Quilted by Design: Crystal Manning

 

Your Arcadia quilt features such a fresh, lively mix of florals and plaids. Where do you find inspiration for your color palettes and fabric choices?

I find a lot of my inspiration in nature. Sometimes it’s from a trip my husband and I take, or just a walk around the neighborhood or a visit to the greenhouse. I love seeing how colors come together naturally in flowers and plants. My Cannon Beach collection, for example, was inspired by a trip we took to the Pacific Northwest. We went hiking and took so many pictures of the wildflowers in bloom. They were just so vibrant and full of life, I couldn’t help but bring those colors into my fabric designs.

 

How does your design process usually start — do you begin with a fabric, a block, or a concept?

I usually start with a concept or theme in mind, it might be inspired by a place, a season, or even a feeling I want to capture. From there, I’ll put together a mood board with images and color inspiration, and I like to include a few fabric swatches to help me visualize space and scale. Once I feel good about the direction, I start sketching out ideas and refining them until they grow into full patterns.

 

Many of your quilts have a joyful, whimsical vibe. How do you balance playfulness with technical precision in your patterns?

I want the quilting process to be fun for others, and I think that really reflects my personality, I don’t take life too seriously! I love to laugh and bring a little joy into what I do. Quilting, to me, is a creative outlet and a form of art, so it should feel like a stress reliever, not a source of pressure. I still value good design and structure, but I try to keep things lighthearted and approachable so quilters can just enjoy the process.

 

What is the most challenging part of turning a fabric collection into a full quilt design?

I think the most challenging part is finding the right balance between showcasing the fabric and creating a design that feels cohesive. Each print has its own personality, and I want them all to shine without competing with each other. It can take a while to get the mix of color, scale, and movement just right.

 

Are there any upcoming projects, fabric lines, or patterns that you’re especially excited about and can share with our audience?

Yes! In my next collection, I’ve designed my first medallion-style quilt, and a friend is helping me bring it to life. I can’t wait to see it finished. I will be sharing this in March 2026. I’m also in the middle of designing a new fabric collection. It’s inspired by our trip to Garvan Woodland Gardens in Hot Springs, Arkansas, during tulip season. The colors and blooms there were just breathtaking, and they’ve definitely made their way into the designs. I’ve even included a little sneak peek!