I had a chance to talk with Alex Anderson at the last Quilt Market this spring…She is a busy woman, quilting, writing books, teaching and hosting her pod cast called “The Quilt Connection”—(also billed as a “radio show you listen to on your computer”.)

She has inspired many quilters through her books, television shows, projects and broadcasts.

At market, she talked about the inspiration for her book, “Alex Anderson’s Baby Quilts with Love”. (Retailing for around $17) In the book, she focuses on creating quilts that are “do-able” and fun for that “next generation” of quilters and young mothers…each pattern has a “binky” count associated with it. For example, if the quilt pattern is a “one binky” it is great for the beginner as well as the seasoned quilter.

Alex had on display many of the quilts from her book and all looked great. They may be simple to make, but with her fabric choices they made up to be stunning quilts. (See photo—sorry I got ya with your eyes closed, Alex!)

I also sew on an “Alex Anderson” edition of a Bernina sewing machine (See "dueling sewing machine" photos below)  So, I get to “play” with Alex nearly everyday.

Guest Writing

I asked Alex to be a guest writer on QuiltersBuzz to tell us what is going on with her lately.

Here is Alex:

“I have been sewing since I was a very little girl. It is only natural that my passion has become a life mission. “To educate, inspire and grow today’s quilting community” is my mantra. And it is safe to say, my vision is being met. Interestingly, I consider myself a quilter first, a personality second.”

Hosting Simply Quilts and DIY

Alex has had the privilege hosting Simply Quilts on HGTV (and recently DIY) for eleven years. When she came on board with the network, the viewing availability was shy of twenty million and now boasts of ninety million.

With 493 shows under her belt, Alex still stands amazed at the impact the show has had on people’s lives.

“When I am at an event, people comment that they feel like they know me. The fact is that if they REALLY knew me, they would quickly learn that HGTV cleaned up my act in a short amount of time.”

Alex’s wild and off beat sense humor was tempered in front of the camera, and for those who see her in person, they quickly realize that not only is she the girl next door, but someone you would want to take a road trip with.

Pod Casting --"Also Known As A "Radio Show" on your computer

Alex is often asked, so what are you doing with all your free time? She laughs and says, “Looking for it”. Currently she is enjoying her free on line radio show (pod cast), The Quilt Connection.

The show contains interviews with many of the industry greats as well as instruction and inspiration.

“The beauty of the pod cast is that there are no net work restrictions or time issues. Basically it is a free for all, where we can say and do what ever we want.I feel like I have gone to satellite radio”, she laughs.

Stay tuned tomorrow for more guest writing from Alex and info about upcoming books and projects and teaching events.

Check out her over 30 pod cast episodes here.


(See me and Alex with our Berninas!--I tried to strike the same pose...How did I do?

Photos thanks to Alex and my trusty digital camera.)