Quilting Guilt, Chatty Video, Quilt Room Confessions

[@maryt2887]

Rachel, you are definitely not alone! I am 76 years old, retired, and I like to try new things. So my quilt tops are calling to me while I am making garments; my crochet projects call to me when I pick up knitting; I sign up for an online course in watercolor and there’s a big noise from the sewing room! The way I feel is that the PROCESS of creating in many forms is what gives me pleasure. I don’t plan to sell anything I make-first, because it would be too much trouble, and second, because no one would pay the actual worth of my time and the materials. So poo on that troll who made the snarky remark about machine piecing. I am glad you added the phrase “my creative life” to your video introduction. It broadens the scope of your content. I’m always thrilled to see a new video of yours come out. P.S. You have a very smart partner!

[@patriciavacilek3791]

You certainly are not alone. Just keep things in perspective. You are young and want to remain true to the vision you have of yourself as a hand stitcher. I’m going to be 82 years old and I’ve learned that our time is limited and what’s really most important is to enjoy what we do with our crafts. There is absolutely no room for guilt. If you love the look of the quilt with tiny pieces, and the machine stitching means that you’ll complete it quicker and save wear and tear on your hand muscles, then use the machine and take joy in the beauty you’ll create.❤

[@suepopoff3159]

Hello from Canada🇨🇦

[@melaniehopkins7541]

Well said, Patricia!

[@shazziep5567]

Fabulous advice 😁🤩🥰🦋

[@realjerick4199]

Artwork beautiful

[@janetuesday6473]

I have made about 80 quilts. All of the tops were sewn on my machine. I gave up hand quilting about five years ago and no one has ever refused a quilt because it wasn't hand quilted. Perhaps the person who made that inane comment isn't a sewer! Don't ever feel guilty...you are creating beautiful keepsakes.

[@nancimcgreevy5328]

Whatever you do…Do Not Feel Guilty! You are capable of making beautiful things and isn’t that what creating is all about? Whether you hand sew, machine sew etc. it is all about having fun making creative lovely things. I look forward to all of your videos and YES, I’m just like you in my own creative process. Keep sharing and chatting because I really do feel like I’m sitting on your sofa creating right along with you!

[@ncmckinley]

Rachel, I’ll tell you what my hand surgeon said…1. Avoid hand surgery for as long as you can. 2. Never stop using your hands (or you’ll lose them). 3. Listen to your body and stop when it tells you to. I’ve had rheumatoid arthritis for over 20 years now, but I still epp, hand quilt, knit, and have longarm quilting business. Please don’t ever allow others (or yourself) to pressure you with “false guilt.” We watch you because you create lovely things with such a lovely manner. I’m looking forward to seeing where you take us next. ❤, ~Lori from Montana~

[@suzisaintjames]

Here's an approach to make this project go along faster... Cut the squares you need and clip them together as units, put in a basket or cup next to your machine and use them as leaders and enders ... So every time you sew a line of stitching, either for this project or another project, you are still making progress on the 9-patches. 💖🌞🌵😷

[@sofaquilterin]

Hi Rachel, I am 58 years old and have sewn and quilted all my quilts by hand for more than 22 years. Then I developed major problems (carpal tunnel syndrome) with my hands and I am now in the process of learning our wonderful hobby with the sewing machine all over again. Previously I had only sewn a few items of clothing and now I am delighted that I am learning so much and improving my skills on the sewing machine bit by bit. It gives me so much pleasure! It's like an adventure. Don't feel guilty, just enjoy the start of a different kind of sewing. Sometimes, however, I feel guilty too. And that's when the UFOs become too much and/or stay too long. That's why I'm working through them all at the moment and this feels great. I would also love to see more videos about patching and quilting with the sewing machine! So, don't feel gulity, have fun 🥰! Greetings from Germany, Andrea

[@jilliedillie]

32;000 subscribers to 1. Ignore the trolls. The drill/screwdriver analogy is brilliant. Keep on creating and do it with joy!

[@angelparker5652]

Don’t feel guilty and ignore the quilt gestapo. It’s your hobby and you do what you want.

[@danadouglas73]

You can love a lot of different things. It's okay to branch out. I've only started sewing recently & my room is called a craft room, not a sewing room. Currently, sewing is my favorite, but making jewelry was before that & knitting was before that. I still do a little of those older lives, just not as much .Do what you love & what keeps you happy & healthy!❤

[@suzisaintjames]

You can have all your friends sewing (hand or machine) along together, by doing a live video. Bonnie Hunter used to sit down and sew on lives. She'd sew awhile, answer comments/chat awhile, sew awhile, repeat... for an hour or so. (She stopped because of streaming issues.) 💖🌞🌵😷

[@pauladimattei6434]

You are in great company when it comes to quilt guilt. I probably have 50 projects in process. There are so many wonderful quilts and I want to make them all. For me, it is all about the process. Quilting brings me peace and helps me to decompress after a grueling day at work. So I try to put the guilt aside. A little joy in our lives needs to out weigh the guilt. So girlfriend, let the guilt go and go with what your heart wants on any particular day.

[@stitchwithrachel]

That is a lovely comment Paula, and it is so true.. we quilt for pleasure so why add guilt into the mix when we have enough pressure in life. I will keep your comment in my mind and I'm glad I am not the only one with loads of projects on the go.

