Have you all been following the debate on Humble Quilts? On her blog this week, Lori posted a thoughtful comment on how in her opinion, quilting magazines have not been all that exciting lately. In fact, she feels the quality is so lacking that she is letting her subscriptions go (even to American Patchwork & Quilting!).
You should go read the comments she got. Fascinating. So many people completely agreed with her and said they were going to let their subscriptions lapse, or stop buying the magazines at the store. I even left a comment saying I got more excited about the patterns in my old issues than I do for the ones in recent issues. I will still buy, but the thrill is less than it used to be.
One of her readers sent a link to Lori's post to the editor of AP&Q, and Elizabeth Beese, Senior Editor, sent her a personal response. Elizabeth's reply was so gracious and full of questions on what could be done to make the magazine better. Her sincerity showed through her words, to me anyhow. What designers interest us? What sorts of patterns? Would we like more primitive designs? What could they do to improve?
The really interesting part of the whole post was the comments from readers, who were really forthcoming in what they felt. Last I looked there were over a hundred comments to Lori's two posts on the subject, and most of them were in agreement that the quality of quilting magazines is less than it used to be. I really recommend that if you haven't been following it, you might want to check it out at Humble Quilts.
The most recent issue of AP&Q that I could lay my hands on quickly was the April issue. I had breezed through it right when I brought it home from the store, but hadn't looked at it again. And I am a person who used to sit for hours studying the latest issue and sticking Post-It notes on the projects that interested me. So, I picked up the April issue and gave it another look.
I don't know exactly why I wasn't that inspired. There was a great quilt by Homestead Hearth in Civil War pink fabrics, and a lovely patchwork and applique quilt by Kim Diehl. Over all a nice mix of advanced patterns and a few that would be ok for a beginner. There was a balance of projects using modern fabrics and traditional fabrics. A very good article about Kaari Meng of French General. There should have been something in that issue for everyone.
I just do not know why I wasn't bowled over, as I may have been in the past. Am I getting jaded and it is going to take a real stunner to wow me? Am I like a teenager who plays too much violent video games and gets immune to violence? You know, how it takes more and more to thrill them? God forbid, are we like prescription pain pill addicts who need more and more to get that good feeling?
The whole debate made me wonder if it is the magazines that have changed or if it is we consumers.
106 responses to “Is It Them, Or Is It Us?”
You know, what I am finding is that I get more useful information by reading through my blogs than I do by looking at the magazines. I think we have so much information (free) at our fingertips in blogs and YouTube tutortials, that the magazines simply need to find a new niche that is not being met by the internet.
You know, what I am finding is that I get more useful information by reading through my blogs than I do by looking at the magazines. I think we have so much information (free) at our fingertips in blogs and YouTube tutortials, that the magazines simply need to find a new niche that is not being met by the internet.
I think it is us , the consumers. Before, to see new ideas ,I waited each month for my mags to arrive, now I can see new ideas and techniques each day on the thousands of blogs. I actually think there is so much out there that I have a bit of creativity burnout…
I think it is us , the consumers. Before, to see new ideas ,I waited each month for my mags to arrive, now I can see new ideas and techniques each day on the thousands of blogs. I actually think there is so much out there that I have a bit of creativity burnout…
Sometimes I feel like information overload. Sometimes I need to step away from it all and just create.
I do think it is partially the change in what we as consumers expect and now that we can get so much information and inspiration daily on the computers reading magazines somehow pales in comparison.
I also wonder if the newer quilters still get that excited feeling when a new magazine comes out?
Sometimes I feel like information overload. Sometimes I need to step away from it all and just create.
I do think it is partially the change in what we as consumers expect and now that we can get so much information and inspiration daily on the computers reading magazines somehow pales in comparison.
I also wonder if the newer quilters still get that excited feeling when a new magazine comes out?
I totally agree with the previous two comments. I truly believe that the magazines are going the way of newsprint. There is just so much info available for free on the internet that finding inspiration is not a problem. I actually dropped all of my subscriptions and only occasionally buy the “specialty” issues if I see something on the cover that intrigues me.
I totally agree with the previous two comments. I truly believe that the magazines are going the way of newsprint. There is just so much info available for free on the internet that finding inspiration is not a problem. I actually dropped all of my subscriptions and only occasionally buy the “specialty” issues if I see something on the cover that intrigues me.
I think a lot has to do with how much access we have to blogs and designers online. We see so many wonderful quilts online, that when we get the magazine, we think….ugh…..I’ve seen this a million times….or hmmm….this is okay. I do think that they need to have more quilts made from mixed collections. A lot of people have an over abundant stash…they need inspiration to use it. With the unstable economy we need to shop our stash more. Let them show us scrappy quilt patterns.
I think a lot has to do with how much access we have to blogs and designers online. We see so many wonderful quilts online, that when we get the magazine, we think….ugh…..I’ve seen this a million times….or hmmm….this is okay. I do think that they need to have more quilts made from mixed collections. A lot of people have an over abundant stash…they need inspiration to use it. With the unstable economy we need to shop our stash more. Let them show us scrappy quilt patterns.
You have put my thoughts into words! Well written! I have bought every single issue of Quilt Sampler except for the last one. I flipped thru it in the store and nothing caught my eye. I used to study it with a magnifying glass! I too find inspiration on the blogs and have let all of my subscriptions go. I will go over to Humble Quilts and see what others have said.
You have put my thoughts into words! Well written! I have bought every single issue of Quilt Sampler except for the last one. I flipped thru it in the store and nothing caught my eye. I used to study it with a magnifying glass! I too find inspiration on the blogs and have let all of my subscriptions go. I will go over to Humble Quilts and see what others have said.
I myself have been quilting for over 25 years and have done it all. I don’t even find quilting classes of any interest now. I am sure magazines still have a lot to offer new quilters.
I myself have been quilting for over 25 years and have done it all. I don’t even find quilting classes of any interest now. I am sure magazines still have a lot to offer new quilters.
I agree – but I think it’s a bit of both – magazines not that exciting and we get to see such a lot on the internet. I’m at same stage as Pamela where I’m unlikely to learn anything new in a class because after 30 years I have pretty much seen it all. Sad, but true, and I think a lot of the quilting blogs that are around are more exciting and more in touch with modern life than the magazines are.
