The Brinkley's have moved from Austin, Tx across the country to Northern Virginia! This is where Matt (my husband and business partner) grew up. We moved here to be closer to Matt's parents, and are loving it! Especially right now as so many bulbs and trees are blossoming; it's a beautiful and auspicious time for a fresh start!
This isn't our new home, just one of the lovely historic buildings in this ridiculously charming Colonial town.
Davin enjoying this spectacular magnolia!
I think daffodils have to be the most joyful of flowers. As someone who grew up in Texas, they feel like such a delightful novelty, and I'm LOVING seeing them all over town.
We're staying in an Air B&B while we close on and renovate our new house. We were only in town for 2 weeks before we found and snagged the most darling house that we can't wait to move into, but needs a little TLC before we do.
We're also finalizing negotiations on a beautiful space to house the Shannon Brinkley Studio! It is walking distance from our home and in a great spot, PLUS is a beautiful old Victorian home that was a hotel in the 1800s. It has tall ceilings, crown molding, and a kitchen for my fabric dyeing!
I can't wait to spread out and make this as functional and creative a space as possible. So leave a comment below with your best studio organization tips and tricks and we'll give you a peak behind the scenes and share lots of photos as we set up our new studio space!
24 comments
Best of luck in your move. New studios are always exciting. I have several different machines as I think lots of sewers/quilters do. I find that tackle boxes (1 for each machine) work great for all of the different feet, bobbins etc. I label the side of the tackle box and even take it with me to classes.
I think I have 4 of them right now and they don’t take up much space!
Shannon, I don’t have any organizational tips or tricks right now but just want to say how excited I am for you and your husband! It is wonderful and scary at the same time to pick up and then set down in a new environment but I know you will make your new home and studio something totally amazing. Can hardly wait for you to share your adventures wiith us.
Shannon, what a wonderful opportunity for you and your family. There are lots of ideas out there for organizing your studio but I think the best overall discussions are from Lilo on the Quilt Show, She has also written a book that expands on what she has presented on The Quilt Show.
I also enjoy Karen Brown from Just Get it Done Quilts on YouTube from Canada.
I think there are a few overriding principles: 1. Lots of Natural light; 2. everything easily accessible; 3. Primary quilting tools (machine, ironing board and cutting table) (and for other stations) in close proximity for easy and fluid access at correct heights. 4. It should be a space you like and provides inspiration for creativity. I guess I could continue with suggestions but I have nothing really unique.
I hope this gives some things to think about.
Enjoy all of the creating as you transform your space.
Being a historical re-enactor I travel to Virginia every year! Colonial Williamsburg is a favorite. We begin construction on our addition soon, which will include a sewing studio for me.
Get rid of the ironing board and make yourself an ironing station. Mine is right next to my machine. It’s short enough that I can use it for a quick pressing while building a block, but tall enough that I’m forced to stand to give the block/quilt a really good pressing. Makes me stand up to keep the blood flowing. Enjoy your new space!