[@SpookyDolly11]

I hear you clearly about crafting guilt. I’m a nurse and am always tired, I’m juggling knitting, cross stitch and a new quilter - and I foolishly just bought a keyboard and teaching myself - WHAT WAS I THINKING 😂😂😂😂

[@kellymatthewman1340]

Don’t feel guilty, majority of us are just like you. I love quilting (machine sewing) knitting and crochet and since watching your channel I’m thinking of trying hand sew quilting. I won’t feel guilty putting my machine aside . Just keep doing what you fancy at the time X

[@maryking8586]

I stumbled across your site, just listened to your video regarding hand quilting vs machine. I had to smile. I am not a person that has ever enjoyed hand sewing of any type. I appreciate the talent it takes to hand sew. But I think it really is all about doing what you enjoy. I think it’s a little mean spirited for someone to remark “I don’t know why anyone would want a machine sewn quilt.” Just because you make something with your machine doesn’t mean you didn’t use your talent put your love of sewing into your project. However you create something, what ever method you use, you’re putting your heart into it.

[@dominika4902]

Oh boy, I have exactly the same guilt when I create something other than sewing (for example, I like renew small furniture). But I think that all creative souls have exactly the same. We have to feed our souls with new challenges 😊

[@LesleyStokes]

Hi Rachel. Please don't feel guilty - there's room for doing a bit of everything! As you have found with hand piecing, joints start to ache, the same as if you sit at a sewing machine your back starts to ache after a while. There is a time and a place for all your projects, EPP & crocheting fit into a bag and is portable whereas you need to be static when you are machine piecing. I'm finding that whilst I'm writing this comment I need to give myself a good talking to and not feel guilty about sitting and crafting. Take care - you're doing a great job! x

[@suehorn4182]

You’re not alone. Whatever you do have fun. I over think. Just do you and enjoy.❤❤❤

[@Woody1uk]

I have hand problems because I have MS and my hobbies are my lifeline… I had to stop hand sewing and knitting and that really bothered me for a while… then I thought about it hard and decided if I wanted to carry on the rest of my hobbies then it had to boil down to stopping the 2 things that where going to damage my hands permanently and stop me doing any of them… now I machine sew and do you know what… I am loving it and I’m still making some beautiful pieces. You do what you enjoy and never feel guilty for what you’re doing if it doesn’t effect anyone else xx

[@caroldavies1139]

Thank goodness for the sewing machine!! Paper piecing etc is so lovely but there's no reason why you can't do both. I've not met anyone who doesn't want a machine seen quilt. Just enjoy and go with the flow. Anyway you've got a lovely machine. Xxx

[@sandybecker245]

Do not feel guilty. You are doing the right thing picking just the projects you love, to hand sew. If you can cope with cheating further, consider the following..... I note you have ribbons of fabrics. There is a method of sewing the fabrics into 3 strips, cut into 1" then sew into 9 piece blocks. I'm sure you know what I mean. May make it even quicker? Ignore the Quilt Police, enjoy what you do and thankyou for sharing ❤️❤️❤️

[@patriciaallen3138]

I admire that you work with the small sizes. I don't like small pieces so I avoid anything small. You are wonderful!!

[@donnamcelhose1250]

As my Grandmother told me many years ago..."Throw your quilt out the window!" You cannot move forward living in guilt. You are so creative and there are many ways to achieve that end. Take care of yourself and enjoy your journey. I do so love your videos... they inspire me! You are giving back in all that you do. Keep on being brave and try new ways to create beautiful things!

[@dietcokelover123]

You should never feel guilty, just enjoy what you do. Lots of people love machine quilts; Erica Arnt and Missouri Star always make machine quilts and they look amazing (among many others). Like you I do lots of different sewing; cross stitch , hand stitching, EPP, machine sewing (quilts, bags and all sorts), I never feel guilty, I just love sewing. Also everything you make always looks beautiful and makes your home really cosy. Just enjoy whatever you’re doing.

[@letscleanhouse]

I love my sewing machines. To me a quilt is a quilt. The old timers definitely were glad to finally get sewing machines. Using a sewing machine is getting to be a lost art within itself.

[@marawarwick5145]

Rachel, what I hear when you speak is someone who enjoys learning new skills and for whom the accomplishment of building new skills is important. Crafting is your outlet for this. Why learn to knit when you can crochet? Why learn to machine piece when you can hand piece? Why learn to read patterns when you can sew quilts without them? Continuous learning and building skills throughout your life is a super important part of wellbeing. I am exactly the same as you. I have done all these things (although not in the same order, and there’s one rabbit hole that is very important to me that you don’t seem to have fallen into yet - hand embroidery!). I love to learn new techniques and skills - I take classes, I try new things, I watch youtube and think - let me have a go at that. I don’t need any additional craft hobbies, but I do need to keep learning. It counterbalances the stress of my work, it makes me feel whole as a person and it keeps me interested to continue to use craft as a way to destress and keep myself well. I’m quite a bit older than you and I have cycled through all these various crafts over the years, continuing to try new things and build new skills as I go. I come back to some techniques after many years with renewed passion. I’m glad I have built my skills in so many techniques and for me THIS is the accomplishment, not the number of finished objects. Please keep up the good work on the channel. I, for one, enjoy the variety of what you do and above all, I enjoy hearing your joy at learning new skills. That speaks to me. Best Mara

[@TracyWood-g6c]

I don’t understand why you would feel guilty if you’re inspiring so many people to make beautiful things. I flit from one thing to another all the time just enjoy the process and all the gorgeous things you make x