I agree – but I think it’s a bit of both – magazines not that exciting and we get to see such a lot on the internet. I’m at same stage as Pamela where I’m unlikely to learn anything new in a class because after 30 years I have pretty much seen it all. Sad, but true, and I think a lot of the quilting blogs that are around are more exciting and more in touch with modern life than the magazines are.
I’ll have to go over and read the original post. But I have two thoughts. 1. I find all magazines less inspiring than they used to be just a few years ago, not just quilting mags. I think it is becuase they have cut back on editorial staff as their budgets have shrunk with fewer pages of advertising supporting the costs. And 2. I have more sources of inspiration now. The internet is serving a purpose previously filled only by quilting magazines, so the magazines have to work much harder to bring me something other than what I can get free on websites, blogs, and Pinterest.
I’ll have to go over and read the original post. But I have two thoughts. 1. I find all magazines less inspiring than they used to be just a few years ago, not just quilting mags. I think it is becuase they have cut back on editorial staff as their budgets have shrunk with fewer pages of advertising supporting the costs. And 2. I have more sources of inspiration now. The internet is serving a purpose previously filled only by quilting magazines, so the magazines have to work much harder to bring me something other than what I can get free on websites, blogs, and Pinterest.
I have to jump in. The issue you spoke of, I actually liked better then the very latest. I do think a lot of readers have hit it on the head that it is about selling lines of fabric, kits and products.
The Australians continue to be innovative, stretching the quilting boundaries. I am not seeing that with American designers or magazines.
I have to jump in. The issue you spoke of, I actually liked better then the very latest. I do think a lot of readers have hit it on the head that it is about selling lines of fabric, kits and products.
The Australians continue to be innovative, stretching the quilting boundaries. I am not seeing that with American designers or magazines.
Nicole, I have a question for you or any of your followers who subscribe to AP&Q…Do any of you find that the issue you receive in the mail, is sometimes different than the ones that go on the shelf in your LQS or grocery store? And I’m not talking about the special issues they insist on temping us with and won’t include in our subscription…like the “Shop Hop” issues. I don’t have the $$ to buy both and if I did, I’d rather use it for fabric or quilting notions. Hugs…
Nicole, I have a question for you or any of your followers who subscribe to AP&Q…Do any of you find that the issue you receive in the mail, is sometimes different than the ones that go on the shelf in your LQS or grocery store? And I’m not talking about the special issues they insist on temping us with and won’t include in our subscription…like the “Shop Hop” issues. I don’t have the $$ to buy both and if I did, I’d rather use it for fabric or quilting notions. Hugs…
After reading the posts/comments on both Lori’s and your blog I’m wondering if this is one more example of how it is generally becoming in modern life? Society seems to be moving toward instant gratification and magazines can no longer compete. When internet ‘shops’ and blogs offer immediate access to new ideas, patterns, designers, fabric lines and more how can periodicals compete? Thanks for letting your readers know about this thoughtful discussion!
After reading the posts/comments on both Lori’s and your blog I’m wondering if this is one more example of how it is generally becoming in modern life? Society seems to be moving toward instant gratification and magazines can no longer compete. When internet ‘shops’ and blogs offer immediate access to new ideas, patterns, designers, fabric lines and more how can periodicals compete? Thanks for letting your readers know about this thoughtful discussion!
I was a subscriber to AP&Q for years, probably since the beginning of this publication. Can’t say that I have every issue, but pretty close. I do agree that the older issues have more patterns and articles that I enjoy, and I am so glad I saved them. It’s like going through them again for the first time. Another bummer is back in April I did not receive my magazine. So I emailed the company. I was informed that my subscription had run out. WHAATTT????? How come nobody told me????? I have not received anything in the mail concerning my subscription except back at the holidays when they wanted me to extend my sub and the gift sub I had given my friend a couple of years ago. I did not resubscribe, for the very reason that everyone has mentioned. Magazines are becoming too costly with too many ads and not enough content. So I am letting most of my subscriptions go.
I was a subscriber to AP&Q for years, probably since the beginning of this publication. Can’t say that I have every issue, but pretty close. I do agree that the older issues have more patterns and articles that I enjoy, and I am so glad I saved them. It’s like going through them again for the first time. Another bummer is back in April I did not receive my magazine. So I emailed the company. I was informed that my subscription had run out. WHAATTT????? How come nobody told me????? I have not received anything in the mail concerning my subscription except back at the holidays when they wanted me to extend my sub and the gift sub I had given my friend a couple of years ago. I did not resubscribe, for the very reason that everyone has mentioned. Magazines are becoming too costly with too many ads and not enough content. So I am letting most of my subscriptions go.
Nicole, I have just been thinking this same thing for the past few months. I thought it was just me! I was wondering if it was because I have been reading the quilting mags for almost 20 years now, and the “thrill is gone”???
Nicole, I have just been thinking this same thing for the past few months. I thought it was just me! I was wondering if it was because I have been reading the quilting mags for almost 20 years now, and the “thrill is gone”???
I, too, am underwhelmed by the magazines of late. I think there is less content and more ads, but I just find the patterns are boring. Maybe I’m not ready to go back to the 80’s yet. I also agree it is hard for them to compete with the internet. I disagree about it being an instant gratification thing and more about why would I spend precious hobby dollars on a magazine that does not appeal. I look at blogs and patterns online all the time and end up bookmarking – almost never do I rush off an make it right then and there. I think the magazines are missing the boat and not appealing to the up and coming quilters. Such a shame because without those new quilters, there won’t be a reason to keep quilt shops open – or print any sort of magazines.
I, too, am underwhelmed by the magazines of late. I think there is less content and more ads, but I just find the patterns are boring. Maybe I’m not ready to go back to the 80’s yet. I also agree it is hard for them to compete with the internet. I disagree about it being an instant gratification thing and more about why would I spend precious hobby dollars on a magazine that does not appeal. I look at blogs and patterns online all the time and end up bookmarking – almost never do I rush off an make it right then and there. I think the magazines are missing the boat and not appealing to the up and coming quilters. Such a shame because without those new quilters, there won’t be a reason to keep quilt shops open – or print any sort of magazines.
I let my subscriptions expire also. I have so many older magazines with projects that I want to do. If I see a magazine at the store i will browse through it. If I like it I will buy it, but most of the time I just put it back. This stinky economy has made me very careful about what I purchase these days. I am trying to use my stash, which is huge lol! So, a magazine or book has to really good for me to buy it.
