Satomi Hoar designs quilts inspired by her daily life and the world around her. Her husband’s mother assisted her with her first quilt and she hasn’t stopped! Fascinated by how quilt patterns are created, she felt a need to create her own designs.
How did you get started quilting? Designing your own quilt patterns?
I began quilting nearly ten years ago when my husband’s mother, an experienced quilter originally from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, offered to teach me. The first quilt I made with her assistance changed my life! I’ve been making quilts and handmade items for my family and for local charitable causes ever since.
Quilting has been my hobby for a while but I had the privilege of testing the patterns for some other quilt designers. It was so fascinating how patterns are created. After completing many of the quilt projects, I felt almost a need to create new quilt designs to reflect myself as my interest in quilting grew. So I decided to jump into it!
When was the first time that you remember realizing that you are a creative person?
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about our affiliate linking policy.
When I finished my first hand appliqué block!
Where do you find your inspiration for your designs?
I find inspiration from my daily life, things around me, nature and where I travel.
When it comes to creating, are you more of a planner or an improviser?
I plan first then I change things around as I go. Seeing the project in front of me gives me better ideas or the way to create.
Do you use a sketchbook or journal? How does that help your work develop?
I use EQ8 to design the quilts and I draw everything directly on EQ8. And save the projects on my PC.
Are you a “finisher”? How many UFOs do you think you have?
I love making quits but I don’t finish them immediately. I have over 20 quilt tops in my closet. But most of them are my early work before becoming a quilt pattern designer.
Do you have a dedicated space for creating? If so, what does it look like?
I don’t have a studio or quilting room for myself. I use half of our bedroom to work. My dream is to have my own room but I’m grateful that I have the space to create what I love!
When is your most productive creative time?
After dinner time. It’s the end of the day and it’s my time!
How often do you start a new project? Do you work actively on more than one project at a time?
Usually I have multiple projects going on. Sometimes I start a few new projects at the same time or I start a new project when I’m done with one I was working on.
How has your work changed over time?
I’ve been working by myself since I started pattern designing. I have had more opportunities to work and collaborate with other pattern designers, fabric companies, quilt magazines and sewing related companies in the past few years.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and interested in your work?
I take time off and away from work. I really need this time so that I don’t feel stuck with what I do. Being away from work gives me more ideas or a different viewpoint.
When you have time to create for yourself, what kinds of projects do you make?
Something I can use like tote bags or small handmade items.
What (or who) has been your biggest inspiration in keeping your creative energy going?
Joy of creating something new and my mother-in-law who taught me quilting!
What trends do you see in quilt designs today?
Large scale designs. Curved piecing designs. Modern designs inspired by traditional quilts.
Tell us about your blog and/or website. What do you hope people will gain by visiting?
Visit my website www.satomiquilts.com for inspirations to create! You can find over 20 quilt patterns, block patterns and foundation paper piecing patterns. Most of my patterns are beginner/advanced beginner friendly. And let me help you to get started with the fabric bundles and quilt kits!
Interview posted April 2023
Browse through more inspiring interviews with quilters on Create Whimsy.