Feeling Frustrated with Quilting? Let’s Talk About Perfectionism and Embracing the Joy of Your Craft
Do you ever feel like quilting has become more frustrating than fun? Does your inner critic zoom in on every “mistake,” whispering that your work isn’t good enough? Maybe you’ve even felt tempted to quit because your projects don’t look like the ones you see on Instagram or Pinterest.
If any of that resonates, you’re not alone. Perfectionism is a struggle many quilters face, and it has a way of draining the creativity and joy right out of our craft. It can make you feel like every project needs to be “just right,” like you’re constantly being graded—or worse, that you’re the one handing out the grades.
Why Perfectionism is the Thief of Joy in Quilting
Perfectionism might seem like a motivator—it pushes us to do better, right? But for many quilters, it becomes a roadblock.
Instead of enjoying the process of choosing fabrics, sewing pieces together, and watching your design take shape, perfectionism can make you hyper-focused on tiny flaws that no one else would even notice (especially from 4 feet away!)
It’s that little voice in your head that says:
“Your points don’t match up perfectly.”
“That stitching is slightly uneven—why didn’t you fix it?”
“It’s not perfectly squared up.”
“This quilt isn’t good enough to show anyone.”
When these thoughts take over, quilting can feel like a chore instead of a creative outlet. Perfectionism doesn’t just rob you of joy—it can stall your progress, leave projects unfinished, and make you hesitant to try new techniques for fear of failure.
But it doesn’t have to be this way.
At Quilted! The Virtual Summit, we’re tackling perfectionism head-on with two incredible teachers: Dara Tomasson and Tabatha Smith. Our workshops are packed with practical strategies to help you let go of unrealistic expectations, find joy in quilting again, and finish your projects with pride.
Meet Your Guides to Overcoming Perfectionism
Dara Tomasson
Have you ever felt paralyzed by “all-or-nothing” thinking in your quilting? Like if it’s not perfect, it’s not worth finishing? Dara’s workshop, “Stop Letting Perfectionism Keep You From Having Fun and Being Productive,” is the perfect antidote to these feelings.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Why perfectionism feels so powerful: For many of us, it started as a survival strategy—an attempt to control the uncontrollable. Dara will help you understand why this mindset no longer serves you and how to let it go.
The 12 Steps to Perfection Recovery for Quilters: These actionable steps will guide you to embrace progress over perfection, so you can enjoy the journey instead of stressing about the destination.
Tools to regulate your nervous system: Learn how to calm the stress that perfectionism creates, making it easier to get “in the zone” and quilt with ease.
Dara’s compassionate and practical approach will leave you feeling lighter and more inspired. Imagine sitting down at your sewing machine and feeling free to experiment, create, and even make mistakes—because those “mistakes” are what make your quilt truly yours.
Tabatha Smith
One of the most common struggles for quilters is the pile of unfinished projects—ones you started with excitement but put aside because they didn’t feel perfect. Tabatha’s workshop, “Quilt It or Quit It,” will help you tackle this head-on.
Here’s what to expect:
Deciding what to finish and what to let go: Not every project has to be completed, and that’s okay! Tabatha will show you how to evaluate your UFOs (unfinished objects) with honesty and grace, so you can focus on the ones that truly matter to you.
Strategies for finishing your projects faster: From time management tips to creative shortcuts, you’ll learn how to complete your quilts without sacrificing quality—or your sanity.
Reigniting your quilting joy: By letting go of perfectionism, you’ll rediscover the satisfaction of seeing your projects come to life, imperfections and all.
Tabatha’s down-to-earth teaching style will help you approach your quilting projects with a fresh perspective, turning that stack of UFOs into a source of pride instead of stress.
Tactical Solutions to Embrace Joy in Your Quilting
In addition to learning from Dara and Tabatha, here are some actionable tips you can start using today:
Adopt a “Done is Better than Perfect” Mindset
Perfection is an illusion—no quilt is ever 100% flawless, and that’s part of its charm! Focus on progress and celebrate the small wins, like finishing a block or mastering a tricky technique.Practice Self-Compassion
If you wouldn’t criticize a friend’s quilt, why criticize your own? Remind yourself that quilting is a journey, not a test, and give yourself permission to learn and grow.Set Realistic Goals
Instead of aiming for perfection, aim for completion. Break your projects into smaller, manageable steps and celebrate each milestone you achieve.Find a Supportive Community
Surround yourself with quilters who lift you up, like the Quilt Queens Community. Join sew-alongs, attend live “sit n sew” events, and share your progress with others who understand the ups and downs of the quilting journey.Turn “Mistakes” into Opportunities
A missed point or uneven stitch doesn’t ruin your quilt—it makes it unique. Embrace these imperfections as a reflection of your creativity and resourcefulness.
Join Us at Quilted! the Virtual Summit!
Quilting is meant to be a source of joy, creativity, and connection—not frustration. At Quilted! the Virtual Summit, our FREE 2-Day Quilting Online Event, happening February 4 & 5, Dara and Tabatha will equip you with the tools and mindset shifts you need to overcome perfectionism and fall in love with quilting all over again.
Whether you’re an experienced quilter or just starting out, their workshops will inspire you to embrace your craft with confidence and joy. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with a community of like-minded quilters.
Ready to transform your quilting experience? Sign up for Quilted: The Virtual Summit today, and let’s stitch joy back into your quilting journey.