[@HesperidiumStitches]

Taking care of yourself physically and mentally(no guilt over loving many crafts) is always the most important

[@stitchingafterbedtime]

I’m so glad I found your channel. Instagram led me to your KZbin. I totally understand how you are feeling. I’m a machine quilter who is dabbling in hand piecing. I also cross stitch. Sometimes I feel like if I am hand piecing then I could be cross stitching and visa versa. I like how portable hand piecing is though. I think we place expectations on ourselves and then feel like we don’t meet the goal if we change our plans. I can’t believe someone would not want a quilt if it wasn’t hand pieced. There are so many people in my life who love my machine quilted projects. It’s comments like that that divide our community. People are so talented and can do absolutely amazing things by hand and machine. I stand in wonder at all the talent when I go to the international quilt show. I hope that person has a change of heart. I think you just do what you love when it feels right to you. You make lovely quilts and projects. Enjoy yourself and have fun learning new skills. ❤

[@Nayomee1213]

Dearest Rachel, please don't let others make you feel guilty, especially when you're already feeling guilty all on your own! I promise those feelings of guilt will subside! As a recently turned 40yo 0_o...who has had arthritis in the hands since early 30s...we must do what we must, to still enjoy the crafts that we love! I have had similar guilt, when switching from crochet to machine sewing...but my hands can not go as long as it used to! So now, crochet and EPP(thanks to you and your videos, bringing me back to a long discarded project) are my relaxing/before bed crafts, while the bulk of what I sew, are on my domestic/industrial machines. Do what brings YOU joy, and it will translate in your videos, which will make watching you/crafting along side you, that much more enjoyable for all us! I truly do feel like your videos are like the best sit and chats with a lovely friend/cousin from "across the pond" lol. And let me say, big kudos to you, for machine quitting 1 inch pieces 0_o, without using paper or batting!! Honestly though, the patience you have is astounding!! 👏👏👏🤗🤗🤗💖💖💖

[@kathyeckert8052]

I also love hand sewing but I do use the sewing machine a lot. And no guilt feeling at all. The sewing machine has a place in my projects , but my love is hand sewing. Also embroidery and crocheting. Love to watch you on KZbin!

[@ZoeT906]

I am a bunny hopper Quilter tie blankets, making homemade paper and types of crafts and I enjoy it all.❤

[@helenaMe325]

213, now 214, comments and all I've read so far, are supporting you quilting any way you like! I am sure it is 100%! Number one, you must look after your health and your hands are telling you they need a break so it's a no brainer. You have fantastic skills to pass on from anything you do so try to not worry about it 🥰🥰 Just look after yourself before anything else 💜💜

[@cheriduman8122]

Please don’t feel guilty. You are a quilter that enjoys the art of quilting whether it is hand quilting or machine quilting. I never heard anything more ridiculous , I never had anyone turn down a quilt just because it was machine pieced. Please continue making your shows. I love all the content and I am sure I will love the machine quilting also. It is your sweet personality that keeps everyone coming back to watch.

[@KimtheElder]

Enjoy the skills you've built in all of the areas ❤ I had someone close to me disaparge my hand sewing I was proud of, but also the "large" stitches someone hand stitched with. It shut down my creativity for 30 plus years. Now at 63 I said, ENOUGH! I want to learn and do ALL of the things - whatever it is at the time and in what ever manner I choose. You are still young - BE YOU. You were made to be YOU

[@wkowa1089]

Don't feel guilty because everything you do by hand or by machine is time consuming and in the end you are getting a master piece. Enjoy all of the crafts you do.

[@annettegraff8323]

I truly understand your dilema ! Ive got too many tops to quilt by hand Ive a bit of arthritis in my dominant hand from cutting fabrics at a craft store. So Ive decided to pick a small project to hand quilt and a tiny bowtie to hand piece ! It will be a pick up and go project and finished blocks stscked on a thread until enough are done to work with! No guilt just a feel good thing ! My grandma used a machine on gift quilts for children and people that may not appreciate finer work ! Anyhow, its all about the process in my book and the journey! 🎉❤

[@gem_esprey]

My first time watching you and I’m here to stay. I was recently chatting with a crafty friend about guilt in doing crafts when there are other things that need doing as someone had made a comment to her about pulling up a weed in the garden instead of relaxing even though she’d been at work all day! We reminded ourselves that we are grown ups and we can do whatever we want! 😊 All your quilting looks beautiful and I hope you will continue to make whatever you want, however you want to make it x

[@gdizzle_bonn1213]

I have sewn a few quilts on my machine and I love them. I am getting better all the time but I do also love to hand stitch so I'll do embroidery, cross stitch or just recently Sashiko. I'm dipping my toe into epp also but I just love being creative. My guilt stems from not sewing anything for a few days or weeks and I'm not sure why I feel like this, so you are defo not alone. Have a great weekend 🥰

[@juliedennis8733]

It's not about what you do, it's about who you are. Quilting is quilting as is doll making and any creative fabric craft. I watch your channel because I like to watch your process and I love your passion for fabric, which I also have. I want them all. It's wonderful that you change it up as it gives me the confidence to know that what I do is also ok. I like to do everything and sometimes feel guilty that I am not a purist. Do everything and love it. It will just broaden your audience as well.❤

[@catherinehenderson4670]

