There are many ways to celebrate a retirement and to say goodbye. Some might choose a gathering of close family and friends, a big party, or perhaps a quiet goodbye. I’ve decided to say goodbye to you—my loyal viewers, readers, and customers—with a personal note.
My retirement came as a shock to my family and me. As some of you may know, I was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer, in March of 2015. Another primary cancer—breast cancer—was found four months later. I was treated with surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation through May of 2016. During this time, my staff, friends, and I continued to produce Sewing With Nancy shows, some creatively repackaged, and other brand-new episodes. My amazing team worked diligently to help me with the book-writing process, to develop new products, and to keep me up to speed. We skipped a few beats, but not too many.
Earlier this year, my husband and I celebrated our 40th anniversary and vacations were enjoyed. Then, life changed. A scan in July showed that one of the cancers had metastasized and additional treatments would not be helpful. It was a devastating day, realizing that my life and my career, as I had known it, would end.
During these last six weeks, I’ve been having meaningful conversations with family and friends—a bittersweet time. My staff and I have been working on rearranging my business, Nancy Zieman Productions (I sold Nancy’s Notions to the Tacony Corporation in 2003), determining how to wrap up Sewing With Nancy, and figuring out how to continue our valuable partnerships with Wisconsin Public Television—mainly Quilt Expo, which will continue.
I recorded new Sewing With Nancy shows right up to my diagnosis. You’ll find 15 new episodes this season, with reissues of programs to fill this season. Plus, my hope is that the Sewing With Nancy series will continue to air for years to come. The last episode that we recorded is I Sew For Fun, a show on team sewing with kids ages 5–9. My granddaughters will be featured; I marvel at this miracle.
It is not easy to say goodbye, especially since the terms were totally unexpected. I have learned during these past weeks to concentrate on my faith. You may not share my beliefs; I respect that, yet I would not be true to myself if I did not state the verse that I am focusing on during this last journey. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding. Acknowledge Him in all you do and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5–6
I am finding great peace today, knowing that I can thank you for your many years of dedication, viewership, and friendship. I’ve had a great and long career, starting Nancy’s Notions in 1979 and Sewing With Nancy in 1982. We’ve recorded 36 seasons of Sewing With Nancy, which totals 910 shows. (The first and last seasons did not have the customary 26 episodes; only I have been keeping track of the number!) I have been blessed to work with quality, amazing people.
So, with a heavy, yet humble heart, I thank you and say goodbye.
Your friend,
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I just learned of Nancy’s passing. The last couple years, I wasn’t able to do any sewing, due to moving twice and then getting my home and my sewing room all set up. I’ve just log on to Nancy’s web site to learn of her passing.
I started watching her from her very beginnings way back in 1982. Nancy helped to teach me so very much. I did have some early starts of sewing with my Grandmother, but it truly was Nancy who taught me so much. I purchased so many books, it was always fun to learn something new. I loved making quilts, kids clothes & Christmas presents.
I pray her family finds peace and love together.
Linda Heck
I just discovered that Nancy passed away and tears are running down my face. Gone too soon, too young. May she rest in peace. Her legacy will live on in those of us who have learned so much from her show. My condolences to her family.
I just found out about Nancy’s death. Although I have not seen many episodes, the few I have I enjoyed because of her pleasant and comforting demeanor and voice. You can see how much passion she had for sewing and wanting to teach others. RIP Nancy
I just learned today of your passing. I am so very sorry. I read many of the posts here, and it is so clear that you touched so many lives during time here on earth. Even though I don’t sew I always enjoyed watching your show and watching the creative process. May your family find the peace that passes all understanding.
Learned this week, while reading Nancy’s autobiography, about her passing in November and I have shed a few tears. Her program has been welcomed into my home for some time and I always learn something valuable, mainly focusing on her quilt episodes. I will miss her presence and can only say, “Bye, for now.”
Nancy has graciously left an awesome Legacy and Inspiration for all of us who are Creative in Life!
I’ve always looked forward to DVR the next episode of
“Sewing with Nancy”.
I will treasure every episode I have and will continue to DVR episodes that continue. I hope that “Sewing with Nancy” will continue to play on PBS for many years to come.
Till next Saturday, Aloha for now.
I have enjoyed Nancys show for many years. I have learned so much from her, she was such an inspiration. She was a constant strong example for me in many rough and heart breaking things I’ve been through in life.
Bye for now wonderful lady !
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Its hard to say goodbye to the someone we care…She/He door shuts behind me as I say my goodbyes to the home I have created for the past four years
It was with heavy heart and sadness that I found out this week that Nancy had died last November. It was 25+ years ago that I became acquainted with Nancy. I was at the library with our young daughters and came across this VHS tape on “Sewing for Children”. I sat and watched this tape and marveled at what was covered in the video: sewing for boys, girls, infants, making clothing that would grow with the child, charted needles, decorative stitches, pockets, ways to attach elastic. I then found out she was on public television. I watched and taped many of her shows. I learned ways to remove bulk from a seam, sharp corner points, sew on knits, ways to gather fabric, press seam flat, then open; sewing shortcuts, using a serger; so many things. This past year I started watching these old VHS videos again. Nancy had a great way of breaking down sewing into simple steps. I have purchased her books, her booklet accompaniment to different programs and some notions that have made sewing a joy over the years. I turned on the TV last week and to my surprise, it was a “Sewing with Nancy” show and I thought that I should go online and watch more of her shows that I have missed these past 10+ years that I have not sewn much. I would like to sew more again. This is how I found that she had passed. I cried for quite some time. I may not have known her personally but I felt she was a friend that I invited into our home. My deepest sympathy to her family. I will be forever grateful for having been touched by her gift of teaching.
I watched your videos from the beginning and it made me a better tailor/seamstress. I videotaped every episode (almost) and watched your show with enthusiasm. I am so sorry that Nancy lost her battle way too soon. She was the best. I will miss her tremendously. I just wish I could have told her that in person…that she touched my life in such a wonderful and lasting way.
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I read the farewell message by Nancy, just before my mother was diagnosed with recurrent breast cancer. Watching Nancy on TV together was something my Mom and I had done occasionally and we often referred to shows demonstrating this or that. So my mom and Nancy were linked in my “sewing mind”. And like Nancy, my mother too, quickly passed.
Somehow to me it seems as if their lives, and more precisely, their deaths, were intertwined. Two wonderful women, both great seamstresses, both with multiple rounds with cancer, both with neurological issues from birth (my mom had a Syringomyelia that made her one hand not work well), and now both gone. It’s taken me awhile to write this. I had to process the loss of this TV friend, who didn’t know me personally, but for whom I thought of as a friend who deserved some comment. And I had to process some of the grief of the loss of my Mom too.
Like Nancy, I find comfort in my faith. For me, I relate to the story of the tapestry of all life woven by God. For all who sew or weave, it makes sense. We see only the back side of the work – the knots, the thread changes, the apparent disorganization and confusion which only hints at the other side. We must trust that this is all necessary for the incredible artistry that is on the side that only God can see now.
Goodbye for now, friend!
Thank you for the years and the pray for you and your family. Thank you for all you taught me and beautiful things you have done,
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I am so sad to hear about the passing of Nancy. She was a remarkable and talented women She showed how a person can succeed even with challenges. She was an inspiration to me.
I have watched Nancy’s shows on PBS since the beginning. I was very young. I will continue to watch Nancy’s shows. She has taught me so much about sewing, and I enjoy reading her books. They are very easy to understand.
The one happy moment about Nancy’s passing is that she is a believer in Jesus Christ and will happily live for eternity in the presence of God.
May God be with the family in there grief.
I realize Nancy has passed on in to eternity and is now with The Lord Jesus Christ her Lord and Savior and she is at peace and rejoicing with the saints in Heaven. I pray others would come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior so they can have eternal life also. Praise HIM!
Nancy, You have left a wonderful Legacy. You are not forgotten. I wake up to watch your programs. Thank you, for given us so much of your time. Keep your family in prayer.
Nancy, thank you for the inspiration and motivation you shared. You have the mark of your works in our hearts.
I would like to thank Mrs. Nancy’s family, because she taught me in her programs a special affection for sewing, I felt so much home warmth in her programs that I came to my home and my personal life, I’m going to miss her.
I just found out a few days ago of the passing of our beloved Nancy Zieman. It is with the heaviest of hearts I write this. I have been an avid reader and patron since the beginning of her career. I know there is no words to convey what will be missed from her passing. My condolences to her family and loved ones. But we are all her loved ones! Heaven has truly called home an angel. My greatest moment was learning to “Pivot and Slide”…lol A technique that has saved me countless of times in pattern adjustments for myself. A book I will forever treasure. We love you Nancy. Your legacy will forever live on!
Hi Nancy, thank you for sharing your thoughts it was a really memorable and the ideas you teach us.
I can’t wait to meet Nancy in Heaven. We have been blessed by her beauty, love for life, and her faith. I will always be grateful for having had the chance to get to know her a bit from her shows, and I’m excited and look forward to our meeting in our Forever Home. (I wonder if we’ll be sewing there? I hope so!)
Nancy Zieman and I both started sewing as farm girls in 4-H. Without the slightest self-pity, Nancy ignored her Bell’s Palsy and that helped so many of us with health challenges, such as when my preemie son was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Nancy’s Light shines brightly in countless lives she touched. Learning to sew well is an enormous lifelong blessing and Nancy gave that Gift to literally millions. We all think of Nancy as ‘family” and grieve her loss. Blessings to her wonderful husband, sons and grandchildren.
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I was upset to learn of Nancy’s passing today. Her work has brought joy to so many lives. She will be sorely missed. My prayers are with her family.
I just found out that Nancy has passed. She was a great influence in the sewing and quilting world. My condolences to her family.
Caught the last half of Nancy’s program about precut sewing patterns & kits for midwives to help save newborns in other countries, on wttw create channel Chicago.
While not a regular viewer of the program, Nancy had been a fixture in my crafty TV viewing schedule when time was available since I was a kid which was shortly after the beginning of her shows. Nancy had so much to teach and had a calm eat about her that even though I wasn’t seeing at the time I learned a lot.
Recently I started to sew. In hindsight the memories of sewing tips we’re in fact from Nancy. So thank you Nancy for being such a wonderful teacher, hostess, crafter and human being.
