Cynthia H. Catlin

I am fortunate to have two small bedrooms dedicated as my studio space.  This is my sewing room annex where I cut, read, reflect and display finished handbags and art quilts.  My serger is a resident of this space, along with a large cutting table 40 x 70, two book cases, an extra design wall, a small sofa and a closet of custom made wearable art.

This is my primary sewing studio where I create art quilts, traditional quilts, handbags, wearable art, home décor and jewelry. I diligently work at maximizing wasted space in my small areas with lots of storage and shelves up to the ceiling. My fabric collection is stored on book shelves in plain view along with ribbons, trims, thread, TV, and music.

This is another bookcase with more of my fabric collection, trims, threads, buttons, light table, inspirational bulletin board, fabric postcards, crystal supplies and my antique spice rack filled with vials of beads. My basket on the floor holds papers that will eventually be discarded. In my safe haven I take pleasure in sprinkling special gifts from friends and personal creations for creative energy and inspiration.

My approach for designing my studio space is comfort and ease of access with a creative flow. This is my main sewing machine, design wall, and thread collection. The spectacular sunshine and natural light comes in my window as I create.

I appreciate order and organization for it allows me to create with harmony and clarity. It affords me the opportunity to focus and design my distinctive treasures. I try to straighten up after each major project, so it doesn't get out of hand. This great space holds my embroidery machine, and primary sewing machine. In the middle I have a great work table, that I use for ironing, designing, drawing, painting, beading, reading and eating my dinner. Underneath the large brown table are portable drawers full of more fabric, paints, and a variety of supplies.

Design walls are my favorite asset in my studio.  I covered both closet doors with felt and it works great as extra design walls.  This inside view of  my closet is fearless and crazy, however this is where I store, more fabric, trims, batting, purse handles, stabilizers, and works in progress. Every inch of space is utilized.

The artist at work.