogs about a process for making a project would not interest me, because those do tend to have more interesting pictures of steps and explanations of things I want to learn. But you are certainly right about the recipe blog posts; I go, I scroll to the bottom as you did, I grab the recipe, and I leave. Perhaps the diehard foodies are attracted to all the different views of the same plate of cookies, so no judgement there, but I find them distracting because I’m usually looking for a grocery list LOL but if it’s a blog post about something I’m really interested in, like quilting, then all the extra pictures are fun to look at. This has made me think as well because I also maintain a blog style website, along with making videos.
Thank you so much for sharing Ann! I’m the same – I can listen all day while designing, sewing to the next step, etc. I have found generally that people will watch a video if they have the right internet speed, but prefer to read if the load will take forever. I’ve found that in my own behavior as well and am just sitting still and thinking about all of this. I think keeping a journal of the time used each day and what that leads to will be very helpful.
Leah,
I go on line for interaction with fellow quilters. I have no quilters in my area and it is nice to interact with others on line. Also, I am constantly learning new things all of the time, I don’t think that there is a day that goes by that I haven’t learned something if even if it is small. Some days are rough for me and my days are uplifted just from such positivity from others. Thank You Fellow Quilters for all you do!
Thank you for sharing Livia!
I love your blogs. I am grateful they are available to go back to as my APQS Millie will be delivered very soon! I’ve set up a viewing station so I can watch and practice! So excited!
That’s great Anita! I’m sure you’ll be finishing quilts much faster than before!
You have been linked on my blog since …well, I can’t even remember when. I still read them, especially quilting ones.
I also subscribe to Bluprint so I can watch you without commercial interruptions.
Thanks for all you do!
Thank you very much Beth! I appreciate hearing this!
I find recipes blogs different from quilting blogs. Sometimes the recipe blog has too much “story” that I don’t always have time to read. I too look for the recipe itself. If I don’t know how to prepare something then the picture and explanations help.
When I look at quilt blogs I usually read all. I consider myself an experienced newbie and need the information written. I learned to quilt 30 years ago aand then stopped.
Life got too busy with work, family etc. Now that I’m back into it I find there are a lot of easier ways to cut and sew.
As for videos I save them to view in their entirety when I have more time. Retirement next year. Some people though “chat” more than “teach” so I fast forward. I want to learn.
Thank you for sharing Wilma.
I read blogs when I have the time…but probably not every post that’s put out.
Thank you Tonya!
I am another reader and writer of blogs. Like others have expressed, I appreciate the how to blogs. I’ve been making quilts for 30 years and still find some new to try almost every week. I also appreciate the personality and connection which comes through on well written blogs, like yours. Pinterest may provide great photo references, but I often struggle when it comes to learning more about the photo.
Very good to know Gwyned! I appreciate your insight and I’m glad to know you’re still writing and reading!
TIME is always a factor in my daily life these days! You would think being retired would give me tons of time to quilt and sew, but somehow it hasn’t worked out that way. But I run your YouTube videos as I cut and sew quilts to keep learning. And often when I sit in the evenings I will use the laptop to read your blog and catch up on emails. So as technology allows me to multi-task, I can keep growing as a quilter and enjoy all the wonderful tutorials you share. Please keep them coming.
Well Leah, based on the number and contents of the responses to your questions, lots of quilters are reading your blog. I’ve been reading and wondering what factors influence how we approach getting information. Does life stage impact on the amount of time we portion to reading blogs? If I am working 12 hr. shifts, and have youngsters, how do I get time to follow any blogs? Am I strictly visual in my search, or do I respond more wholeheartedly when there is an oral presentation as well?
There are more questions running through my head, but I know you get the picture. I am retired, and have the time to follow some quilting or other blogs.I get to know something about the blogger, and it is a relationship of sorts, sometimes feeling a kinship to the writer. I also love to read cookbooks, and other printed materials, but that has always been my bent. I do not follow instagram, twitter, or pinterest , although there are times when my facebook newsfeed sends pinterest pages along. I wish you peace, joy, and love this holiday season, and good fortune in 2019.