I’ll definitely be watching your videos online and make sure to watch whenever wttw shows your programs. They are timeless.
I’m so sorry to learn of your life challenges and that you’re in heaven now. Even in the afterlife you’re still with us all.
Gracia y adios maestra ❤️
I just found out this very moment that Nancy is no longer with us. I have been crying and crying because I record all her episodes and did see her last one with the kids and her grandchildren and thought it was truly special. I loved and looked forward to watching her on my DVR. I have been a sewing “enthusiast” since 7th grade when I made my first dress in school. I could not continue on this path that I loved due to money problems in my family. Shortly thereafter in 1974 I lost my best friend, my mom, to breast cancer at at the age of 45. I have never ever gotten over it and my heart is bleeding right now for Nancy’s family. I wish I had known that she was battling cancer for awhile. I would have written to her personally. RIP Nancy and I will never stop watching your shows. I am still crying.
I just watched “Sewing with Nancy” on our local PBS channel WVIZ out of Cleveland, OH. Again I am sad to know that Nancy has passed. But again I enjoy watching the show because I am ALWAYS learning something. PLEASE don’t stop showing these programs. Nancy was a GREAT teacher !! I’m so sad that I was not able to thank her personally. She is now in heaven teaching sewing and she is still watching over us making sure we are doing our sewing correctly. Rest in Peace Nancy. Laura Keene
Nancy Zieman touched countless lives including mine!
It is rare to encounter a person with such dignity and grace as Nancy.
You have been a Gift.
Nancy expanded my sewing horizons is so many ways starting in the 80′s. I had the honor of meeting her at a workshop many years ago. She will be missed. It is only “Bye for Now”.
My heart is broken. Watching Nancy every week over the years has made her feel like a wonderful friend. I will miss her terribly and send sympathy to all her staff, family, friends and TV friends (like me). God bless her and some day we’ll meet again my friend. Bye for now.
What I think Nancy & I shared was an experience many years ago in each of our lives: brain tumor. It has been an encouragement to me to see her not shy away from the camera because of facial paralysis. It is sometimes daunting. We also share our faith. Thank you. Nancy’s Family, for sharing her with all of us.
I just realized this never got to you all after Nancy Zeiman’s passing. My condolances are still the same. Blessings.
11/14/17
Dear Mike and Staff at Nancy’s Notions,
Blessings to you all as you mourn the loss of your Beloved Nancy. I had read in September of her testimony facing her impending death, and was deeply touched by Nancy’s calm conviction of her soon Homegoing. I am greatly saddened, and offer my prayers up to the throne of God’s merciful grace on behalf of Nancy’s husband, sons and daughter-on-laws, and grandchildren and other family members and friends who will feel her loss immensly. I pray that our God of Comfort will bring you all His peace and lovingkindnesses in the days, weeks, and months ahead. He created Nancy with such a wonderful gift of giving of herself sacrificially. May the love of creativity she instilled in so many continue to bless the givers and recipients of her creations and the strengthen the hands of those who tirelessly strive to put a smile on someone’s face.
May you all continue to share in your gifts to others with Nancy as your example.
Because of God who is rich in mercy and because of His great love with which He loved us …
Patty Brown
I am watching Nancy’s last episode with the kids. Nancy’s show and her presence will always be part of my life. I am grateful to her family for sharing her with us.
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I was just in the middle of reading Nancy’s book “Seams Unlikely” when I went to her Wikipedia page and found out she had passed away. I used to watch her show as a child, and had begun watching it again when it became available online. I was inspired by her vitality and positive energy. I’m so sad she’s gone. She was almost like a friend although I never met her.
So sad for all who knew her and knew about her. The world will miss her.
I just found out that Nancy had past. Her shows are still airing here.I heard that she was having health issues but didn’t realize she was going to pass so quick.I watched her every week & learned so much from her.I know recently she was showing us quick tips & different things besides just sewing clothes. Out fabric stores are closing here now & it seems to be a dying art but Nancy kept with it & knew there were still people out there who loved to sew like she did. God Bless Nancy for all you did for women all over the World. We will miss you and “Bye for Now”.
I want to add my voice to those who, through the miracle of television and computers, consider Nancy to be a friend. Each program reminds me of her talent and genius. I will miss her but feel fortunate that her legacy lives on. Thank you, Nancy!
I asked for, received, and finished, Seams Unlikely, for Christmas this year. Wish I had read it sooner. Wonderful book. Cried puddles because the book was poignant in places and because Nancy is gone. Thank you NZP for still doing the shows and to her family for sharing Nancy’s life.
I was disconnected from all of my sewing stuffs after Irma and Maria hurricanes. For many, many days and weeks, I was in a very difficult moment to keep up and be on time concerning my favorite sewing news. Yesterday, I was looking in to my sewing subscriptions and news, and found the sadly news about Nancy’s Passed Away. I was shocked. I love Nancy in many ways: in her books, in her video lessons, in all of her notions to quilt and sew, in her embroidery lessons…. and in All she would may do!!!!….. I was amazing of the kind of person she was, and I am grateful because of the opportunity to known her and because I had learned so much things from her about sewing and embroidering. Heaven be pleased…..
Just saw with shock the news that Nancy Zieman passed away. She will be so missed. I have loved watching her programs for years. To the family: Thank you for sharing your wife, your mother and your grandmother. Nancy’s faith showed through in her kind heart and her attitude for life. I share her faith. Heaven is richer for her presence.
I have watched your show form the beginning. I knew how to sew before watching you, but you improved my skills tremendously over the years. I always wanted to learn quilting. After observing you and the magic you did with simple fabrics made me want to learn even more. You pushed me to challenge myself more and more. I believe as you do in faith. I will miss you but I know you’re in my mind and thoughts too. “Bye for now!”
I was unaware of Nancy’s passing until the weekend when none of the PBS program descriptions matched what was showing, which was a marathon of Sewing with Nancy. I was elated that there was a marathon going on, but it wasn’t until I had watched several episodes that I heard them say, “Celebrating the life of Nancy Zieman.” I cannot describe the sadness I felt to learn of her passing. I am not ashamed to admit that I cried that day, and several more since then. I wonder if she had/has any idea of how loved she was, and how missed she will be. I, too, believe she is with the ultimate “Creator” in heaven, from which all creativeness originates. We are just vessels through which if flows, and Nancy, if you can read this, you used your earthen vessel to the fullest. May God bless and keep you. We will continue to watch your shows as long as Public Television continues to air them. Sometimes, just for a moment, it feels like you never even left us.
I was unaware of Nancy’s passing until the weekend when none of the PBS program descriptions matched what was showing, which was a marathon of Sewing with Nancy. I was elated that there was a marathon going on, but it wasn’t until I had watched several episodes that I heard them say, “Celebrating the life of Nancy Zieman.” I cannot describe the sadness I felt to learn of her passing. I am not ashamed to admit that I cried that day, and several more since then. I wonder if she had/has any idea of how loved she was, and how missed she will be. I too believe she is with the ultimate “Creator” in heaven, from which all creativeness originates. We are just vessels from which if flows, and Nancy, if you can read this, you used your earthen vessel to the fullest. May God bless and keep you. We will continue to watch your shows as long as Public Television continues to air them. Sometimes, just for a moment, it feels like you never even left us.
I am so sad to hear of Nancy’s passing. I hope you were surrounded by your family and that heaven is treating you well <3
I was shocked to just learn of her passing. God is in need of more angels and has come to reclaim a special one. Nancy was just 5 years older than myself and even though I became a professional designer and seamstress by age 16 I have watched her with much admiration and respect for the craft. I along with the multitudes who have watched her from her tv beginnings have learned so much from her. As I always say it’s what you leave behind that counts the most she left us with a treasure chest of knowledge and memories. May God bless and keep you Nancy.
So sorry to hear that she’s not here but she’s in a better place.
Her sewing shows were a masterpeice. She never was cross or disrespectful to her guests. I love sewing and watching her show was a real treat for me. She will be missed!!!
I am shocked to have just learned of Nancy’s passing. I did not know she was sick either and 64 is far, far too young to leave this life. As can be seen by all these posts, Nancy inspired many people and will continue to do so for years to come. Her tenacity, especially in those years when sewing wasn’t “in”, was admirable. It’s difficult to imagine what the sewing community will be like without her!
My sincerest condolences to Richard and the rest of the family. I hope reading all these posts will comfort you and show you how Nancy touched so many people all over the world. What more could anyone want from a life well-lived?
Take good care of each other.
I just can’t believe you are gone so soon. I have watched your show for years and purchased your sewing items for years. I have been inspired, and learned so many things from you. You are like a friend who I will NEVER forget. You will be missed terribly. You are an angel that will always be a part of our lives and you are the “Queen of Sewing” forever because there is no one like you. You are the best!!! Godspeed Nancy!!! I hope you have already started sewing in heaven so much to learn and do. You will truly be missed.
Teri
I feel like I lost a friend, a sister, a teacher. God bless Nancy, a truly wonderful person who helped the world in so many ways.
Dear Nancy,
I know you are not here to read this, but I just felt I needed to say that I have learned so much about sewing, creativity, and caring for others through you. A strong, determined woman, even sickness could not quell your love of your craft. May your family, friends and viewers be comforted knowing our Saviour walked with you and now with us, as we carrying on in your absence. Thank you, Nancy.
Nancy, I’m so happy you died as a saved Christian! You are with the Lord Jesus Christ and now know what true eternal life actually is in the presence of our Creator! You are young and full again of LIFE! I look forward to meeting you there or at the Rapture when my time comes; along with all the other redeemed saints.
Fare thee well dear, Sister! Maranatha! All Glory to God!
I was so saddened to hear the news about Nancy and her passing in November. She was an inspiration to many – certainly to me. Nancy created beauty, reflecting her grace and kindness.
My prayers are with each and every one who loved this beautiful and special person, Nancy Zieman. She made a difference in so many of our lives that we all feel we know her personally and love her dearly.
I never missed an episode of her sewing programs and learned so much from her. I was blessed to have her read one of my sewing tips on her TV program, Sewing With Nancy. She also published my sewing tip in one of her books and surprised me with a free book.
