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Hi! I’m Jen Shaffer, wife, mom to four awesome kids, grandma, quilter, pattern designer, and lover of all things Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Penguins, flamingos, and the color purple. 💜
I’ve been designing quilt patterns for over eighteen years, and you can find my full library of designs in my Etsy shop. I mostly create patterns for beginner to advanced beginner quilters because I believe quilting should feel joyful, approachable, and just challenging enough to spark creativity. I love traditional quilts, English Paper Piecing, and a bit of hand embroidery for good measure.
We currently live in South Dakota, where we enjoy hot summers; glorious, harvest filled falls; spring days full of promise; and winters that absolutely freeze your lungs. Whether you are in Minnesota or South Dakota, some things never change. Ha!
My pattern-designing journey started many years ago with a miniature version of my very first quilt, Pinwheel Pizzazz. I originally drafted it using 1-inch squares (insert hysterical laughing). I still have those tiny pieces tucked away as a reminder not to go too small when I start something new. It doesn’t always work… but I try.
Every quilt pattern begins the same way: in my trusty graph-paper notebook with a mechanical pencil. Once the sketch feels right, I draft every step, cutting, assembly, the whole process, on college-ruled loose-leaf paper. Only after everything is mapped out by hand do I move it into my digital programs. I’m a little old-school, and I love it that way.
Before any pattern heads out to my testers, I make it myself to ensure it’s accurate, clear, and enjoyable to piece. My goal is simple: to encourage new quilters and give seasoned quilters something fun to stitch.
Thank you so much for visiting my corner of the quilting world. I’d love to hear from you, feel free to leave a comment or send me an email anytime.
I've never been to Minnesota...but I love your description of freeze-your-lungs winters.
ReplyDeleteOK, Jen. I just finished reading every single post of yours! I enjoyed seeing all the projects you are working on and the designs you have made. I especially like the PBJ idea. Clever! :)
ReplyDeleteHappy Easter! Could you please fix the link for the April Color Challenge block, I could not find another link anywhere. Thank you for your time...
ReplyDeletewhere are the instructions how to cut the January yellow blocks
ReplyDeleteI sew enjoyed looking at all your lovely quilts. Your choice for Pat's Morrison Park is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI am trying to follow your blog but can't find a working link. Please help!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Paula