Q: How did you get started quilting?

I’ve always been a crafter with a passion for creating something with my hands that is worthy of passing down to future generations. I dabbled in basket weaving and stained glass, embroidery, knitting and crochet, but found my calling in quilting. There is something about the history of the quilt—the symbol of safety on the Underground Railroad, the sense of heritage and love, home and hearth —that gives them so much more meaning beyond fabric and thread.

Q: How did you start machine quilting?

In 2004 I had been quilting for years when I discovered a need in the Indianapolis area for high-quality and affordable machine quilting and finishing. I knew this was a niche that I could fill, so I purchased my first long-arm quilting machine and launched kd dids quilting. The name is a combination of my initials K + D for Kathy Dye. I set out to not only lear n to use my new machine, but to master the craft. I studied under renown machine quilters across the country and joined several quilting communities to learn from my peers. My work has been displayed at the Quilt Market in Kansas City, Red Rooster Fabrics and the Houston Quilt Festival. I’m also published in Bits and Pieces and Journeys by Whimsical Designs.

Q: What is special about kd dids?

I rooted kd dids quilting in my love for the tradition of quilting and enjoy working with fellow quilters to take something that they have poured their time and hearts into and turn it into something that is truly an heirloom.

Q: What are you doing when you aren’ t working on customer quilts?

I live in Noblesville, IN with my husband where I spend my spare time tackling crossword puzzles and piecing quilts for friends, family and charity organizations.