I let my subscriptions expire also. I have so many older magazines with projects that I want to do. If I see a magazine at the store i will browse through it. If I like it I will buy it, but most of the time I just put it back. This stinky economy has made me very careful about what I purchase these days. I am trying to use my stash, which is huge lol! So, a magazine or book has to really good for me to buy it.
I agree with the other comments, I’m more inspired by blogs. I gave up my subscription to AP&Q a few years ago. I hadn’t made anything from the magazine in a long time and wasn’t inspired to make any their projects. I love modern quilts, more specifically traditional quilts made with modern, bright fabrics. Very few magazines have projects that fit into this category. So I’ve become very selective when it comes to buying magazines, especially since I keep them.
I agree with the other comments, I’m more inspired by blogs. I gave up my subscription to AP&Q a few years ago. I hadn’t made anything from the magazine in a long time and wasn’t inspired to make any their projects. I love modern quilts, more specifically traditional quilts made with modern, bright fabrics. Very few magazines have projects that fit into this category. So I’ve become very selective when it comes to buying magazines, especially since I keep them.
I am one of those who dropped their magazine subscriptions a couple years ago. The quilts all seemed repetitive and safe. The patterns seemed like things you could find a million other places. None of them spark my imagination. I do agree with Lori D. The Australian magazines are innovative and have creative ideas. I also like the Japanese magazines for inspiration.
I am one of those who dropped their magazine subscriptions a couple years ago. The quilts all seemed repetitive and safe. The patterns seemed like things you could find a million other places. None of them spark my imagination. I do agree with Lori D. The Australian magazines are innovative and have creative ideas. I also like the Japanese magazines for inspiration.
I have noticed in the last year or so that not many of the quilts in the magazines interest me. But I thought I just had overload. Years ago, I wanted to make every pattern I saw. But as I get older, a pattern has to really grab me to make me want to make it.
I have noticed in the last year or so that not many of the quilts in the magazines interest me. But I thought I just had overload. Years ago, I wanted to make every pattern I saw. But as I get older, a pattern has to really grab me to make me want to make it.
I too have been feeling a bit blah in the magazine inspiration department. Like you, I can’t quite put my finger on it.. I really think you hit the nail on the head by saying that we are like the video game addict… and my opinion is that the market is “flooded” with so much inspiration. We don’t get excited about beautiful quilts anymore, because we know the next one around the corner will wow us soon. Just my two cents.
I too have been feeling a bit blah in the magazine inspiration department. Like you, I can’t quite put my finger on it.. I really think you hit the nail on the head by saying that we are like the video game addict… and my opinion is that the market is “flooded” with so much inspiration. We don’t get excited about beautiful quilts anymore, because we know the next one around the corner will wow us soon. Just my two cents.
I have had the August issue of AP&Q sitting in my sewing room for almost a week. I paged through it when it first came and I have yet to look at it again. The cover isn’t even very inviting. I guess I had not really thought about this issue until I read your blog but I have found totally uninspired by what is in print!
I have had the August issue of AP&Q sitting in my sewing room for almost a week. I paged through it when it first came and I have yet to look at it again. The cover isn’t even very inviting. I guess I had not really thought about this issue until I read your blog but I have found totally uninspired by what is in print!
I’m a devoted subscriber to AP&Q and have made many quilts from their magazine. But I agree that there are sooo many more places in modern times to get inspiration and patterns for “free” on the internet that it is taking away from the magazine’s worth. Me, I still prefer paper over a computer screen and appreciate all the tips and tricks that are shared in the magazine. Also, I like to see my favorite shops featured. The Quilt Sampler this spring has a local shop’s quilt on it’s cover, which is very exciting! So I will resubscribe.
I’m a devoted subscriber to AP&Q and have made many quilts from their magazine. But I agree that there are sooo many more places in modern times to get inspiration and patterns for “free” on the internet that it is taking away from the magazine’s worth. Me, I still prefer paper over a computer screen and appreciate all the tips and tricks that are shared in the magazine. Also, I like to see my favorite shops featured. The Quilt Sampler this spring has a local shop’s quilt on it’s cover, which is very exciting! So I will resubscribe.
I stopped subscribing years ago. So many of the magazines had things I would never make. So I buy my magazines only if I can look at them first and if they have a pattern that is worthy of me spending my $$$.
I stopped subscribing years ago. So many of the magazines had things I would never make. So I buy my magazines only if I can look at them first and if they have a pattern that is worthy of me spending my $$$.
I heard somewhere that magazines repeat their content every few years. I have a tough time getting rid of magazines so I have many boxes full going back 30+ years. Little new inspiring is found anymore. I still get AP&Q. That surprise in the mailbox often inspires me to get in to the sewing room. I think folks that have been quilting for more than a few years will tire of the repetition though. I enjoy the ads for machines and products. Seeing what is new is fun! Problem is there isn’t a lot of ‘new’ anymore. Interesting topic, thanks!
I heard somewhere that magazines repeat their content every few years. I have a tough time getting rid of magazines so I have many boxes full going back 30+ years. Little new inspiring is found anymore. I still get AP&Q. That surprise in the mailbox often inspires me to get in to the sewing room. I think folks that have been quilting for more than a few years will tire of the repetition though. I enjoy the ads for machines and products. Seeing what is new is fun! Problem is there isn’t a lot of ‘new’ anymore. Interesting topic, thanks!
I’ll tell you what I think the issue is….. it’s blogs! Browsing quilting blogs is an everyday magazine that we get to peruse at our leisure, written by wonderful, regular people (like yourself) and fabulous designers alike. Also, we can talk to this style of magazine and this magazine talks back!!!! (all the good, chatty, friend making that happens in the comment section– you know how it is!) It’s totally interactive…. The only thing that magazines have over blogs are the project details, which, yes, are *kind of* important (lol) but I always looked to magazines for inspiration and the very occasional pattern I would actually make…. now I get that online. I quit buying quilt magazines AGES ago, opting instead for blogs like yours and those of my favorite designers– with one exception- I LOVE the shop-hop issue that profiles quilt shops throughout the nation. LOVE that one….. but that’s it for me.
