Hi, I'm Shelly!

I'm the entire Ma Tante Quilting team.

Born and raised in Ottawa, I now find myself living in a small town (Minnedosa, Manitoba) on the Canadian prairies where I sew my way through the long winters.❄ 🇨🇦 ❄

I've been making quilts for 20 years, and after sewing my first bag at a retreat, I've also started designing quilted bag patterns.

Pattern writing is my JAM, and it feels like this is exactly what I was meant to do. I love the way it combines creativity and math (not something my younger self would have predicted).

When I’m not at the sewing machine, you can find me pulling weeds in the garden, fishing for walleye with my partner Ian, or sipping a chai latte.

Get in touch!

everyone always asks...

What's a "Ma Tante"??

In short: it's the French term for "auntie". It also means the same thing in several other languages. #themoreyouknow 🌈

My sewing journey began with a baby quilt for my niece. Since the quilt was made by Auntie Shelly and my niece speaks French as her first language…. here we are!

aproachable + practical

Mission

My goal is for you to experience the joy and pride of making your own quilted bag. I want you to be able to say "Thanks! I made it!" when someone compliments your one-of-a-kind creation.

Although sewing bags may seem daunting at first, I promise you really CAN do this. 💪

Why my patterns are awesome...

Quality

All Ma Tante Quilting patterns are professionally printed in booklet format with a label page tucked inside.

Detailed Instructions

As a visual learner, my motto is: the more pictures, the better. All patterns are professionally illustrated with plenty of images.

Free Video Support

You're going to LOVE the free videos on my YouTube channel. It's like having me in your sewing room with you!

Fast Shipping

I pride myself on getting your parcel ready quickly. Orders will be dropped off within three business days.

Five fun facts about me...

1.

I can touch my nose with my tongue (it’s a great party trick).

2.

After university, I spent a year living in Australia. I visited every state except the ACT, and have been dreaming about retiring in Broome ever since.

3.

After working 15 years in support of the Canadian Armed Forces, I now run my sewing business full-time. I made my dream job a reality!

4.

I have travelled to over 20 countries on 6 continents. Antarctica is not on that list, annnnnnd probably never will be – I get enough cold weather up here in Canada. 😆

5.

Our two cats (Claire and Cleo) are my daily companions and sewing supervisors. They sure keep things interesting around here!

Have you seen the Ambling Vines logo on our pantograph shop and wondered “What’s up with that??”


My MUM is the designer-in-chief of Ambling Vines, her digital pantograph business. Although she’s notoriously camera-shy, I can tell you that it’s been a true joy to work on this project with her!

Check out her designs!