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 do read your blog and others. I don’t do social media, facebook, podcasts, instagrams etc. I enjoy reading the blog and watching the videos. I am in my seventies and learning all the time. Thanks for what you do.
I am not much of a blog reader of anyone’s blogs. I do like videos. I will sit and watch a 20 minutes (or longer) especially if it has information that is new, a new technique, or even something fun. No to verbose videos that talk for 5 minutes before getting to the point of the next step. I dont need to see EVERY seam sewn. I have totally enjoyed your tutorials
Yes, I use blogs. They are my preferred method of learning as my learning style is visual print. I get frustrated with video because I want to skip to the part where I actually need instruction and not listen to all the preamble that comes with them. With text and photos I can quickly get to where I need to be. As for other media, Pinterest sparks bunny trails and I enjoy listening to podcasts (that’s how I discovered you) while I sew.
I read the e-mails that are of interest to me. Quilting is one part of my life. I make time for it between multiple interesting adventures. Your you tube tutorials have helped me learni new ways of quilting and I appreciate all you do. When blogging and making videos is no longer fun for you, please let your talent lead you to something else.
I don’t usually blog, but like quilting ideas so i enjoy your site. I do quilting art so i don’t take advantage of your patterns etc. but love your personality so I keep coming back!
Merry Christmas Leah! I’ve followed you since you did the 365 free motion posts. I still read your blog but I tend to scan over some parts. I have a sit-down quilter, so your posts about your new long arm aren’t as interesting to me. I’ve noticed this same thing happening with my favorite knitting blogs. But I want you to know I always look forward to your posts, even if you feel like doing them less often!
Now you want us to read YOUR blog and you didn’t read theirs… shame on you. LOL Sometimes we get in too big of a hurry and don’t take in the whole picture. And sometimes there is more in the blog that you might need!
Merry Christmas and I hope you enjoyed those cookies…
I found your blog and I have already learned a lot. I have made a ‘quilting area’ in my scrap room. I want to learn about the new methods on the quilt machines. I’m still gearing myself up to try it. I’m almost ready for the videos. Thank you, thank you for the freebie patterns as the store-bought patterns are too high but I do understand that they put a lot of work and attention into their work also. I do buy them once in awhile.
I do read your blog, I am selective on the blogs I regularly read. One of the most frustrating things to me on youtube, and it sort of relates to what you are saying, is too much talking and I move on. I just want the facts, just show me how to do it.
Your tutorials are excellent and I have learned a lot. Would I learn as much if they were different, possibly.
I read your blog and watch all of your videos. Blogs that chat about a subject that has nothing about my subject of interest, I skip over those parts. Many blog just want to sell their products. If I didn’t request a desire for their products, I unsubscribe or delete it.
Quilting products I enjoy looking at. I’m always interested in what you have to say.
Hi Leah. Yes I often skim over blogs but if I am looking for something specific I will read the entire blog. A newbie to longarm quilting I find that doodling on paper helps me figure out how to get in & out of areas.
Yes, I still read blogs – a special few. Obviously, your’s is one. I particularly like videos. That’s just my preferred way of learning. Please don’t stop.
I love your videos & will take time to watch them to the end as long as there’s new information for me to gain–tips, how to, visual examples, etc. I’m not so much into blogs–I’d rather watch/learn/sew than read about it, but selectively will read something of interest when time permits.
I still read blogs every day and enjoy reading. I don’t watch videos much. I will watch something to learn to do something, but I still have poor and expensive internet, plus I love to read.
Yes I read blogs. I enjoy videos more unless there are instructions that can be printed out. Many blogs have interesting information but if it is a simple recipe or sewing instruction, there is no way they can be printed so if I really want it then I have to write it long hand and that just doesn’t happen.
I love reading your blogs. I do admit that I watch other video clips for a few minutes and if I am not getting any help, I move on. On the other hand, I watch your videos several times learning the intricacies of quilting. I have become more confident after taking your classes through Craftsy and watching your videos. I continually view them over and over. I am working on the last quilt project…the flowers..I have put them aside as I work on Christmas gifts this month. I would like to finish them before the start of the new year, if not, that is okay. I haven’t started this year’s, but I have to state that I love the colors you selected. I plan to start as soon as the ‘flowers’ are quilted and bound. Keep reading and blogging.
