From London Fashion to Global Quilting: One Designer's Unexpected Path

Join host Misty Doan as she sits down with Nicola Walton, the innovative mind behind Daisy and Grace and the revolutionary quilt-as-you-go templates that have transformed how quilters approach their craft. Nicola shares her fascinating journey from being a fashion designer in London to becoming a quilting innovator whose techniques have captivated makers worldwide. Named after her two beloved grandmothers—creative Daisy and glamorous Grace—her company represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.Key Episode Highlights:Fashion designer in London transitioned to quilting entrepreneur after traveling the world with her husbandNamed her company "Daisy and Grace" after her two grandmothers - one creative, one glamorousCreated quilt-as-you-go templates because existing methods didn't allow proper positioning of materialsTemplates work for both hand sewing and machine quilting, making the craft more approachable for beginnersDesigns entirely in her head and with fabric - never uses digital design toolsTaught her mom to quilt, completing a full circle from her mom making all her childhood clothes"Be brave, have faith in yourself" - took 3 years before she realized it could be a proper businessWorking on her own fabric line and expanding beyond quilting into dollhouse projects and jewelryFewer quilters and shops than the US, many closed during COVID, but younger generation showing interestViews sewing as a form of adult play that releases and fulfills her creatively