Enjoy and revel in each and every skill you have learned. I am 70 years old and, for over 50 years have said, if it can be done with needles, I do it. My mother taught me to knit so long ago, I cannot remember a time when I didn't know how. Around the age of 10, my grandmother taught me how to sew and basic dressmaking, skills which I supplemented with lessons with a real couturier in my late teens and early twenties. Inspired by my other grandmother, I taught myself needlepoint in my final year of high school (and am currently finishing off a piece started by my great-grandmother over 100 years ago - better late than never). Towards the end of high school, I became interested in weaving and my parents supported this interest by getting me a 36-inch floor loom. When I was in my mid-twenties, I took up quilting. When I married and started to have children, I learned how to smock. Through a mom's group, I started cross stitching. This expanded into an interest in crewel embroidery. Now, almost 50 years later, I still enjoy all of these arts (along with baking and cooking). For many years, I resisted starting any new crafts, given all my existing creative outlets and various stashes but this past Christmas I broke down and started to explore punch needle work. I am enjoying this new challenge. Now retired and with more free time available, quilting, knitting and needlepoint are my main go-tos. My quilts are either hand or machine pieced and always hand quilted ( I have never perfected machine quilting). I find contentment and satisfaction in my various projects and am completely unapologetic about new acquisitions, the size of my many stashes, and the unwashed dishes. You have inspired me to start a quilt-as-you-go project with Tilda fabric pieces I have. I have also started collecting Liberty. Thank you for your videos.

[@shellilayman1943]

Oh sweet friend!! Please do not let a few sad comments derail your beautiful journey of quilting!! I, like you, started with hand sewing because I didn’t have the confidence to use a machine but as I continued to learn and grow I became a machine quilter & have only recently gone back to hand sewing (which I absolutely love doing). You moving to new techniques is wonderful because you are growing your skills and that is always a good thing! Keep up the great work and I have had to learn to take a few days off of hand sewing to give my hands a rest as well. You could try compression gloves. They really do help. ❤❤

[@nicola.p]

Fibre and textile crafts are often viewed differently to other hobbies. We are expected to put in all the manual labour and get accused of cheating when we use a tool like a sewing machine or a knitting machine. But nobody is berating the carpenter for using an electric saw over a hand saw, a baker for using a mixer rather than kneading by hand, a mechanic for using electric wrenches, a gardener for using an electric mower. So ignore the guilt and do what you enjoy and what works best for you.

[@stitchwithrachel]

Why use a lawn mower when you could use kitchen scissors 🤣

[@barbarameikle8265]

Not to worry, it’s better to give your hands a break and you can still do your hand quilting. I learned a long time ago in order to get every quilt done I’d like to make I need to use the machine. I have been quilting since the 1970’s and I have still not made all the quilts I’d like to. I enjoy it so much it’s all I want to do! Don’t feel guilty and that one comment about people not wanting a quilt unless it’s hand made I think is way off base. I get all my quilts quilted by a long arm quilter and I admire you for your hand quilting.🥰

[@BryonyJenkins]

Oh my lovely, no one should make you feel guilty about your hobbies. I started quilting during lockdown and machine quilted my first 4 quilts. Then I found out that I liked to machine piece the tops and then hand quilt them. It’s your hobby and however you decide to do your hobby is absolutely the perfect way to do YOUR hobby. And if it’s any consolation, I’ve just picked up a tapestry that, I worked out, I started approximately 18 years ago.

[@sheilamiller1002]

I agree with all the other comments. If someone gifted me a quilt, be it hand sewn or machine stitched, I would be overjoyed. I understand the guilt thing, I go to a lovely quilting group but am often asked “have you finished…..?” whatever project they last saw. NO! I wanted to have a go at something else I have seen😂. You take care of you, and ignore those who are negative. They are probably not as happy as us crafters. X

[@BonnyCroft]

Hand sewing is your love, but you have a new love with the sewing quilts on the machine. I promise that your hand sewing days are not over , just maybe spaced out to rest your hands. I get sore thumbs with hand sewing so love to use a bit of both. You get a different joy from both, and to combine them you are just extending that joy to yourself and us as well. Always looking forward to your videos, I have learnt so much already. Much love to you.

[@mydanshi9683]

I just hand sewed an EPP quilt and was so happy when I finished it! I don’t think I’ll be ready to do another one for quite a while. Machine sewing it is for now. It’s natural to change it up so we don’t overdo one thing.

[@sabinemuckensturm5279]

Dont feel guilty. Give your hands a rest for a couple of weeks. Handsewing should be a fun and not a pain. Hugs from Vienna, Sabine 😘

[@jolenejones6548]

Keep sewing! No matter how you do it…you are creating! Love your chat video. You are wonderful

[@maria.b.this.old.cottage]

I feel the same and i decided that using the machine is the best way to go. I also suffer from hand pain due to knitting, crochet and hand sewing garments. But i had to be realistic, i couldn't continue hand sewing ...the pain was too much and i wasn't finding joy in the making. Don't feel guilty, the machine is an excellent tool to create with 😊

[@stitchwithrachel]

I am taking comfort in the fact that I'm not alone, hand pain seems to be a very common problem but not spoken about very much. I'm glad you are finding joy in your machine too 💖

[@bluemerlinmakes]

Enjoy both kinds of sewing, Rachel! They both have so much to offer. Take care of your hands and relish your newfound machine sewing skills 😊

[@TheNicolefowler]

You are certainly not alone! I have met a lot of women in the patchwork/quilting community that believe if it’s not all hand done it’s not good enough! I do both, I love hand piecing and I am learning more about machine piecing. I am older than yourself and yes your hands need looking after. I love your honesty and attitude. After all I think we just need to support each other in our creative journey! ❤

[@sallycooke6498]

Oh I so get your guilt! Why do we beat ourselves up?! Glad you are gaining confidence in machine quilting. I’ve made many on my machine and I have gifted many and no one has said “oh I would prefer it hand stitched! They are just pleased they have a hug in quilt form. Keep doing what makes you happy xx

[@kentvegplot]

You must do what gives you joy - you can’t please all of the people all of the time. Hand piecing and machine piecing are different skills - it’s not cheating, what you are doing is adding to your skill set. Be proud of that !