I love your video tutorials and faithfully watch those, but I just don’t have the time to commit to more than just a few minutes for anyone’s blogs.
I’m a bit of a fair weathered friend. Not because I don’t enjoy a good blog or video, but my schedule is so busy and so unpredictable. I try to support you by buying from your store once in awhile. I have learned so much from you. I actually found you with for first 365 Daily Quilting patterns.
Greetings Leah! I love reading your blog. Working from home somewhat limits my time to get out and interact with any “quilty” friends, so the time I spend reading your blog keeps me up to date and motivated with your quilting knowledge and inspiration. So, yes I would say you are a valuable resource for the health and growth of my quilting adventure. Quilt on, blog on as your time permits. Have a most wonderful holiday season with your beautiful family.
Yes I read blogs. Many I find through Pinterest. The dates of the blogs are very old. I like blogs because you get to know people. I have subscribed to a few. I must admit that I don’t realize just how blogs work. I don’t know why I have to like or dislike everything. I don’t comment often because I have nothing to say. I think I might just need to say thanks.
Hi Leah,
I do read your blogs. I was introduced to your sewing by a friend who had taken one of your classes and was teaching free motion quilting herself. I was intrigued and came home to look you up and have been learning from you ever since. I am 67 and know I won’t live long enough (would have to be at least 150 and moving) to put into practice all I have learned from you. Blessings on being the person you are and sharing your love of quilting with all of us.
Thankyou Leah.
Shame on me …you are right but time is difficult these days.
Hi Leah,
I do read blogs. I often find inspiration by Locating blogs or sites from posters with interesting comments.
How anyone can monetize this activity would seem a daunting task.
Re: YouTube stuff in general, two minds:
1. Superb resource for ‘how to do it’ videos. You are my go-to for FMQ,
2. Not as good for monologues. If only YT had a ‘tab to next instruction’ button, and a way to index & retrieve.
I’ve enjoyed watching you progress over the years, and wish you continuing success. Thank you for a great blog!
I do enjoy your blog, although don’t get to it much these days. I, too, have a sit down quilting machine, and my regular machine, and would enjoy tips for those, as well as some ‘Not so heavy ‘ quilting ideas
I don’t read many blogs; I find that I usually just want to learn a technique or how to construct a certain pattern. I just don’t have time to listen to excruciating details about someone’s life and experiences. If I see a link to a pattern or technique that looks interesting, I will follow it to the blog and read the post IF it’s not too long. A tutorial video that grabs my attention I will watch even if it’s 20-30 minutes long, as long as I can fast-forward and avoid watching every seam being sewn, as someone else said. But I don’t follow any blogs on a regular basis; I find there is usually too much personal commentary and not enough quilting content, which is usually what I’m looking for.
I do read your blog regularly and I ‘ve learned a lot but UT is not a favorite.
I love the way you explain how to do everything and thank you for the time you spend doing it. I think a great many people are benefitting from your effort.
I think in a busy world it is time consuming to try to read about people’s personal lives. I don’t care much for recipes in blogs either, and I have noticed recipes and even gardening in places. I think those things belong in a different blog, not quilting.
Hi Leah,
I do read and enjoy your blogs. I am new to quilting and discovered you during internet browsing and searching. I love learning about new sewing/quilting products and how to use them/where to find them. I am very fond of how-to-tutorials. I like to see what others in the community have completed and are working on and any issues they experience and suggested solutions. I am especially intrigued by how quilting can become not only a blanket/throw/bedspread, but also a cozy, a bowl holder or potholder, coin purse, wallet, handbag, garment, etc. I enjoy mixing of media and like to see quilting experts with backgrounds as artists, photographers, jewelry makers, knitters, crocheters, etc. demonstrate how to combine quilting with one or more different forms of art for a fabulously stunning project. I would like more information on how to create a quilting business.
I am one who loves Youtube and have learned so much on my own by watching them. However, I am constantly looking for seminars or workshops to attend in person since I am a very “hands on” learner. I tried to practice some of your tutorials, and I just can’t seem to get the hang of it which causes me much frustration. I am tired of stitch in the ditch!!! Not any classes available in my area, but willing to travel if need be. Thanks for all you do for us out here.
