Episode 2: Setting Up Your Sewing Spot

Episode 2: Setting Up Your Sewing Spot
In this lighthearted and informative episode of The Sew Off Kilter Podcast, Becca and Ian are back to chat all about one of the most important parts of a quilter’s life: the sewing space! Whether you’re working from a cozy corner, squeezing your supplies onto the kitchen table, or dreaming of a sprawling studio, they’ve got plenty to say about making it work. From clever organization ideas to the all-important treats to keep you going (because, let’s face it, snacks are a must), they dive into everything that helps transform any space into a creative haven. Plus, what are they watching or listening to while working on their latest projects? Tune in for a fun and relaxed conversation full of tips, tricks, and a few laughs!
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Links:
Cotton Cuts PMQ: www.cottoncuts...
Becca’s Quilt as You Go Video: • Tackling Quilt As You ...
Ian’s Standing Desk: www.upliftdesk...
Vari-Desk: www.vari.com/?...
Becca’s Studio Buildout and Tour Videos: • Curious about my Sewin...
Billy Bookcase(s): www.ikea.com/u...
Alex Drawer Unit(s): www.ikea.com/u...
What type of organization is the right fit for you? clutterbug.me/...
Drawer Organizers: www.ikea.com/u...
Comic Book Boards: www.amazon.com...
Magazine Boards: www.amazon.com...
Fabric Bookends: www.amazon.com...
Autofil Threads: shopaurifil.co...
Bobbin Holder Boxes: www.amazon.com...
Bernina Barbie Box: www.bernina.co...
Thread Racks: www.amazon.com...
Look at my Rack Video Link: • Look at my rack!
Gidget I and II Tables: arrowsewing.co...
Sewing Side Table: amzn.to/4dRj2S8
Video of Modular Cutting Mat (Use code SEWBECCA to save 15%): www.cutterpill...
Wool Pressing Tiles & Discount Code(Use code SEWBECCA to save 20%): sewingbysarah....
Tackle Box:www.amazon.com...
Sewing Machine Feet Boxes: www.amazon.com...
Ott Lites: ottlite.com/pr...
Daylight Bulbs: www.amazon.com...
NPR Podcast: www.marketplac...
Bob Moses: www.bobmosesmu...
City and Color: cityandcolour.com
Vitamin String Quartet:www.vitaminstringquartet.com
Twin Strings: / @twinstrings
Ghosts: www.cbs.com/sh...
Agatha All Along: www.disneyplus...
Sterilite Bins: www.sterilite....
Iris Paper Storage Case from The Container Store: www.containers...
Project Pouches: www.ihearttula...
IKEA Bags: www.ikea.com/u...
Zipper Storage Bags: www.amazon.com...
SCHMETZ Universal Sewing Machine Needles - Size 80/12: www.amazon.com...
Becca’s Ironing Surface from Sewing Expo: Link Coming Soon!
Nancy the Very Thoughtful Quilter: / theverythoughtfulquilter

[@SewOffKilter]

Links have been updated in the description of this video!

[@ZannaTheGreat]

I'd love to hear more about the crafts you previously enjoyed or didn't enjoy, have you ever loved another hobby as much as you love sewing, do you have any new hobbies or crafts you'd like to try in the future, why do you like sewing the more than previous hobbies?

[@MelodyQuilts]

This past May I was incredibly fortunate to be able to move into a house that gave me the opportunity to set up my own sewing room! Prior to that, I was a dining room table person. Hats off to all those folks who go thru the 20 minute set and tear down processes before even getting to touch your fabric! Did that for a long time, so good on you! Absolutely LOVING my new space for so many reasons and beyond thankful for it!

