Today’s episode is a super-quick update about The First Stitch that I wanted to share with you directly. (And no, it's not an April Fool's Day joke!)

We're taking a spring break for the months of April and May, and new episodes will return this summer on Wednesday, June 10th! Life is full right now in the best possible ways (a few more details are included in the episode!), and I LOVE creating this podcast for you…so I'm making a few adjustments.

Starting in June, new episodes will drop every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Twice a month, every month. It's a slight change that is going to make a big difference in keeping this show going strong for the long haul!

Make sure you're subscribed to my newsletter so you don't miss the June 10th return (plus keep up on behind-the-scenes fun and snag a first-look at what I hope will be my new quilting studio!), and I'll see you then. Thanks for being here. It means more than you know!

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And speaking of stories... have you been thinking about sharing yours? I would love to hear it! I’m still collecting stories over the break, and your First Stitch story could be featured in an upcoming episode!

Email: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com

Submit your story

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First Stitch Story: Meet Marissa
In this episode I share Marissa's story. She's 31, finished her very first quilt last year, and her journey into quilting is one of the most honest and heartwarming stories featured on the show yet. From years of putting creativity aside to making quilts for her son, her mom, and her aunt, I love everything about this story. Hear it in Marissa's own words in this episode.

WIP-Finishing Tip: Sew in Small Bites of Time
Marissa sews when she can, around a very busy 2-year-old. And honestly? That's how most of us are quilting…around the rest of life! So today's tip is all about making those small pockets of time count.

I share a simple strategy for breaking your current WIP down into tiny next steps so you can make real progress even in 10 to 15 minutes. No more sitting down and losing half your sewing time just figuring out where you left off! This one is quick, actionable, and a tip you can start using today.

From My Sewing Room: Precut Fabric Bundles
Today's recommendation is for anyone who has ever lost a whole sewing session to fabric auditions and second-guessing. Been there. Done that!

I'm talking about precut fabric bundles, specifically charm packs and fat quarter bundles. These are a total game-changer for newer quilters and for anyone who wants to sit down and start sewing immediately without the decision fatigue. I share my favorites and where to find them in the episode.

Shop Fabric Bundles at Wild Plum Lane

Shop Fat Quarter Shop precut bundles

Share Your First Stitch Story!
Your story might be next! If you'd like to share how you got started sewing or quilting and possibly be featured in a future episode, I'd love to hear from you.

Email your story: firststitchpodcast@wildplumlane.com

Quick story submission form

First Stitch Story: Meet Lana
In this episode, we meet Lana from Oklahoma, whose love of quilting has carried her through decades, dozens of moves, and a life full of beautiful, meaningful moments. Lana's story is one I know you're going to love... especially her Christmas finish that was 30 years in the making!

You'll hear about a very special hand-embroidered label, what it said, and why it was so meaningful. It's the kind of finish story that makes you want to go dig through your own WIP pile right now.

WIP-Finishing Tip: Label Your Quilts Every Time
Lana's story is the perfect lead-in to today's tip, because she mentioned something that so many of us can relate to. Her early quilts don't have dates on them, and now she has no idea when she made them.

Today's tip is simple: before you consider a project truly done, add a label with the date. I share a few easy ways to make this happen without it feeling like one more big task at the end of your project. Because the truth is, future you (and the people who receive your quilts!) will be so glad you did.

From My Sewing Room: Ever Emblem Labels
Speaking of labels... this episode wouldn't be complete without sharing one of my favorite ways to make labeling quick and easy. I'm talking about Ever Emblem labels on Amazon. They're iron-on, customizable, and they look beautiful on any finished quilt.

Whether you're finishing a 30-year WIP like Lana or wrapping up a weekend project, a label is what gives your quilt its story. I'll share a bit more about why I love them and how they work in the episode!

Browse Ever Emblem labels

My favorite 2" x 3" (sew on or iron on) labels

Share Your First Stitch Story
Your story might be next! If you'd like to share how you got started sewing or quilting and be featured in a future episode, I'd love to hear from you!

Send an email to: firststitch@wildplumlane.com

Or use the quick submission form

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