I do read your blogs and I watch the videos. For the videos I watch in little spurts, as time permits. With a cup of coffee, while quilting etc. I have all your Craftsy classes, and have multiple of your private projects as well. I have learned so much from you. Thanks for all you do.
In the past I have followed or watched a number of your YouTube videos. I love them. I love watching you tell us that we can do this. That being said I haven’t read anyone’s blogs. I didn’t even know you had one until this past November when one of my quilting friends and I were away at a quilt get away that I organize. She was listening/reading something you were teaching. This is where I found your friendship quilt. Because of that I now get your newsletter. I personally I would rather watch a video then to read something. When all is said and done you really have to do it’s best for your family life. If doing something is taking three hours and no one is getting anything out of it and maybe that time can be better spent doing something else. What that something else is, I don’t know. What I do know is I am very much looking forward to being with you this next year to make this friendship quilt.
I have to admit that I don’t read your blog regularly or even often. I am more likely to watch your YouTube videos which I love. I also own a couple of your Craftsy videos.
OK, you shamed me into commenting. I DO read blogs, but, more than not, just don’t want to write a comment. I guess you could say I’m a lurker instead of stalker! I read the instructionals, etc. but usually just scan the personal stuff.
I read blogs in spurts as time permits. The last several months have be extremely busy so I have to admit I have just scanned the titles and deleted anything that didn’t grab me. As time slows down I think I will resume reading more.
Thank you for the many instructions you have given on fm quilting. I’ve purchased your books but haven’t had much time to practice . So watching Blogs is not a priority at this time.
Leah, I have been following you since I started quilting in 2012 and I really love what you do and your generous sharing of your knowledge. I prefer blogs and newsletters as I don’t have (nor want) a Facebook profile nor to engage with instagram or pinterest. I often follow links to other people from these sources and sign up to them after checking out their sites. I am considering the purchase of a long arm when I retire in 2020 and so I watch your videos regarding these to get an idea of the features that I would need and what is possible with them. I appreciate the time and effort that you have put in up until now but understand if you need to make changes based on a cost/benefit consideration. I love hearing about your family interspersed with quilting tips. Wishing you and your family a happy and safe holiday season. Carmel (From Australia)
I love reading blogs, especially the quilting on domestic machines and/or quilting specific ones. I’m retired so I have more time to do that. I enjoy most You Tube videos but prefer short specific technique type ones. I’ve also watched some Facebook videos which are “quilt alongs” but they tend to be more time consuming. Thank you for sharing your talent over all these years!
Hi,
Many thanks for the recent post.
I enjoy a variety of quilting styles. Presently I am looking at purchasing a Grace machine and frame, so I am looking for recommendation and ease of use videos.
Oh I admire you and other bloggers, l know how long it takes to write up a tutorial for anything, quilting, sewing, recipes. I am amazed you can get so much done and still blog. I for one love your way of teaching. I have not been able to do too much in the way of a quilt but love to be able to put your technique into small projects.i hope you will Keep these coming. Thank you
Leah, I appreciate everything that you write, teach and all of your educational videos but as stated in so many of the comments above (it took me an hour to read) it only serves to show how much we appreciate you and your work but we all have lives as do you and yours and I always try to read your work whether it is a blog, and I always “like” your YouTube videos I just do not comment mainly because I did not realize the importance that a comment served. Also I am not a very good writer, as I tend to ramble, but I do not “ramble” about my interests. What I am interested in is quilting whether it be piecing or on a long arm as well as being a seamstress and various other crafts, such as embroidery and crocheting. FMQ on a domestic machine was not my “thing” even though I watched and purchased both of your crafty classes and actually tried it but it was not as good as I desired. Let me just say that your lead in about the recipe if I am guessing was to get a point across. You certainly generated a lot of comments and some, from reading all the comments, were actually very scared that you were leaving the blogging world. I hope that it was not your intention and I get that your time is valuable but so is everyone’s time in this fast paced world. You take the time to write and we take the time to read. It is as simple as that. I love to read and watch your videos as I stated above but only read your blogs if they contain content that I am interested in at that precise moment or some valuable information that you have posted about, or a technique that you have touched on previously. I am not a FB follower, nor do I do any other type of “Social Media” much to the chagrin of my children but I just do not want to dedicate my precious time to topics that are of no use to me. I follow very few bloggers but you are at the top of a very short list. I do not comment either but I do “like” and subscribe to your YouTube Channel which I considered to be enough. I have a lot of respect for you as a person and/or an instructor and I appreciate how you do not mix your personal life with your business life. As for your query about reading your blog, suffice to say that I do not read every single one but those that do, as evidenced by their testimonies, you have earned their respect and love. I may be overstepping, and I hope that I am not, but in my humble opinion few can attest to such a large amount of respectful followers. Merry Christmas and I hope you have a prosperous New Year. As for the rest of us, your followers, we will continue to support you in whatever you decide to do.