[@jajabrownie1]

🙋🏻‍♀️apartment dining room table sewing station here ! lol it’s rough I can’t wait to have a bigger space one day but I still have fun doing it 😊

[@KateBerggren]

Thanks for sharing. It brought back memories that I hadn't thought of in long time. Our family also had a "Sewing Room" growing up. The ironing board was in the room , the sewing machine ( a singer, and then a Kenmore) Dad had made a desk with a cutout for the machine. Mom taught us how to use the machine by making doll clothes. 1 Barbie, 1 Miss Mary Sunshine (American Doll size) Miss Penny. Cross stitch projects were always being worked on, embroidery, and knitting. We never made quilts though. It wasn't the thing back then.. Now, 50 million years later, I call the room I have dedicated for my Bernina and Quilting and, and ,and, and, I call it the Sewing Room.

[@SewOffKilter]

What wonderful memories!

[@jmurphy7192]

Growing up, I remember my mom’s sewing “room” was the tiny entryway by the front door. I don’t know how she managed! I am blessed to have a 8x14 space with windows!

[@SewOffKilter]

It's nice to have a bigger space!

[@deborah1555]

Enjoy listening 😊 while sewing and ironing

[@SewOffKilter]

So glad to hear we could keep you company.

[@helenpeddycord2241]

Don’t toss out your old cutting mats🧡🧡 Use them in the bottom of your bags or scrap fabric “buckets” to sturdy and reinforce them!! Just cover them with whatever fabric you need. Also, reuse your dull rotary cutter blades in a cutter for your paper! Works great for cutting wrapping paper. If you own a “flower” cutter for strip piece cutting apart, you can reuse your blades here also.🧡🧵

[@lizzybluerivera4265]

I love these quilters coming together and sharing their experiences.

[@SewOffKilter]

We have enjoyed getting the time to share our thoughts with all of you. Thanks for helping to make this podcast a success.

[@marilesniak677]

Becca - look into a Flexispot desk for your standing desk. They make awesome cutting tables, sewing or embroidery tables, along with being an awesome desk. They hold over 250 pounds and they do not shake while using an embroidery or sewing machine. I got one last year around the Black Friday time when they have awesome sales. The electronic height adjustment allows you to start at about knee level and raise the table almost over my head (not that I need it to be that high - I’m almost 6’) in teeny little increments. You can purchase wheels separately and add a power bar, drawer, and other accessories. You also get to choose what kind of table top and the color of legs that you want. I got a bamboo top with a white base. I truly can’t say enough about this desk/table. I am considering getting a second one. PS - I am not affiliated with flexispot. I just love my desk.

[@SewOffKilter]

Great info!

[@johnbarnby]

I met you both briefly at QuiltCon 2024. I'm so loving this podcast - it's a happy place in a world "in need of happy places". :). Thank you!!!!!

[@SewOffKilter]

Yay, thank you!

[@Helen-p7s8s]

I think the both of you are FANTASTIC on your podcast. Great that you came up with idea. You both are so smart and knowledgeable,never change

[@SewOffKilter]

We don't plan on it! 😁

[@BridgeMD]

Loved this, so great. 😊

[@SewOffKilter]

Thank you!! 😊

[@beckyspencer1458]

I love your podcasts! You both have a talent to keep conversations moving, are informative, and are funny doing it. You are super together! Keep those podcasts coming!

[@SewOffKilter]

Thank you so much!

[@flossieg.3639]

This podcast is such a great idea. I really enjoy listening to you both. Great ideas, great conversation.

[@SewOffKilter]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@peggythomsen7834]

We just moved and my very favorite space in the whole house is my sewing room! It is the finished room over the garage (FROG). It was a deciding factor in the purchase of this house.

[@ChristineWinterburn-y9k]

Very enjoyable thank you both.

[@SewOffKilter]

Our pleasure!

[@stephaniecarico5547]

Love your podcast!!!!

[@SewOffKilter]

So glad to hear it! 😁

[@MamaJEnterprises]

Howdy, Becca and Ian! Thank you so much for keeping me company as I worked on a quilt pattern. I totally loved the over two hours of chit chat and banter between two of my favorite content creators. I cannot wait for the next episode. I was supposed to record the next installment of the Mystery QAL for my channel but I was totally engrossed in your show. You two are awesome! Blessings, Andrea..

