Meet Cindy Cloward of Riley Blake Designs: Inside One of the World’s Leading Fabric Companies

In this episode of the Craft to Career podcast, Elizabeth Chappell sits down with Cindy Cloward, owner of Riley Blake Designs, one of the largest and most influential fabric manufacturers in the world. Riley Blake is known for its high-quality quilting cottons, stunning designer collaborations, notions, patterns, and its iconic Garden of Quilts event.

Cindy shares the inspiring story behind the company's beginnings, how it has grown into a global brand, and what exciting things are on the horizon for Riley Blake. From manufacturing insights to brand-building, this conversation offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at a powerhouse in the quilting industry.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• How Riley Blake Designs began
  Hear the origin story of the company, why it was created, and how the Cloward family stepped into the world of fabric manufacturing.

• Behind-the-scenes insights into fabric manufacturing
  Get a peek into what it really takes to run a large-scale fabric company that serves quilters and sewists around the world.

• What makes Riley Blake unique
  Learn about the products, designers, and events, such as the beloved Garden of Quilts, that set the company apart.

• Exciting new things coming to Riley Blake
  Cindy shares upcoming launches, innovations, and future plans.

• How Cindy turned her craft into a thriving career
  Be inspired by Cindy's business journey and her passion for creativity, community, and quality.

Why You'll Love This Episode

If you've ever wondered who makes the fabrics you adore, how the quilting industry operates behind the scenes, or what it takes to build a company that supports thousands of makers, this episode is a must-listen. Cindy's insights into entrepreneurship, creativity, and leadership will inspire any craft-lover dreaming of growing a creative business.