About Cindy Needham

Quilting Changed My Life

I have been an obsessive quilter for over 45 years starting as a hand quilter when I was in the 8th grade. I loved the process of hand quilting but found I couldn't keep up with my quilt tops and finally had to learn to machine quilt. It was a very difficult journey, and not easy, but after many months of practice I finally got my rhythm and fell head over heels in love with the art of machine quilting.

In the late 90's I became a bit bored quilting on "regular" pieced quilt tops and decided to try my hand at quilting a tattered linen that was on my night stand. I marked it with a beautiful design, put it in my machine, and created the world's very first linen wholecloth quilt. It was a moment that changed my life forever. Not only had I created something fabulous out of an ordinary linen but it justified my huge linen stash! Now I had to make more of them!

In 2005 I took a "Leap of Faith" and quit my full time job in the medical field complete with benefits, a regular paycheck, retirement, etc. to follow a dream. It was one of the most frightening moments of my life. I know I am one of the lucky ones to make my living following my passion. This journey has taken me around the world meeting fabulous quilters and experiencing moments I would have never had the chance to otherwise. It is very obvious to me now that I am doing what I was meant to do...teach.

I have been married to the love of my life, Kent, for 40+ years. He is the sole proprietor of his own cabinet shop here in Chico. We have two favorite daughters...Jenny and Emily and two favorite grand-daughters...Chloe and Samantha.

I travel and teach/speak at shows and guilds.  If you are interested in having me as a guest please contact me!