Marci Baker, a former software engineer with a knack for solving complex mathematical problems, discovered a new challenge when she became a stay-at-home mom: optimizing the quilting process. Her goal? To create traditional quilts in a fraction of the time, achieving both precision and speed.
Baker’s background in engineering led her to approach quilting with a systematic mindset. She quickly realized that the traditional methods of cutting and sewing were incredibly time-consuming. This realization sparked her ingenuity, leading her to develop a revolutionary method based on “strip piecing.”
Strip piecing eliminates the need to measure and sew together individual fabric pieces. Instead, strips of fabric are sewn together, strategically cut diagonally, and then pieced together to form intricate patterns. This innovative approach dramatically reduces the time required to complete a quilt. What once took approximately 50 hours can now be accomplished in as little as five.
Recognizing the potential of her method, Baker founded Alicia’s Attic, a company dedicated to providing patterns and quilting tools. Her products appeal to both experienced quilters seeking efficiency and beginners eager to learn the craft without the overwhelming time commitment.
Baker expanded her business by opening a retail space that serves as a workshop, classroom, and storefront. Here, she offers her patterns, tools, and books, as well as the Janome line of sewing machines. She chose Janome machines because of their ease of use for beginners and their ability to deliver excellent results for experienced quilters.
Baker personally uses the Janome Memory Craft 6500 Professional, which boasts a speed of up to 1,000 stitches per minute and a larger workspace than standard home sewing machines. This machine combines the power and stitch quality of an industrial model with the quiet operation of a home machine.
Looking ahead, Baker is enthusiastic about the Janome Memory Craft 6600, which includes even more advanced features to further enhance the quilting experience.