I subscribe to couple quilt blogs no if I use their ideas I thank them.
I read your blog. Not religiously. I love your style and it often feels as if you knocked on my door from next door and we are chatting across the table. I watch your videos sometimes all at once and sometimes in bits. Keep being real!
I do read some blogs regularly. I also listen to podcasts while I hand-piece and hand-quilt.
Oh Leah, you’re so right and now I feel so guilty! I get what I need then head on out of there!
I’ll try to be a little more considerate in future – at least to leave a like.
Leah I am also one of those who sit down and search for something specific and don’t always respond. I’ll try to be more considerate in the future. Always know if it wasn’t for all the wonderful information and expertise you share, I wouldn’t have the knowledge and confidence i do. Thank you so much for your time.
Thank you for putting it all in perspective, yes we are busy but do we take what bloggers do for granted YES! I think a lot of it is because you think you will be on for a couple of minutes looking for that recipe and end up online for ages and then realize you have not even started baking yet! Knowing how much effort you put in makes a big difference.
I look forward to reading your blog, and have used your suggestions. I am afraid I also take it for granted that you are sharing your knowledge of quilting and not remembering to “give back”. I do appreciate what you share with us and I am aware of the time it must take you. THANK YOU!
I love reading the quilting blogs. Even feel a connection to those who mention their family, quilting struggles etc. I can then relate I usually leave at least a thumbs up ?? but donetkned in my rush I click out….. then feel guilty and try go back another time ?
I still enjoy reading quilting blogs, & I also follow some quilters on Instagram.
I never was much for reading or following blogs. I will read a blog post if something else has hooked me in from somewhere else, like on facebook or Instagram. So I guess I could say I need the headlines from other social media, but I don’t go searching out any one individual blog to see what’s new. Never have.
As far as videos go, five minutes is my upper limit. Anything longer has a difficult time with my ability to stare at a screen that long so I’m not likely to start. Plus bandwidth is a huge issue where I live. Anything longer is likely to time out and force me to start at the beginning. Forget Netflix or any other streaming services!
I still read blogs. I have noticed that some people have pretty much retired their blogs so I don’t read as many as I used to. Thank you for continuing yours. I still love tutorials.
I do watch the how to videos and am grateful. I have a disability that limits my mobility, and it is hard for me to get to hands on face to face quilting classes. It is particularly difficult since classes usually make you bring your own heavy, hard to lift sewing machine. The quilts I make are for the kids at our local Shriners Hospital. While I am pretty good at assembling the tops, the actual quilting of the layers is very complicated in my opinion and not at all easy to figure out from a book. Your discussions regarding thread tension and design are life savers!!
Rarely read blogs anymore but do follow you on fb and receive your e-mails. I absolutely loved you reading the first chapter of Mally. You are a very talented young lady. Keep up the good work.
I’m afraid I’ve never read blogs, unless it’s a click-through from a YouTube video or newsletter. I subscribe to many channels and watch avidly, sometimes several times if it’s something I really want to get a handle on. I hardly ever go to Pinterest, and again, only if it’s a suggestion from a YT.
