Close to My Heart by Laundry Basket Quilts

My mother taught me how to sew and Michael’s (my husband) grandmother and mom introduced me to quilting. I immediately fell in love with it – quilting is my life passion, it does not feel like a business at all. I began designing patterns seven years ago, and three years ago I started designing fabrics for Moda Fabrics.

Where does the name Laundry Basket Quilts come from?

Laundry Basket Quilts came from Michael’s grandmother. She used to put all the brand new just finished quilts in a big laundry basket and take them outside to hang them on the laundry line. We would sit on the grass and have our mini laundry line quilt show. When Grandma said, “Let’s look at the Laundry Basket Quilts,” you knew that you were in for a treat.

I love traveling, gardening and spending time with my family. Many times that’s what inspires me to create my designs/fabrics.

Close To My Heart is a collection that truly showcases how I feel about my friends and fellow quilters. I thought the name seemed so appropriate. One of the fabrics has messages that I would love to share and want others to share as well.

What’s going on in your studio now?

I have just published a new book, called Friendship Triangles, that will give quilters many ideas for fabric exchanges. I am also working on a brand new collection called Aloha. I want to take everyone on a trip without leaving their sewing room!

Edyta Sitar
Laundry Basket Quilts