Advertise on podcast: Stitching up Trouble with Mary and Heidi

In this episode of Stitching Up Trouble, Mary and Heidi dive into the growing trend of Analog Bags—what they are, why creatives are obsessed with them, and how they blend function with a love for analog tools like pens, notebooks, planners, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned journaler or just analog-curious, this chat will inspire you to curate your own bag of analog joy. Grab your favorite pouch and tune in!

In Episode 2 of Stitching up Trouble Season 2, we’re diving into the mindset and motivation behind our creative reset for 2026! We start by revealing our Words of the Year and how those words are guiding our goals and energy in the studio. Then we jump into the first focus of our Organizing Challenge—tackling those lingering WIPs (Works in Progress) and UFOs (Unfinished Objects). We share tips for evaluating what to keep, how to store and track projects you’re still excited about, and what to do with the ones you’re ready to release. Plus, creative ideas for gifting or passing on unfinished projects to others who might love them. If you’re ready to clear space, reclaim your creative energy, and sew with more intention this year—this episode is a must-listen.

Season 2 of Stitching up Trouble with Mary and Heidi is officially underway! After a holiday break, we’re back and getting ready for 2026 with a full reset. In this first episode of the new season, we talk through our individual reset plans—how we reflect on the past year, set intentions for the year ahead, and organize our creative spaces to support those goals. From decluttering and reorganizing to mindset shifts that help us start strong, this episode is all about creating a foundation for a productive, creative year. If you’re looking for motivation to refresh your sewing room and reset your creative rhythm, this is the perfect place to start.

In Episode 31 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re recapping all the fun, creativity, and community from our most recent quilting retreat—and giving you a sneak peek of what’s in store for our next one this February! From favorite moments and memorable projects to lessons learned and why these retreats are so special, we’re sharing it all. Whether you’re thinking about attending for the first time or you’re a returning guest, this episode gives you a feel for the experience and what you can expect next time. If you’ve been dreaming of a getaway filled with fabric, laughter, and inspiration—this is your sign to join us.

In Episode 30 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re setting the tone for a fresh new year with a conversation about organizing and decluttering your creative space. Heidi shares her structured plan for organizing her studio heading into the new year—breaking down what’s working, what’s not, and how she’s resetting her space for maximum productivity. Mary shares her more intuitive approach to decluttering, including how she decides what stays, what goes, and how to make space for creativity without the chaos. Whether you’re color-coding your bins or just trying to clear off your cutting table, this episode is packed with practical tips and encouragement to help you start the year feeling focused and inspired.

In Episode 29 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re talking all about holiday sewing — how to handle the gift-making season without losing your joy (or your sanity).As the holidays approach, Heidi and Mary share practical advice for planning, pacing, and prioritizing your handmade gifts. From choosing manageable projects to knowing when to say “enough,” this episode will help you balance creativity with calm.Whether you’re sewing for loved ones or making for fun, these tips will help you enjoy the process and still have time to sip that hot cocoa.

In Episode 28 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re talking about something every maker faces sooner or later — how to keep creating when your body needs a break.With Mary currently sporting a cast, we’re sharing our best tips and tricks for quilting (and crafting) while injured. From adjusting your setup and tools to pacing your projects, we’ll help you stay connected to your creativity without overdoing it.This one’s all about working smarter, resting often, and giving yourself grace when life slows you down.

In Episode 27 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re talking about one of the biggest decisions in your sewing journey—buying a new sewing machine. Heidi shares her expert insight on what questions to ask before you buy, including machine features to consider, how to think about your sewing goals, and what to know before walking into a dealer or ordering online. Whether you’re buying your first machine or upgrading to your dream setup, this episode will help you feel more confident, informed, and ready to invest in a machine that truly fits your style.

In Episode 26 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re sharing everything you need to know about quilt retreat etiquette. Whether you're heading to your first retreat or you're a seasoned veteran, these tips will help you get the most out of your experience—and make sure everyone else does too. From sharing space and respecting quiet time to being flexible and packing smart, we’ll talk through the do’s, the don’ts, and the “definitely bring chocolate” moments that make retreats memorable for all the right reasons. This episode is all about creating a welcoming, stress-free environment so you can focus on what matters: quilting, connection, and fun.

In Episode 25 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re hitting the high seas—quilter-style! Mary asks Heidi all about her experience teaching and quilting aboard a cruise. Heidi shares insider tips, what to expect, what to pack, and why quilting cruises are such a fun way to combine creativity and travel. Whether you're dreaming of your first cruise or just curious how it all works, this episode is full of practical advice and fun stories from life on deck.

In Episode 24 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re catching up after a busy stretch! Mary shares the latest updates on the progress at Koosa Mountain Lodge as the retreat center gets closer to opening. Meanwhile, Heidi gives us a peek into what’s been happening in the design studio—from fabric lines to pattern planning. This laid-back episode is part progress report, part creative catch-up, and full of that Mary-and-Heidi banter you’ve come to love.

In Episode 23 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re diving into the concept of third spaces—those meaningful places outside of home and work where people gather, connect, and belong. Inspired by a conversation with Mary’s daughter-in-law, we explore what third spaces are, how they’ve changed over time, and why they’re more important than ever in today’s disconnected world. From traditional spots like cafes and libraries to modern hubs like quilt retreats, hobby classes, and fabric shops, we’re talking about the role these spaces play in building community and supporting mental health. Whether you’ve found your third space in a sewing circle or you’re still searching for it, this episode will inspire you to reconnect with people, purpose, and creativity.

In Episode 22 of Stitching up Trouble, we’re breaking all the “rules” and airing our unpopular (and totally valid) quilting opinions. Heidi and Mary share the real-life practices that don’t always match the traditional quilt police standards—and why that’s perfectly okay. From skipping the border measurements to ignoring backing size suggestions, we’re getting honest about how we actually sew. If you’ve ever felt guilty for doing things your own way in the sewing room, this episode is your permission slip to embrace your methods, trust your instincts, and let go of the “perfect” way to quilt. New episodes every week—subscribe for more quilting real talk.

In Episode 21 of Stitching up Trouble, Mary gives us an exciting update on the progress of the Koosa Mountain Lodge retreat center. With the grand opening just around the corner, she shares behind-the-scenes details on construction, setup, and what guests can expect when the doors open. If you’ve been following the journey of Koosa Mountain Lodge or dreaming of attending a quilt retreat, this episode is full of inspiration, updates, and the excitement of seeing a big dream come to life.

In Episode 20 of Stitching Up Trouble, Heidi sharesall the details about her exciting new freelance role as a Janome Educator.From her first week of training at Janome’s U.S. headquarters in Mahwah, New Jersey, to what this opportunity means for her creative journey, she’s giving us a peek behind the curtain. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work with a majorsewing machine company—or what goes on at HQ—this episode is full of insights, stories, and plenty of inspiration.