79: The “Grandma Crafts” Making a Modern Comeback (and Why You Should Try Them)
Feel the pull to create—but not sure where to begin?
In this episode of the HobbyScool Podcast, I sat down with Jacquelynne Steves, the founder and creative director behind The Art of Home. She shares her passion for “grandma crafts” like quilting, hand embroidery, and appliqué—and shows us why these timeless traditions are making a modern comeback.
Whether you're looking for a creative outlet or a way to slow down and reconnect, Jacquelynne’s advice is the gentle nudge you need to just start.
What You’ll Learn:
Why hand embroidery is a relaxing, portable, and affordable entry point for beginners
Creative ways to use and display your embroidery around your home
What makes quilting so addictive—and how to ease into it with confidence
The mental health benefits of hands-on creative work
Why Jacquelynne’s “Songbirds Garden” block-of-the-month quilt is perfect for learning
How her membership makes quilting feel like play, not pressure
Tips for getting started with minimal supplies and maximum joy
This is your permission slip to stop scrolling and start stitching.
Mentioned in this episode:
Where to find Jacquelynne: Website
Free Gift: Very Versatile Quilt Pattern, with hand embroidery patterns for every season: https://jacquelynnesteves.com/very-versatile-quilt-art-of-handmade/
Never miss a HobbyScool event! Sign up here.
Is Creativity Calling You? Here’s How Quilting and Hand Embroidery Can Help You Answer
I’ve always believed that creativity is one of the most healing, grounding gifts we can give ourselves—and that it’s never too late to learn something new. In this episode of the HobbyScool Podcast, I had the absolute joy of chatting with Jacquelynne Steves, the founder and creative heart behind The Art of Home, about why crafts like quilting and hand embroidery aren’t just “grandma hobbies”—they’re modern-day therapy with a needle and thread.
If you’ve ever been curious about learning to quilt or try your hand (literally!) at embroidery, this conversation is for you. Jacquelynne breaks down exactly how to get started, why these crafts are so accessible and restorative, and how they can become a meaningful part of your life.
Let’s dig into the creative inspiration.
Why Hand Embroidery Is the Ultimate Beginner Craft
Hand embroidery is one of those timeless crafts that’s having a major revival—and it’s easy to see why. You don’t need a dedicated craft room or expensive tools to begin. All you need is a hoop, some fabric, colorful floss, and a little curiosity.
Jacquelynne explained why this is such a perfect entry point for beginners: it’s portable, inexpensive, and completely customizable. Even if you’ve never sewn before, you can learn a few simple stitches and start creating something beautiful right away. Plus, it’s relaxing and easy to fit into your life, even in 10-minute windows.
One of my favorite moments from our chat was hearing how her grandmother used to spend evenings doing embroidery while waiting for her husband to return from the Navy. Now Jacquelynne is doing the same—and so can we. It’s creativity that connects generations.
How to Use and Display Your Embroidery Projects
Finished your first embroidery? You’ve got options! Jacquelynne shared so many clever and beautiful ways to display and use your work—from pillows and wall hangings to embellished tea towels, table runners, and even denim jeans.
You can stitch onto garments, home décor, or seasonal projects. You can even create heirloom gifts like handkerchiefs for brides or christening gowns for babies. Her free “Very Versatile Quilt Pattern” is a great place to start, offering multiple seasonal embroidery designs that can be sewn into pillows or wall art. The best part? You don’t need fancy stitches—just a few basics can take you far.
Why Quilting Isn’t Just Sewing Squares Together
Quilting is so much more than stitching squares. Jacquelynne opened my eyes to the creative depth of this craft—from cozy gifts to elaborate works of textile art. Quilters, as she explained, are passionate. And once you start, it’s easy to see why.
She shared her story of how a Tuesday night quilt class (and the chance to get out of the house while her kids were little) ignited a lifelong love for quilting. What started as a fun outing turned into a creative obsession—and ultimately, a business.
With endless fabrics, patterns, and techniques to explore, quilting offers limitless possibilities. Whether you’re into modern design or vintage charm, there’s something for everyone.
How to Start Without Feeling Overwhelmed
Starting something new can feel intimidating—but Jacquelynne makes it simple. Her best advice? Just start. Pick a small project, like her free pattern, and remind yourself that it’s just fabric and thread. You’ll learn as you go.
She also encourages beginners to join Facebook quilting groups, where you can get inspired, ask questions, and connect with other creatives. If you “mess up,” that’s okay—your first projects are meaningful just because they’re yours. And honestly, they make amazing gifts.
Creativity Is Good for the Soul
We’re living in a time where digital noise is constant—and crafts like quilting and embroidery offer a calming, tactile break. As Jacquelynne reminded me, creativity isn’t just about making pretty things—it’s about mental health, relaxation, and connecting with ourselves.
