Name: Karen Womack
Business Name: Quiltstyle
Website: www.etsy.com/shop/quiltstyle

What kind of items do you make?
Tote bags, knitting needle cases and other organizational items for knitters and crocheters. I also sell wool fabric and gift items.

How long have you been an indie artist?
About 10 years. I vended at craft fairs prior to opening my Etsy shop in 2009.

What got you interested in your art of choice?
Lack of bags available for knitters and crocheters. They weren’t pretty enough or the appropriate size for projects and yarn.

What do you most enjoy about what you do?
Creating items that are beautiful and useful as well. I love to make, and purchase, handmade.

What makes your creations unique?
The texture of my fabric. Most of my bags are made from machine quilted fabrics and recycled art quilts. I am also a quilt maker and teacher, and have lots of sample pieces that are incorporated into my items.

Do you have a favorite item or colorway?
My favorite item is an African print bag that I made to hold small knitting projects. The colors are brown and teal. It’s very simple, but the fabric makes it striking.

How is the fiber arts world different for you today than it was five years ago?
The advent of surface design. Five years ago you didn’t see too many quilts incorporating yarn and felting. Fiber artists with basic sewing and quilting skills are now being accepted into quilt shows. I see knitted earrings in magazines. Indie artists are becoming more adventurous. The possibilities for creating a one of a kind item are endless.