Meet Kiera
Pellon: Where do you find inspiration?
Kiera: Everywhere! In nature, in a photo. I tend to look at things, their shapes and forms and start to get an idea from that.
P: What does your creative process look like?
K: I always start with my sketch pad first. Some colored pencils and I just start drawing. Then if it’s a quilt, I’ll take the drawing to my computer and my quilt software and tweak and edit it. If it’s some other project, I just start cutting fabric and putting it together as I go.
P: Why do you enjoy sewing/quilting?
K: I’ve always been kind “artistic”…drawing all the time when I was younger, then I took it to sewing and quilting. I like that it’s something that’s mine. If a project makes it or breaks it, it’s because of me. It’s also a huge stress release for me. I like the quiet and solitude when I’m sewing. I just get into a zone.
P: Do you create mainly for satisfaction, gifts, art?
K: I create mainly for satisfaction. I make a lot of gifts, but that gives me the satisfaction of making something for someone and giving a piece of my heart.
P: What tips or tricks learned can you share?
K: Just to go with your gut, to be fearless…it’s only fabric! To have fun, to experiment and to take your time. Not everything will work out and that’s okay…you always learn something from every project.
P: When and why did you start sewing?
K: I started sewing about 10 years ago, but just started quilting and designing a year ago. I used to suffer from severe anxiety and panic attacks and needed something to focus on and relieve stress for me. Sewing and quilting is my calm.
P: What triggers you to start a project?
K: I just get an idea in my head and want to run with it. When I’m done, it may turn out to be a gift or whatever, but I usually start a project just to be creative.
