Name: Meghan Eirkson
Where do you live (City/State): Hershey, PA
How long have you been quilting? About six years on and off; in earnest the past year and a half. When the pandemic struck, I desperately needed something for me that wasn’t taking care of our kids or our home, so decided to start a small sewing business – North Hollow Threads. It’s been so much fun and so good for my mental health.
How did you get started quilting? I really wanted to make my first-born son a baby quilt! My grandma was a quilter and embroiderer, but she passed away before my quilting interest developed unfortunately, but my mom helped me figure out my way around a sewing machine years ago. No formal training or lessons of any kind – trial and seam ripping all the way.
What is your favorite part of quilting? Choosing fabrics and cutting out the pieces.
What is your least favorite part of quilting? Oh how I dread basting and binding. And lining up points! Unless they line up perfectly then I love it. 🙂
Do you have a day job? If so, what do you do? I stopped working about six months after my second son was born in 2019 to spend more time with my two boys. In my former life, I was an attorney who worked on health care policy.
Do you design your own quilt patterns? I really enjoy smaller projects – we have so many quilted pillows, but I love quilts that get used and I especially love projects I can finish in an afternoon. I have a few rough sketches in my mind for small quilts, and have made patterns up as I go along the way many times.
Favorite quilt designer or fabric designer? I admire so many, but my favorite makes have been the Shelter Quilt from Karen at Blooming Poppies, the Maypole Quilt from Suzy Quilts, and especially Museum Steps from Wendy at The Weekend Quilter. I learn so much from Jess at Public Library Quilts, and love seeing her projects. (She is how I found your membership, Mary!)
What three words best describe you? Thoughtful, Inventive, Tired (thanks, kids!)
Favorite holiday? I love the magic of Christmas
What’s the worst job you’ve ever had? Working retail in college at the holidays folding endless sweaters at The Limited!
Instagram name: @megsews for sewing adventures and @northhollowthreads for my sewing shop
Website name: www.northhollowthreads.com
Anything else you would like to add? The community of quilters and sewers and makers on Instagram has always been so friendly and supportive – I have made some real friends there despite never having met in person. I so appreciate that kindness and support in a world that could surely use it.
