An Inspired Chat with Diana Quinn of Chamblee

We recently had the chance to connect with Diana Quinn and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Diana, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I feel very proud of what the Southeast Fiber Arts Alliance has accomplished in the last sixteen years. From the initial idea of having a thriving Fiber Arts community to what we are today. We ;provide educational opportunities for the beginner to the professional fiber artist. Our community is stitched together one thread a time.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Southeast Fiber Arts Alliance (SEFAA) began with a simple but powerful vision: that fiber arts deserve a true home—a place where creativity is nurtured, traditions are honored, and community thrives. Since our founding in July 2009, we’ve believed that vibrant creative communities aren’t accidental—they’re built intentionally, stitch by stitch. That’s why SEFAA has grown into a dynamic hub for textile education, connection, and inspiration. Today, we remain your go-to textile resource, empowering artists of all levels and preserving the timeless beauty of fiber arts, one thread at a time.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
SEFAA is proud to call a beautiful, light-filled space in the heart of Chamblee, Georgia home. Designed with fiber artists in mind, our facility includes a spacious studio for hands-on workshops, a dedicated wet room for dyeing, a retail shop stocked with textile treasures, and a lending library full of resources on both traditional and contemporary textile arts—free to members. This creative haven supports makers of all levels, offering the tools, space, and inspiration needed to grow. In addition to our in-person programming, we also host regular online events and gatherings, from free community stitching sessions to workshops led by guest instructors and vendors. Whether you’re local or joining us from afar, there’s always a way to connect, learn, and create with SEFAA.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
During COVID, where our community could not be physically together was a very difficult time for our organization. During this time we learned to be resilient and found ways to connect with our community through virtual programming.

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
SEFAA is commmitted to provide a home for the fiber arts community. We are bursting at the seams in our current facility. We will continue to search and seek a permanent home that support our community’s needs.

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What are you doing today that won’t pay off for 7–10 years?
Search for a new building that will support the community into the future.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.fiberartsalliance.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sefiberarts/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SEFiberArtsAlliance

Image Credits
Artist names are are associated with the file names.