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Jaftex Corporation to buy FreeSpirit Fabrics

JaftexYou heard it here first folks, Jaftex Corporation has announced their intent to purchase the one and only FreeSpirit Fabrics.

Jaftex Corporation is a fourth-generation, family owned business based in New York City. Other names under the Jaftex umbrella include Henry Glass Fabrics, Studioe Fabrics, The Blank Quilting Corp., Fabric Editions, A.E. Nathan Co., Inc., and now, FreeSpirit Fabrics.

FreeSpirit Fabrics is known for their trend-setting artists including none other than Tula Pink and Anna Marie Horner, of whom you can catch at the International Quilt Market this spring in Portland, Oregon, along with the unveiling of the “new” Free Spirit. There Horner will also be hosting a schoolhouse on her new conservatory program.

Outside of Tula Pink and Horner, FreeSpirit is known for their unique collection including Kaffe Fassett Collective, The Original Morris & Co., Dena Designs, Snow Leopard Studios, Jennifer Paganelli, Heather Bailey and more. FreeSpirit was previously under the Coats family, which is known for providing services to the apparel, craft, and footwear industries.

FreeSpirit can be found in many fabric stores, and are known for providing quality fabrics that inspire young and old creatives alike. Jaftex Corporation intends on remaining true to the FreeSpirit brand and cause minimal disruption in the marketplace for what FreeSpirit customers have come to know and love.


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New Education Director named for International Quilt Market

Screen Shot 2018-02-05 at 8.45.41 PM.pngYou heard it here first folks—Marcia Barker has been named the new Director of Education for the International Quilt Festival and Quilt Market.

Barker is replacing the late Judy Murrah and will be in charge of directing 150 faculty members and planning over 500 classes and lectures for both the Quilt Market and Quilt Festivals.

Barker’s main goal is to fulfill the big shoes left for her from Murrah, as well as listen to what the consumers want most.

Other team members include Education Manager Jill Benge and Education Assistant Barbara Cline.

In her personal life, Barker has been married to her husband Tom for over 40 years and together they have two children and two grandchildren. She also spends her time volunteering with Habitat for Humanity as well as performing across the world with variety dance group Up with People.

On a professional level, Barker has worked with Quilts, Inc. since 2000, and has been a member of the Education show team (including Education show team leader).

Quilting and planning are not new to Barker as she has been coordinator of the Bernina Fashion Show and has been sewing since she was nine years old.

American Quilt Retailer has been a regular supporter of both the International Quilt Festival and the International Quilt Market; even having an education class at the last International Quilt Market called the “Schoolhouse Series.”

AQR is excited to work alongside Barker in her new role, and wish her the best luck!

Check out Quilts, Inc. for more industry news, classes, and events.


If you’re looking for more information to guide you in owning a retail business, subscribe to American Quilt Retailer today. Already a subscriber? No worries—join our Facebook group for insights and dialogue from industry specialists like you.