I do not normally comment on the blogs I read but feel the need to do so now. I do enjoy reading your blog since it is about something I am interested in.
I love keeping up with what you are doing. I may not read the whole post, but I love watching your videos and have learned so much from you. For that I thank you so much. Please keep teaching us. I will try to read more in the future. I never thought about the work that goes into blogs. Thank you for that education too.
You are amazing.
I’m becoming more selective with what I read online as it can easily take up too much time. I read your blog and appreciate the time and effort you put into it. I’m still learning the ins and outs of free motion quilting on a domestic machine so your videos are very helpful. I find blogs that are full of ads too distracting so I don’t read them, the same with Facebook.
I still read the blogs that I subscribe to and find new ones,but they swallow my time. Blogging has morphed into a commercial venture instead of just people sharing skills and ideas. I really need to leave more feedback and clicks when reading.
I enjoy reading blogs. I often get kicked off sites by my internet service then it reboots so to speak. It’s frustrating and eventually I’ll give up. But I don’t want to pay more for my internet than I do already!
I do love knowing a bit of a story behind the post. It helps me feel connected. To be honest though, I rarely comment because I didn’t realize I should do it and that it helps the blogger track readership etc. Also, I imagine its time consuming for bloggers to read comments. Is that how they want to use valuable time?
I read a few blogs on topics which interest me, new te hniques or patterns. Do not like Facebook! I follow FB but too many folks posts uninteresting things……. so blogs are best for me because usually it is topic related and I can scroll to new info. I appreciate as a writer teacher you must start from step one to completion but many experience sewers may skip sections they know and move to new, for them, so they can learn new material. I love your style and approach to teaching. As a sewing and quilting instructor myself, I refer people to your site to learn more. Thank you for how you have helped me as a quilter. Keep it up!
Thank you very much Marjorie! I really appreciate you sharing the blog with your students!
When I am looking for free motion quilting ideas I check around for inspiration- usually your site as the videos are so well done. I do appreciate the time it takes to put them together.
Thank you Lorraine!
I am a new FMQ. I learn visually so while I may read some blogs, I’m more likely to watch a video. The videos that I find most helpful are the ones that are “short & sweet” and have their “sales pitch” at the end of the video or as a link which can be found in blog text. Videos that start with a long drawn out sales pitch or start off with a bunch of basic info (unless the main focus of the video is simply basic stuff) don’t appeal to me. I found one of your videos on Bluprint and it got right to the “meat” of the subject. I enjoyed it so well I bought one of your books although I may have gotten the book through Amazon rather than directly from your site.
That’s just fine Sue! Thank you for helping to support my business and teaching. I will keep that in mind about getting to the “meat” more quickly.
I appreciate that you and other quilters offer blogs,videos. I am still learning (self taught with help from quilters like you), without the videos and previous tv shows I never would started. I love it when you give tips as your quilting and show how to do things in your videos. I am more visual for actual quilting. I don’t quilt all the time and find that I look up your beginner videos frequently for answers, ideals&how to. I have listened to your podcast but most of the times it’s the instruction videos I watch. Your quilts are beautiful. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and talent. At the end of the day, I think you should do the ones that you enjoy most. Happy Holidays
Thank you very much Pam!
I love reading about quilting and i love you tube videos.
I spend to much time looking at everyones ideas and tutorials. I love them……
I know what you mean Rita! At what point do we have to get off the computer and go quilt?
For me it depends on the project I am working on. If I am in the planning stage then I browse lots of blogs mainly for the pictures and I watch short videos. Once I have a project underway I sometimes need more information – and then I usually turn to Bluprint ( I have watched your Quilting a Sampler class so many times) or a more detailed video tutorial. I am a fairly new quilter so I need a lot of guidance. Thank you for taking the time to share your expertise with us – it is much appreciated.
Thank you very much for sharing Julia. I’m so glad you’re enjoying that class!
I just started reading blogs and love them. I do not and will not use facebook.
I completely agree Mary!