[@susanwinn7381]

I feel guilty when I choose to crochet rather than quilting. I have several quilts at various stages, I also intend to finish them before Festival of Quilts! I also have fabrics ready to make 3 more! I did finish one this week which is for my youngest great grandson’s first birthday and I’m really pleased with that. I look forward to seeing what you manage to get done in the next few weeks.

[@jilliedillie]

When I learned quilting in 1976, hand sewn was supposedly the only “legitimate” way. Well, the curved fan pieces repeatedly never matched up and so I ended up never finishing it out of frustration. Now we have rotary cutters and rulers and it’s amazing! And now long arm and free motion quilting! I’ve adjusted to that change by realizing quilts are being made that otherwise never would have been.

[@annetteburbach2174]

Why do women feel guilty? What your partner said was spot on!! The tools are invented to assist us. You are very creative , no matter which way you chose to make quilts. I enjoy your videos, very therapeutic to watch. From across the pond I say, let the guilt go.

[@AngelaTopping]

How dare people say nasty things to you! I love all of your content and have learned a lot from you already. It's fine to use whatever tools you need. Lots of quilts are made on the machine. I love hanging out with your videos. I love the way you keep it real and share the pleasure of making things, with your positive and friendly approach.

[@ElizabethW-h3n]

I enjoy handwork and machine work. Both are creative and have their place in our creative journey. Having several interests and creating in them keeps your creative juices going. 6:01

[@pauladickenson106]

Don't feel guilty, it's okay to do different things. I was having problems with a stiff hand with crochet and EPP. I now use a crochet hook with a handle and a longer sewing needle for hand sewing. I've also found I grip my mobile phone too much which can strain my left hand too. Hand exercises help. You could have RSI, so swapping to machine sewing now and again will help to rest your hand. Keep smiling and enjoying your craft. Ignore negative comments, real crafters know problems can arise because we craft so much! Love watching all your crafting. ❤

[@lynnecollins3284]

Never feel guilty. These projects are a way of relaxing and enjoying the process. Life is far too short. Yes rest your hands as I for one have bad hands,(from being a nurse for 50 years) and become very frustrated with the discomfort I feel when hand sewing. Using the machine more means more projects, so that has to be a fabulous thing 😂😂😂. Just love your videos.

[@lizbeery1452]

I live very close to the Amish. They are known for their hand pieced and hand quilted quilts. They also sell Bernina sewing machines and the q24,20 and 16 quilt machines. They know that we all have a limited amount of time to enjoy our craft. Why not enjoy all ways of quilting. A machine created quilt is as much a treasure as one hand sewn. Don't get hung up on how it is created. Enjoy the process you choose and the beauty of the finished product.

[@stitchwithrachel]

any quilt is created with love and enjoyment so thats all that should matter. Thank you for such a lovely and reassuring comment xx

[@angelameredith5105]

Rachel, you are such a beautiful soul! I love your videos and your honesty…I also love to see younger people interested in quilting and making beautiful things. I’m 60, and when I learned to quilt 20 years ago, my first quilt was hand stitched. I enjoyed it very much; I made a sampler quilt learning different techniques. I did finish the quilt top, and started hand quilting it, but haven’t yet finished it. I do love hand stitching; I have several EPP projects I’m working on, and embroidery, and want to do other hand projects like a Kantha quilt. But…I do love machine stitching and being able to finish a quilt or bag, pillow, etc… in a faster time frame. The joy and beauty about quilting, is that you have so many options. Just enjoy the process of each of your projects and how you to choose to make your beautiful pieces-either on a machine, by hand, crocheted or knitted-just enjoy!! Keep making beautiful projects and keep sharing with us! ❤

[@louisefrance8132]

I live abroad and I don’t have a sewing machine. I used to do embroidery and then discovered EPP two years ago. I’m on my third quilt (a temperature quilt) but I’ve started to experience pain in the forearm of the hand that I hold the needle in. I have to pace myself now, I’m 61 and I want my hands and arms to last for many years to come too! When I return to the UK, the first thing I’ll do is buy a sewing machine!