If sewing’s not your thing, that’s okay. But find something creative that lights you up. Your brain (and heart) will thank you.
Follow Us On Social:
Keep Listening:
Pin this and save for later
Transcript:
[00:00:00] Welcome to the HobbyScool Podcast. Whether you're a seasoned hobbyist or just getting started, HobbyScool is the perfect place to learn something new. My name is Dr. Destini Copp, and I'm your host. Before we jump into today's episode, I have one small request: if you enjoy the episode, please share it with a friend and leave an honest review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps us reach more people. Also, get on the waitlist for our next HobbyScool Online Learning Summit. These are free to attend, and the link is in the show notes or at hobbyscool.com. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the episode.
[00:01:00] My special guest today is Jacquelynne Steves, owner and Chief Creative Officer at The Art of Home. She started The Art of Home to highlight her love for creative, homey activities like sewing, cooking, and decorating. Jacquelynne, I'm so excited to chat with you today. Can you tell our audience a little bit more about who you are and how you help people?
[00:01:30] Jacquelynne: Thank you for having me! I've been creative all my life and always have tons of ideas. Right now, we focus mostly on quilting and sewing. You'll also find some fun recipes and craft projects on our blog. We love helping people get creative, whether through patterns, shop products, or workshops.
[00:02:10] Destini: I want to talk about hand embroidery, which I know is one of your passions. What exactly is it, and how can someone get started?
[00:02:20] Jacquelynne: Hand embroidery is one of those "grandma crafts" making a comeback. It involves stitching designs on fabric using colorful floss. It’s super accessible, even for beginners. You just need fabric, a hoop, floss, and a needle. It's inexpensive, portable, and really relaxing. You can do it while watching TV or sitting outside.
[00:03:20] We have a free pattern called the Very Versatile Quilt Pattern. It comes with tutorials, basic stitch instructions, and seasonal embroidery designs like a spring flower basket, a pumpkin, and a Christmas stocking. You can use them to make pillows, wall hangings, and more.
[00:04:30] Destini: What are some creative ways people can display their embroidery work?
[00:04:40] Jacquelynne: You can embroider on existing garments, like the collar of a shirt or the hem of jeans. Instagram is full of inspiration! You can also embroider on dish towels, table runners, or make keepsakes like bridal handkerchiefs or baby gowns. Once you learn the basics, the possibilities are endless.
[00:05:50] Destini: Let’s talk about quilting. What should someone know if they want to get started?
[00:06:00] Jacquelynne: Quilters are very passionate! You'll find a wide range of styles and skill levels. Some make simple quilts for gifts or charity, while others create elaborate art quilts. Facebook groups are a great place to start. You can learn a lot just by watching what others are doing and asking questions.
[00:07:20] I didn’t grow up with quilting, but I took a class 25 years ago when my kids were little. It became my creative escape. From day one, I was hooked and started creating my own projects even before the class ended.
[00:08:30] What I love about quilting is the endless fabric options and techniques. Someone once asked, "Isn’t it just sewing squares together?" Not even close. You could quilt for 500 years and never run out of new things to try.
[00:09:30] Destini: I know you’re working on a big project—tell us about it.
[00:09:40] Jacquelynne: We have a block-of-the-month quilt called Songbirds Garden coming up. It features flowers, birds, and various block styles, which makes it fun and educational. Doing one block a month helps make it more manageable and less overwhelming.
[00:10:30] Destini: And you also have a membership. Can you share more about that?
[00:10:40] Jacquelynne: Yes, we’ve had our membership for 8 or 9 years. Each month, members get 2–3 new project patterns plus embroidery and appliqué templates. Everything is mix-and-match, and we offer multiple colorway suggestions. Members also share their work in our Facebook group, which is full of creative inspiration.
[00:12:00] Destini: Do you have any advice for someone who’s thinking about trying quilting or embroidery but doesn’t know where to start?
[00:12:10] Jacquelynne: Just start. Try our free Very Versatile Quilt Pattern—it’s a great intro. Remember, it’s just fabric and thread. Your early projects may not be perfect, but they’ll still be meaningful. Handmade gifts are always appreciated, especially with the holidays coming.
[00:13:10] Destini: And where can people find you and grab that free pattern?
[00:13:20] Jacquelynne: You can find everything at our website, The Art of Home. The free Very Versatile Quilt Pattern is there, and our customer service team is happy to help with any questions. We want everyone to enjoy the benefits of creativity—it’s great for mental health and way more fulfilling than scrolling social media!
[00:14:00] Destini: I’ll make sure all the links are in the show notes. Thank you so much for joining me today, Jacquelynne!
[00:14:10] Jacquelynne: Thank you! This was so much fun.
[00:14:15] Destini: And thank you all for listening. Don’t forget to sign up for the waitlist at hobbyscool.com to be the first to know when our next free Online Learning Summit launches. Talk soon!