Barb and Alma met several years ago when Barb took an appliqué class from Alma. They decided to begin a quilt book publishing company called Blackbird Designs. Both Barb and Alma are inspired by the colors and textures of fabric. They not only enjoy working on quilts, but also are excited by cross-stitch and rug hooking. They try to include projects with wool and cross-stitch in their books. They both appreciate the break a small project offers after working on several large quilts.

Barb works full-time managing the production line in a dental laboratory. In what little time she has to spare she and her mom Leona Adams design and sew like crazy.

Alma works in the home. She and her husband Dave have four children, three cats and two dogs. The children’s ages span from college age to middle school.

Alma and Barb both enjoy gardening and their quilt designs reflect this passion. They try to incorporate flowers and gardens into their publications when ever possible. Barb and Alma both feel that the friendships and laughter found through quilting are the joyful part of life