She was an inspiration to me and many others who will always remember her in our hearts. So thankful Nancy had faith in God to see her through her pain and passing. Heaven is a little sweeter now.
So very sad to know that Nancy is no longer with us. What a brave lady. My sincerest condolences to her family.
Thank you Nancy your videos were an inspiration to me and I’m sure countless others. God bless and sleep sweetly.
Anita
I feel like I lost a personal friend, especially when I learned that Nancy once lived in La Grange, Illinois. I’m from a neighboring town and spend a lot of time in that area. Nancy was in part responsible for my learning to quilt. The sewing world has lost one special lady. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
You are gone to soon. You will be missed. Prayers for your family.
What a lady, what a lady! I am in tears and sure will miss her. Have watched her for many many years and have learned so much from her. I truly enjoyed her shows and her as a person. I feel just like I have lost a very good personal friend. She will be missed but she sure isn’t suffering anymore that’s for sure and she’s probably teaching sewing lessons in heaven as I type. Such a giver! I will surely miss her! I am so sorry for her family’s loss.
So very sad to hear of Nancy’s passing. I truly love her show and felt like I somehow knew her. I would have loved to have sat at her kitchen table, or better yet in her sewing room, and learned from her wisdom of sewing and as a woman of God. I send heartfelt sympathy to her family and friends who knew her intimately. What a great reunion there will be one day when all who believe in Jesus will be reunited for eternity. May God comfort as only He can.
Grieving. The world is a brighter, lovelier, kinder place because of what Nancy taught us all.
You are gone from this earth now, Nancy, but I want to say what a difference you made in my life. My Mother was a seamstress and incredibly talented. We seven girls learned the basics at her knee and through the years, even more. I went on to marry a wonderful man and, for a while, didn’t have the “bug” to sew. I didn’t think I was quite good at it. I began watching your show in 1980 and began to learn so many little tricks and you gave me confidence. Now, at the age of 70, I sew, I piece, I quilt-by machine and hand and so much more. But, more than anything else, it was your quiet confidence, your ability to make a mistake and acknowlege it and your showing of so many charities and ways to “pay it forward”. I made baby quilts last year for a local shelter and food pantry for my Lenten obligation. 22 quilts for babies I will never know. I gave them to the women at the pantry because they see who needs and doesn’t have. You have been more then knowledge added to my life but an inspiration that will always live inside of me. I know you are safe and healthy now in that great Heaven that I also believe in and that your work here on earth will live on for time untold. Thank you. My prayers continue for your family for solace and comfort.
Richard and family, So sorry to hear about Nancy. She was a lovely and caring person.
Shorty UPS
Richard and family, So sorryto her about Nancy. She was a beautiful and caring person.
Shorty UPS
May you rest in peace and love with your angels and may your family be comforted in this trying time. Thank you for your long lasting contribution to this wonderful craft.
I met Nancy in 2010 at the Quilt Expo for the first time. I had recently begun the Illinois Chapter of Quilters Comforting Kids, a non-profit which provided quilts to seriously ill children and those living in shelters. I approached Nancy and we chatted briefly and she said she would be glad to have me on her show. In December the first episode of Season 25 was shot and I was her Nancy’s Corner guest.
When the episode aired in August quilts and support arrived from across the United States. Over the years until the charity had to be shut down due to health reasons there was a steady supply of quilts that would arrive at my doorstep. In all nearly 5000 were received and donated. Thank you Nancy!!
When I would see Nancy in future years as a non-paid exhibitor she would always take time to have a cup of coffee with me and catch up with all that transpired over the past year.
Nancy was so special and she made everyone she interacted with feel special as well. There will never be another person like Nancy — warm, caring, quick witted, talented, and so smart, generous and willing to help others in their charitable endeavors.
Nancy you and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Your spirit will live on for countless years to come and will touch tens of thousands sewers, quilters, and those who just got pleasure from watching your show. I know you are now entertaining those who have gone before you on the “Sewing With Nancy Heavenly Edition” set.
Bob Urquhart
I watched the tribute to Nancy this past weekend on my PBS station with tears streaming down my face. Although I never met her in person, I’ve been watching her on public television for decades. I’ve learned so much about sewing and the fiber arts from her shows, and loved learning about all the ministries and organizations she showcased. Every age, every ethnic group, every style of stitching, indeed every need was presented with grace and dignity on her show.. I am sad for myself, but so happy for Nancy, that she is out of pain and reaping the rewards of a life well-lived in faith, love, and purpose, with Our Heavenly Father who welcomed her to Paradise with open arms. I’ll just bet she is showing the angels her invisible hems right now! My deepest sympathies to her family; please keep the faith, God will comfort you and give you peace. In love and Christ, Pam
I’m about your age, Nancy, so I first discovered sewing through your show when I was young and sewing for my own little children or sewing curtains or … the most often task: mending! I did not get to try many things you accomplished, but I loved watching every episode I could. I had revisited your shows during the many years of teaching, but I was particularly engaged now that I am retired! Thanks to the miracle of DVR’s and reruns, I can watch all the episodes I missed. I’ve felt as if I’ve lost a close friend because so much of my life was bettered by your efforts and joy of teaching us! You will be remembered! Thanks again! I know you are sewing angel costumes and anything else you can lay hold of! Always frugal… always creative! We love you!
I, too, like many others, just learned of Nancy’s death. I was really in shock, as I did not know she had even been ill. I started watching the quilting shows back in 2000 (as shown in my email address) and watched every show I could find, including Nancy’s. I particularly favored all the quilting shows including hers. I was just watching it Saturday and learned of her passing. Like many other public television shows, this too, will surely continue to air for a long time.
To Nancy’s family, I am so sorry for your loss, I loved that scripture in her personal note. Like she said, many may not share her personal faith, but we do all have the Bible to gain comfort from. For me, nothing brings me more comfort than to know that our Creator, Jehovah God, will bring millions back in the resurrection to a beautiful cleansed earth where the human family will live forever upon it. No more pain, no more suffering, no more death, no more wicked people, just total happiness, peace and endless life to be enjoyed.
Psalms 37:10,11,29 and Revelation 21: 3,4 are such encouraging verses to read when we are feeling low, and very sad. I hope they will bring you comfort as well. Sincerely, Elaine
I just learned, while reading another blog, of Nancy’s passing. I remember Sewing with Nancy back to its early days and always admired her. From her obvious teaching and sewing abilities, to her tenacity which allowed those skills to outshine any residual impairment of a stroke.
I’m so sad to think there will no longer be Saturday mornings to learn more from this lovely lady.
God bless and keep you Nancy.
I’m so sad to hear of Nancy’s passing today. I had no idea that she had been sick and the first I knew about Nancy’s passing was when her past programs were being shown all day yesterday and today. Rest in Peace, Nancy. The whole world is mourning your death.
I’VE WATCHED AND LEARNED ALOT FROM NANCY AND NOW HAVE A HEAVY HEART SHE IS GONE. I JUST NOW FOUND THIS BLOG. I WILL STILL WATCH AND CAN SHE HER SITTING THERE. WITH ALL LOVE TO HER FAMILY AND MAY GOD GIVE YOU COMFORT. JEAN
Thank you so much for dedicating your life to help others. You have been an inspiration to me. I guess we can keep on sewing as there is no way ever one could repay you. Prayers for your family.
Quail House Embroidery
Nancy – I’m sorry you have been so sick. Thanks for your enthusiasm and promotion of sewing for so many years.
Nancy, you were an angel on Earth. You made the world a better place. Thank you.
Rest in peace Nancy, my condolences to the family. Now you are in God hands.
But, Nancy, I just found you! Oh, it hurts to see you leave so soon with so much life left in you. This has been a shock. May you rest in peace in “G_d” arms. Keep sending your inspiring thoughts to those in need. My sympathies to your family.
RIP Nancy.
I have spent many Saturday mornings watching Nancy
and learning so much from her. She was a classy, lovely
lady and she will be greatly missed.
A truly amazing woman and seamstress. She has been an inspiration to so many for so many years in all she has done with her life. With a heavy heart, I offer her family and all sewing friends, my condolences. I hope I can continue to learn from all her videos and others, who may never had followed her may also. What a rich, fulfilling life she led for so many. Linda Mundell
Goodbye dear Nancy. Thank you for many years of your gracious being, and your amazing sewing talent. The Lord took you home, and Heaven received a beautiful soul. You will be missed by all who shared your love of sewing. My sincere condolences to your family.
We will always be better for having experienced Nancy’s creativity, beauty, and wonderful sense of care and loving values.
Rest in peace gentle soul.
I was so sorry to hear of Nancy’s passing. I know she is with the Lord now and no longer in any pain. God bless you and you will be missed.
Dear Nancy,
You are a sewing legend, who has now gone to be with the Lord. I have enjoyed many episodes of Sewing with Nancy. Your lessons and tips have been discussed with many of my sewing family members, buddies, and sewing classmates. You will be TRULY missed. As someone who shares your faith, I know that you are in good hands and in God’s arms.
Hello Nancy: Your life here was filled with motivation and inspiration to all who watched and knew you. Your humbleness and giving spirit was a joy to behold. The tragedy of your cruel diseases did not and will not ever dim your bright light. Rest in peace and may peace continue to find each and every member your family throughout the remainder of their lives here. Love in Christ ♥♥♥
I come from a family that sewed clothing from necessity, back when there were lots of fabric stores and it was cheaper to make clothes than to buy them. Back in the 80′s, Sewing With Nancy raised the technical and style levels of the wardrobes of our families. Watching Nancy’s show was also a bonding experience among the women in the family. We marveled that a woman like her (like us!) had her own TV show and we relished learning from her. I admire how she seamlesssly (haha) made the transition from sewing garments to sewing for the home and back again. Her Nancy’s Corner segments were inspirational to all. Thank you, thank you, thank you! May your soul energy continue to enrich the universe.
You are a charmer and inspired me to explore a deeper respect for sewing and fabrics, textile blending and respect for each other. My mom and grandmother both watched your shows. It’s a tribute to your skill at adapting and remaining in touch with your audience and current trends. More importantly, you brought warmth and personal appeal to textile creativity. And even greater still you gave of yourself to enrich the lives of your viewers, friends and love to your family. Create TV rightly so is Celebrating Nancy today. The true celebration is the gift that is YOU for so many years and into so many lives. GOD Bless and keep you in our hearts always. THANK YOU.
