An Author's Journey: From Teaching Quilting to Self-Publishing
- Tori McElwain
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Tori McElwain, Author of Workshops Unleashed
It all started over a cup of coffee with a fellow quilter who asked me, “How did you get started teaching online?” That simple question lingered with me. I realized so many quilters and pattern designers were struggling - wondering how to structure their classes, manage their time, and actually get more students to show up. Their questions were real and urgent, but they couldn’t be answered in a quick Facebook comment or a passing message.
With my experience teaching quilting and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction, I knew how adults learn best - I’d spent years studying the science behind it and how to turn complicated subjects into simple, actionable steps both in the public classroom and as a lead trainer for a tech company. So, I started writing a guide, breaking down course design and teaching strategies in a way that quilters could really use. I wanted it to feel like sitting next to a trusted friend who’s got your back and knows the ropes.
But it wasn’t easy. I was juggling a full-time job, started coaching quilting businesses on digital marketing, caring for my very young children (1 and 5 years old), and on top of that, living with dyslexia, which made me think I’d never write a book. I struggled to learn to read and write growing up, so this journey felt especially daunting. Nights were rough - especially with my one-year-old struggling to sleep, which meant I was surviving on little more than adrenaline and hope. I had daily panic attacks, and some nights the silence in our house felt heavy and overwhelming. At my lowest point, I had to step away from the book to focus on my oldest child’s needs - navigating medical appointments, diagnoses, and building a support team to help him thrive.
Still, through the exhaustion and doubt, the fire to finish that book never went out. When I finally saw that my ideas could be a full book, I felt this surge of joy and excitement I hadn’t felt in a long time. It was like a fog lifting - the passion came rushing back, and with it, a fierce determination to make this dream real. Hiring a content editor was the first step I took - I knew I couldn't do this on my own. She believed in me and helped me stay accountable and moving forward, even on the hardest days.
Living with and supporting my neurodivergent child taught me so much about patience, creativity, and embracing alternative ways of learning and growing. Those lessons seeped into everything I did -from teaching to coaching to writing. I experienced what I had learned in theory: not everyone’s brain works the same way, and that’s okay. It made me more compassionate and adaptable, especially for the quilters and teachers I wanted to help.
When the book finally came out, the feedback blew me away. One reader told me it felt like having a coaching session with me right there beside her. Another shared that my book changed her life, giving her the confidence to leave a difficult path and start her own business. Hearing those stories made every sleepless night and moment of doubt worth it.
My mission is simple: to bring creativity and joy into people’s lives through quilting, while empowering women to find their voices and share their skills. This isn’t just about making quilts - it’s about building community, sharing passion, and creating a sustainable business that fits your life.
Now, I’m taking everything I learned - not just about quilting and teaching, but about writing, publishing, and marketing a book- into a program for self-publishing authors.
I want to help others who have a message to share, but don’t know where to start or feel overwhelmed by the process. And I’m not doing it alone. I’m bringing a trusted team with me: the very same content editor who helped me stay accountable and sharpen my writing, Melissa Strange, plus a quilt pattern tech editor, Kaitlyn Fritsh, who brings deep expertise in the quilting world. Together, we provide the support, guidance, and technical know-how to help you bring your book - and your dream - to life.
If you’re dreaming of writing your own book, building your authority, and connecting with your audience on your own terms, we're here to show you how it’s done - step by step, with support, encouragement, and real-world tools.
Ready to turn your passion and expertise into a self-published book?
If you’ve ever dreamed of sharing your message, building your authority, and reaching your audience on your own terms - but felt overwhelmed by where to start or how to keep going - you’re not alone. I’ve been there, and now I want to walk alongside you.
Join the Self-Publishing Incubator - a supportive, hands-on program where you get more than just guidance. You’ll have me, a dedicated content editor who’ll help you sharpen your writing, and a quilt pattern tech editor with deep industry knowledge, all working together to help you bring your book to life.
Whether you’re a quilter, a creative entrepreneur, or anyone with a story to tell, this incubator is designed to make the publishing journey manageable, inspiring, and successful.
Let’s turn your dream into reality—step by step, with encouragement, expert support, and practical tools.
Interested? Reach out today to learn more and reserve your spot. Your book - and your voice - deserve to be seen.
Links:
See more information and join the Self-Publishing Incubator here!
Grab your copy of Workshops Unleashed here!
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