Back in July of 2021, JUKI asked me to become a Brand Ambassador, and I couldn’t have been more excited! Over the next few years, we worked together on several projects, producing training videos, project-based tutorials, and valuable resources for the quilting community. One of our biggest collaborations was Passport to Quilting, where JUKI sponsored dozens of designers to come together and provide quilting inspiration for tens of thousands of quilters worldwide.
Since becoming a JUKI Brand Ambassador, their machines have played a major role in my success, helping me quickly and accurately piece all of my samples and finish all of my quilts with precision. But beyond that, our partnership has given me the opportunity to connect with more quilters and expand my business in ways I never imagined.
Turning Ideas into Reality
For years, I dabbled in pattern design, occasionally releasing my own PDF patterns, but I always felt like I could take things to the next level. I knew that if I wanted to create professional-grade patterns with clear instructions and detailed illustrations, I needed to refine my process. That led me to seek out different software programs, learning everything I could about pattern writing and illustration.
I had drawings and designs tucked away for years, waiting for the right moment. In 2022, I finally released my first official pattern, Turntables. That was the turning point. Once I figured out my process, things took off. By the end of 2023, I was consistently producing new patterns, releasing them alongside video courses to help quilters complete their projects faster and with confidence.
The Growth of the Quilt Block Club
In 2023, I took another big step by launching my membership, the Quilt Block Club. This is where quilters who love to sew virtually come together and create projects in a supportive and inspiring environment.
That first year, we worked through my entire pattern catalog together. Then, in 2024, I took things up a notch by offering over 50 individual quilt blocks, which are now part of what we call the Quilt Block Library. This growing collection has allowed members to experiment with new techniques, build their skills, and create beautiful projects from a variety of blocks.
This year, we’ve introduced a Block of the Month program, Sampling of the Season. This program features a full-size quilt composed of several blocks that we work on throughout the year. Each month, new block patterns are released, and by the end of the year, participants will have completed a large, beautiful quilt. This program has been a great way to keep members engaged while giving them a structured approach to completing a quilt throughout the year. New members are encouraged to join at any time, though the club itself remains mostly closed (with the occasional opening for new members).
JUKI: The Backbone of My Quilting Business
One of the biggest reasons I’ve been able to achieve all of this is because of JUKI. Since 2021, JUKI has been my official machine sponsor, and their machines have played a critical role in my ability to produce patterns, create samples, and quilt efficiently.
When it comes to piecing, my JUKI TL-2010Q and DX-4000QVP are my go-to machines. These workhorses allow me to piece quickly and accurately, which is essential when I’m creating multiple quilt samples for pattern launches and quilt-alongs. Whether I’m working with complex blocks or large quilt tops, these machines keep up with my fast-paced workflow without missing a beat.
For finishing my quilts, I rely on my JUKI Miyabi J-350QVP longarm, set up on a 12-foot frame. This machine has been a game-changer for me. With its precision and ease of use, I can complete my quilts with the level of detail and quality that I expect. But what truly sets my setup apart is the automation package. This allows me to multitask in ways I never thought possible. While my longarm is quilting in the background, I can be at my sewing machine piecing another quilt—maximizing my productivity without compromising quality.
JUKI machines have been with me every step of the way, allowing me to take my business to new heights. From piecing to quilting, their reliability and precision have made it possible for me to bring my creative vision to life, time and time again.
Expanding My Reach: Printed Patterns & Nationwide Distribution
By the end of 2022, I took another major step forward—I started having all of my patterns professionally printed so that I could distribute them to quilt shops. While my local shops and online followers were quick to pick them up, my ultimate goal was to have my patterns distributed on a much larger scale.
I’m thrilled to say that I achieved that goal! My patterns are now available through the largest distributor in North America, making them accessible to quilt shops across the country. Quilters can purchase my printed patterns or digital PDF versions directly from my online shop, and as an added bonus, I also offer video-on-demand tutorials for each quilt pattern. While not required, these step-by-step videos help quilters complete their projects faster and with more confidence—something that has been a huge hit among my customers.
Overcoming Challenges & Looking Ahead
While 2023 was a year of incredible growth, 2024 brought unexpected challenges. In November 2023, I was diagnosed with breast cancer, and I spent most of 2024 undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments. It was a difficult journey, but I’m grateful to say that things are going well, and I’m back to doing what I love—quilting, teaching, and traveling.
Even during recovery, I remained active in the quilting community, continuing to host swap programs just like I had in previous years. In 2025, I’m keeping that tradition alive—we have six swaps scheduled, and we’ve already completed the first one.
I’m also hosting four Quilt-A-Longs (QALs) this year. We just wrapped up the first one, and the second is kicking off in March. These events have been an amazing way to bring quilters together, keep them motivated, and provide guidance as they work through a pattern.
Through it all, I never lost my passion for quilting. In fact, the experience only reinforced how much I love being part of this community. I’ve returned to traveling and lecturing across the country, sharing my love of quilting with others. In-person events have always been one of my favorite parts of this business, and I’m thrilled to be back to hosting Quilt Retreats and Sewing Workshops as well. I already have multiple retreats booked for 2025 and even more planned for the future. My lecture schedule is filling up quickly, and guilds are booking workshops, which means I’ll have plenty of opportunities to connect with quilters in person—something I truly love.
A Future Powered by JUKI
As I look ahead, I’m excited for what’s to come. My business has grown in ways I never imagined, and none of it would have been possible without the right tools. JUKI machines have been the backbone of my quilting journey, giving me the speed, accuracy, and reliability needed to turn my ideas into reality.
From pattern design to quilt-alongs, from membership programs to national distribution—every step of this journey has been stitched together with JUKI. I’m beyond grateful for the opportunities I’ve had, and I can’t wait to see where the next chapter takes me.
For now, I’ll be right here—sewing, quilting, and sharing my love for this incredible craft with quilters everywhere.
Nicole
sewinwithjuki.com 