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:: February 24, 2007 Most Exciting Mail Ever #1
You might know that I have written a few posts here and on Whip Up about fabric and intellectual property issues. If you followed these posts and especially the comments, you might know that the one and only Amy Butler responded in a most gracious way (see also Quilter's Buzz) when many people, including myself to some extent, were being pretty negative toward her re: restrictions on the use of her fabrics -- some of which are re-workings of vintage patterns. But then she discontinued ALL restrictions last year. Anyone can now sell things made from her fabric on whatever scale they please. That announcement has been out there for some time, but it bears repeating. Anyway, I wrote her back and told her that her openness about her design process (including the use of vintage patterns) and her responsiveness to the complaints was really classy (and enlightening, to me, who knows there is much I don't know about the fabric industry). Her fabric is wildly popular and I don't think the "boycotters" put a significant crimp in her sales, but she cared enough what they thought to change her business practices. So how did she respond back to me? With some very sweet and appreciative emails, and then this:
Squeeeeeee! I have always wanted these patterns. And this:
Her soon-to-be-released-from-Chronicle-books Sunbloom Stationery and correspondence cards. How cool is that? Thanks again, Amy. posted by in Mail
Comments I remember the day when Amy Butler first came to Quilt Market, the semi-annual trade show for quilters. I knew the quilting world was going to change. One shop owner came to my booth and said, "her booth is so pretty, but I don't get it". I got it! I think Amy Butler is the person responsible for the shift in the quilting industry and the realization that they need to consider that there is a whole new generation of sewers / quilters that want a fresh new look. Another thing worth mentioning – You couldn’t find a nicer gal – a class act!! I really enjoyed reading how this conversation has come full circle. And now, I think I’ll go cut up some Amy Butler yardage and make something cute! Posted by barbara brandeburg on February 24, 2007 10:53 PM You hit pay dirt my dear! I agree with you on Amy's response to the controversy (being an opinionated loudmouth myself). She came across as very genuine in her change of heart and her reasons why. It takes a big person to acknowledge a mistake so publicly. Have fun with your new stuff! Posted by kathy on February 25, 2007 9:46 AM Wow, that is really great. I was really struck by her open response to the questions about the origins or her designs, as well as her willingness to admit that the whole "home use only" decision was the wrong one. I feel for her though, when people start selling "Amy Butler bags" and "Amy Butler blankets" and such. Good for you for contacting her--she obviously appreciated your feedback. Posted by Kristin on February 25, 2007 9:32 PM Wow, what a great ending to this story! I agree that her response was very classy. This thank you package is like icing on the cake! I must say I am jealous! Posted by Liz Harvatine on February 27, 2007 2:35 PM Amy B. is a class act. She is extremely open and willing to listen (read) and address concerns. She is talented and kind. I too have gotten to know her from Quilt Market and through QuiltersBuzz as she is a reader and guest writer. (Her "unofficial endorsement" put QuiltersBuzz on the Blog map!) She even took her precious time to write me a letter of recommendation to become a vendor at Quilt Market with my pattern series. I agree with Barbara B--she has "rocked" the quilting industry and has forced it to change for the better...Thanks Amy. Posted by Gina on February 27, 2007 11:49 PM yay! that's so great. hooray for you for speaking out for all of us fabric-lovers and hooray for amy being so responsive and respectful. plus hooray for the lovely gifties! Posted by carol on March 7, 2007 1:55 PM These are gorgeous presents. 'Chapeau' for Amy and for you! Though I have very, very little experience at sewing, I am expecting a book by her. Posted by Knitting Morgana on March 29, 2007 4:07 PM |
