Rising Stars: Meet Sandra Chandler

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Sandra Chandler.

Hi Sandra, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hi, my name is Sandra Lee Chandler. I was born in Los Angeles and raised in Orange County, California, where I lived until 2023, when I decided to move to Nashville, TN. My quilt journey started over 30 years ago, and I continue to be inspired by the myriad fabrics and techniques I learned over time. I hold a B.S. in Clothing, Textiles, and Design from Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ. 

I began teaching 38 years ago at Santa Ana Community College and now teach a weekly virtual quilting class through Saddleback Community College. I’ve also had the opportunity to teach and perform at Quilt Canada 2022, Stitches at Home 2022, Stitches West 2022, Quiltcon 2019 & 2021, Craft Napa 2019 & 2021, Squam 2021, and the Festival of Quilts in England in 2018 to name a few. I have presented numerous virtual and in-person lectures and workshops across the country. 

Over the past several years, I have been published in a variety of magazines: Threads 2021, Quilt Now 2020, Sew Magazine 2020, American Quilt Magazine 2020, Quiltfolk 2019, and several times in Simply Moderne’, Altered Couture, Haute Handbags, and Apron-ology to name a few. 

My TV appearances include “The Quilt Show” and “Quilting Arts,” which have added to launching my career to new heights. 

My core materials for quilting are thread and fabric. However, I often employ recycled denim, yarns, dyed fabrics, and stamps to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. I’m known for my repurposed denim quilts, wearable art quilted garments, workshops, and lectures. 

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Starting my career as a quilting instructor and repurposing artist, I’ve encountered various obstacles. Finding students and promoting my classes has been challenging, as has establishing myself as an authority in the quilting and repurposing community. 

Sourcing unique materials for my projects and balancing my work’s creative and business aspects has also been quite demanding. However, I’m committed to overcoming these obstacles and establishing a successful career in this field. 

Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I started my career as a quilting instructor and repurposing artist. My specialty lies in creating unique quilts and art pieces by repurposing materials. I’m known for my innovative approach to quilting and repurposing, often using unconventional materials to create beautiful and functional pieces. I take pride in combining traditional quilting techniques with modern design, resulting in one-of-a-kind creations. 

What sets me apart from others is my commitment to sustainability and creativity and my dedication to teaching others the art of quilting and repurposing. I’m most proud of the community I’ve built around my work, inspiring others to embrace creativity and sustainability in their projects. 

We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
One surprising thing that most people who know me or my work might not know is that I am a mother of four adult children. 

I recently moved from Orange County, CA, to Nashville, TN. This change has brought new inspiration and perspectives to my work, and I’m excited to see how it will influence my future creations. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sandrajohnsondesigns.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandraleedesign/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TextilesArtistSandraLeeDesign/