Suzanne and Strawberry Patches will be in Booth 234
Personal: Suzanne Zingg is a California native. From Bakersfield, she attended college at California State University – Long Beach (Matt Reese’s Alma Mater) where she met her husband. They are the parents of two sons and have four grandchildren. Suzanne’s home studio is her “Happy Place” where she loves to sew and create.
Tell us about Strawberry Patches: Our by-line is: Not your grandmother’s quilt store. We opened our doors in 1985 to provide a place where our customers could come to be inspired and motivated in a clean, well-organized, relaxed atmosphere. It has grown to be Kern County’s largest and most complete quilt shop. I take great pride in our displays where fabrics are combined with gifts, patterns and books to create a quilter’s paradise. 
How did you get started in quilting? I’ve been quilting since my first class in the late 70’s, but I don’t limit my creativity to just quilts. I love making all kinds of fun stuff from fabric and am very good friends with my hot glue gun and glitter.
What is your favorite quilting tool? My Bernina sewing machine. Having great tools lets your creativity soar and your only limitation is your imagination.
What advice do you have for quilters? Buy the best equipment you can afford and take classes to get started with good beginning skills. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. You’re biggest mistake can become your best embellishing opportunity.
Describe your booth that will be at Road: Since our store is very untraditional, our booth will be also. We like to feature bright, clear colors and a modern vibe. We will have lots of our own patterns for quick and fun quilts and pillows plus all the fabulous fabrics and rulers to make them. Inspired by Pinterest, we’re going to hang banners, use chalkboards and don’t be surprised if you don’t see a mustache or two.
What are you most looking forward to at Road? Obviously monetary opportunities are my biggest motivator, but as I’ve been making countless quilts and pillows and have been planning our booth, I realize this push to be more original and creative has been a huge blessing. I am thankful for this opportunity and look forward to creating a fun and colorful booth that reflects our fun style. Thank you to Carolyn for asking me!
You can find Suzanne at www.strawberry-patches.com or on her blog: http://patches.typepad.com
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