Content Warning: This episode contains discussions regarding sexual assault and rape in the context of the book Know My Name. Listener discretion is advised.

Welcome back to the show where we dive deep into the world of high-stakes packing and heavy-duty quilting! Today, Leslie and Rochelle break down the ultimate strategy for a 12-day European river cruise, proving that less really is more. Rochelle drops some serious travel wisdom, challenging Leslie to ditch the heavy bags for a svelte 28-pound max checked bag. Between swapping out jeans for essential meds and extra outfits, they’re making sure no one gets left behind at the terminal. It’s all about staying mobile while preparing for a dream trip across the pond.

When they aren't talking travel, these two are masterfully navigating the world of custom quilts and upcoming retreats. We get the inside scoop on Leslie’s new sewing machine and her ambitious Summer Sew Along video plans. Rochelle shares updates on her massive 168,000-stitch projects and the excitement building for the Ship Shawana retreat this September. They even find time to reflect on family heirlooms and the art of downsizing without losing the memories. Grab your favorite Cozy Earth robe and settle in for a chat that’s as warm as a fresh quilt!

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Follow Leslie on Instagram at @leslie_quilts and Rochelle at @doughnutwarrior

Hi everyone, and welcome back to another crafty catch-up session where we dive deep into the world of stitches and surprises! In today’s episode, Leslie and Rochelle dish on everything from high-speed industrial sewing machine dramas to zebra-patterned desk makeovers in Texas. Leslie is currently battling a missing white wire for her new 5500-stitch-per-minute beast, while Rochelle shares tales from a "ladybug" camper and a furniture painting retreat. They explore the emotional side of creating, discussing a touching story about acrylic templates made in honor of a sweet girl named Camden. Between navigating tornado warnings and planning for a massive Paris trip, these two are keeping their needles moving and their hearts full. We even get a peek into Leslie’s workspace reorganization where her 12-foot table is finally taking center stage for those big projects. It is a whirlwind of technical troubleshooting and artistic inspiration that you definitely do not want to miss!

Moving from hardware to heartstrings, the duo reflects on the "Welcome to Holland" analogy for raising children with disabilities and finding beauty in the unexpected. On the technical side, Rochelle gives us the masterclass on thread management and why facing might just beat binding for your next masterpiece. Leslie is gearing up for her Stripology retreat, strategically ordering extra panels for her One Block Wonder to ensure the back looks just as good as the front. There is also a call to action for the listeners as Leslie prepares to send fabric scrap photos to Lorraine for some creative upcycling ideas. Whether it’s using EQ8 software to plan your next Pastel Prairie quilt or learning to use clips over pins, this conversation is packed with pro tips. They remind us that even when life throws a literal tornado your way, there is always time for a little decoupage and community. Grab your favorite beverage and settle in for a chat that feels just like sitting in the sewing room with your best friends!

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Support the show

Follow Leslie on Instagram at @leslie_quilts and Rochelle at @doughnutwarrior

Today, we’re catching up on everything from dental checkups to high-stakes library presentations. Rochelle just returned from a Nebraska fundraiser where she stepped up as a keynote speaker to talk all things literary quilts, including that stunning Anne of Green Gables piece. We also dive into some "quilty" lifestyle updates, like Lance’s new tallow soap-making venture—which the cat, Petey, finds a little too interesting. Between vision updates and dental wins, it’s clear we’ve been busy staying sharp and healthy. We even chatted about the realities of modern parenting and how much the classroom has changed since the 80s.

The adventure doesn't stop there because we’re talking travel and big wheels! Leslie's friend, Christa just snagged a motor coach, and we’re already planning the logistics of driving the bus to Kansas City for some classes with Angela. We also shared some essential travel hacks for Leslie’s upcoming Paris trip, covering everything from electric blankets to the best way to handle currency. To wrap things up, we shared a truly moving story about a tattoo artist honoring sobriety milestones one day at a time. It’s a packed episode full of laughs, life lessons, and plenty of fabric talk. We’re so glad you’re tuning in!

Send us Fan Mail

Follow Leslie on Instagram at @leslie_quilts and Rochelle at @doughnutwarrior