[@suepopoff3159]

I enjoy your honesty, we all beat ourselves up from time to time, we are only human. Take care of your self so you can enjoy all of your wonderful hobbies for many years. I also jump from craft to craft , I have many in the go, I eventually finish them but some are still in the ufo box! We never get bored! 🇨🇦

[@pennyking-cox8124]

Lovely of you to share your feelings. So many of us will understand. You’re young, with so much beautiful work to enjoy and complete ahead of you. Never feel guilty about learning new things. Feel proud of yourself for challenging your abilities, which are already varied and many. Wishing you much happiness in your crafting journey, there may come times in your life when one or more of your crafting pleasures will help you get through bad times. I think you can tell, I’m old!! But do speak from experience. Just keep on crafting, whichever type is right for you at the time. ❤️

[@debbieparrish4369]

Don't feel the guilt. Just make the quilt. It's nice to create whatever craft you enjoy. It could be worse. Imagine all the time you craft. You could be playing games on your phone or just sat watching the TV. Your spare time is your creative time and you are very good at what you make. ❤

[@janettebox3571]

Rachel don’t feel guilty and ignore the snarky comments. Just enjoy your crafting, let your hands rest for a while and use your machine. You can always go back to hand piecing when you feel you are ready to. You are still creating beautiful quilts! ❤

[@Colorful_Nest]

My goodness! I related to lots of things you said. I am not a content creator, but i do know that you will never please all of the people all of the time. Do what makes you happy and it's a bonus for us that you bring us along and show us what you're creating!

[@jenniferwatson6094]

Totally understand where you are coming from. As I have a desire to do more quilts than I have years or strength left, I have discovered miniature quilts, small quilts, cushions, table runners, bags etc which lets me try and finish new techniques or patterns or colours. Many end up as gifts which helps and nobody has ever rejected a machine sewn anything. I keep hand piecing/ quilting for special projects of any type I especially like. I also do several other crafts as many crafters do. These all use different skill sets and muscles. I liked your partner’s sensible advice. We don’t beat eggs and butter together by hand anymore for a cake( unless we want to) as we use our trusty mixers. Just enjoy your creativity Rachelbecause we enjoy seeing your endeavours. 😊

[@malnelson4045]

I could listen to you talk all day!!! I feel guilty when I’m choosing a craft over another.

[@teri2941]

Rachel, first let me say how much I enjoy watching you and your many projects. Then, from first-hand experience (I am 72), take care of your hands. I spent most of my working life typing on a computer and hobbies of sewing and gardening. All this led to intermittent hand and wrist pain. As I got older the pain increased and became more regular. Now it is difficult to do most things, even holding a book for reading. I still love to quilt and read, had to give up gardening. You have a lot of time ahead of you, and you can rotate amongst the things you love to do. No reason why not. Just take care of yourself for the future and enjoy what all you want to do in the present. I love quilting with my machine and have been hand sewing on a binding for 2 days now as it is slow going. Thank you for all you share. Enjoy every minute of what you love.

[@lindamclinden6275]

It's so true, we quilters are so hard on ourselves, just enjoy the process you're a beautiful quilter and person, thank you for doing what you do, you're my inspiration. .

[@stitchwithrachel]

Thank you for such a lovely and reassuring comment 💖

[@susieleam9950]

I say if someone doesn't want a machine quilted quilt, then don't give it to them!!! Find a more worthy person who will appreciate the love & time you put into your work. I like your channel & I can understand your accent!! Have a great summer & I look forward to your upcoming videos.

[@linvin18]

In crafting, we are constantly evolving, we do many different crafts. I switch from, knitting socks, crochet blankets, amigurumi, patchwork and Quilting, machine embroidery, dressmaking and gardening. I do whatever takes my fancy at the time. Oh I forgot, papercrafting as well. Never enough hours in the day is there, certainlg no time to feel guilty. You need to listen to your body, if you need to rest your hands, then do it. There is room to do all your crafts, so enjoy as and when the mood takes you. No more guilt. And Rachel, I love your vlogs. ❤

[@thestitchyreader2884]

I also have this perception that a project is more worthy if I hand sew it but it just isn’t realistic for the longevity of our hands! We need to be able to enjoy our craft for decades! 😊

[@LittleWorkroomCrafts]

Please don't feel guilty. As you know I like things traditional and I felt the same as you many years ago, but I told myself if machines were available all those years ago they would have used them. Carry on with your machine. Your work is beautiful. Big hugs xxx 🥰 🤗

[@Deb1Gilmore]

Dear Friend; please do not feel guilty at all! I'm 60 and have some arthritis in my hands. And like you, I love hand sewing. So, I made a deal with myself; I machine piece (unless its EPP) and do all my quilting by hand. Rachel your partner was 100% right about the choice of tools he uses. If you use a different approach to accomplish the same thing, your giving hands and machine a break 😄 And I don't even want to tell you how many projects I have going...it's bad 🤣Just keep on keeping on and enjoy all your talents!

[@ashleyquilter5524]

I have carpal tunnel, was diagnosed 20 years ago, so I definitely have to limit my hand stitching and quilting. I love both all the treasures that I can make by hand or by machine! There is no such thing as the quilt police haha! Do what you enjoy and post videos of whatever you want to share. Most of us will love it all❤️. Thank you for the video

[@frances-spiritodesign]

You should never feel guilty for creating beautiful quilts, whether they are hand or machine pieced. Your partner is right - the sewing machine is just a tool and is nothing without your creative input. Also you must look after your hands. I’m older than you and have recently experienced some hand pain after doing a lot of hand sewing so I am using my machine more and more lately and the results are beautiful and quick. I’m really looking forward to seeing your upcoming videos. You always make me smile 😊

[@helenaurelius-haddock4695]

Hi Rachel. I am in my early 60's and my hands really hurt too. I went to a sewing (machine) day on Saturday, and on Sunday, my hands were really painful. As you said, it was my non dominant hand that hurt most. I did a lot of tacking for cushion covers, so I guess it was from that. I've not done anything else this week, to make sure my hands get a good rest. You need to do the same. Thanks for sharing.

