There’s something truly magical about the moment when artistry, fabric, and thread come together in perfect harmony. We are absolutely thrilled to introduce Enchantment, the debut Aurifil thread set by the talented Jackie MacDonald (Sweetfire Road Design Co.)—artist, designer, and the creative force behind some incredibly dreamy fabric collections.
Featuring eight small spools of our versatile 50wt thread and two small spools of our luscious 12wt thread, Enchantment was designed to pair seamlessly with Jackie’s eponymous fabric collection for Moda, while also complementing her upcoming releases. With soft, romantic tones and delicate highlights, this set is a must-have for quilters and makers who adore subtle elegance in their stitching.
Our journey with Jackie began in the Fall of 2023. It started with an introduction by our esteemed partner and industry fabric legend, Lissa Alexander (Moda) and led to further inspiring conversations at Quilt Market that year where we were instantly drawn to her warm spirit and stunning designs. Imagine our delight when we discovered that she lives just a few short hours from our very own Creative Director, Erin Sampson—proof that sometimes, the best collaborations are simply meant to be!
It has been a joy to work with Jackie on this collection, and we can’t wait to see how makers around the world bring Enchantment to life in their own projects. Check out Jackie’s interview below for all the creative inspiration and project ideas + a closer look at this dreamy debut!
Hi Jackie! We’re so thrilled that you’re here with us today, for your debut Aurifil release. Thank you for taking a moment to share some of your story! For our readers who are meeting you for the first time, could you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started with sewing and quilting?
Sure! My background as an artist came about after our family’s move to Maine. I had been a product developer for a toy company for years, but the industry really didn’t exist here in New England. Having always admired the digital art that our product development team created, I decided to immerse myself in learning those skills and was beyond thrilled when my art earned me a position as a designer for Moda. I knew that it was critical to my understanding a quilter’s needs that I learn to quilt to make my art the very best it could be for my quilters. And, having admired the craft for so many years, I was delighted to jump in the “deep end” and learn!
Do you remember the first quilt you ever made? How did completing it make you feel?
I sure do! It was a basic baby quilt made of simple squares, but to me, it was a masterpiece! I was so proud of myself and it really boosted my confidence and opened by eyes to all of the beautiful creative possibilities that the quilting and sewing world has to offer.
Who or what has been your greatest source of creative inspiration?
I pull from both happy memories and fanciful stories for my creative inspiration. They inspire the mood of the collection, the palette and help connect the “story” of the collection to make it feel cohesive and (hopefully) sentimental and beautiful to the quilter.
What’s your absolute favorite thing to create?
Creating new art and dreaming up quilt designs is my favorite creative pursuit.
Have you ever experienced a defining ‘aha’ moment in your creative journey? What was it like?
I think that overcoming my nerves in sharing my art for the first time was my big “aha” moment. It’s a hard thing to share art that you’ve poured your heart and soul into… but the delight in finding out that it resonated with other people and evoked happiness for them was such a joy that I wonder why I held back for so long.
How did your journey into fabric or graphic design begin?
I jumped into fabric because it felt like “home.” My grandmother worked in a fabric store and she would bring home scraps for me to play with… so starting with fabric felt like a wonderful way to connect with her memory and I loved the idea of creating fabric because it’s a part of so many cherished family keepsakes.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your new fabric collection Enchantment for Moda?
Sure! I watch WAY too many period movies (think “Jane Austen”)… And I became obsessed with the color palette found therein… so soft and romantic.
What themes or motifs did you want to capture with this collection?
The theme that sparked this collection was “secret love”… I became enthralled with learning the secret language of flowers and the demure ways that lovers would communicate their devotion. So, the florals all communicate meanings of love… and the butterflies are meant to mimic hand-cut antique valentines… etc. It was such a fun line to create, creatively speaking.
How did you come up with the color palette for Enchantment? Was it inspired by anything specific?
Yes, the period outfits I saw in my beloved movies and their soft, dusky hues inspired me.
How does Enchantment reflect your personal quilting style and artistic vision?
I hope it achieves my personal style by being both romantic and timeless.
Do you have a go-to project that you love to create with your new fabric designs?
Yes! I love a good log cabin themed project.
How did you discover Aurifil Thread, and why has it become your favorite?
As a new designer + quilter for Moda, I received a sample spool of thread in my Moda box and I fell in love with it! It feels like such a luxurious choice to sew with and I love the beautiful color palette of color options offered.
Which of your Aurifil threads would you recommend for different quilting techniques such as piecing, appliqué, or embroidery?
I have become a big fan of the #12 weight for big stitch quilting… it’s the perfect weight to achieve a wonderful finished look. And I go to my tried-and-true #50 weight for piecing.
Do you have any tips for quilters looking to work with your Enchantment fabrics and Aurifil threads together?
Have fun with the combination! There is so much to be achieved with contrasting thread choices and the addition of beautiful embroidered stitches that make your projects unique to you
Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations we should look forward to seeing from you?
I’m currently working on a graduation quilt for my niece, Lorelai, built of house blocks. I am looking forward to adding some lovely embroidery to the house blocks to personalize them for her and create something that she can take to college with her as a memory of home and those who love her.
If you could give one piece of advice to a quilter who is just starting out, what would it be?
Please have fun! There are so many things you can do with these mediums to express yourself…. Make something that speaks to your heart and don’t worry too much about those seams aligning “just right.” Whatever you create will be perfect!
What exciting things can we expect from you in 2025? Where can fans follow your journey?
I have a two new lines shipping this summer from Moda that I am excited to share with you all, Frivolity and Sun-Drenched. I can’t wait to see what you all create and I’m so grateful for your support on this journey. Follow me on socials @sweetfireroad Thank you!
What beautiful art creations! Linda