I’ll tell you what I think the issue is….. it’s blogs! Browsing quilting blogs is an everyday magazine that we get to peruse at our leisure, written by wonderful, regular people (like yourself) and fabulous designers alike. Also, we can talk to this style of magazine and this magazine talks back!!!! (all the good, chatty, friend making that happens in the comment section– you know how it is!) It’s totally interactive…. The only thing that magazines have over blogs are the project details, which, yes, are *kind of* important (lol) but I always looked to magazines for inspiration and the very occasional pattern I would actually make…. now I get that online. I quit buying quilt magazines AGES ago, opting instead for blogs like yours and those of my favorite designers– with one exception- I LOVE the shop-hop issue that profiles quilt shops throughout the nation. LOVE that one….. but that’s it for me.
I haven’t been following, Nicole, but it is interesting to see your post. I recently gave my up my forever subscription to Fons & Porter’s Love of Quilting. I learned much of my quilting from them and always looked forward to each and every issue. The past couple of years I’ve found the designs to be over simplified and boring for the most part. Seems that a lot of what’s out there has turned into cooky cutter technique and simple construction which doesn’t appeal to me at all. I love the challenge of a complex quilt/quilt block as I’m sure many of us who have been quilting for many years do. Thanks for bringing this to light!
Cheers!
I haven’t been following, Nicole, but it is interesting to see your post. I recently gave my up my forever subscription to Fons & Porter’s Love of Quilting. I learned much of my quilting from them and always looked forward to each and every issue. The past couple of years I’ve found the designs to be over simplified and boring for the most part. Seems that a lot of what’s out there has turned into cooky cutter technique and simple construction which doesn’t appeal to me at all. I love the challenge of a complex quilt/quilt block as I’m sure many of us who have been quilting for many years do. Thanks for bringing this to light!
Cheers!
I, too, have let my subscription lapse…just received my last issue, which I read and tossed in the recycle bin. I’m going to agree with many of your other comments and repeat that there is just so much other information and opportunity for patterns “out there”, that the magazines aren’t wowing me any more. And if I’m seeing a pattern in colors I’m not crazy about..it doesn’t strike a chord. Which is why I love seeing what you do, Nicole, because you often take a pattern I’ve rejected (not liking the sample colors), and turn it into something gorgeous in colors that I love. So I’m thinking that might have a lot to do with it for me…I’m not liking the colorways they’re using.
I, too, have let my subscription lapse…just received my last issue, which I read and tossed in the recycle bin. I’m going to agree with many of your other comments and repeat that there is just so much other information and opportunity for patterns “out there”, that the magazines aren’t wowing me any more. And if I’m seeing a pattern in colors I’m not crazy about..it doesn’t strike a chord. Which is why I love seeing what you do, Nicole, because you often take a pattern I’ve rejected (not liking the sample colors), and turn it into something gorgeous in colors that I love. So I’m thinking that might have a lot to do with it for me…I’m not liking the colorways they’re using.
I’m with you! I have actually let 2 or 3 quilt magazine subscriptions expire, and I’ve not renewed them – even with the phone calls begging me to renew! I’m down to just 2 of my favorites, and those haven’t been awe inspiring lately either! I don’t know what it is…the fact that I already have way to many quilts to finish that I’ll never get them all done in my life time, or the fact that I spend time looking at quilts/patterns on-line so I’ve lost interest in the magazines, or have the quality of the patterns/examples in the magazine lost my interest, I think it’s a little of everything. Very interesting topic, I’ll need to go look at your reference, haven’t seen that article yet. Have a great weekend!
I’m with you! I have actually let 2 or 3 quilt magazine subscriptions expire, and I’ve not renewed them – even with the phone calls begging me to renew! I’m down to just 2 of my favorites, and those haven’t been awe inspiring lately either! I don’t know what it is…the fact that I already have way to many quilts to finish that I’ll never get them all done in my life time, or the fact that I spend time looking at quilts/patterns on-line so I’ve lost interest in the magazines, or have the quality of the patterns/examples in the magazine lost my interest, I think it’s a little of everything. Very interesting topic, I’ll need to go look at your reference, haven’t seen that article yet. Have a great weekend!
I dropped ALL of my subscriptions to the USA magazines 4 yrs ago. They recycle, recycle, recycle. Seriously, the patterns are used over and over again in the same magazine or in another magazine. Directions weren’t always tested. Some of the directions were just plain awful.
If you pick up the Australian magazines like Homespun or Inspirations you will see the difference in the quality of the patterns/designs/directions/pictures. HUGE difference. HUGE. You can get subscriptions to those 2 magazines at http://www.stonehouse-publications.com You can buy individual issues there too. JoAnn’s sometimes has Inspirations for sale. Homespun even does a mystery BOM over the course of the year included in the magazine. Great value. ;p
I dropped ALL of my subscriptions to the USA magazines 4 yrs ago. They recycle, recycle, recycle. Seriously, the patterns are used over and over again in the same magazine or in another magazine. Directions weren’t always tested. Some of the directions were just plain awful.
If you pick up the Australian magazines like Homespun or Inspirations you will see the difference in the quality of the patterns/designs/directions/pictures. HUGE difference. HUGE. You can get subscriptions to those 2 magazines at http://www.stonehouse-publications.com You can buy individual issues there too. JoAnn’s sometimes has Inspirations for sale. Homespun even does a mystery BOM over the course of the year included in the magazine. Great value. ;p
AP&Q was the first quilt magazine I subscribed to and it’s really a ‘weird’ thing about you mentioning Humble Quilts ‘debate’ today. I just went though my Aug. issue and have been seriously thinking about not renewing. It’s the same-o, same-o every issue. The quilts appear to be alike month to month and the mags are so full of adds, I can turn several pages without seeing quilt patterns.
The magazines are more like a catalog of products now touting fabric lines and specialty tools that we HAVE to have to make certain quilts. I have the major fabric companies bookmarked and they offer so many FREE patterns, plus I am aware of the new fabrics even before the magazines show them. AND I can make a quilt without using so and so’s fabric line for the whole thing. I have an accumulated stash that works well for scrap quilt and Bonnie Hunter is the best thing that ever happened to the quilt world if you are interested in using your scraps and making interesting quilts. She offers free patterns and a usable scrap system.