[@stitchwithrachel]

I'm sorry that you are going through that aswell! It's really frustrating isn't it. I am alot more conscious now about projects that might hurt my hands and stopping before they hurt, which has helped things.. along with using the machine alot more, but at least I'm sewing my stash faster on the machine 🤣 take care!

[@juliegoodwin5366]

Hi Rachel there’s no need to feel guilty any crafting makes us feel good whether is hand or machine sewn, just do what feels right at the right time, continue doing what you’re doing I love watching you create and have been inspired to try new things myself. 😊

[@barbalbers8920]

You are such a gentle, thoughtful, creative person. I'm not able to do much creative now because of demands on my time and painful arthritis in my hands, but I love watching you create. Your projects are beautiful no matter which technique you use. I'm so sorry that anyone would make you feel guilty, they need to just move along. Please know that the rest of us look forward to seeing you create and to listen to your enthusiasm and charm. Keep doing you!

[@stitchwithrachel]

Thank you for such a lovely and reassuring comment xx

[@lafranglaise3399]

Oh my goodness Rachel, I was speaking to a health professional about my guilt problem this afternoon !!!! Jumping from project to project, rarely finishing one etc.... & feeling inadequate. I started epp because I wanted to quilt but was afraid of using my new sewing machine (so felt guilty & useless) but once I'd mastered the handsewing technique I felt more confident & decided to have a go at using making a machine sewn quilt. Of course, I felt guilty for neglecting the "craft" of handsewn items. It's a lose, lose situation 😂 Luckily, we have people around us to tell us how silly we're being. ☺ You are not alone, ma belle & we must support all support each other 😘😘😘

[@stitchwithrachel]

You are right, we are very alike and just reading the comments I think alot of people have these feelings from time to time, but we must cast them aside and just enjoy our creativity 💖💖

[@elizabethsawyer5906]

A lovely video from a lovely person with a very smart partner! I’ve never hand stitched a quilt either pieced by hand or quilted by hand. It is not that I wouldn’t like to but being real my hands like yours complain. I satisfy my hand stitching urge by doing a little EPP occasionally and doing embroidery and my quilts I piece on the machine and quilt them on my friends long arm machine. If she didn’t have a long arm I would send them to a longarmer which when I first started quilting I thought was cheating but now I am wiser and know my capabilities and feel happy. I make lots of quilts for lots of different charities as well as for myself and the only guilt I feel is that I have a few unfinished and calling me while I am giving new projects my attention and the other guilt is having so much fabric in my stash and not getting round to using it as quickly as buying it🤪 I recommend putting all of our guilt in a suitcase and throwing it into the nearest river and just enjoy whatever we are creating today. Be proud that you are respecting your body by taking care of your hands. 💕

[@tracycharalambous5223]

Rachel DON'T FEEL GUILTY. Crafting like life goes through different seasons for every individual. All our seasons are different depending where you are in life & what's going on in it. You're enjoying machine piecing so take the pleasure & joy it gives you. You're enjoying exploring machine piecing & learning a lot as you go. Ref your hands have you tried the Sewtites magnets. They are small but strong & help hold your paper pieces together without getting in the way so you don't have to grip so hard. If I see you at the festival of quilts this year I'll say Hi whilst I also enjoy buying fabric I don't quite need yet. ♥️ Take care & thank you for a lovely podcast.

[@user-xm2rw2jb1z]

No, you're not alone. I have that guilt too. I want to hand stitch everything. Yet I see machine pieced quilts and think they are beautiful too. When I'm honest with myself and look at the number of patchwork, quilting, knitting and crochet projects I have and want to do and the time each one will take to do I come out in a cold sweat😅 As others say, it isn't about the completion but the construction process, however little gets done, that is good for us. Its not a race, despite seeing others complete many projects in super quick time (do they really enjoy the process?) It's our happy place after all! You've prompted me to, perhaps, get the sewing machine out from its dusty cover and do a little work at the machine to see how it goes. If it doesn't, I won't beat myself up, and neither should you; your work is beautiful.

[@zeinanaamani7282]

Agree entirely. Our hobbies should be fun and not a source of guilt. Do what you enjoy and is good for you and the health of your hands and it’s your passion for your projects that shines through and is so enjoyable. Having similar issues with my hands because of the stitching/crochet/sewing/quilting so I’m trying to alternate over the course of the week so I don’t spend too long on the same craft doing the same repetitive motions. I think I also need to take breaks more often even though it’s hard when a project is calling loud for me😂 By the way I recently found your channel and have been binge watching since. Thanks to you I was finally able to understand FPP! Looking forward to your upcoming videos

[@FranBenedict-r2y]

Your quilts are beautiful, whether hand pieced or machine pieced ! The process of creating your beautiful quilts doesn’t matter…..it is the end result that people look at. I have osteoarthritis in my hands and I machine piece all my quilts. Treat your hands with care…..machine piece most of your projects…..your hands will love you for taking care of them 😊

[@Mindfulstitchandjoy]

You are not alone! I have various projects in various different kind of craft in various states of progress 😇 knitting, crochet, sewing, quilting, sashiko, embroidery. Let alone all the projects I could make with the mixed media materials I have in my stash… and I too have to take care of my body so that slows down progress. I tried having one project at a time but I get bored easily so that didnt work out. So I accepted my multi project way of crafting and learned to skip the guilt. Hope you get there also!

