Why Teachers Make Great Authors (Especially in the Quilting World)
- Tori McElwain
- 10 hours ago
- 3 min read
If you’ve ever taught a quilting class, led a workshop, or explained a tricky pattern to a friend, you’re already doing something that authors do every day: breaking down ideas to help others learn.
And that’s exactly why so many quilt teachers and pattern designers are perfectly positioned to write a book. You’ve spent years refining your voice, your lessons, and your ability to guide others step by step. Publishing is simply the next evolution of your teaching.
So if the idea of writing a book has been whispering in your ear, here’s why you might be more ready than you think.
1. You’re Driven to Share What You’ve Learned
Teaching isn’t just about technique—it’s about generosity. Whether you’ve spent years perfecting your approach to free motion quilting, learning how to write more inclusive patterns, or helping beginners feel confident at the machine, you’ve gathered knowledge that’s worth sharing.
Books give you a platform to go beyond the classroom and reach readers around the world. They allow your insights to live on long after the workshop ends—and to impact people you may never meet in person.
2. You Understand the Power of Community
Teachers thrive in connection. You’ve seen firsthand how a shared love of fabric, creativity, and storytelling can bring people together.
Writing a book doesn’t mean retreating into isolation - it can actually be a way to build community. Quilt books often spark guild discussions, Q&A sessions, quilt-alongs, and entire ecosystems of support. Your book becomes the campfire everyone gathers around.
3. You’re Already Great at Step-by-Step Instruction
Let’s be honest, writing a book can feel intimidating. But if you’ve ever created a workshop outline or a pattern template, you already have one of the most valuable skills an author can possess: the ability to break a complex process into manageable, repeatable steps.
This is gold. Whether you’re writing a technique guide, a pattern collection, or a story-infused quilt memoir, your teaching instincts will help you lead your reader, not lose them.
So What’s Stopping You?
If you’ve thought, “I’m not a writer,” or “I wouldn’t even know where to begin,” you’re not alone. Many talented, passionate teachers get stuck right there.
That’s why I created the Self-Publishing Incubator - a supportive, step-by-step program that helps quilting entrepreneurs turn their book idea into a published reality. With expert feedback, a clear timeline, and a team that understands the quilting world, you don’t have to figure this out alone.
Ready to explore if writing a book is your next chapter?
Stay tuned for next week’s post, where I’ll share 5 types of quilt and craft books that are actually selling right now—and how to know which one fits your voice.
Introducing the Self Publishing Incubator
If you're looking for help to get your book published, check out our Self-Publishing Incubator Program!
The Self-Publishing Incubator is more than a program - it's your pattern, your guide, and your support team all rolled into one.
Designed specifically for quilting teachers and pattern designers, this incubator gives you everything you need to:
Turn your ideas into a clear, structured manuscript
Receive expert content and tech editing feedback
Format and prepare your book for print and digital release
Launch your book with confidence and strategy
Build momentum for future workshops, offers, or products
And best of all? You'll do it on your terms, with your voice, and with a team that understands the quilting world inside and out.