I enjoy reading blogs and seeing the photos that the bloggers publish with their posts. The main thing I like getting it out blogs is the sharing of ideas. I have been inspired over and over by the wonderful creations I have read and seen on blogs. You are a creative person, and I certainly appreciate what you share with us on your blog and via email.
Thank you Carol!
Yes I do read your blog. It has been very helpful to me. I have learned to do many things by turning to you. I may not read it the day you put it up but I enjoy learning from you. Thanks for the time you put into helping the quilting world. I am also a fellow NC person so that makes it extra special.
PS. I learned how to do my spider webs from you.
That’s great Carol! I hope you enjoyed the snow we got last week!
I love your work. And I enjoy all your posts. Thank you for all you do. I know your time is limited. Do what you are comfortable doing and what you really enjoy doing!
I really enjoy writing Sara. I’m looking at ways to open up the time from 2-4 pm every day to just writing. Right now that time is spent wearing lots of other hats!
Bonjour, je suis francaise et malgré la barrière de la langue j’apprécie beaucoup ce que vous publiez ainsi que les vidéos qui sont indispensables pour le piqué libre, vous voir travailler est merveilleux et très inspirant, cela me donne des idées et le courage de tenter Merci pour tout
Merci beaucoup d’avoir pris le temps de partager cela avec moi!
Merci d’avoir pris le temps de partager cela avec moi!
I had to scroll through 289 replies to make my reply, so you obviously still have a lot of followers who actually read your posts to the end. I do try to comment to the posts I read but sometimes I am just too busy. For me, once a week or even once a month with quality content on any site would be good for me. I do know how much time it takes to do all those blogs and YouTube posts. Of course, I realize that fewer posts would not bring as much revenue, so I don’t know how to answer on that. I do think the quilting market is getting flooded and people love it all but can’t do it all because of time restraints. I have enjoyed watching your videos since you began. I have taken some of your classes and enjoyed them but I also haven’t finished some of them. A lot of quilters are trying to finish all the things they have started and I am included in that number. I know you will figure out what is best for you. I always wish you the best.
Thank you for sharing Pamela and I appreciate your thoughts. Yes, it’s starting to feel very saturated to me too.
I’m not usually looking for a specific quilt idea or technique but read the blog for inspiration or just general interest. And I usually do read all the way through.
Thank you for sharing Marion. So you already have plenty of quilts you’d like to make and just need more time to finish them all?
Thanks for the reminder. I really didn’t think about how much time and effort goes into creating the blogs that are so helpful to me as a new quilter. I will pay more attention in the future.
I’m not meaning to wag a finger, but simply checking in on my expectations, Mary. I can’t change or control anything except what I am doing and I do feel like I need to shake things up after nearly 10 years in business.
Hi Leah,
I don’t usually read the blog unless it is something I’m specifically lookin for. I have watched your videos and return to certain ones when I need help. I refer others to your videos. But now that I have much more knowledge under my belt (much thanks to you) I watch less and quilt more. Even with craftsy classes, I increase the speed to listen faster! ?
Thank you for sharing Debbie – that’s exactly how it should be!
I prefer to read blogs on quilting and cooking! My passion is quilting and I absolutely love your free motion tutorials! They have helped me so much! I’m grateful to you for taking the time to do these! Thank you very much!
Thank you Claudine!
I do still read quilting blogs, but am guilty of fining and dashing so to speak for some ideas or recipes even. I guess it just depends on how busy I am at that time. I do save notes to myself to remind me to go back and view things that really draw my attn., but I am guilty of not reading the blogs lately. I appreciate all the hard work put into them but at times life gets in the way too.
Please don’t be sorry! This is how things are changing these days and it’s good to hear your perspective.
I look for instructional videos and blogs. Many times something is billed as free instruction, but one has to wade through cutesie family photos and pet photos and lots of personal writing before reaching the instructions. Nice as ones family is, I don’t care about all the personal info. I just want the tutorial.
Many videos are put out by people who giggle their way through or cannot give good, clear directions. Those are not worth watching to the end. Your videos are always very well done, and I never fail to pick up tips from them.
I have sewn for over 50 years, but I always watch whatever I can to the end if the person is watchable, because one can usually glean even a little something new from a post or video.
