Meet Ro Gregg

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!)