HOUSTON, July 22, 2025—Quilts, Inc.—producer of trade show International Quilt Market and public show International Quilt Festival—has named Jamie Mueller as the company’s new Director of Education. She takes over for the retiring Jill Benge.
“I’m incredibly honored and excited to join Quilts, Inc.,” Mueller says. “This organization has long been a cornerstone in the quilting community, and I look forward to bringing fresh ideas and meaningful educational experiences to quilters at every level. It’s a dream to combine my passion for teaching with the vibrant energy of this creative industry.”
For her part, Benge says “I began my journey with Quilts, Inc. 20 years ago, and everyone in the company and industry has truly been like family to me. I am sure Jamie will fit right in and build a strong bond as well. I am happy to hand over the reins and enjoy riding my Harley-Davidson bike around the country!”
The Director of Education oversees and directs the educational offerings at all editions of Quilt Market and Quilt Festival, including classes, lectures, forums, samplers, business seminars, Schoolhouse Series, Sample Spree, and Open Studios™.
The Director also handles the educational proposals/choosing classes, lectures, and seminars; works directly with faculty members; and runs the Education Office on-site at both shows. Assisting Mueller will be veteran Education Assistant Barbara Cline. Mueller will begin training on August 1 both in the company office and at the shows, and assume full responsibilities on January 1, 2026.
Mueller is certainly no stranger to quilting and the quilt industry. With her mother, Jill Rimes, she co-owns and runs Sunflower Quilts, an online pattern and notion business (and formerly a brick-and-mortar store). She is also a pattern and quilt designer, book author, an exhibitor at both Quilt Market and Quilt Festival, and has taught both classes at her shop and Open Studios™ at Quilt Festival.
She is also an avid quilter and is always on the lookout for new trends in education, instructors, and ideas. “This industry and the people involved in it are so exciting to me,” she sums up. “And it’s my goal to make sure that we offer education for everyone, of all skill levels, preferred style and techniques of quilting, and related sewing arts!”