Thanks for all you do.
Thank you very much Ann! I appreciate knowing that you enjoy my videos!
I actually prefer to read and look at tutorials with photos. I only watch videos as a last resort.
I’m more of a scanner, I scroll down a blog and if a photo or two interests me, or the topic, then I go back and read. If it’s appliqué I move on. If it’s a long arm skill, I read. If it’s a lot if blather about construction of a simple star, I move on… it’s interest/need to know that drives my attention.
If there are so many pop ups that I can’t finush a sentence, I move on and never go back. I get that I have to “x” out the ad so the writer gets paid, but one very proliyabd adored Quilted has so many pop ups you cannot read a full paragraph of four sentences without several popping up over the words. Who had time for that? Not me! And I’m retired! All the time in the world but not giving it away…
Prolific and adored quilter… why does spell check “fix” quilter to Quilted and then also ignore “prolific”????
Excuse the mistakes… no coffee in the system yet!
I do read or at least scan your blog. Since my interests are varied I am currently subscribed to several. But sometimes want to say “cut to the chase! ” The internet is a Rabbit hole and time sucker so something has to give.
I am amazed at how long some posts are and wonder do youo get paid by the word
It depends on day and time available. I read all that is relevant to me esp anything on quilting. I have a long arm with not stitch regulator so I’m always a sponge. No on cooking I search on line. I keep thinking I will slowly purge all my at home books but can’t do it. I really appreciate the time and work you put into the info you share
Leah, your blog was the first I found when I started quilting and you will forever be the first person I think of when someone asks for help with a quilting problem. I always tell them to check out your blog and videos. I haven’t had as much time to read as many blogs as I used to because we sold our home and moved this last year and life is certainly different now but I’ve made my first New Year’s resolution to take at least an hour every day to read my favorite blogs and watch videos. Thank you for being the shining light you are to all quilters
I enjoy watching the videos and refer back to them just about every time I start to quilt a project. You do a great job with them! I am pretty busy and seldom get a chance to just sit and read though
I prefer a blog. Instagram drives me nuts and FB doesn’t guarantee you are going to see things unless you go directly to the page. I prefer to spend my time looking at personal friends’ things on FB. Thank you for the time and effort you put into your blog.
I will admit, I don’t usually read your blog. I read your e-mails and watch all your videos, that i love by the way. I will try and make an effort to start reading more blogs, but again, i usually watch videos. I quilt whenever I can. Thank you and keep it up, you are great!
I know my response is long, but since you asked…
I follow quite a few blogs and reminders are what get me to their pages, like a Facebook post or an email with a brief description and a picture. I don’t mind blogs that are selling or promoting a product, I have often purchased items from a blog’s link after seeing how the writer made use of a product. However, I’m not interested in Blogs that are clearly “commercials” pushing one product after the next.
Quilters aren’t all looking for the same things. My reason for reading a blog or article is usually to learn a new tip, technique, or skill, or read up on a new type of product. I’ve been quilting for about 30 years, so I no longer need to read up on the basics. I would rather sew than read, so I’m not just looking for pretty quilts, I want the how-to’s. And to be perfectly honest, I scroll past the personal information. I know some love the get-to-know-you portions, but like I said, I’d rather quilt than read. As far as Youtube videos go, I will fast forward through repetitive parts or click to the next one if the video isn’t something that I will use. As far as commenting, I don’t usually comment unless I have a question or something to actually contribute to the conversation. And I definitely don’t comment if I am required to link to my Facebook page., Google account, etc.
I have been following your blog for quite some time and have gotten quite a few fellow quilt guild members to follow you too. You seem like a lovely person and are definitely an amazing quilter and instructor. Judging by the number of comments, I see that you have a loyal following, who want to see you succeed. I see no reason why you couldn’t explain to us what things followers do that help you financially. I’m sure most readers are like me and have no idea, but would do them if we knew. Do comments help? Watching a video all the way through? Getting you more followers? Clicking on links? I honestly don’t know.
I have reaped the benefits from your blog and would like to help. Just point us in the right direction.