The Internet is killing quilting magazines just like email is killing the post office. It’s all at our finger tips practically free. I’ve let go most of my mags and AP&Q is next, then I’m kissing Fons and Porter goodbye, too. I have 10 years of magazines and it’s like looking at a new one when I pull out the old ones.
Wow, I feel good knowing I’m not the only one tired of supporting uninteresting quilt magazines!!!
AP&Q was the first quilt magazine I subscribed to and it’s really a ‘weird’ thing about you mentioning Humble Quilts ‘debate’ today. I just went though my Aug. issue and have been seriously thinking about not renewing. It’s the same-o, same-o every issue. The quilts appear to be alike month to month and the mags are so full of adds, I can turn several pages without seeing quilt patterns.
The magazines are more like a catalog of products now touting fabric lines and specialty tools that we HAVE to have to make certain quilts. I have the major fabric companies bookmarked and they offer so many FREE patterns, plus I am aware of the new fabrics even before the magazines show them. AND I can make a quilt without using so and so’s fabric line for the whole thing. I have an accumulated stash that works well for scrap quilt and Bonnie Hunter is the best thing that ever happened to the quilt world if you are interested in using your scraps and making interesting quilts. She offers free patterns and a usable scrap system.
The Internet is killing quilting magazines just like email is killing the post office. It’s all at our finger tips practically free. I’ve let go most of my mags and AP&Q is next, then I’m kissing Fons and Porter goodbye, too. I have 10 years of magazines and it’s like looking at a new one when I pull out the old ones.
Wow, I feel good knowing I’m not the only one tired of supporting uninteresting quilt magazines!!!
I get a lot of my inspiration from the blogs that I read. Plus there are so many websites that offer free patterns, many are the same companies that advertise in the magazines. Plus, my tastes have changed and I’m more interested in scrappy quilts rather than using the designer lines now being sold. Thanks for sharing your opinions.
I get a lot of my inspiration from the blogs that I read. Plus there are so many websites that offer free patterns, many are the same companies that advertise in the magazines. Plus, my tastes have changed and I’m more interested in scrappy quilts rather than using the designer lines now being sold. Thanks for sharing your opinions.
Most definitely is us, the patterns haven’t change over the years they kind of get reinvented, I’m in the mediocre level of quilting I think I know more than I actually can do, so when I look at the magazines they open my eyes an realize that is just the new fabrics that make them “pop” and be new again but if I didn’t know much and was a real beginner they would be a lot more impressive so I guess that there is always a new generation of quilters out there that most definitely need them, I had learned so much from blogs (or at least I presume) than from the magazine but I still see some silly blogs that want to do tutorials on simple things and I think is silly but if I didn’t know anything I guess it would have been really useful, so like I said there is always somebody new…
Most definitely is us, the patterns haven’t change over the years they kind of get reinvented, I’m in the mediocre level of quilting I think I know more than I actually can do, so when I look at the magazines they open my eyes an realize that is just the new fabrics that make them “pop” and be new again but if I didn’t know much and was a real beginner they would be a lot more impressive so I guess that there is always a new generation of quilters out there that most definitely need them, I had learned so much from blogs (or at least I presume) than from the magazine but I still see some silly blogs that want to do tutorials on simple things and I think is silly but if I didn’t know anything I guess it would have been really useful, so like I said there is always somebody new…
Funny that you should mention that… I was in Easons book shop on O’Connell Street in Dublin, looking at quilting magazines for you. I didn’t buy any because they all looked so dull. The articles were rather pedestrian; it looked like everything was for beginners. Some of the magazines had project ideas that were just silly. For example, there was a perfectly good quilt that someone had sewn enormous 3 foot green sea turtles. I’m serious. Sea turtles? Three foot wide ones? Another magazine had an interview with a fabric designer, but he was such a pretentious hipster that I had to put the magazine down. They had pictures of him and he looked like such a 1980’s poseur. I get so tired of pretentious narcissism, and let’s face it: It’s difficult to take a guy seriously when he’s wearing pastel pegleg jeans. (His sister’s?) Anyway, I agree the quilting magazines over here in Europe are pretty dull as well. You’re better off reading quilting blogs! 🙂
Funny that you should mention that… I was in Easons book shop on O’Connell Street in Dublin, looking at quilting magazines for you. I didn’t buy any because they all looked so dull. The articles were rather pedestrian; it looked like everything was for beginners. Some of the magazines had project ideas that were just silly. For example, there was a perfectly good quilt that someone had sewn enormous 3 foot green sea turtles. I’m serious. Sea turtles? Three foot wide ones? Another magazine had an interview with a fabric designer, but he was such a pretentious hipster that I had to put the magazine down. They had pictures of him and he looked like such a 1980’s poseur. I get so tired of pretentious narcissism, and let’s face it: It’s difficult to take a guy seriously when he’s wearing pastel pegleg jeans. (His sister’s?) Anyway, I agree the quilting magazines over here in Europe are pretty dull as well. You’re better off reading quilting blogs! 🙂
There are so many new quilters that want simple and do-it-up-quick quilts now days. And then there are those of us who have quilted for years and want more color and more of a challenge with our patterns. Your blog, Thelma’s, and so many others are much more inspiring than the magazines. You guys are telling us what tools you like and why as well as what designers and even what fabrics. Your blogs continue to amaze me by the different quilt topics you touch on. I never come away from your blog disappointed. I wonder if the editors of the quilt magazines would spend a few hours each week with blogs like yours, I’m sure the magazines would be more inspiring.
And I used to be thrilled when the new magazines came out. Now it is more of a ho-hum attitude. Give me a good quilt blog anyday. I can identify with the blogger a whole lot more.
There are so many new quilters that want simple and do-it-up-quick quilts now days. And then there are those of us who have quilted for years and want more color and more of a challenge with our patterns. Your blog, Thelma’s, and so many others are much more inspiring than the magazines. You guys are telling us what tools you like and why as well as what designers and even what fabrics. Your blogs continue to amaze me by the different quilt topics you touch on. I never come away from your blog disappointed. I wonder if the editors of the quilt magazines would spend a few hours each week with blogs like yours, I’m sure the magazines would be more inspiring.
And I used to be thrilled when the new magazines came out. Now it is more of a ho-hum attitude. Give me a good quilt blog anyday. I can identify with the blogger a whole lot more.