I am praying for all of Nancy’s family and staff – how you must miss her. Nancy has been a favorite part of my life since the beginning of her show – or when I discovered it which was in the very early 80′s. I have recorded (in whatever fashion I had) and watched nearly all of her episodes. I have learned from her, and my sewing has improved with every technique I learned. I have her books, DVDs, books that matched her episodes, and many novel notions I have ordered over the past. I have attended one of her personal presentations in Lincoln, NE and when I was a fabric store owner – met her again at Market.
I would like to think that if we lived in the same neighborhood we would visit each other, sew at one and another’s home, share projects – raised our children together, now influence our grandchildren together and just become wonderful friends. And so it is in that manner that I say good= bye to my friend and neighbor but both of us know that we will meet again when we both are present with our Lord and Savior. My scripture that I cling to and want to share is Jeremiah 29:11. Look it up and gain encouragement from it. God bless all who were touched by the gracious lady, our Nancy.
You will be missed. RIP Nancy
Tears of sadness and thanksgiving are streaming down my face after reading of Nancy’s passing in the NYT and then turning to this blog post. As an off-and-on viewer and sewer, Nancy’s grace and gentle guidance were steadfast. She made the world a better place and will be missed.
I’ve been watching Nancy for 30 years, and i don’t even sew that often .. her show was so interesting and relaxing, that i quickly became a fan .. i was surprised to read recently that she lived right down the road from me, here in Wisconsin .. Goodby, and God Bless Nancy .. you will indeed be sorely missed .. rest in peace..
I’m so saddened by losing Nancy. She was my sole inspiration and I learned so much from her and I didn’t know of her illness until I was watching one of her shows that I had taped and they said ” in Nancy’s memory. I’ve bought Babylock servers because she made it look so easy. I will truly miss her. My deepest condolences to her family, co workers and friends.
Nov 22, 2017
May your inspiration continue to guide those who have sought your wisdom and knowledge from here to eternity and then beyond. You will be with us always. Proverbs 3:5-6, so true!
I’m a guy who can’t even sew a button on a shirt, but I absolutely love watching Nancy on TV. I grew up watching her in the 90’s and, to this day, I still catch every episode I can. Nancy’s soothing voice and upbeat demeanor have always lifted my spirits. Nancy, you will be missed!
Rest in peace, Nancy. You inspired me to learn to sew and I reference many of your books, still. My condolences to your family.
Goodbye….for now.
It was just this morning that I learned of Nancy’s retirement and passing. I had mistakenly thought that she had recovered and was back to work. She was a wonderful person. I felt like I knew her as an awesome teacher and friend, having watched her shows for the past 30 years or so on PBS. My regret is that I never met her in person. Heaven has certainly welcomed a beautiful angel.
What a great lady.
You’ve touched so many lives, thank you. Your inspiration [and episodes] will keep you alive for decades.
I am so sad to hear of Nancy’s passing. Saturday morning won’t be the same without her. My condolences to her family. I feel that I know them personally since I read her book. Sew long, Nancy.
Our hearts were heavy when we read that Nancy was no longer with us, but we rejoiced knowing she was totally healed when she entered into heaven to be with the Good Lord.
We have a little sewing group that meets once a week and has for several years at our church in Spring, Texas. Our group consist of about twenty to thirty ladies. We have used Nancy’s pattern ‘Little Dresses for Africa’, and we have sewn thousands of dresses for the precious little girls in Haiti. Our mission work has brought all of us so much joy and has knitted our group into a very special bond of love and friendship.
It is our desire that Nancy’s family, friends, and company know how this precious lady has and is continuing to touch the lives of so many of us here in America and around the world.
I watched today’s episode on PBS and was devastated to hear of your passing. Thank you so much for the years of knowledge, craftsmanship, and creativity you’re given us. We miss you, Nancy.
I too watched the show and saw the announcement and was shocked. I faithfully have watched or taped the show every week for as long as I can remember. I guess Nancy is needed to continue her good work with the angels for ever more and she has helped all of us here for many years. She has been a wonderful teacher to many many people. My condolences to her family. Her sewing family will miss her dearly. Please remember she touched the lives of so many people.
My heart is broken. Nancy was a big part of my life and I learned so very, very much about sewing. In fact, she was responsible for my purchase of a Baby Lock sewing machine. I am 91 years young with 4 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and am always in the quilt making process. I shall keep her in my prayers for the eternal Repose of her Sweet and Loving Soul.
Dear Nacy
You gave us a gift that will always
Help us stay warm & safe when we didn’t have much we knew we had you teaching us how to use old things and make them into new New things to help others have something special from us or when we had to use our old stuff to help a younger person in our family have something new I think you with all my heart for you Show because I know what your going though I lost my mom to leukemia back in 1967 I hope everyone that has touched your heart will know they’re a great memories in their hearts of you this is Dianna Frankfourth saying you will sadly be missed
My family grieves with you . . .
Nancy,
I take out my hand sewing (you know there is always some) and get it done while watching your show. I am going to take my husband out for a piece of chocolate cake in your honor, even if I have to let my waistband out later.
Thank you.
Connie
I will miss you Nancy! Please Lord wrap your arms around Nancy’s family and give them comfort in their sorrow. I know when we get to Heaven, we will see our loved ones again. But, it is so hard to lose someone that we love and care so much about. In my own selfish way, I haven’t wrapped my brain around that I will never see her again. I want her here and healthy. She gave me my first embroidery opportunity, and I will never forget it. Peace be with you all!! God bless and watch over you all!
Condolences to Nancy’s family and friends, she will be missed so much by myself and others. Painful loss.
I had the pleasure of meeting Nancy at Sewing With Nancy Weekend in 2015. I am deeply saddened of your passing. God needed an Angel to teach the other Angels in Heaven to sew and quilt. You inspired me to start sewing and embroidery. Good bless your family at this sad time.You will live on in my heart. Heartfelt Good Bye.
My heart is heavy.
God bless your family for a beautiful woman.
Like so many who have posted, I feel like I have lost a friend. Nancy was so talented and I learned much from her. She will be missed!
I just learned today (11-16-17) from my high school friend, Millie that Nancy has passed away. I’m very sad but she gave all of us so many ideas and helpful hints over the years. Nancy will never be forgotten, her memory will live on. Condolences to her family.
So heartbroken. I have watched Nancy for so long and learned so much. You will be so missed by this world but we will meet again in the next. I also have been fighting breast cancer. It is so sneaky. It grows so fast. Please ladies get your mammograms. Mine one year nothing the next year stage 2 breast cancer. If I had said I am ok I will go in a couple months it may have been to late. So far I am kicking it’s butt. I have had 12 + surgeries in 2 1/2 years. Breast, eyes, bladder etc. Please as a memory for Nancy get your mammograms. She will be happy that you did. ❤️ She can save your life!!
We lost a great lady and although I had read her good-bye it still feels as though a great friend was lost. I have to say thanks to Nancy, I learned how to sew garments well and I so appreciated the days when she had a sewing library where new people to sewing could learn from others. I remember never missing a broadcast and I still have tapes from the first years she started teaching the public.
Although I never knew the lady I think to myself just look at her works for the few years she was with us. I remember the many charities that we were told about and how we as her viewers could help others. I did meet her once at a convention and when I walked away I remember thinking what a lovely lady.
I wish her family the very best for I know if this lady could leave such a hole in the heart of the public, her family has to be suffering. May God grant you comfort and the strength that you will need to survive the coming months and years.
I’m seeeeeeew sad to hear about Nancy’s passing. Condolences to her family and her amazing\wonderful staff.
Nancy will live on in all those who sew and quilt.
My deepest sympathy to the Zieman family. She inspired me and gave me the courage to begin quilting. She was a remarkable lady. Nancy’s compassion for the world opened my eyes to the needs of so many. My faith, like Nancy’s, tells me we will meet again. God’s peace be with you all,
Jennifer Findsen
Deepest and most sincere condolences to us all. The crafting community has been enriched by an unselfish woman. She will be missed but remembered for years to come. I’m especially comforted by the knowledge that Nancy has faith in God and thus will live forever with the Master. God bless and comfort her most cherished family. Amen.
A legend has passed away!
And even the next generation can still enjoy her knowledge.
And now she can see with satisfaction from the afterlife how many people daily follow her advice and knowledge with her legacy of lessons in videos.
I wish her family and everyone a lot of strength with this great loss.
Dear Family, I am so sorry to see the sad news,A dear friend told me when I lost my parents together in a car accident knowing your father made me happy knowingNancy through books,tv and videos made my life happier I felt like I could call on Nancy anytime day or night. A true friend. I pray that you and yours find much peace in the trials and tribulations you’ve you are going through.Nancy will always be a part of my lifelove her Faith,Keeplooking up and have no fear.Peace be With You All
I fell in love with sewing after watching her show on our local PBS station in Alaska as a teen in the late 80′s and I still sew today. Thank you Nancy for sharing your gift. God is giving you your wings now. Prayers to her family.
I didn’t even know Nancy was sick! When I got the email from Nancy’s Notions I let out a gasp! I have watched Sewing with Nancy since it started, and learned sooo much. It is truly like losing a friend! Prayers for her family and everyone who was close to her!
I will miss Nancy so much, she was so brave and inspiring. Blessings to all her family during such a difficult time. May God hold you in the palm of his hand.
May you rest in peace Nancy. Our prayers and thoughts are with your family. Thank you for many wonderful years of sewing helps. Estelle S.
I was so sad when I just heard this news a few minutes ago, I am so tearfully going to miss Nancy I have watched her and have so many of her books she wrote. I’ll miss you Nancy RIP you are in a much better place then we all are, you leave a legacy behind that will live forever.
I will miss Nancy. The Bible verse she focused on is one that means a lot to me also. My condolences to her family. She was a beautiful person.
I feel I’ve lost a good friend I never got to meet. I’m trying to be glad that Nancy is now in the presence of our Savoir and one day I will finally get to meet her. My heartfelt prayers for her family and all that loved her. Through tears, once again thank you for so many enjoyable hours. Nancy will be greatly missed.
