From the Sew Quirky Studio, I can hear rolling waves and smell the salty fresh air. I can enjoy all my favourite things by the sea.  I enjoy the company of Kangaroo's, a neigh and a moOOoo from some neighbouring furry friends. It is from my brightly coloured studio walls, I work away on my mission to inspire others to sew with confidence. My sewing, blends a quirky vibe with achievable, engaging projects for all skill levels. Add together my nurturing, encouragement-filled teaching style and my students glow with pride at their creative success.

 

My sewing journey began as a textiles and hospitality teacher before I jumped headfirst into the quilting industry. Winning the Young Designer Diva Award (2013) with Blessington Australia launched me into an internship and six years of industry experience with their company. I founded Sew Quirky in 2012 and made it my full-time job in 2018. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to share my work and teach internationally - exhibiting at the Houston International Quilt Market & Festival for three years, teaching in the USA, and receiving an Honourable Mention at the International Quilt Festival for my quilt, Wild Spirit. A highlight for me was a packed room for my Schoolhouse Presentations at Quilt Market. My creations have also been exhibited in the UK and featured in The Festival of Quilt Show.

 

In 2018, I was over the moon to join the BERNINA Australia family as a BERNINA & bernette ambassador. I’ve been lucky enough to share my love of these incredible machines, teaching others how to unlock their full potential - especially the magic of decorative stitches!

 

With 14+ years of experience in sewing and education, I now focus on sharing my love of creativity through Sew Quirky Retreats and collaborative events. These gatherings are all about good vibes, skill-building, and sparking self-belief - because sewing isn’t just about stitches, it’s about joy, confidence, and connection.

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Sew Quirky Highlights

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• As a passionate sewing pattern designer and business owner, I have turned my love for textiles and creativity into a business that has been operating for 12+ years. My journey began with the desire to create unique, innovative patterns that resonate with fellow sewing enthusiasts. Through my business, I combine my artistic vision with a commitment to quality, offering patterns that inspire crafters to express their individuality. I actively engage with my community regularly through social media, where I share tutorials, tips, and insights into my design process, fostering a vibrant online community of sewing besties.
   

• In addition to my online presence, I exhibit at craft and quilting shows both in Australia and internationally, showcasing my latest designs and connecting with fellow creators. These events provide me with invaluable opportunities to share my passion and connect with so many people. Furthermore, I hold enriching sewing retreats, designed to educate and empower women of all sewing levels and ages. At these retreats, participants gather not only to hone their sewing skills but also to build lasting friendships and support one another in their creative journeys. My mission is to cultivate a space where women can find inspiration, confidence, and a sense of belonging in the wonderful world of sewing.
   

• Writing my first book, "Appliqué the Sew Quirky Way," was a rewarding and transformative journey for me as a sewing enthusiast and pattern designer. My Book serves as a resource for other sewers by offering innovative techniques and fresh inspiration to elevate their applique skills and discover the joy of sewing in a whole new way. The book emphasises creativity, encouraging readers to experiment with different fabrics, textures, and design elements, transforming traditional appliqué into a fun and expressive art form. With a focus on clear, step-by-step instructions accompanied by vibrant illustrations, ensuring that readers of all skill levels can easily follow along. It was a labor of love that culminated in a collaboration with C and D Publishers, whose dedication to high-quality craft literature made them the perfect partner for this endeavour.
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• Alongside my teaching and design work, I also manufacture sewing supplies designed to make the creative process easier and more enjoyable for sewists everywhere. My proudest creation is the Sew Quirky Ultra Clear Appliqué Mat—a game-changer that makes appliqué smoother, clearer, and even more enjoyable.

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Come and hang out with me in the Sew Quirky VIP Facebook Group! Or on Instagram! I'd love to have you join one of my retreats or workshops and create some sewing magic together!

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Big hugs and lots of love,

Mandy