Meet Ginger Cherry

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ginger Cherry.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I have been sewing since I was a child, but I began quilting in earnest after my youngest son was born. At the time, I was teaching high school English, and I needed a way to express myself creatively. Quilting provided that outlet. When my oldest son finished elementary school, I decided to stop teaching so that I could be more available for both my boys. I took a part-time job working for Patchwork Memories, a custom t-shirt quilting business and the sister company of Cary Quilting Company. When Patchwork Memories closed, I knew I could continue to make t-shirt quilts, and I did! I bought an APQS Lenni or long-arm for quilting, and I started Finished Fibers, LLC. Going on six years later, I am so happy I did!

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The business learning curve has probably been my biggest “struggle.” I have learned so much about maintaining and growing a business, and at times I wasn’t always sure I was doing the right thing. However, asking questions and research have been very valuable for keeping me on the right track and for keeping me clear of trouble. Also, I find sewing and quilting to be soothing. Luckily anytime I have encountered a difficulty, I can turn to my projects to calm my mind.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My business is a custom quilt-making business. I predominately make t-shirt quilts and memory quilts, which means I make quilts from a variety of clothing from scratch. I create the layouts and custom patterns for my quilts. I also finish quilts for quilters who cannot. For instance, I finished a quilt for a customer who developed an eye disorder. She began the prep work for the quilt, but she felt unable to do the actual piecing and finishing. She had a star in mind, so I created a pattern to work with her pieces she had already prepared. I work on vintage quilts, and I sometimes get to make quilts for people who want a traditional quilt made. In addition to quilts, I make bears and quilted pillows. My work is eclectic and creative, and I love that I get to make patterns and build special custom pieces.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My mom taught me to sew, and she patiently let me raid her stash for new projects— no matter how many I already had started. She and my dad always encouraged me to enjoy creative work. My husband has been a huge help by being so supportive. I am quite risk averse, and when I came home and mentioned, meekly, that I might like to start my own business, he was immediately excited and encouraging. He listens and offers advice when I ask for it, and he is always interested in what I am doing. He is a creative soul himself, so he never minds listening to stories of my work or crazy ideas I am contemplating. My boys, who are pretty much men now, are excellent technology helpers and quilt holders. My sweet quilting friend is always a source of never ending inspiration and a willing ear.

Contact Info:

• Email: finished.fibers@gmail.com
• Website: www.finishedfibers.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/finished.fibers/

Image Credits
Lee Cherry