Must take this opportunity to thank you for being one of my early introductions to quilting and very instrumental in getting me hooked. 🙂
I’m so pleased to hear you’re into keto. I’m a real evangelist for this way of eating since I discovered by trial and error that low carbohydrate, high healthy fat and intermittent fasting (I know this is optional but I find it boosts my energy) got rid of life-long migraines, hip pain and swollen legs. It was only later that I discovered keto was a thing, so I know I’m not just jumping on the band-wagon of the latest fad diet. The only ‘downside’ is that I lost so much weight that I had to start putting lashings of cream and butter on almost everything to just keep my BMI at the bottom end of the healthy band. 🙂
Keep up the good work Leah – I really appreciate you. <3
Happy Christmas Leah, Yes I do watch blogs . But, as over time you have given us so much, I now only look for that which I want to do and cannot. Sometimes I forget the process and then have to look it up again. You have been generous with your time and I appreciate all the effort that goes into your blogs and videos. Sometimes I think it could be shorter and more to the point as our time is valuable too, as we want to get on with what we are doing as well. I hope this comment is useful and thank you once again. If it wasn’t for all the videos and blogs on line, I would not know as much on many subjects as I do now. Bye for now.
Leah
I have learn so much with your quilting videos but as quirky as the rest on taking time to at least thank the person I see something then want to hurry off and try it. I watch a lot of you tube learning your techniques on quilting the crafting around holidays with vinyl but will now take the time to be considerate and at least like what I am watching you do a fantastic job on teaching proper way of quilting when someone ask how I made quilt I tell them go watch your videos Have a Merry Christmas and New Year
Hi Leah, I must say came to your email popped right into my head “Oh I like her”.so started reading. Often I don’t finish. Lose track from following links etc. I don’t often comment though sometimes do thinking I’ll return. Seems a bonbardment of info from all directions . So many blogs & videos but I want that thinking I will miss something & want to soak it all up, every morsal even though I move on.Reading your post makes me feel guilty. I so appreciate the work you & others do but don’t thank half enough. I really enjoy your videos & tutorials have watched some repeatedly. Thankyou for sharing your knowledge. Horror realization that I have gotten lazy about reading. yikes!!!!!
l Guess what I want to see more of is how to design, learn new techniques & yes videos since seems almost with you by my side. I watch you on Craftsy too!
Hi Leah,
I used to be subscribed to your channel and watched everything except some of the hour long podcasts. Lately they haven’t been coming on my feed any more. Not sure why, didn’t unsubscribe. I notice that several people, like Angela Walters, have gone from free with ads to subscription and I am not into paid subscriptions. I liked your 8 to 12 minute videos and your blog entries.
Ok, I’ll admit that I didn’t realize you still wrote on your blog. And I read your newsletter! I used to read blogs, but very rarely do I anymore. I’m not on Facebook anymore, either. I sometimes watch your podcast. It depends on how much time I have. I prefer short videos, like no more than 15 minutes. After that, I can get antsy. I don’t watch your videos on the long arm tutorials. Because I don’t have one. You’re a hard working young woman, and I appreciate you sharing your quilting knowledge! Thank you!
I am a reader, so I do read blog posts that I am interested in. I would rather read than watch a video as a first exposure to something. I can tell in a written post much faster if it is something I am interested in or not, if the quality is there etc. I am much more apt to go check a video on YouTube or elsewhere based on a blog post than I am to search just on YouTube. The biggest thing I am looking for online in anything I check out is quality – well written, well presented, photos that are appropriate and clear, video that doesn’t go on forever about something that could be covered faster and with images that one can’t see and poor volume. I do try to subscribe where I am interested, comment if I feel I have something to add but must admit that doesn’t always happen. There is too much out there to subscribe, like etc. everything.
Hi Leah,
I read some your blogs because I like the tips you include, but I don’t listen to the podcasts. I’m very hard of hearing and it is too frustrating. The same is true for the videos. I watch when a subject that I’m interested in appears, but if I can’t follow you by watching, I give up. I do have your books, and re-read them when I tackle something new. I really appreciate those and I am in awe of your talent!
Hi Leah
As a much older person fairly new to quilting I find your blogs, videos,tutorials, posts etc very educational and enjoyable. I have little spare time and don’t want to spend it travelling to other towns to learn.
I have saved almost all of your posts into my quilting file as my “go-to” text and reread them at my leisure.
Thank you for the massive amount of work and attention to detail that explains things so clearly.
Best wishes from Australia.
I came upon your tutorials by accident a couple years ago and they are my “go to” for learning something new. Unfortunately, work gets in my way of watching as much as I’d like to. I don’t generally read many blogs, not that I wouldn’t like to. I love that you share your knowledge (and really you make it look so easy!) for self learners like me to watch. I’ve subscribed to your videos and have watched them all – many several times. Please continue sharing your time and energy.
