Jessica Alexandrakis learned to quilt while living in Hokkaido, Japan in 2002. She loves collecting fabric, piecing scrap quilts, and quilting in public. Jessica is the author of Quilting on the Go! (Search Press, April 2013). She lives outside of New York City and blogs at Lifeunderquilts.blogspot.com.
An Interview with Jessica
Where were you born?
Evergreen Park, Illinois (Just outside of Chicago)
What is your educational background?
I’ve got a BA in Japanese Language and Literature from Smith College and a MA in Applied Linguistics from Hofstra University
What first got you interested in craft?
I’ve always loved making things, combining color and expressing myself with handmade items.
How long have you been crafting?
I’ve been crafting for as long as I can remember, I come from a long line of crafting women. I started my first quilt in 1994, in high school, and began quilting seriously in 2002.
Where do you get your materials?
I like collecting fabric on travels, swapping with friends, and upcycling my family’s clothing. Anything else comes from local fabric shops or online.
What were your first thoughts when asked to write a book?
That’ll be easy. (hahaha!)
Has publishing a book changed your life in any way?
My 6 year old thinks I’m famous.
Any tips for beginners?
Just get started! Follow your heart and make what you love.
What is your favourite craft tool?
My open topped thimble from Clover.
Have you travelled for your craft?
A little bit, I’d love to do more!
Where does your inspiration come from?
Traveling, print media, the internet. I love going to quilt shows and fabric shops and seeing what different or unique things I can find that will trigger my inner maker.