Hello Leah,
I do read your blogs and watch your videos. I learn a lot from you. I have followed you for years and sill continue do so. Thank you for your dedication and hard work and time you put into all of this for all of us to learn.
I have learned a lot from the videos and your blog. You gave me the courage to say I can do that and then follow through. I always read your blogs, the videos if they are something I am going to use. Please don’t stop sharing.
I started getting your weekly newsletter sometime this fall so I always read all of that – and usually click through to blog posts like this, I like the condensed format of the newsletter. I like videos and will watch all or part of them if it’s particularly interesting to me right now. I frequently search your videos when I want to learn new things. I rarely listen to podcasts, I just don’t have the time to listen – I listen to music while I sew. I love all the photos you put in your posts too – and love the fact that that you do lots of writing with your photos. I also like the products you link to – trying to decide right now if I need some pinmoors for Christmas!
I’m an active follower…I read your blog and watch your videos!!! I love both!! Thank you for being a great source of quilting information!!!
Hi Leah, I really enjoy your videos, they teach me things. You are right, there are a trillion videos out there and blogs. A lot of them are just there to hawk their wares. They create a free pattern just to sell there their new gadget and that really puts me off. My time is precious too. I’m not interested in the newest gadget because I don’t have a bottomless wallet!
So I find myself subscribing if I’m learning new things, whether it’s a blog or utube channel. But I will just as easily unsubscribe if they vier of topic too much or start advertising their new gadget constantly.
There is one site I subscribed to that had a history of some beautiful fmq but lately it’s all about family activities and children have been posting. I stopped following that one. I’m not learning anything and I’m sorry but I’m not really interested in your family pictures and activities which are constant.
With that said, I love your blog and videos. You have a good mix and I don’t feel bombarded by your sales or what Josh did at school every day! It’s fun to hear about your cookie making adventure! AND you are a fabulous teacher!
Have a very merry Christmas!!
I look for help with free motion quilting (still very much a newbie!) and general quilting info to help me improve. I use Pinterest when I have a specific idea and I want to see if anyone else has something similar. My future daughter-in-law just graduated from nursing school and I wanted to make her a nurse-themed quilt.. Through Pinterest I found quiltwoman.com and was able to purchase exactly what I had in mind.
I enjoy reading blogs. I don’t do Instagram and am not a huge Facebook fan. With blogs I feel that you can get to know the author. Pinterest is great and I save a lot of pictures for inspiration. But Pinterest doesn’t replace blogs in my opinion. I occasionally watch YouTube videos but for many things I would prefer to read directions, rather than watch.
Leah, I will continue to read the blogs. I particularly like the step by step with photos. The long videos, not so much. It’s sometimes difficult to see up close on the videos and I can print out the step by step instructions and have by my machine as I’m learning or doing a project. I really like it if there is a pdf that can be printed out. I don’t like it when I have to print out lots of pages with ads etc. to get the instructions. I really appreciate that yours are free. Many seniors can’t afford to pay for expensive classes etc. Keep up the good work.
Hi Leah and all readers 😉
I learned a lot from your blog and video. Not that I can the same as you do, but still, I try. And from time to time I look back to your videos.
So, I really like your blog and videos and hope you will go on.
Warm greetings from The Netherlands and blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
I agree with many above, the cooking blogs are often too wordy and full of pictures. I already know how to cook, just looking for the recipe. But I am not trying to become a master chef. With quilting and knitting, I am trying to become better and learn new, more difficult techniques. So yes, I do read them. Thank you for your wonderful help in this process.
I only watch a few videos, but love to read blogs I can learn a lots form the information there. I am not fond of the ads, but realize why they are there. Thank you for your blog.
Still read blogs. They are informative and entertaining. When searching for a specific topic I Google and am always pleased to find yet another kind blogger willing to share her time, experience, knowledge. Hope bloggers keep on going!!!
Yes, i do still read quilt blogs, i always find more to learn.
I don’t know what Bloglovin is. Reading through your blog and the comments is the first time I ever heard of it. I like your posts, I love your FMQ techniques and ideas. Wish you would show some FMQ on a sit down LA, such as the BabyLock Tiara.
