Shannon Brinkley Studio Blog

Taking inspiration from the world around you and incorporating that into your own artwork is a really rewarding and fun experience. 

I teach quilters from all around the world design and creativity, ...

I often get asked by quilters-- where do you get inspiration for your quilts?

Inspiration can be found literally everywhere - and you don’t have to go far to find it. 

If you're lacking inspirati...

I often get asked by quilters-- where do you get inspiration for your quilts?

Inspiration can be found literally everywhere - and you don’t have to go far to find it. 

 If you're lacking inspiration...

The Brinkley's have moved from Austin, TX across the country to Northern Virginia! This is where Matt (my husband and business partner) grew up. We moved here to be closer to Matt's parents, and are l...

You know all of those unfinished projects lurking in your cupboard stressing you out? 

I think you should abandon at least half of them.

Here’s why.

I believe unfinished projects, “UFO”s (...

Do you have more than a few unfinished quilt projects?

Do you have so many that it feels a little overwhelming or like you can't move onto a new project? 

If so, this one idea is going to be a game-...

Do you feel like you’re in a bit of a creative rut? Or maybe a creative canyon?

I’ve been there. Many times. You feel restless, a bit hollow, aimless. You’re not sure where to start or what you’re...

Do you feel like you're in a "rut", creatively? Do you feel a little lack-luster, overwhelmed, or uninspired?

If so, I've made something just for you: Awaken Your Creativity. This is a series of ar...

Put yourself in the way of beauty.

The author Cheryl Strayed's mother told her this as a girl. What a perfect message to teach your child about life. 

Put yourself in the way of beauty.

Do you fe...

I love the quilting industry. 

I love the community. I love the kinder than usual people. I love the sharing of inspiration and the wealth of creativity. 

There is one thing I don't love. 

It sound...

I hate rules. 

Let me clarify. I hate rules in which I see no purpose. 

This has been a trait of mine since I was a kid. I remember in 9th grade Chemistry, my teacher, Mr. Henderson, a 60 year old b...

I remember it very distinctly. 

I was wandering the rows at the International Quilt Festival in Houston my junior year in college. I had made my first quilt a few months prior, on a whim, and my moth...