For many yrs I purchased every quilting magazine available then subscribed w/ the promise of receiving before LQS. Now LQS or book store receives sooner than I do & often with a little bonus that my subscribed magazine doesn’t include. Now every publishing co offers several different mags each month to attract the various styles & skills of all quilters yet seem to overlap same articles in doing this. Magazines also have too many ads that aren’t even quilting related yet w/ this revenue & pgs wasted w/ads lack the quality & substance that previously attracted us to a particular magazine. I no longer subcribe to many of the magazines but prefer to peruse magazines at LQS to see if I even want to purchase.
For many yrs I purchased every quilting magazine available then subscribed w/ the promise of receiving before LQS. Now LQS or book store receives sooner than I do & often with a little bonus that my subscribed magazine doesn’t include. Now every publishing co offers several different mags each month to attract the various styles & skills of all quilters yet seem to overlap same articles in doing this. Magazines also have too many ads that aren’t even quilting related yet w/ this revenue & pgs wasted w/ads lack the quality & substance that previously attracted us to a particular magazine. I no longer subcribe to many of the magazines but prefer to peruse magazines at LQS to see if I even want to purchase.
I still like the magazines. I don’t subscribe, but pick them up instead as my favorite treat especially when I’m travelling. I will also go out and buy single issues when I see blog postings featuring a pattern in a mag that I would like to make.
I stopped subscribing for kind of the same reason I don’t buy as many books. I pick up a book, then think that I’ve got dozens at home, and put it back down. If I’ve got 100 magazine issues with patterns I’d like to make, why should I subscribe to a title and just increase my to-do list.
on the other hand, I don’t want to see all the mags go away. maybe we should all pick our favorite, subscribe and donate it to the library so we don’t lose the print industry.
I still like the magazines. I don’t subscribe, but pick them up instead as my favorite treat especially when I’m travelling. I will also go out and buy single issues when I see blog postings featuring a pattern in a mag that I would like to make.
I stopped subscribing for kind of the same reason I don’t buy as many books. I pick up a book, then think that I’ve got dozens at home, and put it back down. If I’ve got 100 magazine issues with patterns I’d like to make, why should I subscribe to a title and just increase my to-do list.
on the other hand, I don’t want to see all the mags go away. maybe we should all pick our favorite, subscribe and donate it to the library so we don’t lose the print industry.
I think you hit the nail on the head with your last sentence. No doubt, the magazines have changed somewhat with the times, but they still have their routine calendars which got boring to me after awhile. However, the big thing is that I have changed. After all these years of practice, I am a better quilter. I don’t need/want the simple level now. PLUS, I can do an easy online search for specifically what I have in mind. I follow many blogs which contain far more information and inspiration than any one magazine –for free. (–unless one factors in the cost of equipment and web subscription, but we won’t go there today. lol) Magazines were my constant companions as a young wife/mother/professional/sewer/quilter, and I’m thankful for that resource then. I guess you could say that I have outgrown them now. And that’s ok. We never want to stop growing, right?
I think you hit the nail on the head with your last sentence. No doubt, the magazines have changed somewhat with the times, but they still have their routine calendars which got boring to me after awhile. However, the big thing is that I have changed. After all these years of practice, I am a better quilter. I don’t need/want the simple level now. PLUS, I can do an easy online search for specifically what I have in mind. I follow many blogs which contain far more information and inspiration than any one magazine –for free. (–unless one factors in the cost of equipment and web subscription, but we won’t go there today. lol) Magazines were my constant companions as a young wife/mother/professional/sewer/quilter, and I’m thankful for that resource then. I guess you could say that I have outgrown them now. And that’s ok. We never want to stop growing, right?
Here in Australia I’ve felt the same with our magazines and let all my subscriptions lapse except for “Homespun” – I still enjoy that magazine but find I want to make less and less from it. The advent of blogs makes information from designers readily available and we can find/buy whatever we like at our local shops or on-line much more easily than a few years ago. These days I prefer to buy patterns rather than magazines – easier to store and I know that I will probably get around to making it.
Here in Australia I’ve felt the same with our magazines and let all my subscriptions lapse except for “Homespun” – I still enjoy that magazine but find I want to make less and less from it. The advent of blogs makes information from designers readily available and we can find/buy whatever we like at our local shops or on-line much more easily than a few years ago. These days I prefer to buy patterns rather than magazines – easier to store and I know that I will probably get around to making it.
I used to get very excited by a new quilting magazine appearing in my local newsagent’s but now I rarely look and very rarely buy. I think there is an element of having ‘seen it all before’, but I agree with one of your other commenters that blogs have had a big role to play in this. Not only do they update daily rather than monthly, but you get to know which blogs float your boat and which ones interest you less. It is like having a personalised magazine, free, instant, interactive. It is much the same in the whole printed press sector – they are finding it very difficult to compete with the new digital alternatives.
I used to get very excited by a new quilting magazine appearing in my local newsagent’s but now I rarely look and very rarely buy. I think there is an element of having ‘seen it all before’, but I agree with one of your other commenters that blogs have had a big role to play in this. Not only do they update daily rather than monthly, but you get to know which blogs float your boat and which ones interest you less. It is like having a personalised magazine, free, instant, interactive. It is much the same in the whole printed press sector – they are finding it very difficult to compete with the new digital alternatives.
Just read Ann’s comment about subscribing and donating to the library – what a good idea! I too would be sorry to see the magazines go as the printed versions do have a place, even if they don’t give me the same ‘buzz’ as they used to. Thank you Ann!
Just read Ann’s comment about subscribing and donating to the library – what a good idea! I too would be sorry to see the magazines go as the printed versions do have a place, even if they don’t give me the same ‘buzz’ as they used to. Thank you Ann!
I so agree with your post and will pop over to Humble Quilts to read her post and the responses there.
IMHO, a factor might well be that there is so much wonderful and helpful information on-line and glorious photos, too.
One reason I have let all of my quilting magazine subscriptions lapse is I became tired of the promotion of fabric lines in the quilt construction articles.
I also believe it’s hurting the quilting community when the magazines fail to list quilt block names with their patterns. Thousands of blocks have at least one name and there are great books that list blocks and their common names. How hard is it to give a nod to our quilting heritage and teach current quilters by adding this simple information?
I like to sometimes choose a block because of its name.
These days, I most often find a block I like in a book or on-line, then plan a quilt or wall hanging using that block.