[@SewOffKilter]

So glad you enjoyed it and thanks for helping to make this podcast a huge success!

[@traceyshoun1005]

I am so in love with this format. You two are naturals. Becca, so glad you introduced me to Ian’s channel. Keep it up! ❤❤

[@SewOffKilter]

Yay! Thank you!

[@redskyebc]

Love this podcast. It’s so interesting to see what goes on behind your scenes. I’m not a contact creator, but I still pick up things from what you are saying. I had to move my sewing area up from my unfinished basement to a small bedroom that I share with my dogs. Their grooming table doubles as my ironing and cutting station.

[@SewOffKilter]

Love that!

[@bannfam]

Love y'all chats so much :) You kept me company in my sewing room while piecing. I have run the gamut of sewing spaces--everything from a corner of a bedroom, kitchen table, small office space to a dedicated room. My room is not nearly the size of Becca's--one can only dream--but I agree that being able to leave your project out and shut the door is such a privilege. I hope Ian is settling nicely into his space and his new community. Love you two!!

[@paulanevermore2612]

I started quilting in my dining room that was almost never used. I moved my wooden grace 10 foot frame in there as well. We are empty nesters so when my hubby decided he wanted a pool table we got rid of the living room that again was not used much and he pretty much pushed me out of dining room. So I took over one bedroom made it my sewing quilting room. I am so happy with it. I have reconfigured it over the last few months now I’m doing fpp legit kit the raven I have my zone. Love it. Also now have an A-1 22” long arm with the12 foot frame in the dining room. My kids said we were crazy to get rid of dining and living room where will we sit when we come over. Lmao. Every 5 years you visit we are living our best life I’ll visit you it’s easier. Love the podcast. Thank you for sharing

[@sharla2724]

I heard a tip on a KZbin video from a lady that presents for this place in the UK. She said she has three rotary cutters -one for cutting fabric. When blade gets too dull for fabric, she moves it to second rotary cutter labeled for batting (wadding), and then when it is too dull for batting, she moves it to the third rotary cutter labeled paper. I thought that's a good way to get a lot of use from the blades.

[@LeeAnnThompson-mv5px]

Cricut mats are my absolute favorite!!

[@Roxanne-xx9nv]

Absolutely love your podcast. You two bring me joy. I loved all your content. I’ve had to learn to downsize because of moving every two years with the State Department but I’ve started a list of ideas for my dream craft room. I’m going to save this video so I can reference the sources you mentioned.

[@SewOffKilter]

I can’t imagine having to move every two years. It was hard enough this last time and I don’t know that I ever wanna do it again. 🤣

[@LambChop00S]

Another great episode! I feel like the time flew by. Thank you!

[@laurag8641]

great podcast, you’re great together on all sorts of topics and very funny. I started thinking - I like you went off topic, caught yourselves and picked it up again. lol love you guys!

[@SewOffKilter]

We always go on tangents, but somehow managed to work our way back to the original topic. 😂

[@sophiebrettell3631]

Only 7 mins in to watching the latest episode and you’re bringing so much joy to my evening…. So happy that there are more tangents to follow and tips on sewing spaces that are coming my way… ❤❤

[@jennystrahley927]

Fun podcast! I have the Gidget II sewing table that my Janome sits in and i love it! I needed it to be higher so I have a 24" long 2x4 board under the legs on both sides. Ian, good luck with setting up your sewing area. Once you start using it you'll find what works best for you and will still move things around. You'll get there.

[@PamsResinCrafts]

Hi Becca and Ian, I no longer do quilting, and have moved on to Epoxy resin and Eco resin crafts. That being said lighting and lack of shadows is still very important, as you need to see the details in molds when coloring them with the powder pigments (Mica Powder or "eye shadow"). My set up right now is not working to well, however unlike you Becca but similar to Ian, I have to change it to suit the purpose. That being said we will be moving within the next 12 months so yet again, another set up will have to be constructed. Yes, I do have storage issues as any crafter has, so it really goes across any crafting genre. A lot of what you both have said makes so much sense to me, and I will be working on bettering my storage options, obviously within my budget restrictions. Thank you to both of you for the suggestions that you have mentioned in this podcast, most appreciated.