I am so heartbroken to hear of Nancy’s passing. I started watching her show in middle school and was immediately taken by her wit, easy manner and the way that she demystified the process of sewing. Thanks to Nancy, I learned how to mend and hem clothing and was able to be of more help my mother when she was too busy with work. I was able to create custom window treatments for my first home (saving money and getting exactly what I wanted) and ultimately gained enough skill to tailor my own clothing. I always feel a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction when I complete a project and I owe that all to Nancy, I wish I could have told her all of this personally. Bless you Nancy.
I have no words that will ease the sorrow in the hearts of Nancy’s family and friends. Though I never met her I feel as though she was my friend too. I have watched her show for years and always picked up a hint or two from it. Thank you, Nancy, for sharing your love of sewing. And thank you to her family for sharing her with those of us who never met her but loved her too.
I really enjoyed Nancy’s shows She made things so clear that I think anyone could understand how to make something. I know she will be missed by her family and friends. May God bless them and send a comforter to give each one peace. Thank you.
My heart is broken. I love watching Sewing with Nancy every Saturday and Sunday. My Mom, God Bless her, had taught me to sew but Nancy help me along with new techniques. I will truly miss her. My prayer and thoughts goes out to her family and friends.
I too, have been of fan of Nancy’s for many, many years. Having seen her in person, been to her store, have many dvds and books of hers alone and with other personalities and countless episodes of “Sewing with Nancy”. The world has lost a very special person. Thank you for sharing your journey with so many people. Condolences to your family in their loss. May God Bless.
Nancy, God needed you in heaven, you will be teaching God’s Angels how to sew up there. Thank you for many years of teachings.
To Nancy’s family, Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss.
I will miss you Nancy. You were such an inspiration to all who watched you. Sad to say goodbye. Rest in heavens arms.
True inspiring legacy! I will miss Nancy but forever hold her in my heart especially while I sew! Let God carry you now…. love and peace
it is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to a lady that has been like a family member. most of what I have learned about sewing since the 80′s, I learned from nancy. I had the honor to met her in person more than once and found her to be a most gracious and caring lady. may her family take comfort in knowing how much she impacted so many lives and was truly loved by so many.
I’m so so very sorry to hear that Miss Nancy Zieman has passed away. This lady is a true pioneer to the art of sewing. I have watched her shows from a very early age. It saddens my heart to hear that someone that is so vibrant and fighting for life has to leave. My heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the family. I will miss her greatly. To God be the glory!
My sympathy to the family and friends of Nancy.
She was a wonderful women and teacher.
Cornelia K
I’m so saddened to hear Nancy has passed…yet grateful for her knowledge of the Lord and knowing what was to come. She was an inspiration to me many years ago….I wanted to be just like her! Her knowledge was so vast and so willing to be shared! She personified kindness and gratefulness. And that was just on TV!!! I’m sure she was more than those things in her daily life that the rest of us didn’t see…..
Dearest Nancy, I just learned of your passing and want to extend my sympathies to your family, may God give them peace and comfort during this time. You will be missed by all of your sewing family. Thank you so much for sharing yourself with all of us. You have taught us so much over the years. We are truly grateful. Rest in peace. God bless you. Margie
Nancy will be long remembered and sorely missed by thousands of friends, for her many hours of giving. My sincere condolences to her family. Rest in peace, Nancy
Hello Mrs. Nancy Zieman. I was looking at you on the PBS channel in my state of Florida from the beginning. Since, I am older now and you still encouraging my time for sewing. I want to say thanks for all your encouraging me to get back into sewing. Jesus blesses you.
So thankful to have learned from Nancy. She kept me company via her programs when I needed it. Lord bless her memory, as we thank You for her. Lord, please comfort her family and friends.
I did not know Nancy personally but have watched her shows for many years. It is with deep sadness that I have hearing of Nancy’s passing. I’m sorry she had to deal with this cancer but I am ever so grateful that she had her faith in the Lord. My thoughts and prayers with the family at this time.
My heartfelt sympathies to Nancy’s friends and family.
My prayers are with Nancy’s husband and family. Thank you for sharing her with us all these years. Personally and professionally Nancy was Wisconsin at its best. We are indeed blessed that through her show and her publications we can continue to be inspired by her.
My deepest sympathy to Nancy’s professional family and her personal family. Her passing is a loss to the sewing world. She taught with knowledge, humour and humility. Her giving community spirit connected us with so many organizations that could use our support and for that I am truly grateful. Nancy’s life was a gift to us and we shall meet again in her sewing/quiliting class in her next life. Thank you for all the gifts you gave us. We shall miss you.
Please accept my most heartfelt sympathies for your loss.
I shall miss Nancy,she has been such an inspiration to me throughout the years.
Prayers of peace and comfort to Nancy’s family and friends. She was such a light of encouragement and touches so many lives. Her PBS show leaves a legacy that will impart her wisdom, compassion and kindness for generations to come. With a heavy heart we bid you farewell for now until we meet again on the other side.
To Nancy’s family and friends, I am sorry for your loss.
Nancy’s shows helped me get back into sewing after 34
years. Her talent and dedication to all things sewing inspired
me to quilt. I now longarm and own 9 sewing and embroidery machines!. I enjoy it so much.
Nancy will live forever through all the people she has inspired.
I am saddened to hear of Nancy’s passing. I am from Wisconsin and watched her show for many years until I moved to Arizona. I recently discovered that the Arizona public TV carried her shows so have been recording and watching them. I hope that the show will continue. Bless you.
I am totally shocked. I watched and taped Nancy during the 1980′s or until my local PBS channel took her off. But I followed her online and through her catalog. Lately she was concentrating on quilting so I lost touch as I am strictly garment sewing. But would purchase her books and items from her catalog. I do share her faith and know where she is now. She is in Heaven where she will continue to use her gifts.
So sad to hear of your families loss. I want to thank Nancy’s family for sharing her with the sewing world. Nancy has been and will continue to be my favorite sewing inspiration and teacher. We will miss her. Will continue to pray for her family. RIP
I will miss you very much Nancy. I love your patterns and your shows. With your calm teaching demeanor, you always have made me think that sewing is not that hard and I *CAN* do it! I wish you could have continued doing what you loved for another 20 years. You have accomplished far more in your too-short life than many of us, and even though I am greatly saddened by your passing, I will continue to be inspired by you and celebrate your life’s work by sewing with joy and confidence every single day. You have been a true gift to this world. May you rest in peace.
Like everyone, I am so sad that our friend, Nancy, had her life cut short by this wicked disease. She had the wonderful talent of being a superior teacher who was never afflicted with ‘the curse of knowledge’ but always used vocabulary and demos that could be useful for every level of viewer. My sincere condolences to her family and thank you for sharing Nancy with millions of us now and in the future.
Thank you Nancy for bring an inspiration to me. I haven’t seen all of your shows but I can say that when I stumbled across Sewing with Nancy it was like Christmas morning. It meant so much to watch you and know that someone loved sewing as much as I did. I will miss you.
I truly freel that I have lost a lifelong friend! I”ve followed Nancy since the beginning. People ask me where i have learned so much, and I tell them Nancy..Sewing wirh Nancy. RIP, dear friend, you will be missed!!
Nancy,
I feel like I lost a friend. You were so genuine and personable . You made us all feel as if you were a personal friend. I learned so much from you and will miss you.
My prayers to your family and friends.
God Speed Nancy.
I started watching Nancy in the late 80s. I have watched her show off and on throughout the years. Even though I cannot sew as beautifully and as seamlessly as she, she was an inspiration for learning how to sew. My condolences to the family and dear friends going through this difficult time. She is no longer in pain and sewing beautiful gowns to complement the wings of the angels above. She will be missed. RIP Nancy. May Her Memory Be Eternal.
She was my inspiration for years, teaching me things that as a sewing student I was so eager to learn. She was the best friend I never had in my early years, always there for me very Saturday morning and ready to share her newest creations with me, one on one. She was my surrogate sister when I lived 7 states away from any family when I was so lonely and alone; her weekly visits got me through some dark times. She was a woman I admired; not only for her continued inspiration in the crafting world but as a woman who despite her personal health issues was there every week for me on my favorite channel. My heart is broken today. I feel the loss of a dear friend, a loving sister and a nurturing woman in my life. She touched so many of us just by being there every week and doing what she loved to do; inspiring and teaching. I will feel her loss forever. She was a part of me. RIP Nancy.
I agree with the wonderful notes that have been written to Nancy’s family and friends so far. I feel like I have lost a very dear friend, which was invited to my home every week. My trips to Beaver Dam and the Madison Quilt Expo will never be the same. Thank heavens we have your wonderful shows to watch. You left us with a wonderful legacy, Nancy. God Bless you…..
My thoughts and prayers are with the family. Nancy will certainly be missed. I have gained so much knowledge from her shows and reading her books. She erased all my fears of messing up a project. I was so afraid of using my embroidery machine until I watched her shows. Now I am an embroidery fool. I feel confident in doing any project now; I’m using her books to teach myself to quilt. Nancy touched countless lives as well as my own. She will be quilting and sewing with the angels now. Nancy may you rest in pease.
To family and friends my sincere sympathy at this time of our dear Nancy’s passing. She gave her all and was one of those special people, I never thought would not be around and continue to share with us. She was truly gifted and loved. May her light continue to shine thru many generations to come. May God welcome her into the home He has ready for her and may God also be with you family in your time of grief. A faithful sewer and sewing friend, Betty
Dearest Nancy,
So many of us, especially me, will miss you and your excellent teaching skills. You are the reason I came to love machine embroidery and some of the finer styles of sewing. I’ve wished many times I could meet you in person and share with you how much you’d inspired me. The world has lost a great lady who was an inspiration to us all, in many more areas than just our love of sewing. God bless you, Nancy Zieman . . . you will be greatly missed.
Nancy will be greatly missed. She was creative in everything she did…and had such a great talent. Hope her legacy continues for years to come.
I bet she is up in Heaven right now threading her Babylock and all of God’s Angels are in a line to see who is going to be first to get some new gowns to fly around Heaven in…you know they were waiting for her
My heart is broken for all of Nancy’s family. Prayers for sure go up for all. To think of the suffering that Nancy went through is heartbreaking. I learned so much from watching her shows. She was a delight.
