Getting to Know Jean (Crystal)

Jean with a traditional loom
Jean with a traditional loom

Hi, I'm Jean Roat (AKA Crystal), the owner-operator of QuiltMasters and Crystal Kini Designs. I've been crafting for as long as I can remember. I learned to sew from my mom and made my first project on the machine when I was 7. In fact, the first 'appliance' I purchased when I moved into my own place as an adult was a Kenmore sewing machine as it wasn’t possible to borrow Mom’s in the cabinet. Quilting stuck for me when I was in my 30’s. I've been quilting and teaching quilting, sewing and other crafts in the Bucks County and Philadelphia area since 2003.

Since I was young, my passion has always been keeping things out of the landfill -- using, reusing or re-purposing things and helping others. I've always dreamed of owning a business that made items from discarded items or things destined for the landfill. That's why I was drawn to the Quilts for Kids charity years ago. I worked with Quilts for Kids for many years organizing monthly sew-a-thons and working in their offices. I always strive to maintain the focus of conservation in all that I do. I've been given many supplies over the years as others know I'll always use them or find them a suitable home.

Jean with a custom quilt top at a local quilting store
Jean with a custom quilt top