[@Leeanne1962]

I just wanted to let you know, I really enjoyed this podcast. I watched all of it. I am now thinking of ways to get more storage into my sewing room. Keep up the good work.

[@SewOffKilter]

Wonderful!

[@debbiedobbins6785]

Amazon has hydraulic tables for $260 I think. Hubby cuts me a nice slab at 3’ x 6’ and screws it to the top of the hydraulic desk. Then he cuts out the space to recess my Juki into the table. I don’t ever want to know what my sewing space would be like without them anymore. I have two one for sewing and one for cutting. They are heavenly. ☺️

[@SewOffKilter]

Jealous!!!

[@cherylchristopher4315]

Loved this one just as much as the first one.😊

[@marilynaddington8645]

I’m really enjoying the friendship you’re sharing with us. I will continue to watch, thank you!

[@SewOffKilter]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@rebeccapotter4496]

The SNL quote Becca was looking for (Stuart Smalley) - I’m Good Enough, I’m Smart Enough, and Doggone It, People Like Me!

[@SewOffKilter]

That’s it!!!!!

[@dadams512]

Great fun you two! Question: When reading a book, I will abandon very few, and always finish ones if I've made it to the 100 page mark. I think it's a childhood "finish what you've begun" mentality. With quilting, would you abandon something you weren't enjoying if you made it past a certain stage, or would you push on through? What, if anything, have you abandoned?

[@SewOffKilter]

This is a great question, we are going to add this to be answered in an upcoming podcast. Stay tuned!

[@emandahagenhoff4347]

Great episode! OMG you all watch mask singer too! I think I might know who the buffalos are but not 100% sure. I agree with Ian that sometimes when I’m sewing I’ll have something Disney playing because I’ve seen it so many times so it’s easy to listen to. Great job you two.

[@SewOffKilter]

We think we know who they are as well. 😉

[@karenink]

I love these podcasts! The new mikes were a great splunge! 😂

[@SewOffKilter]

They really were! I’m very glad we got them.

[@chriswilford3576]

I’ve had a fishing tackle box for over forty years. I love it, use it all the time ❤❤❤❤

[@dartsandy]

Watching tonight’s replay and love listening to all your discussions.

[@yolandahale1996]

I LOVE THIS SO MUCH FUN , AND IAN THAT QUILT IS GORGEOUS .

[@SewOffKilter]

Thank you!

[@cherylmulder4655]

Love your new podcast venture! Perfect for listening to while sewing or ignoring the sports on tv, lol! Timely topic as I am anticipating a move next spring and will be organizing a brand new space.

[@SewOffKilter]

Glad you enjoyed the episode and hope you continue to enjoy our future episodes.

[@debbiedobbins6785]

😂😂 fondle fabric. Lord that made me laugh. I’m Terrible…I buy half yard bundles, one to pet and one to cut. 🤷🏼‍♀️😝

[@SewOffKilter]

Oh I like that idea!

[@CindyKeefer]

I am loving this! I can listen and still get things done! One question…..won’t Ian’s office fit in the smaller room? Priorities , priorities, priorities!

[@SewOffKilter]

Hummmmm.... You might have an idea there Cindy.

[@laurag8641]

York Peppermint Patties are my go to snack - just one a day taking slooowww tiny bites. lol

[@SewOffKilter]

Those are so good!

[@donnadegriowinnegar9592]

Those are desk riser and I have one at work and home. The hydraulic desks are awesome. My desk riser isn't wobbly at all.

