Joe has relocated to Missoula and started his own business (here comes the first "plug"). An artist in many mediums, Joe has started "Leather and Canvas" and focuses on handmade equipment for the outdoor sports person -- particularly the fly fishing fan. He started on an old sewing machine of his mothers and scouted yard sales as he would burn up machines. Everytime we visited them in college, we found a new creation (bag, pack, jacket, charcoal drawing, nude in oils, something! - His creativity knows no bounds).
Today, he is still a home based business but is growing in reputation and building a following. Check him out and be sure to link to some of his artwork. His journey is similar to a quilters -- a desire to design and produce original designs -- all on a sewing machine and by hand. We wish Jen and him the best. He's an absolute doll! http://www.leatherandcanvas.com/
I would not call Whittles a "quilt store" -- they are more of a "fabric store" that caters to quilters. And their prices reflect their approach to lower overhead than a quilt shop, a focus on value, and a lower cost of living than many locations. You cannot find better service, more helpful staff, and better regular priced fabric than Whittles. They are usually cheaper than the sale rack at the LQS! The Moda wide backs are wonderful and reasonable. So, if you're looking for a new source of fabric that doesn't break the bank - check them out. http://www.whittlesfabrics.com/
That's it from the world of temp living -- I hope you are piecing, appliquing, and quilting to your heart's content! Jan
