I wrote a quilt book (with my daughter as co-author). That’s not the secret
I have also written a novel, and after letting it sit for several months and re-reading, I realize it’s crappy. BUT! I can do better! This summer, if all goes well (knock on a fat quarter) I will write a second novel (and try to write better). I already have the outline. But that’s not the secret either.
The secret is: I have always wanted to write a screenplay. I figured that writing a non-fiction book, like a quilt book, would be a good start to writing (it was) and I read a lot about the process of writing and the discipline it takes but I know almost zip about writing a screenplay, so I don’t feel like I am ready for it yet- -I put myself in the “I am still learning how” category.
So, here’s one way I am trying to learn. I make videos on YouTube. Now, I used to think that people just stood in front of their cameras, yapped a bit, uploaded and *boom* they are YouTube stars. Not so – at least not the good videos (and I am not talking about vloggers here – - the whole point of vlogging is to be spontaneous).
For a loooooooong time I have wanted to teach a few things and I would like to reach a wide audience, so I chose YouTube. I have a few vids up and have learned quite a bit along the way and gotten some good feedback from great people who take the time to tell me what they think would make my videos better – - and I listen very closely to every one who emails me. I learn as I go.
For weeks I’ve been planning a video just on doing Stitch in the Ditch quilting. It sounds easy – -but it is quite a challenge!! Writing the script! There is *so much* to remember!! Yikes! If you watch my videos, I hope that you will consider giving me your impression and telling me what I should have done differently. I really, really appreciate every single person who emails me and listen closely to what they have to say. Now I am off to work on that SID script some more
Let me know if you want the “behind the scenes details” or if you just want to see the film version when it’s released – - LOL
{I want to know – - are you a writer with a secret dream?}






I found you via the videos first and then I bought your book. The videos are such a great idea! When I ran into trouble with my first CSQ I thought, “In the videos she appears to be a nice person and approachable, I think I’ll email her and see what happens.”
What happened was, I made a friend. One who has many talents, it seems. You go, girl!!
I just bought my fabric for my first CSQ – 9 squares for top – starting smallish- I am too anxious to make one I can’t wait for Sarah’s class – the saving grace is if I get tripped up I can watch your video…you do great!
Amy! I forgot that you found the vid first! Wait until you see the new one – I hope you like it.
Joanna, What fabric did you buy? Is it on your blog? We want to see!!
In the night when I can’t sleep, I sometimes try to compose the opening scenes in my “novel”. That usually puts me to sleep…..
Hope you do better on your second.
Hi Nanci,
I get my *BEST* stuff right at bedtime – -usually just as I start to relax from the day. I keep several note pads and pens where I can reach them and scribble enough so that I can remind myself of the idea later