I don’t ‘follow’ anyone. When I want to know how to do something I start searching my favourite people’s tutorials – I usually end up on you tube. I don’t really know how to show my appreciation, but the hard work shows in the quality of the tutorials and it is really appreciated. Thank you.
I have a blog and have not received a comment since a couple back in april. i usually post at least 3-4 times per month. my daughter once said she wished she could hit a “like” button on my blog instead of leaving a comment. i still do get quite a few page visits, though, so people are still reading.
Read me at MissesStitches.blogspot.com
my first comment got accidentally posted before i finished typing my website! could be because i have a broken right arm and am typing this one-handed, left-handed!!
Unfortunately a lot of bloggers are all about what they have done personally and only put them up to boost their ego. A lot of the things they think they have designed or invented have been around for years. It is quite a turnoff. I do appreciate good blogging but generally on their own reputable website or blog,not on sites thst have multiple bloggers
I do read some blogs but don’t listen to podcasts. I use iTunes when I need help with my quilting.
I enjoy your tutorials and find you have many interesting tips. I like watching you work and making things look easy. Makes a person want to give it a try.
I do not like going to a site and have all the pop up ads…..they are very annoying and you lose interest fast.( just an FYI).
I have been quilting for a very long time! It is such a pleasure to read your newsletter. You were my go-to gal when I began free motion quilting and my home machine and later when I got my sit down long arm.
I turn to for tips, new quilting designs and inspiration.
Please keep up the good work!
I regret not responding sooner.
Merry Christmas to you and those you love!
Pat
I do like to see you working on a block or quilt, but sometimes I need to read it also. It would be sad to miss all of your great tips and information. You are such a great teacher I have learned so much from you. I have been sewing for 50 or so years, but I have only been quilting for a year. I have much to learn. Thank you for everything.
Hi Leah! I was turned on to you and your work through my cousin as she learned to quilt through your Quilt Along. She now is an amazingly talented quilter. Me?? I’m just getting started. I very much enjoy and appreciate your blog, blogs, etc. I watch your episodes when time allows.
Thanks for all your hard work!
I definitely still read blogs! I only really discovered their usefulness about threes years ago!! What can I say, I’m a slow learner. I have come to quilting late, but with a reasonable sewing skill base. I search hard and fast for information and then follow the folks who teach well and pique my interest.
I love short videos that are concise and show me exactly what I want. I tend not to watch long videos because I get so engrossed and suddenly the day has gone!!
I watch tutorial videos and I like to read blogs. I don’t always see them though. I have definitely appreciated all the help you have given me over the last year, since I discovered your tutorials.
I still read your blog. I love all your quilting tips and quilting designs. I just never comment until now.
I still love watching anything quilting related. Although I also love watching videos of little sewing projects that don’t involve making a quilt. Maybe little sewing gifts you can give to someone…ect.
I would personally like to see videos of that. Or little sewing projects that include using up your stash. I find those fun and very entertaining.
I am lucky to find the time to read newsletters. there are only a few newsletters that I ALWAYS take the time to read. Yours is one of them. I never have read blogs unless there is something on the website, or in a newsletter, or on Facebook that directs me to a blog for instructions, patterns, or rarely, the end of a funny story. Sounds like all the editing of photos for tutorials eats up time – but we never even know when you do it or not. So go for not doing it. If it causes problems for us reading it, we will let you know.
While I might not watch every podcast, yours are always my ‘go to’ source for information. I agree that sometimes I can’t watch the whole thing in it’s entirety at one time, but I do go back to them quite often for reference. What you have given to us quilters is the knowledge that you have acquired over the years and that knowledge is invaluable. I don’t know of any other blogger/quilter that shares as much valuable information as much as you do.
hello and best wishes from me to you.. You gave me my first glimpse into the quilting world..for that I will always be grateful.. I love the tips and appreciate your tutorials . and yes it is alot of work that you put forth.. My question to you is… Are you enjoying it?? I guess anything one enjoys doing ..its then worth with .. if its not enjoyable to you then you have some decisions to make .. all the best
I still read blogs. With that said, I continue to read blogs that include something about the blogger themselves. It gives me a little insight into where they live, the weather, their family (LOL as much as their family will let them share), what they like outside of quilting. It’s a much more friendly type of blog.
