Quilting Business Success 2A – Vida and Shane Anderson
Shane and Vita’s Journey: From Masks to Master Quilters
Introduction
Shane and Vita’s story is a testament to the transformative power of passion and perseverance. From producing thousands of masks during the COVID-19 pandemic to establishing a thriving longarm quilting business in Missoula, Montana, their journey is both inspiring and instructive.Discovering Quilting During the Pandemic
Vita’s introduction to quilting began amidst the pandemic when she and Shane produced and sold over 18,000 masks. The success of this venture provided the funds needed to purchase her first longarm quilting machine. Initially, Vita bought a different brand, but after experiencing significant frustration, she switched to a Gammill Statler, as recommended by quilting expert Judy Neimeyer.Building a Business
The transition from hobbyist to professional quilter was seamless for Vita, thanks to the support of her local quilting community and active participation in quilting guilds. She started with every free quilt she could take in to practice, gradually building a client base by offering high-quality custom and edge-to-edge quilting services. Shane supported this venture, helping with the technical and business aspects, ensuring their success.Challenges and Achievements
Balancing their daycare business with the burgeoning quilting enterprise was initially challenging. However, as their quilting business grew, they were able to close the daycare and focus entirely on quilting. Their decision to invest in quality equipment, including upgrading to a Gammill Statler, played a crucial role in their success. The community quickly recognized the superior quality of their work, leading to a steady influx of local and mailed-in quilting projects.Impact on Personal Life
Quilting transformed Shane and Vita’s lives, providing financial stability and the flexibility to enjoy other activities such as camping and fishing. Working from home allowed them to manage their schedules effectively, dedicating time to both their business and personal interests. This balance contributed to their overall satisfaction and well-being.Advice for Aspiring Quilters
For those considering a career in longarm quilting, Shane and Vita offer the following advice:- Invest Wisely: Start with the best machine you can afford, preferably a reputable brand like Gammill Statler.
- Engage with the Community: Join quilting guilds and participate in shows to build a network and client base.
- Value Your Work: Set fair prices for your services, reflecting the time and skill involved.
- Balance Work and Passion: Ensure you dedicate time to your own quilting projects to maintain creativity and passion.
- Be Persistent: Building a successful business takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it.
Conclusion
Shane and Vita’s journey from mask production to mastering longarm quilting is a story of resilience and innovation. Their success underscores the importance of investing in quality equipment, engaging with the community, valuing one’s work, and balancing professional and personal life. Their story serves as an inspiration for aspiring quilters, demonstrating that with passion and perseverance, a hobby can transform into a thriving business.Key questions and answers from the interview:
Q: Where’s home for you guys?
A: We’re in Missoula, Western Montana, right on the Clark Fork River.
Q: How long have you been longarm quilting?
A: Vita has been longarm quilting for almost two years, and Shane just started quilting with her.
Q: What led you to start longarm quilting?
A: Vita fell in love with quilting after joining a local quilters’ guild and decided to start longarm quilting during the pandemic. They had closed their in-home daycare and made and sold over 18,000 masks, using the proceeds to buy a longarm machine.
Q: How did you decide to buy a Gammill Statler?
A: Vita initially bought a different brand but was dissatisfied. After attending a retreat and speaking with Judy Neimeyer, who recommended a Gammill Statler, Vita and Shane decided to invest in it.
Q: What challenges did you face in growing your quilting business?
A: Balancing their daycare business with quilting was initially challenging. However, as their quilting business grew, they were able to close the daycare and focus entirely on quilting.
Q: How has quilting impacted your personal life?
A: Quilting provided financial stability and flexibility, allowing them to enjoy other activities like camping and fishing. Working from home enabled them to manage their schedules effectively.
Q: What advice do you have for aspiring quilters?
A: Invest in quality equipment, engage with the community, value your work, balance professional and personal life, and be persistent.