About

Fran Gulick - Cotton and Joy

HI THERE, I'M FRAN!

I was born and raised in Chile, but call Washington state home. I first learned to quilt while pregnant with my oldest in 2014. However, it wasn't until 2018 when I encountered the modern quilting movement that I was hooked.

Before starting Cotton and Joy I worked 8 years as a web designer and I originally created this space as a way to share my quilty adventures. However, the designer in me couldn't help to dream up my own designs and I soon learned how to draft quilt patterns.

I love designing quilts and contributing to the long tradition of quilting. My aim is to create a fast-finishes that anyone, from inexperienced beginners to long-time quilters, can enjoy making.

FAST FACTS

  • I have lived in 3 different countries (Chile, US, Germany), and 3 different states (MI, WA, TX) for a total of 14 homes.
  • I am University of Washington Husky twice over with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and a Master in Library and Information Sciences.
  • My favorite authors include Jodi Picoult, Sarah J. Maas, and Mariana Zapata.
  • I can't start my day without a cup of hot tea and I live for a good taco.
  • Florence and the Machine, Death Cab for Cutie, Hozier, and Foo Fighters are some of my favorite bands.

 

Collaborations and partnerships

Janome Ambassador / Maker

I joined Janome's Maker program in 2020.
Below are the machines I've used in that time

2020 - 2023: Janome Memory Craft 9450 
Mar-Nov 2023: Janome Continental M7
Dec 2023 - Present: Janome Continental M8

Aurifil Designer

In 2022, I curatedJoyful Threads, an Aurifil threads box that perfectly coordinates with my fabric collections, Daybreak, South Hill, and Between the Pages.

You can purchase the box in your favorite quilt shop orhere.

Fabric Design

In 2021, I joined Riley Blake Designs as a licensed designer and released my first line of quilting quality cotton. Since then I have released three fabric collections with a fourth one coming to stores in November 2024.

I absolutely adore designing fabric, and my collections are available in quilt shops around the world and online. To learn more about each collections, click the button below.

Learn More

Media and Press

Quilt Buzz Podcast
Episode  46, December 2021

Not Your Granny's Quilt Show
Episode 24, April 2022

Love Patchwork & Quilting Magazine
Issues 110 and 112, Pattern Round Up
Issue 113, Meet the Quilter Feature
Issue 121, Sherbet Chevrons Pattern (cover quilt)

Quilts and More Magazine
Winter 2023Scrap Lab Quilt Pattern 

Exhibits

QuiltCon 2019

Autumn Breeze

Category: Mini Quilts

Quiltcon 2020

Midpoint

Category: Use of Negative Space

Quiltcon 2024

Blended

Category: Fabric Challenge
2nd Place