You have great tutorials, and I watch them, but I don’t really like podcasts much.
I generally watch your tutorials while I am at the computer writing something, or dare I say, playing a game. It’s easy to have two web pages open at the same time.
I have learnt so very much about quilting by watching your videos. At the moment I am spending more time on fibre art – spinning, knitting, weaving etc. and again learnt so much from wonderful on-line tutors. I have often wondered how you all get appreciation for the hard work and long hours put into these videos. Please know that you are appreciated and have a devoted following.
I read very few blogs: Bonnie Hunter and yours. I was reading quilting blogs but quickly lost interest when the blog was more about other personal things than quilting and I found that I was spending way too much time reading blogs and Facebook and not getting stuff done. I found out about the walking foot quilt-along on your blog, bought the book and watched one video but time and quilts waiting to be done took precedence. I found out about 2019’s friendship block series from your blog, purchased the pattern, made the block and brought it to show and tell. Many people loved the block so I shared your website so they can purchase.
I read a few blogs, yours is one of them. I usually take a peek at the email first to determine if I am going to read it. I do use YouTube alot as I am a new quilter, but there again I am pretty picky about what I subscribe to. I love, love, love your videos and have learned a great deal.
Leah, I love your videos, you are probably one of the few that show you sewing as you talk, not show you talking as you sew. I have learned a lot, and save your videos on the subjects I am struggling with. I don’t read blogs, mostly because I don’t know how to find them! I have watched some of your Podcasts, but an hour is a lot of time to set aside, I’d rather be sewing! Please don’t stop your teaching videos or the FMQ project, we need you!
I read about 2 blogs and yours is one of them.
First time reading your blog, too many things to do and so little time, I have watched you since you began, I was so impressed watching a young person (or anyone for that matter) teaching how to machine quilt. You really made an impression. You are doing a great job and I hope you keep up the videos.
Leah,
I watch more of the longer videos which for me has so much more information. Information is repeated frequently but many time there is one new useful piece of information.
My Granny taught me to do it all by hand, cutting with scissors’ cereal box templates and sewing with needle and thread.
Getting one or two quilts done in a year was a challenge.
My first quilt was for a doll at the age of eight…. now being 70, quilting is so much easier and faster.
Wow, times have changed! My “bucket list” is getting shorter.
Even though I’ve been quilting for years, knowing it all won’t happen in this lifetime.
Most videos, are a review or a “oh wow, I forgot that way to do it, moment.”
So many times I just need to chillax and watching someone else quilt …..does it for me. ;^)
Keep on doing Leah.
I’m still watching you, usually on “You Tube.”
I have got into the habit of skim reading most of the blogs as I found that there was a lot of personal information which although interesting is really irrelevant to what I was looking for. I save the information that I want especially things like tips and videos. As a visual learner I also save a lot of the photos you post of the step by step instructions.
Hi Leah – I know how much work goes into setting up a blog (even without all the many extras your provide) and then keeping up with it. I had illusions of making blogging etc. a income stream. It finally hit me that I was looking towards retirement and that the last thing I really wanted was to be a slave to what others wanted from me. Do I have talent? Yes. Could I have done it successfully? I am sure I could. But, like others have said, time is limited and the field is crowded. I, too, am guilty of just finding the info I want and moving on without engaging with the person who carefully crafted the post and provided the info I needed. I think mobile devices tend to make this even more prevalent. While I am responding on my desktop, it’s only because I had 68 unread emails and they were mostly from providers like you, small and some large corporations, and I am going “delete, delete, delete”. I have some that I save for that day when I might get around to them – but I never do. Who am I kidding? Myself. I am sure you’re doing this because you love it first of all and then have grown it into an income stream for yourself and your family. I do wish you much success, but it really was the question of “reading blogs” that actually got me to do more than delete your email. I am glad that I did. I hope this helps. I don’t want to discourage you, but it does help to ask the hard questions.
