We have been absolutely swooning over Patty Basemi‘s work ever since we first came across her illustrations, and getting to connect with her around the launch of her latest fabric collection Paradise Garden (Art Gallery Fabrics) has been such a treat. What captivates us most is where it all begins — that moment when pencil, ink, or paint meets the page and something starts to take shape. Watching those early marks eventually find their way into a fabric collection is such a special thing to witness, and it speaks to the heart of what makes her work feel so personal and alive. Her illustrated, whimsical style is something we absolutely adore, and you can feel it woven through every corner of Paradise Garden.
Paradise Garden was inspired by Patty’s travels to Morocco and India… the hidden garden courtyards, the ancient wall paintings, the block-printed textiles that cover every surface. You can feel all of that richness woven into this collection. She pushed herself into a bolder, more expressive palette than she typically works in, and the result is something that feels both joyful and entirely her own. Every print has that quality of being handpicked, like pieces with a history.
To celebrate the release, Patty has also curated her debut Aurifil thread collection, and it is a dream pairing with the fabric line. The curated set brings together 3 small spools of our Cotton 8wt and 7 small spools of Cotton Floss, two thread weights Patty reaches for constantly in her own work. The 8wt lays down that beautiful visible stitch with texture and structure, while the floss is perfect for the slower, more delicate hand embroidery details she loves adding to her pieces.
Together, they are an open invitation to slow down and stitch a little piece of paradise into whatever you are making. We hope you love this collection as much as we do— and make sure to read our full interview with Patty below for a look into her process, her travels, and the sketchbook moments that brought Paradise Garden to life.
Let’s start at the beginning. How did you first become involved in the textile and design world?
I’ve always been drawn to making— drawing, sewing, creating with my hands. Quilting came into my life when I was pregnant with my first daughter, and it quickly became something I loved. At Quilt Market, I met a designer who explained how her artwork became fabric, and that moment stayed with me. It felt like a natural path and slowly grew into something much bigger than I ever expected.
Were there particular moments, mentors, or experiences that helped you realize that stitching and quilting was the creative direction you wanted to pursue?
Watching my great aunt paint had a big impact on me— I was always surrounded by her work, and it showed me how you can bring your own vision to life. The more I painted and stitched, the more connected I felt to it. It became the place where everything I loved came together, especially once I found a way to combine both.
Your work is rich with pattern, movement, and story. Who or what would you describe as your greatest creative influences?
The nostalgia of my childhood and the imaginative worlds I created growing up still influence me, as well as watching my own kids grow. I find inspiration in nature, everyday moments, and especially in travel— places like Morocco and India, with their textiles, colors, and craftsmanship.
When you sit down to design a collection, what are your ultimate goals?
I want the collection to feel cohesive but still full of discovery. My main goal is to translate a feeling—to create something that brings joy and emotion. More than anything, I hope makers feel inspired to create something personal and expressive.
Do you have a favorite type of project to create with your own designs?
Quilts will always be my favorite—they tell a story over time. I also love smaller, detailed pieces where I can slow down and add handwork. I especially enjoy adding tiny stitched details and turning pieces into wall art or framed textiles.
Paradise Garden feels lush, expressive, and deeply layered. Can you share the story behind this collection?
Paradise Garden is inspired by my travels to Morocco and India— their vibrant colors, artistry, and the calm found within their gardens and spaces. I was especially drawn to those hidden, almost magical gardens tucked inside buildings, and the ancient wall paintings that cover every surface, from walls to ceilings. The incredible use of texture, layered fabrics, color, and block printing created a magical mix that made my imagination run wild. It’s a balance of bold, playful energy and soft, dreamy moments, filled with tiny details I collected in my sketchbook along the way.
The collection is inspired by the vibrant spirit of India and its ancestral artistry. How did those influences guide your design process?
I was drawn to rich patterns, handcrafted details, bright joyful florals, and layered textures. I wanted the prints to feel collected and meaningful— like pieces with history, but still playful. I love that the fabrics feel handpicked, with a slightly scrappy, mix-and-match charm.
How did you approach building this palette, and what were you hoping to convey through your color choices?
I leaned into bolder, more expressive colors while still keeping a sense of harmony. It pushed me out of my comfort zone since I usually gravitate toward softer palettes, but I loved blending both. The goal was something lively and playful, yet still balanced.
Why was it important to you to create a coordinating Aurifil thread set alongside Paradise Garden?
Thread adds another layer of storytelling. I wanted to give makers the tools to add depth, personality, and that handmade touch through stitching. It’s also been a dream of mine to create a thread set, and this collection felt like the perfect fit.
This curated set includes both Cotton 8wt and Cotton Floss. How do you personally use these two thread types?
I love using 8wt for visible stitching that adds texture and structure, while floss is perfect for delicate hand embroidery and detail work. Together, they create a beautiful contrast and invite a slower, more intentional process.
When working with Paradise Garden, how do you envision makers incorporating both thread types?
I hope they experiment— adding small stitched details, filling in shapes, and creating texture. It’s about trying new things, playing, and making each piece feel personal and handmade.
What first drew you to Aurifil thread, and how has it become part of your practice?
I was drawn to the quality and color range right away. Over time, it became a staple because it works beautifully for both machine and hand stitching. Being able to collaborate with them feels like a true honor.
How do you like to use heavier weight threads in your own work?
I love how they make each stitch feel intentional and visible. They add texture, dimension, and a strong handmade quality. I also love how hand stitching brings a sense of calm and adds a unique personal touch.
Do you have any favorite tips or advice for working with heavier threads?
Go slow and let the thread do the work. Don’t aim for perfection—those small imperfections are what make hand stitching special. I’ve learned to let go of perfection and focus more on the joy and magic of the process.
Where can our readers find you this year, and what are you most looking forward to next?
You can find me online and at a few quilt events throughout the year, including H+H Chicago (it was a blast) and QuiltCon 2027. I’m excited to keep creating new patterns and collections, and to explore new ways of incorporating thread into creative practice.
Learn more about Patty via her website, HERE.