Rest In Peace Nancy, you fought the good fight, your journey is done. Thank you for years of teaching us and sharing your knowledge and talents. Prayers for comfort and peace for your family.
Bye, Nancy, pray for us from heaven, Thank you for teaching us so much about sewing. My prayers are with your family.
I only recently discovered the wonderful world of sewing, and a huge part is because of Nancy. I was just telling my daughter what a brilliant woman Nancy Zieman is. I am so sorry to read of her passing, but what a legacy she’s leaving us. God bless the Zieman family during this most difficult time.
Hard to believe the Queen of Sewing is gone! I first started watching Nancy on our local station when the show started in the early 80′s, when I was home with my young son. I followed her since then, and marvel at how much her company grew from the small size it started out as, offering just the basic sewing supplies, to the marvel of what it is today! You will be missed Nancy, but to all of your fans out there, we will keep up the craft of sewing!!
We have lost our best sewing Buddy~we will remember her everytime we sew and think How would Nancy show us how!
Everything I learned was from Nancy’s shows, I am shocked to hear of her passing, I wish I knew I would of asked our Father God in Jesus name by His stripes to heal her! The Heavens have a new Angel Nancy! We will never forget you!
All our Love to You!
Prayers to Your Family Nancy,
In His Service,
Karen Powers
New Mexico
RIP Nancy Zieman. You will be deeply missed. Praying God’s blessings of comfort, healing, and peace upon her friends and family. I am so saddened by her passing. I appreciated everything I learned from her and her patterns through the decades.
Today I was watching Nancy’s videos thinking how she had shared so much of herself with us. It is heartbreaking to know she has left us, but only in body. Her spirit is so strong and thank God, she is not suffering anymore. Sincerest sympathy for her family and friends who knew her in person and not just on tv. She is one of a kind and will be missed.
I am so thankful for you on so many levels and I will pray for your family in their time of need. May you rest in peace and may God watch over & love you in heaven ❤️
The set is empty, but our homes are filled with the things we made because of Nancy. She lives on in our homes and our hearts. May God comfort those who are mourning her loss.
You have done so much for “sew” many! I learned how to create coveralls and t-shirts for my last baby from “renting” your videos! He is now 42 years old! I must credit you for all the inspiration, knowledge, response to questions, teaching how to use products and giving us the confidence to continue to make beautiful things for family and friends. I have bought almost every video you created; purchased just about every book you’ve ever written. I will continue to use these tools you provided for us for as long as I can continue to sew. God bless your family during this difficult time. Thank you for all the gifts you shared with us…you are amazing and will be deeply missed.
i grew up in a badly broken nuclear family. moving around as my parents decided to. you were one of the few constants in my life. you replaced the grandmother that worked and the disinterested mother where sewing and growing were concerned. you helped me grow as a sewist and quilter.
you also helped me realize that there were things to look forward to in this world instead of negativity and finishing all kinds of wonderful projects.i shall think of you as a dearly beloved family member. this is a tearfull goodbye….
Nancy, thank you for everything that you taught me and others over the many years. What an inspiration you have been to the world! I thank your family for sharing you and your God given talents with us. God Bless!!
Yours was the first ever quilt show I watched back when I started out and you have always remained a true inspiration. God bless you Nancy and take you into His care. My deepest condolences to your family at this sad time.
I have watched your all my life. I was born in 1981, and my grandmother would feed me my bottle while watching you. I never missed an episode. I don’t know what to say. I’m still in shock. It was because of Nancy that I wanted to be a television producer, which I am. Thank you Nancy for everything. I will miss you.
I left my condolences but was told I already, which I didn’t.
I just want send my sincere condolences to Nancy’s family and friends, over the years I have learnt so much from your wonderful YouTube videos, here in the UK we do not have the fabulous quilting programmes that are on air in the USA. Thank you Nancy, everyone will miss you so much.
With my best wishes and a heavy heart, Annie Dunn in South Wales, UK
Nov 14,2017 a very sad day for me. My sewing idol has died.
Hope she knew how much she have helped many of us that find comfort in sewing & quilting. Thank you Nancy.
Condolences & prayers to Nancy’s family. RIP wonderful teacher.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Nancy’s husband, children and grandchildren. May your faith sustain you through your profound loss. I shall miss Nancy too, but am thankful I have had the chance to learn so much from her knowledge and kindness.
With deepest sympathy,
Joan
So saddened to hear the news today about Nancy. I loved her wonderful shows and she was truly a beautiful lady inside and out. She will be missed. How good to know of her faith in our Lord and knowing she is now in heaven (John 14:6). Praying comfort for her family.
Dear Nancy, You are like a dear friend to me. I have been watching you on TV, on your DVD’s and bought many of your books. I have learned so much from you and no matter where I live if you are on a TV station in that area I have watched your programs. I have many of your patterns and have always loved receiving your catalogues and shopping in them. Many times I have wished I could have personal lessons from you but if you did such things I would not have been able to travel or afford that. So I just faithfully watched you. On PBS I can watch and re-watch your programs! What a treat. I am so sorry that your were so ill. I loved your Message to us. I will pray for your family and all of your friends. I know you are in heaven and that is a joy and comfort to me. Maryann
I am so sad to hear of your passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. I thank you for all the knowledge you have shared with all of us for so many, many years. The sewing community will not be the same without you. Peace and God’s love to you and all your family.
I am so very sorry to hear of Nancy’s passing. She was a great enthusiastic teacher who gave us all so much knowledge and shared with us her love of sewing. We will miss her terribly, God Bless her husband and family.
Please accept my deepest condolences. I will be praying for God’s peace and strength for all of you. Nancy, I cannot wait to meet you in Heaven!!!
My condolences to your family. Nancy will be greatly missed. She has been a big part of my life since I first started watching her more than 30 years ago. I have even scheduled events/activities/errands so I wouldn’t miss one of her programs even if I had seen it before. Nancy was one of a kind.
Sending much light and love to Nancy’s family during this sad time. Thank you Nancy for your years of wonderful contributions to the worlds of sewing and quilting. I have learned much from you, and your creative spark will always remain with me. My granddaughters 9 and 6 have asked me to teach them how to sew, and it will be a blessed journey to teach them all that you’ve taught me. I will treasure the books I have purchased from you, and will continue to watch your marvellous Nancy’s Notions television shows. God’s blessings to your families.
May you rest in peace and see the heavens as they have been waiting for you. May you teach the angels to sew many wings as you have done for all of us here.
You are so very loved and will be so very, very missed, Nancy. You taught me so much since I began sewing back in the 70s. God Bless your family and friends during this sad loss.
Today is a very sad day….you will be missed, Nancy.
Nancy, you have touched so many lives in your short time here and we don’t know what the personal plan is God has for each and every one of us.
I am praying that God’s will be done and I am asking and knocking on his door for a healing for you. God is wonderful and you are his child’ his faithful servant, that he could heal you and allow you to keep spreading his word. I was given 5 years and I am 12 years out, I told the Dr he wasn’t God and only God could decided these things. Keep your eyes on Jesus and only believe him ! God can move mountains and part the red sea – this is a wink for healing you !! All my love prayers and wishs for you Never give up Hope !! Your mind set is 1/2 the Battle !!!
Nancy – I was at my local quilt store watching some demonstrations this weekend and a lady mentioned your illness. I was drawn today to look at your website for an update. It saddens me to know your ill but we all know that time with your family is best at this time. I have watched your shows for years on PBS and always enjoyed your easy presentation on how to sew and quilt. You’ll always be the Queen of Sewing Nancy!! You’ve been an inspiration to me and so many others. Sending prayers your way from Albuquerque, NM.
I was so saddened to read of your retirement but more importantly of your cancer. I have enjoyed your shows for years. May you find comfort in your family and your many friends, that you know or don’t know.
Praying for you and your family through this journey in the valley. You have blessed many many people through your work and encouragement. Thank you Jesus, this world is not our home. There’s a better day coming; we’re not home yet.
Nancy-After reading your retirement message, I wanted to send my thoughts & prayers too. I have enjoyed your programs over the years & have purchased several books after seeing one featured there.
My husband & I are going through some similar medical problems right now & he will soon have had his #17 chemo/infusion this year. We are all similar in age & anniversaries. My husband’s favorite Bible verse is also Proverbs 3:5&6 so we join you in your trust & faith in our loving Heavenly Father.
May He hold you in the palm of His hand & give you a light to shine for all to see. Our prayers are with you. Doug & Gail Lacey
My friend, you can only know me by the love you have received from all the others who have written to you. I share all their emotions and love. I’m pretty sure I’ve watched every one of your shows since the 1980′s. I’ve purchased your products. I’ve learned your techniques. I’ve admired your teaching ability ( I too was a Home Ec. major and teacher in the 60′s and 70′s). I’ve respected your honesty and your Christian principles and values (did you know that they showed?) . I visited your retail store when I was passing through Wisconsin a few years ago. Your illness and retirement – which I just read about in your blog – stunned and saddened me. You already know that you are loved, respected and admired in this world. I can only add that I will try to be as much like you as I can. We need more Nancy Zieman’s in this world. May the Lord continue to bless you on your journey. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Nancy,
Thank you so much for introducing me to love of sewing with you PBS shows. Explaining sewing concepts that used to look like puzzles, with your calm voice and giving us permission to mess up helped me and gave me courage to sew. Now I am teaching it to my niece. Thank you for your shows and books. Thank you for being a great example to women and girls. You will not be forgotten.
Love,
D Pulvino
Thank you for sew many wonderful years of your show. Sewing with Nancy has been part of my life for sew long. I’ve met you at several different events over the years. Your show has been fun to watch, encouraging and inspiring to say the least. It is sew very hard to say good bye to a friend. Even in “retirement” you have shown us grace and inspiration. Please know you are loved by many. Thanks to your family for sharing you with us. Wishing them and you peace and love.
Nancy,
All of these posts and outpouring of love are such a statement of the impact you have made on all of us. I have watched your show on and off through the years. You always gave me the confidence to try new things. Just last week I saw the landscape quilting series, a bit mid way, but I am hooked. Your work is wonderful, inspiring and I am ever so grateful for your sharing your talent and expertise with us. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. I know that regardless of this health challenge you will keep God’s grace.
