Lina Owen was hooked on sewing with her first stitch. She teaches children to sew while helping them build confidence, patience, and problem-solving skills.
How long have you been sewing and quilting? How did you get started?
I started sewing in 2020. My mother-in-law had gifted me a sewing machine years before, but life was always so busy. During the pandemic, while working from home, I finally found a bit more time—and I asked her to teach me how to quilt. From that first stitch, I was hooked. I haven’t looked back since.
Tell us more about teaching sewing to kids. What inspired you to begin teaching sewing?
Teaching sewing to kids lights me up. I started because I saw how powerful and healing creativity can be—especially for children. Sewing builds confidence, patience, and problem-solving skills. I wanted to create a space where kids could learn with joy, without perfection, and see what their hands are capable of. It’s amazing to watch them feel proud of something they made on their own.
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When you have time to sew for yourself, what kinds of projects are your favorite?
When I get a chance to sew just for me, I love making bags and quilts. Sometimes I’ll make a new tote or pouch for myself, or I’ll work on a quilt for my family. I find a lot of joy in gifting handmade things—it feels personal and full of love.
Where do you find inspiration for your projects?
Inspiration is everywhere for me—especially in my culture, my daughter, nature, and color. I’m often moved by memories, traditions, or something as simple as a bold floral print. Sometimes an emotion is enough to spark a design.
When it comes to creating, are you more of a planner or an improviser?
I’m a mix of both. I usually start with a vision or sketch, but I always leave room for flexibility. Some of my favorite pieces have come from going off plan and trusting the process.
Describe your creative space.
At home, my creative space is in the basement, so I do my best to make it cozy with the right lighting and storage solutions to keep things tidy. I love hanging seasonal quilts to bring warmth and personality to the space—though I definitely need more time to make a few more!
The studio where I teach kids is a completely different vibe—bright, colorful, and full of natural light. It’s a cheerful blend of modern and traditional, designed to spark creativity and make every child feel inspired the moment they walk in.
What is your favorite storage tip for your fabric and creative supplies?
Recently I started using small bins! Some are clear others are white; however, It makes everything easier to see/label and access.
What are the indispensable tools and materials in your studio? How do they improve your work?
A few must-haves: my rotary cutter, seam ripper, a good pair of scissors, Wonder Clips, and my Oliso iron. They speed up the process and help with accuracy. I also love my wool pressing mat—it makes such a difference when pressing seams flat.
Scraps. Saver? Or be done with them?
Oh, I’m definitely a saver. Scraps hold so much potential! I use them for projects when I teach my free kid workshops.
Are you a “finisher”? How many UFOs do you think you have?
I try to finish what I start, but I do have a few UFOs tucked away—maybe around 10. Some just need the right moment or fresh inspiration to come back to life.
Do you use a sketchbook, journal, or technology to plan or keep track of ideas? How does that help your work develop?
Yes—I use a sketchbook and sometimes my iPad for digital planning. Writing and sketching helps me process ideas and keep track of what’s next. It’s a creative brain dump that fuels new projects.
How often do you start a new project? Do you work actively on more than one project at a time?
I start new projects pretty regularly—every couple of weeks if I’m being honest. And yes, I always have multiple projects going at once. I love having different pieces in different phases: cutting, sewing, quilting, finishing.
Can you tell us about the inspiration and process of one of your works? How does a new work come about?
Inspiration often sparks from the simple desire to create—just the act of making something with my hands fuels me. I’m endlessly inspired by fabric itself—the colors, textures, and possibilities always get my imagination going. And without a doubt, the beauty and richness of my Hispanic heritage deeply influence my work. It’s woven into everything I create.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
“Finished is better than perfect.” That mindset has changed how I approach my work.
The creative journey is what truly matters. Sometimes a project doesn’t turn out exactly as I envisioned, but along the way, it transforms into something uniquely beautiful.
If I had given up because it didn’t match the original plan, I would’ve missed the chance to finish something I can now gift, admire, or simply enjoy.
How has your work evolved over the years? Is there a common thread (pun intended!) across the years?
My work has grown more personal and purposeful. It started as learning technique, and now it’s about storytelling, healing, and expression. The common thread is always heart—each piece carries a little piece of my story or someone I love.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and interested in your work?
I stay inspired by connecting with others—especially other Latina makers—and by teaching. I also take breaks when I need them. Motivation comes back when I give myself space to rest and dream.
Where can people see your work?
You can find me on Instagram at @blue_belledesigns or @quiltingwithlatinas and at www.bbdesignsshop.com or www.quiltingwithlatinas.com.
Interview posted June 2025
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