Hi Leah, I am definitely a life long learner and absolutely find the content on your blogs, YouTube, and podcasts to be relevant, helpful, and value added. Not just for learning and building quilting techniques; but I love to hear the story behind your work, and other quilters who also love this craft. I know you are so busy, and have many projects and priorities you are trying to manage. While I hope you will continue with all your different content creation, I understand if you may have to trim some things in order to build your business the way you need to. Many thanks for all you do for us. It is invaluable!
Hello Leah,
I enjoy reading many things! I have read a BOOK on ethics today, and a novel, The Art Forger. I just finished your article asking us if we read blogs. I read my newspaper this morning.
I also love your YouTube productions and I usually watch them in their entirety. Although I have been known to fall asleep around 10:30, my earphones still in my ears.
You are an excellent interviewer. I am captivated with your interesting interviews of interesting quilters.
Thank you for asking our opinion. I hope it guides you in planning your future agenda!
Happy Holidays!
I have watched many, many of your videos and love seeing you trying new things on camera….like going to a longarm. Watching you try things and then deciding to change to another way is so helpful to see. I like knowing and seeing that even you, even professionals have a learning curve, and have to experiment a little to find what works best. You are so encouraging, As for as reading a blog….I don’t do that much with anyone. I really just like tutorials,and I like to see a few mistakes being made, and how to fix them.
I read a few blogs & I definitely have my favorites, primarily based on content relevance. Youtube videos & tutorials are priceless and I try to make sure I make at least one purchase on each blogger’s site as a token of appreciation for the hours of excellent FREE teaching I’ve taken advantage of as a beginning quilter. If I had to choose between reading a blog and watching a YouTube tutorial, I’d go with YouTube (even though I love to read) because I’m a visual learner and I can watch the technique over and over til I “get it.”
I only listen or watch a couple of blogs and one of them is yours Leah. I am in awe of your work an I love the way when I watch your blog that I feel it is just you and I having a cozy chat!
I enjoy your Tutorial and FMQ. But am incline to have a quick look at what’s going on. Then decide how much I’ll watch. I have done 2016/17 BOM with you and really enjoyed. And did get the first month this year. But deciding if I’ll stay with it. I feel it’s a little busy for what I like. But that’s me. Please keep up the good work. Happy Christmas & New YeR To You and Your. From Oz.
Yours is the only blog I read regularly, Leah. I read to learn, and rarely have questions. I watch You Tube occasionally, but prefer to read for info because I can do it faster. As a professional quilter with little time, I find I can read faster (at my own rate) rather than watch a video which may be repetitious or contain info I don’t need, but can’t speed it up.
Valid question…..I tend to bounce from one article and/or source to another. I am a living example of information overload! I tend to listen to more podcast than anything else while I quilt!
This year I enrolled in Craftsy’s one year subscription to watch their tutorials….I know that I haven’t watched more classes, despite paying the subscription fee. Don’t need to renew next year. Similar to having a Planet Fitness membership and rarely getting there…. Crazy, I know!
Hey Leah, this is an interesting question that you pose and I find a personally humorous example with the cookie recipe. I do the same thing a lot with baking blag sites.
I do read a few blogs, yours, Patsy Thompson, Lisa Calle and Electric Quilts are my favorites. I do almost all my own design work, so I am not going to read or follow “project” driven blags (and there are ton of them out there. My focus is on dense quilting and how to best execute designs for this on my tops. One of my favorite podcasts is the one you did on quilting for show. I don’t “do” F/B or Instagram, and love the learning opportunities available in a well written blog.
Going back to your cookie example, I don’t need to know about all the recipes you’ve written, the gorgeous and time consuming photos, or how another person tweaked the recipe.
All I need is the recipe, some basic instructions and I’m good to go. Like you I zoom past all the other stuff. I just like learning things, not getting bogged down in extraneous information.
I read all your blogs and I learned how to free motion quilting from you. I tried all your methods and designs so please continue!
Hi Leah, I do read blogs but mostly at nite. During the day I sew, quilt or just create something. I watch and listen to YouTubes and podcasts, Facebook live and Craftsy while I sew, quilt and create things. I’ve learned a lot from you on the quilting side so I hope you never stop showing us the way.
Have a great Christmas and new year.
I still read some blogs. I do really enjoy your videos because there is always something to learn or review. Like you said, our time is limited and I would rather be sewing!