Laura K.
Nancy, I’ve only seen your show once (I am not a television watcher), but I want you to know that I mentioned your retirement to some of my sorority sisters from UW-Stout, during our annual reunion weekend. I was excited that a couple “Home Ec” majors remembered living in the resident hall with you and also saddened to hear of your illness. You are a representative of what is right in the world, an honorable messenger of the uniqueness of our alma mater.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you so much for everything you have shared over the years and continue to share. You are my reference when I am stuck (often) on a project. Your grace and strength compliment your faith. Please know that you are so much more than you think. My prayers are with you and your family. Again, thank you for being you and sharing your gifts now and always. Remain Blessed.
Nancy.
How are You? My english is not good, but I need to say that can’t stop to cry. I’m 34 years old and I’m just learning how to sew. Since I was 13 years old I have the desire to earn how to sew my cloths, purses and anything. I just ‘discovered’ your tvshow 13 days ago and I was so thankfull and happy because I found you sharing all this knowledgment! And today I read you note and I feel so sad! I just want to say Thank You very much. I really would like to give you a hug right now. Don’t be afraid, Nancy. You will be forever in our hearths!
Dear Nancy,
I am so sorry to learn of your health.
I have watched and been comforted by your show for a while now.
I began sewing when I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Breast Cancer.(Nov. 2008)
I needed something to keep me busy.
Although I was given only several months to two years to live, it is almost 9 years now. My Dr. calls me his miracle patient. .
The reason I am writing along with thanking you for helping me learn to sew, is to tell you about an herbal tea I take that me and my Dr. feels has given me extended time. It’s call ESSIAC tea. From a Canadian nurse Rene Caisse. (Caisse spelled backwords is ESSIAC). It’s on the Internet and there are books on her. Very interesting story.
Since I’ve learned about Essiac tea, and feel it has helped me, I am
trying to get the word out for other people. It is on the Internet as a possible cure for stage 1. And to be used with traditional treatment for other stages. I’m hoping this Information may help you in your journey for better heath.
Dear Nancy, I am sorry to hear of your illness. That scripture is a mainstay in my favorites. I have been faithfully watching for years. My Mother, Mary, discovered you and we quickly used your ideas, patterns, advice for years. I still watch every Saturday. May God be with you in your journey. Your dedication to helping others has been inspirational. Thank you. Beverly
God be with you on your final journey and with your family.I’ll keep you in my prayers.
I can’t remember aSaturday morning without you on PBS whether I was in R.I,Guam or Washington State . You brought great joy to so many not to mention helping us crafters. Through your endeavors
Many a person sleep warmer tonight because of your quilting outreach program.’How many little girls in third world countries are dressed because you took time to show us another way we could be good world citizens through our sewing.
My Mom said we earn our stars for our crown in heaven here on earth by our good deeds to others.Nancy, yours must be brightest in heaven. God be with you. Glois
Nancy,
Please know that you will be still be giving forward long after you & I and many others who enjoy all you do are gone. I hope you find comfort that I am as a new grandmother counting the days until my granddaughter is old enough to introduce her to “Sewing for Fun”. I know this will give both of us many fond memories that will carry her forward. To know you have created so much joy to others in such an artful and meaningful way should give you great pride and solace. Job well done Nancy, and thank you for giving back to the sewing community that you loved so much. God speed Nancy.
Thank you for all that you are and all that you do. Most of my adult life I worked in fibers as a spinner, dyer, and knitter. Now nearly 60 years old, sewing is finally calling me. I’m using my Ma’s 1965 Singer Touch and Sew. I am utilizing your books and DVDs/videos and your excellently designed notions to set me firmly on to exciting new paths. May healing Love and Light surround and comfort you and all of your family, friends, and the many people whose lives you’ve helped change for the better. Bright Blessings, Jenny
Dear Nancy,
I wrote to you several weeks ago but hit a key (don’t know which one) and the e-mail never got finished. It disappeared and can’t find it to finish it. You are in my prayers. I have been down your path with my husband who had been given3-4 months to live. Well, that was in 2001 and he is still here enjoying life. We got the best doctors here in Miami, Florida and I kept on going, teaching full time and sewing for relaxation. I wore out my knees praying for him. I was not much of a believer in anything until this happened. We are of different faiths, but believe in G-d. Stay strong.
I watch all of your tapes and read all of your books. My husband even drove me to your store in Beaver Dam. I have a map of sewing stores and drove to most of them on our honeymoon. We went as far as Yellowstone and plan to go back. My husband takes great joy in my sewing – especially the shirts and pajamas I had made for him while he was sick. He still wears some of the items with pride. He wore a pair of pajamas with an embroidered teddy bear while in the hospital. The nurses got a laugh out of that.
Keep praying and believe that G-d is with you.
Jackie Weber
Dear Nancy, so sorry to hear of your illness. I have enjoyed and learned from your shows for many years. Enjoyed the Nancy’s Notions Book. What fun to listen to your program and read the book. My prayers will be with you and your family. You will be missed and hope they will continue to show reruns for a long, long time! You have been an important person in the quilting world. Thanks again for the life you have led and the example you have set for us.
Always remember FAITH SPEAKS–Believe in God’s Promises. Stand fast on His Word no matter the situation. Hope in the One who is Hope, and I pray you will receive “Freely receive your Healing” and “Healing through the Holy Communion” by Pastor Joseph Prince, which are being sent to you. May you find additional comfort and hope through the reading. Prayers for you and your family.
Blessings to you my Sister by and through Christ,
I am a 7th generation seamstress who learned at my mothers knee albeit that was 58 years ago when it started. As you started your shows and companies I then taught my Mother… such is the cycle of life. We would drool over the notions book and watch your show together. Some things changed from how Mom learned them and taught me and other things – well neither of us knew and it was an exciting day planning on how to use what we learned from your show. I thank you for the many years you were in my life by book, video or television.
Your legacy will live on in all of the people that the Lord put before you in life. May your path home be brightly lit and may you be surrounded by all of those who love you both earthen and heavenly. May God bless and keep you in the palm of His mighty hand.
Dear Nancy, I have been watching and learning from you for many years. You are a natural born teacher. As a member of the Athene Club, a women’s study group in Streator, Illinois, I sat down today to write a lesson for this month’s meeting. Our theme for this year is Remarkable Women and I chose you. Seams Unlikely, was a special book and then I wanted to supplement it with some news from your blog. I was surprised and saddened to learn of your diagnosis. Truly the Lord is with you. Jesus has promised never to leave us or forsake us and I trust that He and our loving Father will make their presence known. In that hope I look forward to someday meeting you though it will probably be “on the other side of the River.”
Nancy,
Remembering you in my heart.
I am so saddened to hear of your health troubles, Nancy. I have been a huge fan of yours for decades, and want to thank you for all you have done for those of us who have the sewing and quilting “bug.” I too have been sewing since I was in seventh grade….it is a part of who I am. I wish you peace and Godspeed on your journey, and hope that our paths may cross again.
Nancy Zieman’s story has always been an inspiration- and one of perseverance. I am very saddened to learn she is struggling with cancers, especially with such a grim diagnosis, and yet I learn another lesson from her because of it, and that is to be gracious even when facing such harsh a reality. God bless you, Nancy: you have made a profound and positive difference in many, many lives. You have become part of our fabric- you have sewn yourself into our very beings.
So very sorry to hear the extent of your illness ! Our prayers will go with you each day of your remaining journey. As so many others have said, “I cannot remember the first time I saw your show…..Sewing with Nancy” I too looked forward to seeing it each and every week and all the new things you shared with all of us. May God Bless You and keep you comfortable and enjoy many happy hours with Family and Friends !!!!!
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge all these years. I know we will see each other in heaven, where all fabric is free and we have access to all the best machines. I know Jesus will enjoy watching us create things! I am just going to miss you on earth in the meantime! Blessings to you and your family.
Oh my goodness. I knew you had some medical issues, but am just now learning how serious it is. I cannot remember the first time I saw “Sewing with Nancy,” but I was so excited. Sewing shows are few and far between. Saturday’s at 1:30 CST will find me in front of the TV waiting for you. I really get perturbed when our local PBS station chooses to have some other show on. I think, “Another whole week.”
I love that you have put yourself in the loving hands of our Master Physician. And I pray that He will make your life from now until so calm and peaceful.
One of my favorite books that come in the mail is “Nancy’sNotions.” A girl has to have a good wish book.
Love to a wonderful lady.
Such beautiful comments from so many, I am sure as you, Nancy, read these your heart fills with good warm feelings, mine does. You have done much in so many different ways that have touched so many. Thank you for your courage, skills, knowledge and determination, you are appreciated and admired.
Dear Nancy, I too am sitting here in tears at your heartbreaking news. I have had a love of sewing since I was a little girl. You have helped keep that love going in me since your very first show. Thank You and Bless you.
I too was diagnosed, but in 2016. I wish you the very best and you do what you can. I really believe attitude is your best fight, along with family and friends for added support. Watching your shows has been the best, only I always want to buy all the books, even though I don’t. Keep up your fight, because even though we don’t have a cure, you have to fight to the end and savor every moment of every day. We know not when each of us will be at our last day, so we get all we can out of each one. Everyone, sick or not should live each day to their fullest. Good luck with your illness and enjoy your “retirement” with family and friends. Take Care!
October 29, 2017
Deareast sewing friend Nancy, I don’t understand why these unfortunate ways strikes us in ways that only faith and prayers can keep us brave in the Light of our hearts and mind. Your blessed and continue to be blessed in your life. There is a big lump in my heart knowing the sad news of why you have to retire, you will stay alive in my heart…thank you forever for the treasures and memories of all you have given in the field of sewing. Continue your walk in beauty and harmony with your family, friends, and love to you always.
Your news is heartbreaking to all of us. A short note cannot express our love and appreciation for you and gratitude for the knowledge you gave us (for me since 1984). Even more, we think of you as a personal friend. I hope your faith will continue to strengthen you and help you through this trial. He said we would have troubles but He promised to walk with us through them. Hold tight to His hand.
Praying for you and your family.