Thanks for giving me something to think about on blogging. Most of the time I just happen across something I didn’t know I needed–today it was on the Pinmoors–I have some–rarely use them–your tip on bending the pins was great!!!
Love all of your blogs and Youtubes . Thank you for sharing .and your right never thought og it that way , will from now on.
I scan blogs for patterns and sewing tips – I read the comments for more ideas and suggestions on the patterns I want to make. Love videos to get a visual of how to do something (like your free motion quilting) but I really need a printable when it is a pattern or tutorial so I can check it out more closely away from my computer. Both are very helpful.
Please keep up your wonderful postings, blogs and tutorials. It’s all wonderful and I’ve learned so much. You are one of 4-5 quilters I follow on a regular basis and I love seeing your smiling face.
Leah, please keep putting up the effort. I only read blogs and if I think of it while I am quilting I listen to the pod casts. Instagram Facebook and the others are rabbit holes that I personally am trying to avoid. I know I am of a generation however, I trust that the young will want more information than they can get in 5 minutes and 47 seconds. Or perhaps my brain has slowed so that doesn’t work for me. Thank you for what you do; you have taught me a lot. And I look forward to the new year with your desk calendar.
Leah, I’m usually a “lurker” but I have read and used the ibformation you provide since your first free motion quilt patterns. You have been the encouragement I needed to just “go quilt” and not stress myself out over whether it was good enough. Ijs
How much time I spend on a blog really depends on how much I am interested in what they are doing. Food blogs no all I want is the recipe. My Quilting are different. I have noticed though that I have narrow that down to about thre or four that I always read all that they post. I like ones that have variety like yours does. And yes I prefer videos that are about 15 min or less. I think you are doing a great job and I love yours!
I read your blog and enjoyed the free motion videos. I refer new quilters to your blog. You are the best for free motion quilting! I have about 10 quilting blogs that I follow regularly and you are one of them. Thank you
Leah, thanks a lot for the work and efforts you are making with your posts.
I still prefer reading to watching videos.
I am not very good at free motion quilting, therefore I am thankful for every inspiration I can get by your posts
I do read several blogs as podcasts don’t appeal to me. I even save some of the email notifications in my mail files so I can go back and access the topic more easily. I do recognize how much time goes into the process and appreciate you and others who give me the knowledge and courage to grow and try new things.
I often find recipe blogs fill up space with irrelevant situational details when all I really looking for is the recipe. That’s never the case with your videos; what has made them sustainable (for me) is that you are able to center on important details that enhance the quality of my work. I make time for that, regardless of the length of the video.
I also appreciate that you hyperlink previous videos that you refer to because I am often behind due to my hectic schedule.
Your gift is that you are able to put your finger on exactly what’s hanging someone up. I just watched your video about channel stitching the quilt down and thought, “A ha!.” It’s the small things, all rolled into one big thing, that ensures success.
If blogs provide relevant details, they are worth reading. Readers know when bloggers are inspired and when they are not. Keep the videos coming and tighten the blogs around them.
Thanks for your effort!
Thank you very much for so much feedback Marla! I really appreciate hearing your perspective and what you’re taking from the videos and looking for in the posts. I really appreciate it!
I am trying to spend less time on the computer, Facebook, etc., but I do enjoy your quilting blog. I like quilting videos, but want people to get to the point. Yours are very professional.
Hi
I enjoy listening to the pod casts i don’t always listen to the very end, either it’s something I am not interested in or i haven’t found the time to listen to the full hour without interruptions.
I do not have face book of many of the other social media sites so for me personally podcasts are my eyes and ears into what S happening in the quilting world.
I have just brought a handi quilter long arm machine and here in the UK you are always mentioned as the go to person for machine quilting. So I love your long arm videos it has been particularly nice that we are the same point on our long arm journey.
Wonderful Sandra! I’m so happy to hear that!
Yes I do still read my chosen blogs. I come away with helpful little tips. There are times when the flashing of ads are just a wee bit to much. I am lucky. My iPad allows me to click and just have the blog post only. It also allows me to have a larger print. Keep up the great work.