Quiltsy Cares-Featuring Sue Simpson of Back Pocket Design

Today we are featuring Quiltsy member, Sue Simpson of Back Pocket Design. Sue's charity, No More Sidelines, is a non-profit organization, run by volunteers, committed to helping children and young adults with special needs in the community. They provide children and young adults with special needs, ages seven and older, an opportunity to play sports year round and to participate in community events and outings. Sue said "I love that this charity helps children with special needs play sports and enjoy being kids."

Sue's brown bear pillow

Sue told me she has donated a quilted pillow made with recycled jeans.  It will be part of the silent auction at their Gala fundraising event this coming weekend.  A sweet brown bear is appliqued on the denim and looks like he is climbing out of the jean pocket!  "This is one of my newer designs and I am currently writing this pattern."

 She says, "I am a quilter who is constantly inspired by old denim jeans. The denim in an old pair of jeans is very soft, faded, and ever so cozy. This soft denim is a wonderful canvas for my whimsical applique designs and bright colors. Critters, bugs and flowers popping out of pockets are sure to make anyone smile. A pillow to hug, a quilt to cuddle under, a purse to carry, a mug rug for snack time or a happy animal wall hanging are all wonderful ways to bring new life to this old denim.  Custom memory quilts and pillows are very special projects as well.  I am honored when a customer trusts me to make something with such precious clothing."

A few of Sue's other original designs.

Sue has been sewing since 5th grade, learning from her mother and grandmother.  She started teaching herself to quilt when her son was born 24 years ago.  She began working with denim 14 years ago with a little frog peeking out of a pocket in the middle of a baby quilt for a friend.  

Sue's favorite things to make are her quilted pillows. "They are fun to hug, provide comfort and the pocket is a great place to keep your TV remote! I also LOVE adding a bit of denim to my quilts.  The recycled denim adds a wonderful texture to a quilt and makes them so very cozy!"

Sue's booth at a craft show.

Sue lives in Traverse City, Michigan and has 

been a Quiltsy member since August of 2013. She enjoys very much the friendships and support of all the members in this team.  

You can find Sue here:

Etsy

Facebook

Instagram:  backpocketsue