Writing a book has been a goal of mine for a very long time, and I’m so proud and happy that this dream is finally a reality. I’m beyond thankful to the many people who helped this book come together.
First, I must thank the wonderful crew at Potter Craft who made this vision come to life—Betty Wong for supporting me and helping shape my ideas, Erica Smith for making the introductions, Chi Ling Moy for lending her top-notch aesthetics to the photography, Martha Moran for her patient and thoughtful editing, and La Tricia Watford for her charming design.
Big thanks to Alexandra Grablewski for her gorgeous photographs and Kristen Petliski for her excellent styling (as always). Another big thanks goes to Jordan Provost and Jenna Park (and their families) for welcoming our photo crew into their beautiful homes, and to Grace Bonney for introducing us.
It took a team of people to produce this book’s projects and whip their patterns into shape. I’m super grateful to Nikki Smith for her awesome garment sewing skills and expert advice, Carol Selepek for her quilting, and my mom Arlene Bara for never complaining that I gave her all the boring parts to sew (who else could bind a quilt in the middle of the night with a smile on her face?). I also want to thank Don Bara (or Dad, as I like to call him) for his measuring, packing, shipping, and encouraging. I’m very thankful for Kevin Kosbab’s careful technical editing, and Jane Fay’s commitment to excellence with her illustrations.
Writing this book has truly made me appreciate all the wonderful people in my life. There aren’t enough French dinners in the world to thank Darren Fried for being an amazing friend (and also a rock star lawyer). I so appreciate Erin Slonaker for sharing her experience, listening to me vent, and holding down the crochet fort while I hunkered down and sewed. I’m grateful to Lanie Kagan for her kindness and encouragement. And I tip my hat to Marty, Jodie, Dan, Sara, Candi, and Lisa for their friendship and support along the way.
Finally I’d like to thank my family and especially my parents for all the crafty love while I was working on this book, and always.