I, too, and glad I kept the back issues of the magazines I used to subscribe to – with their post-it notes sticking out the top of the magazines!
Hugs!
I so agree with your post and will pop over to Humble Quilts to read her post and the responses there.
IMHO, a factor might well be that there is so much wonderful and helpful information on-line and glorious photos, too.
One reason I have let all of my quilting magazine subscriptions lapse is I became tired of the promotion of fabric lines in the quilt construction articles.
I also believe it’s hurting the quilting community when the magazines fail to list quilt block names with their patterns. Thousands of blocks have at least one name and there are great books that list blocks and their common names. How hard is it to give a nod to our quilting heritage and teach current quilters by adding this simple information?
I like to sometimes choose a block because of its name.
These days, I most often find a block I like in a book or on-line, then plan a quilt or wall hanging using that block.
I, too, and glad I kept the back issues of the magazines I used to subscribe to – with their post-it notes sticking out the top of the magazines!
Hugs!
Interesting comments for sure. I planned to let my subscription go but now fear they will amp it up so I’ll have to see if they start exciting me again. Like others said about blogging…we have so much at our fingertips with FREE patterns and tutorials, fun reads, recipes, (I don’t care for blogs with ads) we can visit blogs wit h ads. I love being able to hold a GOOD magazine to thumb through vs the computer and wouldn’t get any online subscriptions either. This brings me to the thought of brick and mortar quilt shops that are struggling. Many quilters are web savvy and know how to find great quilt fabrics on sale…the web shops are very competitive and most blog about their sales etc. Several brick and mortar shops are closing and I rarely hear of one opening. I’d hate to think them obsolete one day and like our hard copy magazines this may very well happen as well. I’ve been quilting a long time….I still want to be excited when I thumb through my quilt magazines and perhaps the not so seasoned quilters feel the excitement as I once did when they get their copy?
Interesting comments for sure. I planned to let my subscription go but now fear they will amp it up so I’ll have to see if they start exciting me again. Like others said about blogging…we have so much at our fingertips with FREE patterns and tutorials, fun reads, recipes, (I don’t care for blogs with ads) we can visit blogs wit h ads. I love being able to hold a GOOD magazine to thumb through vs the computer and wouldn’t get any online subscriptions either. This brings me to the thought of brick and mortar quilt shops that are struggling. Many quilters are web savvy and know how to find great quilt fabrics on sale…the web shops are very competitive and most blog about their sales etc. Several brick and mortar shops are closing and I rarely hear of one opening. I’d hate to think them obsolete one day and like our hard copy magazines this may very well happen as well. I’ve been quilting a long time….I still want to be excited when I thumb through my quilt magazines and perhaps the not so seasoned quilters feel the excitement as I once did when they get their copy?
Very interesting comments! I thought it was just me. I still get excited to get a quilt magazine, but then am always disappointed because I don’t find something I actually want to make. I keep thinking I will drop all of them. It is exciting when one comes though.
Very interesting comments! I thought it was just me. I still get excited to get a quilt magazine, but then am always disappointed because I don’t find something I actually want to make. I keep thinking I will drop all of them. It is exciting when one comes though.
I too am not renewing any of my quilt magazines. Generally the quilts in the advertisements are more interesting than the featured quilts. I am really sorry, but I do need a little more than garish colors and large floating squares to keep me interested. I realize that they all cannot look like Fig Tree quilts or Rosie’s quilts but just pay attention to us. The Blogs are my source of inspiration.
Lisa from northern Ca.
I too am not renewing any of my quilt magazines. Generally the quilts in the advertisements are more interesting than the featured quilts. I am really sorry, but I do need a little more than garish colors and large floating squares to keep me interested. I realize that they all cannot look like Fig Tree quilts or Rosie’s quilts but just pay attention to us. The Blogs are my source of inspiration.
Lisa from northern Ca.
I find that the magazines are more geared to the very beginner quilters and to those quilters who are on a mission to pump out as many quilts as they can in any given week, month year. The magazines are not so much into teaching technique as in past years.I agreee that the quilts are somewhat hohum and getting more boring each year. The trend seems to be to showcase the fabric. Now don’t get me wrong,some of those fabric designers are fabulous, but again even with the fabrics I find it is getting to be the same “feel” just in a bunch of different colour ways. I also think that the younger generation quilters are about breaking all the rules – who cares if the pieces don’t quite fit, it gives a funky look sort of thing. What the magazines and shops don’t realize is that it is usually the more settled in quilters that want to learn the techniques and have the money to buy all the toys including the better quality fabrics. I use to work in a shop and the shop did not last very long because in the quest to bring in a younger shopper, the rest got left out and so took the business elsewhere. These magazines will slowly find that also. I too will not be renewing subscriptions, or will buy only limited number of magazines, books etc. until there is more of a balance in the mix.
I find that the magazines are more geared to the very beginner quilters and to those quilters who are on a mission to pump out as many quilts as they can in any given week, month year. The magazines are not so much into teaching technique as in past years.I agreee that the quilts are somewhat hohum and getting more boring each year. The trend seems to be to showcase the fabric. Now don’t get me wrong,some of those fabric designers are fabulous, but again even with the fabrics I find it is getting to be the same “feel” just in a bunch of different colour ways. I also think that the younger generation quilters are about breaking all the rules – who cares if the pieces don’t quite fit, it gives a funky look sort of thing. What the magazines and shops don’t realize is that it is usually the more settled in quilters that want to learn the techniques and have the money to buy all the toys including the better quality fabrics. I use to work in a shop and the shop did not last very long because in the quest to bring in a younger shopper, the rest got left out and so took the business elsewhere. These magazines will slowly find that also. I too will not be renewing subscriptions, or will buy only limited number of magazines, books etc. until there is more of a balance in the mix.
It was so interesting to read all of these comments…it is definitely an issue and a topic of interest. I still love AP & Q, though! I have let all of my subscriptions go except theirs. I really think they stay pretty current with the trends. Sometimes the fabrics used aren’t my favorites…but I can always picture the pattern made up in another collection.
It was so interesting to read all of these comments…it is definitely an issue and a topic of interest. I still love AP & Q, though! I have let all of my subscriptions go except theirs. I really think they stay pretty current with the trends. Sometimes the fabrics used aren’t my favorites…but I can always picture the pattern made up in another collection.
