Editor's note: Mary Lou Weidman, author, teacher and quilter does much more than teach people to quilt. Her whimsical approach to quilting has taught her students two important lessons: to trust their own instincts and to tell their own stories. These lessons have resulted in wonderfully original story quilts and wallhangings. Mary Lou has been quilting for over 30 years. She lives near Spokane, Washington, with husband Mark. She and Mark have three children and two grandchildren. Her books include two titles from C&T: "Whimsies and Whynots," and "Quilted Memories," and numerous books and patterns from Marylouquiltdesigns.com. You can also find out more about her on her Designers Page.

When did you begin quilting?
I began quilting at my Grandmother's knee. She first taught me to make yoyos. Then she taught me nine patches and later on grandmother's flower garden (my favorite even today). Later in 1974, I picked up a magazine article and started in again. After making many traditional quilts I started doing story quilts in 1988.

How did you develop your unique "storybook" style?
I came from an Irish family and I think our whole family looks at life with humor and sentiment. I love telling stories in the form of a quilt. I can always find a funny side of something and I like that approach to life. So when I did a cat sitting on a sewing machine, or a woman carrying a chicken in her arms, I laughed and I hoped other quilters would see the humor too.

Is there anyone in particular who has influenced your style?
I have a background in painting and still read about and follow the(painting) art world. I have always loved Grandma Moses, Mattie Lou O Kelly, Charlie Russell, Van Dyke, Van Gogh, Chagall, Diego Rivera, Mary Cassatt and artists such as these.

How do you design fabrics?
I try to design fabrics that I see a need for, that aren't already "out there." I like to design fabrics that will give great results in other quilter's pieces.

Where do you get your inspiration?
My studio is crammed with clipping and art articles and drawings, and I have bins filled with all kinds of things that are inspirational. I also have many things from quilt artists as well. I have long been a great fan of Paula Nadelstern. Did you know she did story quilts a long ago before becoming famous for kaleidoscope quits? She is a wonderful artist and a fun and intelligent person too. I get inspired after spending time with her.

How often do you teach and how often to you produce patterns?
Last year I was on the road for 200 days and I traveled internationally also. I am thankful that my husband is so supportive and sweet. He holds down the fort until I get back and start cooking and grocery shopping again. I write a couple of books a year and design about 8-12 patterns as well. I always try to leave some time for a few personal pieces about my kids, my friends, my world. These keep me creative and in tune with how the new fabrics all work with one another.

What advise would you give to a beginning quilter?
My goal is quilting is to (1) have fun and be happy, (2) meet new people and share what I know is true and right and (3) to gain some wisdom from the wise women out there. I think it is important for every quilter to tell us who they are and who or what they love.