[@BrendaH289]

Ian’s right that was hilarious 😂😂

[@sharonbohannon2382]

Yep I love to feel my Fabric😊😊

[@SewOffKilter]

Don’t we all? 😂

[@FlickiChicki]

I got an Aurafil rainbow and I use any of them for basic piecing, custom match for EPP. Honestly, I so rarely if ever get any thread shadow. Thread however is always put away as thread is a linear foreign body in pets. My space is a corner of my bedroom so I can shut pets out. Everything goes away when not working. My sewing drink is cold caffeine. But as an RVT, I live on energy drinks.

[@DebbieQuilts]

I enjoyed watching this video. There were times you mentioned putting pictures on the screen but it never happened until the very end when Becca showed her sister making faces (loved it!). I wasn't sure if you were aware of this, or if I heard things incorrectly. Congrats on a successful start to your podcast.

[@SewOffKilter]

Sorry about that! We had some technical problems and unfortunately ran out of time before needing to get the episode posted.

[@cindydevling5350]

lol. Becca, I have all the same things in my sewing room, but is so crowded, only about 130sqft. Your would be a dream come true. Absolutely loving you both together.

[@donnaheflin6312]

Enjoyed watching

[@SewOffKilter]

So glad!

[@Theeccentricquilter]

My new favorite sewing podcast

[@SewOffKilter]

🥹❤️❤️❤️

[@nancyguss6739]

Another great podcast

[@SewOffKilter]

Much appreciated!

[@freyabeads]

So ok. I do pet my fabric and I also fondle my beads. Proud of it.

[@karenbrunette6314]

❤❤❤another great episode

[@SewOffKilter]

Thanks!

[@chriswilford3576]

Becca boy bands are still great…….I’m in my 70’s!!!

[@cherylcontreras7287]

For almost years I used two tv trays one for sewing and the other for ironing

[@SewOffKilter]

Oh my! I don't know if I could get my space down that small.

[@javajoni]

❤

[@cherylthorpe2745]

Another great podcast!!

[@SewOffKilter]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@73mhlmm]

I agree with you on the younger Boy Bands. I love everyone you listed.

[@guesswhonancy9028]

You are both blessed ❤

[@katyevogt8605]

The lighting issue is real - KZbin or not! I have been in my new space for a few months but still haven't figured out the lighting. As time goes by, I find I need more and more to see what I am trying to do at each station!!

[@SewOffKilter]

You are so right! Seems like no matter who you are you are always fighting to find just the right light.

[@patriciabryant6574]

Thanks for the chat.

[@SewOffKilter]

Any time!

[@christinehoughton9209]

Great podcasts.

[@SewOffKilter]

Thanks!

[@rayannadavina2390]

I love looking at and petting my fabrics

[@pamelarabon9668]

I purchased a fabric I liked 15 years ago and wouldn’t cut it till I saw a way to use it with out spoiling the cut Tiffanydid a quilt that I could use with out spoiling the pattern

[@nancyseaton6896]

On the comic book boards...use two if you need to keep them stronger.

[@colettesorrells9015]

❤❤

[@SewOffKilter]

🫶

[@sherrymarsh736]

Don't forget to thumbs up folks!

[@DS-ic5ps]

Before he became a star, designer Christian Siriano lived in a one-room apartment. The apartment was his studio, and he slept in the closet!

[@SewOffKilter]

I mean, I’d do the same thing!

[@berylsly324]

I like to wash it right after I finish it, before I give it to

[@corrineholshue4126]

I'm learning some tips from you both. I have a small room with too much stuff.

[@SewOffKilter]

That's great!

[@GrandmaD2024]

I would love a comparison of commic book, magazine and other boards you use/have tried.

[@SewOffKilter]

Noted!

[@GrandmaD2024]

@@SewOffKilter thank you 😊

[@laurag8641]

Autofil 2600 by the cone - Amen!

[@SewOffKilter]

🙌

[@BrendaH289]

I just finished a Tree of Life in Indigo blues ❤

[@giovannacasadio9600]

I missed the live 😪 I didn't get notified. 😢

[@SewOffKilter]

Oh no!

