Melissa Tippets

As a child, I wasn’t taught quilting or sewing, but my grandmother’s colorful, fun, and unique crocheted blankets sparked a deep appreciation for handmade crafts. Creativity has always been part of who I am, and I’ve long admired art in many forms.

When my family purchased Sew Steady in 2009, I had my first real introduction to sewing and sewing machines. I began as the designer for our Tables and Inserts, learning AutoCAD to create the files. Over time, we partnered with and eventually purchased Westalee Design in 2019. This brought me into contact with some of the most talented individuals in the quilting industry, and I was inspired by their artistry and expertise.

During COVID, we shifted our focus online, and my quilting journey truly began. Tasked with launching Sew Steady University, I gathered a wealth of education from our instructors, showcasing their stunning and creative work. Seeing their artistry firsthand piqued my interest, and I decided to take the plunge with my first sewing machine—a Brother 1750D. It was small but versatile, capable of quilting and embroidery, and it unlocked a new level of creativity for me. Though overwhelming at first, I was hooked.

Attending my first major quilt show—the International Quilt Festival in Houston, TX—was a transformative experience. Walking among the vibrant colors, rich textures, and endless variety of fabric art left me in awe. The possibilities for expression through quilting felt limitless

In the years since, I’ve refined my skills, learned new techniques, and embraced the creative process. I particularly enjoy experimenting with fabric collage, quilting with templates, embroidery, and combining methods to create both small and large projects. Hosting video-based classes has been a rewarding way to share ideas, explore new techniques, and connect with others who share my passion.

What I love most about quilting is the opportunity to continually learn, stretch my creativity, and interact with an amazing community of artists and makers. Westalee rulers and templates remain a personal favorite—their ingenuity, versatility, and ability to elevate any project make them an essential tool for quilters of all levels.

Instructor Project Gallery