This is a very interesting topic! Thank you for bringing it up.(I haven’t read all the comments.) I consider myself a fairly new quilter, as I started quilting only four years ago. Even I find a lot of magazines not exciting enough. But I do like to buy quilting books for inspiration. Just like a lot of quilting blog readers. Have you noticed that several quilting bloggers have published a book? So there is a market for print!
Personallu, I don’t want to see patterns for beginner’s quilts, because often I can figure out those patterns myself just from looking at a picture. I want to feel challenged a bit, like with Miss Rosies patterns.
This is a very interesting topic! Thank you for bringing it up.(I haven’t read all the comments.) I consider myself a fairly new quilter, as I started quilting only four years ago. Even I find a lot of magazines not exciting enough. But I do like to buy quilting books for inspiration. Just like a lot of quilting blog readers. Have you noticed that several quilting bloggers have published a book? So there is a market for print!
Personallu, I don’t want to see patterns for beginner’s quilts, because often I can figure out those patterns myself just from looking at a picture. I want to feel challenged a bit, like with Miss Rosies patterns.
I agree that the April issue was particularly good. Kim Diehl and French General in one issue was amazing. I agree with the blogger who mentioned that receiving the magazine urges you to go sew. Whether or not it’s something in the magazine, it does get you going. I am also drawn to the new gadgets and advertisements, but not as much as a good story. I think one of the best stories lately was the quilting cruise that the editor took. Nice little watercolor drawings, etc. It was a good idea.
I agree that the April issue was particularly good. Kim Diehl and French General in one issue was amazing. I agree with the blogger who mentioned that receiving the magazine urges you to go sew. Whether or not it’s something in the magazine, it does get you going. I am also drawn to the new gadgets and advertisements, but not as much as a good story. I think one of the best stories lately was the quilting cruise that the editor took. Nice little watercolor drawings, etc. It was a good idea.
Great post Nicole, and I think our disinterest in magazines is a multi-faceted issue. Certainly, we are being exposed to new ideas,patterns and fabrics by blogs and email lists. I find that even at quilt shows, I don’t see things that interest me in vendor booths because I’ve already seen it elsewhere. That said, I think many magazines are catering to beginning quilters and using a lot of panel prints, which are a turn-off to me. I do agree that my old magazines are much more interesting to me than most new ones. The only magazines I subscribe to are Quiltmaker and Machine Quilting Unlimited, and they both continue to interest me every issue. Thanks.
Great post Nicole, and I think our disinterest in magazines is a multi-faceted issue. Certainly, we are being exposed to new ideas,patterns and fabrics by blogs and email lists. I find that even at quilt shows, I don’t see things that interest me in vendor booths because I’ve already seen it elsewhere. That said, I think many magazines are catering to beginning quilters and using a lot of panel prints, which are a turn-off to me. I do agree that my old magazines are much more interesting to me than most new ones. The only magazines I subscribe to are Quiltmaker and Machine Quilting Unlimited, and they both continue to interest me every issue. Thanks.
I agree with your thinking – is it the magazines or is it me? I am no longer impressed with the projects in Australian magazines. Whilst I did think they were getting stale, you have made me question whether my tastes and skills have moved beyond the projects offered. I think this may be the case. I also agree with other comments about the availability of projects on the internet taking over the place of magazines
I agree with your thinking – is it the magazines or is it me? I am no longer impressed with the projects in Australian magazines. Whilst I did think they were getting stale, you have made me question whether my tastes and skills have moved beyond the projects offered. I think this may be the case. I also agree with other comments about the availability of projects on the internet taking over the place of magazines
I subscribe to McCall’s quilting and I wait in anticipation for two months for that magazine in our box. Their last publication was so very disappointing that I was done with it in five minutes with not one project a possibility for me. I like more traditional quilts and many magazines today seemed to be geared to contemporary projects. And I would agree with some of these other quilters who posted that they get more inspiration from blogs like yours!!
I subscribe to McCall’s quilting and I wait in anticipation for two months for that magazine in our box. Their last publication was so very disappointing that I was done with it in five minutes with not one project a possibility for me. I like more traditional quilts and many magazines today seemed to be geared to contemporary projects. And I would agree with some of these other quilters who posted that they get more inspiration from blogs like yours!!
wow, there are lots of interesting comments! I too let my Fons & Porter and AP&Q recently expire, but am going to reup by AP&Q because I really do miss it. However, I let them both expire for the very reasons a lot of people have stated – nothing new or exciting. In fact, I’ve found that they are “recycling” old patterns from previous issues, which is frustrating, especially when they put them in “crossover” issues as well. I’ll see a pattern in one magazine and then again in another of their sister magazines. I would like to see exclusive patterns or designer series patterns, similar to Quiltmania. That magazine is very pricy, but so worth it! I love blogs, but it’s the old debate of an ereader vs an actual book…I love both and wouldn’t give up either 🙂 I find it easier sometimes to thumb through post-its them waiting for tutorials/pics to download, or missing links.
wow, there are lots of interesting comments! I too let my Fons & Porter and AP&Q recently expire, but am going to reup by AP&Q because I really do miss it. However, I let them both expire for the very reasons a lot of people have stated – nothing new or exciting. In fact, I’ve found that they are “recycling” old patterns from previous issues, which is frustrating, especially when they put them in “crossover” issues as well. I’ll see a pattern in one magazine and then again in another of their sister magazines. I would like to see exclusive patterns or designer series patterns, similar to Quiltmania. That magazine is very pricy, but so worth it! I love blogs, but it’s the old debate of an ereader vs an actual book…I love both and wouldn’t give up either 🙂 I find it easier sometimes to thumb through post-its them waiting for tutorials/pics to download, or missing links.
The best way to tell what’s changed is to look at an older issue. If it still makes you excited, but the new ones don’t (my reaction to new vs. old issues of Sew Beautiful), it’s the magazine; if you feel “why did I buy this?” then it’s you…and my guess would either be that your style has changed or, more likely, overload from the internet.
The best way to tell what’s changed is to look at an older issue. If it still makes you excited, but the new ones don’t (my reaction to new vs. old issues of Sew Beautiful), it’s the magazine; if you feel “why did I buy this?” then it’s you…and my guess would either be that your style has changed or, more likely, overload from the internet.