If you've noticed a little extra sparkle recently in your
local quilt shop, chances are you've been admiring the work of fabric designer
Ro Gregg. Well known for her romantic, traditional style of florals, lately she
has been focusing on a more cutting edge, modern style. Recently, we talked
with Ro about her work, what inspires her, and what's coming next.
Q. Give us
a quick snapshot of your background.
Ro: After college, I
moved to New York City and got on-the-job design experiene with Concord Fabric.
Later I worked as vice president of design for Springmaid Wamsutta, traveling
to Europe extensively for design, home furnishing, and fashion shows. In 1997,
I started my own business, Ro Gregg Inc. Designs from the Heart. I design
mainly fabric, giftware, bath, table top items, gift wrap, floor mats, etc.
I've designed thousands of patterns for quilters; fabric is my main interest.
Q. What do
you like best about designing fabric?
Ro: My favorite part
is visualizing a concept and then developing it into a collection—turning an
intangible idea into reality. I like identifying trends and designing quilts.
Q: How
does your background in home furnishing make you a better quilt fabric
designer?
Ro: When I'm
designing the different collections, I try to consider trends as well as good
design—something that will always stay in fashion. I think of all the end uses
of how the fabric pattern can be used in the quilt—not just for blocks.
Q: When
you're not designing fabric, where can we find you?
Ro: I'm a beach bum.
I love nature, the beach, and boating. I also love to antique, refinish
furniture, and decorate homes. I love spending time with my two shih tzus,
Marco and Polo.
Marco, at Ro's beach house
Polo, also at the beach house.
Next up: Ro's 200+
piece fabric collection (no, that's not a typo!)
I just love her Woodblock design, but can't find any up here in Alaska.
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