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

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

Author: Elizabeth Chappell November 21, 2025 Duration: 54:22

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.


Elizabeth Chappell hosts Craft to Career, a space for makers who feel that persistent pull to build something more from their creative work. It’s for the person at their kitchen table, surrounded by their craft, wondering how to bridge the gap between a passionate hobby and a sustainable livelihood. Each episode tackles the real, often unglamorous, questions that arise when you decide to take that leap. You’ll hear practical conversations about defining your niche, setting prices that respect your time, and navigating the complexities of marketing without losing your authentic voice. The focus extends beyond just sales, exploring how to structure your days, maintain creative energy, and build a community around your work, particularly through platforms like Instagram. This podcast operates on the belief that success is a personal definition, not a one-size-fits-all destination. It’s about translating the skill in your hands into a viable, fulfilling path, offering both tactical advice and the necessary encouragement for the journey. Tune in for honest discussions that replace vague inspiration with actionable steps, all aimed at helping you answer that foundational question for yourself.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

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