We are overjoyed to welcome back the incredibly talented— and truly wonderful— Minki Kim for the release of her newest Aurifil thread collection, Sunsetridge.
Featuring 7 small spools of our 100% Cotton 50wt thread, this thoughtfully curated set was designed to coordinate perfectly with her fabric line of the same name with Riley Blake Designs. A soft and serene palette, Sunsetridge captures Minki’s signature blend of whimsy, warmth, and quiet storytelling.
This marks our third collaboration with Minki, following the beloved Sew Illustrated and Dear Diary collections. Each project with her has been a true joy, and we’re endlessly inspired by her creativity, care, and the kindness she brings to every interaction. Minki has a gift for turning everyday moments into lasting works of art, inviting us all to slow down and savor the beauty in the small things. (like sharing this quote in partner with her artwork via her Instagram)
Life is measured in love and positive contributions and moments of grace.
– Carly Fiorina
We’re so proud to once again partner with her to celebrate her artistry— this time through the dreamy lens of Sunsetridge —and we invite you to read on as she shares more about her creative journey, her design process, and what continues to bring her joy as an artist and maker. As you’re reading, don’t forget to follow along with Minki via the links below.
Hi Minki!! Thank you so much for taking the time with us today. We’d love start from the beginning… when did you first dive into your creative practice and what did that look like?
I started sewing after my first daughter was born. As a new mom far from my home country of Korea, I found comfort and joy in making things with my hands. At first, it was just simple patchwork and small projects during nap time. Over time, it became a daily creative practice that brought me peace, purpose, and a growing connection to a new community.
What sparked your love of sewing and textiles? Was it something passed down through family or a passion you discovered on your own?
My mother was always sewing, knitting, or doing some kind of craft. So I grew up surrounded by handmade things, but I didn’t really start sewing myself until I became a mom. In a way, it was like rediscovering something that had always been part of me. It felt natural, and I quickly fell in love with fabric and thread as tools for storytelling.
Your work is so beautifully multidimensional—where did your creative journey begin? Was quilting your first love or did textile illustration come first?
Textile illustration came first. I loved drawing with thread—it felt like sketching in slow motion. Eventually, that led me into quilting, and now the two are beautifully intertwined. I love how they complement each other: the structure of quilting with the freedom of illustration.
You’ve long been known for your stunning sewing illustrations. What drew you to that technique and what continues to inspire it today?
I started by sketching simple scenes from everyday life—my children, my coffee cup, little quiet moments. I wanted to capture those memories in a way that felt more lasting than a photo. Free-motion stitching felt like a natural way to “draw” those moments. I’m still inspired by the same things: everyday beauty, cozy routines, and the warmth of home.
Your first collection with Aurifil, Sew Illustrated, felt like an introduction to your artistic signature. With Sunsetridge, it feels like a reunion with a longtime friend. How do you see this new set as a reflection of your growth and evolution as an artist?
That’s such a lovely way to put it—yes, Sunsetridge feels more mature, more grounded. My color palette has softened, and my style has become more relaxed and personal. This set feels like it carries more emotion—like it knows who it is. I think that reflects my own growth, both creatively and personally.
Can you tell us more about your Sunsetridge fabric line with Riley Blake Designs? What stories or themes are woven into the collection?
Sunsetridge is inspired by the view outside my studio window—rolling hills, gentle skies, and the quiet beauty of everyday nature. It’s about slowing down and noticing the small things: the way the light hits the table in the afternoon, the sound of sewing in a peaceful room. It’s a love letter to home and the comfort of handmade things.
Can you tell us more about the included panels?
The panels feature little illustrated scenes and motifs that feel like snapshots of calm and joy. They’re designed to be used in a variety of projects—bags, pouches, quilts, or even framed. I hope they bring a sense of whimsy and warmth to whatever they become.
How did you envision the coordinating thread colors bringing those designs to life?
I chose colors that felt soft and lived-in—like a favorite sweater or a quiet morning. The threads are meant to complement the fabric gently, not overpower it. I wanted them to invite creativity, not limit it.
What was your process in selecting the seven colors for this thread collection? Did you have specific projects or color pairings in mind?
I chose colors that I naturally reach for all the time—those go-to tones that seem to work with everything. I tested them across different types of projects: quilting, textile illustration, & piecing.
Why do you choose to work with Aurifil 50wt thread?
I love working with Aurifil 50wt thread because it’s so smooth, reliable, and versatile. Whether I’m piecing, quilting, or adding tiny illustrated details by machine, the thread glides effortlessly through fabric without adding bulk. I especially appreciate how it blends beautifully into my work—it lets the design shine while still holding everything together with strength and precision.
One of the joys of creative work is seeing how others engage with it. What is most exciting or meaningful for you when you see your fabrics and threads used in projects around the world?
It’s the most heartwarming and humbling feeling. When someone chooses my fabric or thread for their own special project, it means they’ve found something in my work that speaks to them. Seeing the unique ways people interpret my designs—through quilts, bags, garments, and more—reminds me that creativity is a shared language. Each maker adds their own story, and that’s incredibly beautiful.
Beyond this beautiful new collection, what’s next for you? Any exciting projects or appearances on the horizon in 2025?
Yes! I’ll be teaching at Garden of Quilts this September, which I’m really looking forward to. I also have a new fabric collection on the way— Serendipity 2, coming in February 2026. The original Serendipity was loved by many, and I received so many requests for more in that same soft, whimsical style. This new collection continues that atmosphere, with the addition of a fun hexagon cheater print and a pouch panel designed to inspire easy, joyful makes.
For those who are new to your work or just starting their own creative journey, what advice would you offer?
Start small and stay curious. You don’t need fancy tools or perfect skills to create something meaningful. Just begin with what you have and what brings you joy. Mistakes are part of the magic—they help you learn your voice and style. Most of all, give yourself permission to enjoy the process. Every stitch is a step forward.