[@TheHawkeyeQuilter]

I was going to ask before you said it, "Do you feel like machine sewing is cheating?" Oh, the guilt we put on ourselves. Give yourself mercy and grace. You have obviously proved to yourself (and others) that you do EPP and other hand stitching successfully; using your sewing machine is just another way to accomplish a project -- and as you have seen with your sampler quilt there are new things to learn/master with a sewing machine. I love the advice you rec'd re: the drill/screwdriver. I understand the guilt though -- it must be those of us that strive for the purist and perfectionist way of doing things. Pure & perfection is a combination that is surely an impossible standard to achieve and makes us fall behind on getting things done. Better to enjoy the process, Rachel -- whichever process you choose for the task. Abundant blessings to you.

[@stitchwithrachel]

We do put so much unnecessary pressure on ourself! like you say, its just about doing what you enjoy and enjoying the process.

[@LisaLisa-zl9vu]

My guilt is choosing to sew instead of cleaning the house!!😅 The machine sewn 9 patches will look great. I saw that project and said nope; I’m hand sewing hexi flowers as a long night project while watching tv. No rush. It’s for a king bed too! Help! But that’s as far as hand sewing for now. The rest is machine. Don’t fret. Just enjoy your machine. Husky’s are a good machine. Still using my 1990 Husqvarna

[@Kim-xg1vm]

Thank you for sharing. I am older and have found over the years that crafts/sewing/art is a process that needs energy, it is okay to let go of some projects, very freeing.

[@PaulaSlater-j8s]

When I saw the title, I thought it was going to be about buying fabric instead of using your stash or spending too much time quilting. Don't listen to the naysayers Rachel. Listen to your body. If your hands need a break, sew on your machine. We will enjoy visiting with you whatever you are working on. I feel guilty if I do a quick applique instead of needle turn. My hands are not failing, my eyes are. I need so much more light, I must do my applique next to a window. Have fun with your projects whichever tool you use. I started a Dear Jane about 10+ years ago. It's on the back burner. Need to get it out and finish it. Our quilt guild had a quilt show and I was able to finish 7 of my UFOs. That has really motivated me to continue. Enjoy making your tiny 9 patch blocks. They are adorable.

[@stitchwithrachel]

Oh yes I need to confess to that but I have no remorse 🤣

[@amydykxhoorn8844]

Your partner is so correct! I’ve had to cut back on hand work and space it out also. I was younger than you when I started having problems with my pain. I’m now in my 60’s, and still baby my hands, but I’ve made 100’s of quilts. I learned how to long arm quilt over 15 years ago. There is satisfaction in the speed of machines. I still love handwork, but I’m ok with enjoying machine work.

[@mary-annsmith2458]

Rachel your partner is a wise man! I've found as I get old that it really helps to swop between hand and machine projects. It also helps to wear a "crafters glove" for hand work. They're available from Amazon, and I'd think also craft shops in the UK. I also use Arnica, pills and cream. You've inspired me to order a copy of the Liberty sampler book!

[@btsimpson8328]

Use smaller stitches and chain piece when machine stitching small pieces. Send me any machine quilts that you don’t want. My grandmother was so proud of her machines. I have my great grandmother’s treadle machine. I was named for her. I like to think of her making my daddy’s tiny clothes on this machine. My mother sewed our clothes on this machine until she got her mother’s hand me down. It had zigzag! My grandmother bought one with cams that made 8-10 stitches. My 1st day of school dress had rows of every stitch in a rainbow of colors, all across the hem and bodice. I was so proud of my purple sundress, my grandmother made me an orange dress with the same stitching. When my own girls wanted handmade prom dresses, I opened up my treadle machine, bought new leather belts, and used the gatherer for the ruffle on their bums. Enjoy all your different forms of art. What a gift you have. One day you will be seventy and look back on all the fun of learning each craft. I have crochet, cross stitch, candle wicking, pottery, ceramics, hand stitching, machine stitching, many forms of painting, embroidery all around. I’ve covered a couch, made curtains and clothes; everything but knit. Made 5 baby booties-all different sizes and decided that wasn’t my craft. I inherited a tatting needle but never figured that out either. I’m new to quilting. I find it fascinating. Thank you for posting this video. I’m going to be brave like you and cut fabric one day and sew it on my fancy machine. I know all the grandmothers in my past would be proud to use this machine that can do embroidery, back stitch and make any stitch with the touch of a button. ❤

[@maxinebracey9176]

I enjoy many crafts and try different crafts on a regular basis. Some I enjoy and continue with, some are absolute disasters. The main thing is to remember that there are no hard and fast rules when creating - this is how we learn. Do what you are able to do when you're able to do it.

[@OllieandMay]

👏🏻👏🏻Yeah! To your Partner, he nailed it on the head!! You are a process maker it doesn’t matter if you do it by hand or machine you are still making a Beautiful Thing. Don’t let what other people get to you, everyone in this craft have their own way of doing things AND Definitely No Guilt what so ever…. Hats off to you for making the squares so Tiny!! With your hands, it’s a good idea to swap around with your projects, I’m finding the same thing now in my late 60’s with knitting, also the pain in your hands from crafting can also be coming from your shoulder and your posture with tension, I can definitely relate to the epp with holding the fabric in your left hand tightly, try to relax your shoulders and the tension in your hand. You are a Beautiful maker, now’s the time to adjust what suits you and pain management. ❤ from 🇦🇺. Maree