[@jennyharris2993]

What happened to all the links you were going to link?

[@SewOffKilter]

There were so many links that we ran out of time. We are going to get them posted as soon as we can. Sorry!

[@BrendaH289]

I’m a new quilter and I have to quilt them on a domestic machine, what design would you recommend to start with

[@SewOffKilter]

I’d try straight line quilting - with a walking foot!

[@BrendaH289]

@@SewOffKilter should I do stitch in the ditch or stitch a 1/4” away… I’m having a hard time keeping my lines straight

[@chriswilford3576]

@@BrendaH289you could draw the lines with a Hera marker. I did that when I first started out.❤😊

[@guesswhonancy9028]

Dr pepper is my favorite

[@DS-ic5ps]

For drawer storage ideas check out Karen Brown at Just Get it Done quilts and Adam Savage at Tested.

[@SewOffKilter]

Love Karen Brown! She makes some really great videos.

[@tearose3763]

Am just droping in…hey yall!

[@eagleeyes1951]

strip lights to direct the light wear you want it.

[@DS-ic5ps]

A question for each of you: on average, how many quilts do you complete in a year?

[@SewOffKilter]

Thanks to the purchase of ProStitcher, I can definitely say I've *finished* more quilts this year than ANY OTHER YEAR! LOL

[@lindamccarthy6931]

🧡💚🧡

[@smurph69]

Love the podcast, but when you say «pictures below or right here» they are never there to see??? I really would like to see!

[@SewOffKilter]

For this episode, we weren’t able to add those in (sorry!), but we did do that last episode!

[@lauraschmitt5929]

Hi guys!

[@jackie-dbdstitchart4969]

Ian @Off kilter Crafter Ian Do you have a link for your stand up desk? TY

[@SewOffKilter]

I don’t have a link but it’s the Uplift brand desk.

[@jackie-dbdstitchart4969]

@@SewOffKilter TY

[@corrineholshue4126]

I need a she shed.

[@patstrawhouse4005]

Great storage tip! @Rebekah P!

[@irenebello3123]

Hi to you both, sound is very good

[@SewOffKilter]

Hey, thanks!

[@kathleenmayhorne3183]

A tall friend I hadn't seen in a while... i said I didn't remember just how tall you are. He said, i've got my long legs on today. As an auto electrician he has to be flexible too. Maybe just replace the ones that are bending? Would your 45° wall wotk as a design wall?

[@SewOffKilter]

🤣 I need to remember that one.

[@tearose3763]

Pretty!

[@sharonbohannon2382]

I ought to long IKEA Tables that rise up so I don’t have to lean over and cut my Material I Love Them

[@raquelchapa1428]

What type batting is in both wuilts

[@SewOffKilter]

Unsure about Ian's quilt - but I use a Bamboo blend in all of mine! --Becca

[@debthill8285]

Watching replay

[@jeqaljeqal6508]

What fabrics are Ian’s lap quilt from? I love the colors

[@SewOffKilter]

It’s the Spooky N Sweeter fabric collection from art gallery studio

[@diannplatt-roberts8692]

How about using comic book boards and intermix the foam boards. Best of both worlds.

[@SewOffKilter]

Great idea!!!!

[@lauriep.1362]

Where are the inserts ?, I only saw Ian's. Good content tonight. ✅

[@SewOffKilter]

Sorry! We ran into some technical difficulties and had to get the episode up without some of the inserts.

[@chrisdennis3584]

Move your bedroom into the small area and your sewing room into what was your bedroom.

[@landarogers9926]

Hey Becca and Ian

[@GrandmaD2024]

I think you forgot the cutting matt photo?

[@SewOffKilter]

So sorry we got overwhelmed on this episode. Between the number of photos, links, tech issues, and time limits we ended up not getting everything done in time. We will try to do better in the future.

[@GrandmaD2024]

@SewOffKilter lolol no worries at all!! I can't imagine the explosion of comments etc.!!