By Sandra Magsamen Designer for Studio E Fabrics

Hello, friends! I’m Sandra Magsamen, and I’m so excited to share a little bit about my journey as an artist, designer, and children’s book author and illustrator. You may know me from my fabric books and designs for fabric toys, or the stories I’ve created for little ones for over 30 years in board book format with my friends and publishers at Scholastic and Sourcebooks Kids. For the last several years, I've had the incredible privilege of designing fabric for Studio E Fabrics, creating one-of-a-kind pieces that bring joy to children and the makers who craft with them.

If you’ve ever stitched up a fabric children’s book or soft toy by Studio E, chances are you’ve come across one of my designs. Through these creations, I aim to inspire connection, imagination, and most importantly, love. It’s a special thing, turning fabric into something that can help create memories, encourage learning, and offer comfort to young hearts.

What Inspires Me?

Inspiration comes to me from so many places. As an artist and designer, I’m always looking for ways to capture the essence of what makes childhood so magical: the pure joy of discovery, the love we share, and the endless possibilities for creativity. I’ve always loved the feeling of holding something soft and comforting, and as I designed fabric toys and books, I realized how much my own childhood memories of reading and storytelling shaped my work as well as the memories I have with my own daughter when she was young and starting to discover books, too!

I’m often inspired by the vibrant colors of nature, the textures of everyday life, and the simplicity of materials like fabric and thread. My process always starts with a spark—an idea that comes from something I see, hear, or feel. Whether I’m taking a walk in the mountains of Vermont where I live, or just spending time with my own family, the world around me fills me with ideas.

Once I have an idea, I start sketching. For me, the design process isn’t just about making something look beautiful—it’s about creating something that feels right. I think about the stories these fabrics and books will tell, how they will be held in small hands, and how they will be treasured. From there, I choose the perfect colors that bring the idea to life. My designs always begin on paper, but I find that they truly come to life when they are on fabric and see how the colors, words and images come together.

Huggable and Lovable: My Latest Fabric Collection

One of the most exciting things I’ve had the privilege of working on recently is the Huggable and Lovable collection for Studio E Fabrics. This line of fabric books and toys is near and dear to my heart. It’s designed for little ones ages 0 to 4, with the idea that parents and caregivers can sew their own cuddly, comforting books for their children to enjoy.

What makes Huggable and Lovable so special is that many of the books in this collection are replicas of some of my most beloved stories published with Scholastic and Sourcebooks. They’ve been reimagined in a sew-your-own format just for Studio E Fabrics, so makers can create a tangible, soft version of the stories that have already touched the hearts of so many families.

For example, the Huggable and Lovable collection features books like I Love You to the Moon and Back and Welcome Little One. These stories are staples in many households, and to see them translated into fabric is a dream come true. Each book comes with pre-designed, easy-to-follow sewing instructions, so you can make a custom, soft version of the story for the little one in your life. The process of sewing these books by hand gives the maker an extra layer of love to put into the gift, and the result is something truly magical.

These books aren’t just about storytelling—they’re about creating something that brings comfort and joy to children. Whether they’re used to create bedtime rituals or just as a way to engage little minds with bright colors and textures, these books are designed to last, to be loved, and to be cherished for years to come. And, just as importantly, they’re a way for adults to reconnect with their creative side. After all, the act of making is just as meaningful as the object that’s created.

Advice for a New Maker

To those of you just starting on your creative journey—whether you’re picking up a sewing needle for the first time, dabbling in watercolors, or finding joy in any other creative pursuit—my best piece of advice is simple: don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Creativity is about exploring, experimenting, and embracing the process. Perfection is never the goal—progress and joy are.

If you’re learning to sew, start small and choose projects that excite you, like a fabric book or a simple toy. Don’t be afraid to try new techniques, but also allow yourself room to grow. The best part about making something with your hands is that each project teaches you something new, even if it’s just learning how to stitch a perfect seam (or learning that it’s okay if your seams aren’t perfect!).

And remember, creating isn’t just about the finished product—it’s about the journey. It’s about how the process feels and the joy that comes from working with your hands and your heart. Be kind to yourself and know that the more you practice, the more natural it will become. Whether it’s painting, sewing, knitting, or any other craft, there’s no right or wrong way to do it, as long as you’re putting love and creativity into what you make.

Quilt Featuring Huggable & Lovable 14
Photo credit: Katie Wyatt @kwyatt8419 

Lastly, share your creations! Whether you’re giving them to loved ones, displaying them in your home, or sharing them with a larger community, your creativity is something to be proud of. You never know who you might inspire along the way!

Thank you for joining me in this small corner of the creative world. I hope my story and my designs inspire you to create, share, and connect. Whether you’re sewing a fabric book for a child in your life or diving into your own creative project, know that your creativity matters. Let it flow from your heart, and remember that everything you make carries with it a little piece of your love. Happy creating!

With love,
Sandra Magsamen

Learn more about Sandra and her collections here.
Follow Sandra on Instagram @sandramagsamen