Dear Nancy, As I missed your show this morning (Toronto-Buffalo PBS) I cam online to watch it & found your note. I am stunned ~ sitting here in tears. I will definitely pray for you & your family as you continue to endure, with strength & faith. Thanks for always being with me over the past four decades as I’ve sewn, quilted, learned & loved you! So glad the last pattern I bought is your McCalls Tunic #M7474. Thanks again!
With love & prayers,
Wanda
Nancy, mahalo (thank you) for sharing your God-given talents and knowledge with us through your TV shows, books and notions, as well as your personal appearances at quilt expos, etc. You are an inspirational role model whose perseverance and tenacity have touched many. Continue to trust in God’s loving care and peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you, your family and your staff. Much Love and Aloha.
I have watched you for so long & I think you are such an amazing woman…the world will miss you so much!!!!!
Dear Nancy, I’ve been watching your show since elementary school. Thank you so much for sharing your talents with the world. We all love you so.
Dear Nancy,
May God bless you during this time. I know we will meet again. I have loved you and have been following you for years. I am a retired oncology nurse so I have some idea what you are going through. I pray your journey will be smooth. The light really exists, I’ve seen it happen many times. God Bless you and your entire family and keep you all in His protective arms.
I will miss you so much. You have been my teacher and my sewing buddy for many, many years – from garment sewing to quilting. May God bless you and your family.
Nancy, my heart breaks to hear this news! I must admit that I would watch your shows with a little bit of jealousy that you were always so “perfect” with your sewing! I always felt that I could never reach your level of expertise! I’m glad God gave you the gift of sewing and of how to teach sewing! So, I apologize for my “jealousy”! Now, I admire your strength and courage and your faith! THANK you for all of the years of sewing! You are an encouragement and wonderful example to “sew” many! May God continue to surround you and your family as you walk this journey!
Nancy, my heartfelt thanks to you for being my sewing friend all these years. You were my sewing friend before I even knew how to thread my machine. I loved watching your show on Saturdays while I was painting and learning to make quilts. I knew that someday I was going to learn to sew clothes! Well, it took me a little more than 20 years, but I am doing it. With my copy of Fitting Finesse, of course.
I hope you can feel how much you have inspired and touched so many.
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Thank you, Nancy!
Thank you! You have been a highlight, an inspiration, a teacher and so much more over the years. I first saw your show when I was home on maternity leave so many years ago. You brought me back to sewing and I thank you so much for that. You have done so much for the sewing community and will continue to do so with the many shows. I am so very sad to hear of your diagnosis and will miss you and your team in the future. I wish you the best and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Thank you again for all you have done…
Dear Nancy,
I am hoping that as you read the notes of your viewers they bring a smile to your face during this terribly difficult time. You previously knew that you had a viewer following, but you may have not known just how much we all really do care and appreciate what you have given to the sewing world. I want to say thank you for your inspiration and lessons. You will be missed Nancy.
Nancy, Thank you for all of the coaching and inspiration over the years. I have learned so much from your shows, especially since I didn’t have anyone else to learn it from. You will long be referenced and remembered for your patient teaching. I will be praying for the peace of the Lord for you and your family as you go though this time together.
Beverly
I have watched your shows for many years. You are such a lovely person and teach with such patience. You have certainly touched my life and I thank you. I am praying for you and your family.
1 Corinthians 2:9
What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him.
Nancy-Thank you for the enjoyment, support and knowledge you have given the sewing community over the years. We have all learned so much from you. You are a source of inspiration in many ways. I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers. Thank you for all you have given us!
As an alumni of the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, sewing was a skill that I did NOT enjoy even after a decade in the industry. I could sketch, design & drape all day, but sewing.. Ugh.
I learned to hand it off to others since I was more skilled in other areas. Out of the industry, in a corporate tech job.. your show aired on my local PBS station. I watched & learned how sewing could connect you to others.. to family, friends & even to a community of quilters. It changed my perception of sewing. The task of sewing became a way to bring smiles to others that I cared about & loved.
The Fashion Industry often short changes womyn especially plus-sized womyn. Yes, it is changing, but that wave of change was inspired by the millions who have watched you over the years. I wish you could get an award from the Fashion Industry as you certainly deserve it, but their path is still a bit narrow. Thank you for being such a skillful, talented professor. You are a class act. I agree with all the praises, prayers & wishes sent your way. Our lives are better for knowing you, but we are all praying for a miracle.. from our hearts to God’s grace. We thank your Family for sharing you with us. God Bless. Díos te Bendiga.
Such heart breaking news! I can’t imagine how tough this is for your family. You may be going home if your Purpose here is complete, but they will be left without you. I grieve with them but rejoice for you when the time comes. You must know what a blessing you are and have been to so many. God has used you in so many ways. Thank you for being such a Light! My prayers are for your healing if it be His will, and for as little suffering as possible if your healing will not come on this earth. God bless you and yours.
I wish I had better words to tell you how important you have been in my life. Sewing saved my life. You made is safe to sew. We have never met , but I am alive because of you. Thank you for that.
God has blessed you and you have shared those blessings with us. Now, I pray that he gives your family the strength they will need in the coming months. Vaya con dios.
Dear Nancy,
I read your goodbye letter with a heavy heart. You are my sewing hero — I have loved your shows, Nancy’s Notions, and your spirit which has shone through all your endeavors. I have learned so much from you, and appreciate the clarity and enjoyment of the craft that was always present. May your graciousness and faith carry you through what’s ahead.
Nina
Nancy,
I’ve watched your shows for so many years now and it’s thanks to you I have a love for sewing. It was an honor and pleasure to have met you at the Sewing Expo and to have spent time talking with you at our small lunch table.
You are a true inspiration to so many of us.
There are no words to express my thanks to you for all the lessons I have learned from you.
Next to my Grandmother, you have been my biggest sewing inspiration for half my life.
Our prayers are with you and your family as you enjoy your last years doing what you deserve; taking a well deserved break from giving so much to us and getting so much love and attention from your family.
Thank you for your inspiration that will keep people sewing for decades to come.
I was so sorry to hear about your illness and retirement. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed your shows for many years and will pray for you and your family. God bless you, Judy
Thank you for the hundreds of hours of instruction and inspiration. You will absolutely be missed, but know that you have inspired and encouraged thousands out there, most definitely myself included.
God bless you and keep you.
Dear Nancy,
You are my Sunday morning “coffee” as I watch your show and get so many good ideas. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family on this unexpected part of your journey. Thank you for all you have shared and will continue to share in this life and the next.
God bless you and your whole family.
My Dear Nancy,
I am saddened by your forced retirment, and health problems. I greatly appreciate your sincere letter. You are so familiar to me, a person i can trust, someone I can turn to with questions etc..I feel sad.. I am so thankful for all you have taught me and for ‘knowing’ you.
I wish you comfort, peace and joy. I wish you’r family acceptance, and peace and support, comfort and even joy in the near and distant future. I wish you good and caring, kind and gentle professionals and caregivers. I wish you medication to help you and control your pain, and other needs. I ask God to lead you, guide you, protect you and you’r family and bring you safe into God’s loving arms.
May God Bless you and your family with his choicest blessings and peace and joy.
Marguerite O’Connor
Nancy,
Your news is so devastating to all who have read your good-bye letter. So many families go through cancer with loved ones, but you have had more than one persons share.
I have watched your PBS show since …forever.. and we want you to be here forever. We know that is not possible. I send you and your family, blessings and prayers to help you through the next hurdles. We sewing people hope THEY will continue with your show as they have done with Fons and Porter on the Love of Quilting.. new faces on the show to continue what you started.
My heart is breaking to hear Nancy’s news. Sewing with Nancy has been my Saturday morning companion with a cup of coffee, for over 20 years. I started getting interested in Patchwork in the 1970s. When the rotary cutter and clear rulers came out, I bought them, but could not figure out how to use them. Nancy’s show came to the rescue! I sewed my toddler’s close, shirts for my husband and skirts for myself. Over the years, I stopped sewing clothes and have stuck predominantly to craft sewing, Patchwork and quilting. I am so heartbroken to hear Nancy’s Health news. I will continue to pray for her and her family with her cancer journey. I hope PBS will re-run many of her episodes for years to come and the online store continues to stay in business. God bless, Nancy! We will see you on the other side!
-Elizabeth
God Bless You for all You have done for this world, and me! U kept me interested all these many many years in my passion as well as yours. I learned so much from U. Thank you, and hopefully retirement will still bring some very happy days to You and your family.
Pinky Graiber
Thank you for sparking my interest in sewing, Nancy. But before that, I was fascinated by the business empire you’d built. Growing up, there weren’t many female business leaders. You were the first I remember. Since then, you’ve been a shining example of what women can accomplish through a lot of hard work and dedication. You have lead by example while helping those in need. Not an easy task.
Thank you for all you have done. You have immeasurably touched us all.
Thank you,Nancy, for all the wonderful years of sewing lessons, it has been a joy to watch you over the years! I’ve had breast cancer, so I Know a little of what you are going through. What is of utmost importance is your walk with our Lord, trusting and holding firmly in your faith with Him! My you be blessed and find joy and peace at this stage of your life with your family, and in the future, it will be a joy to finally meet you in heaven!! Blessings!! <3
Dear Nancy,
How lucky we are that you shared your passion and you talent with us. You fostered innumerable sewers and you will always be remembered by those of us who owe thanks to you for the skills you’ve helped us hone.
Thank you for sharing your very personal account. My heart is so heavy when I think of all that you are going through and I pray for you and your family.
Dear Nancy,
I hope you can stand yet another comment on your news. I feel like you are my next-door neighbor.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for your informative shows over the past 36 years. I used to watch your show on Saturdays, on my local PBS station, KVCR 24 San Bernardino, CA, in the pre-YouTube days; that is, whenever I had a moment to breathe while being a busy working mom of two small boys!
I own quite a few of your videos and books and have made lots of fun projects inspired by you. Thanks for giving me the courage to actually use the serger I bought at a pawn shop in Carson City, NV! “Sergei Sewsandlopsitoff” is what I named my serger, and thanks to tips from you and your viewers in a book and DVD of yours, “he” is now my best buddy.
Our God is a God of miracles, so, I will join the folks who are praying for you. I pray that God will hold your hand and those of your loved ones as you take this journey, the end of which is only known to Our Lord. He may yet surprise us.
I would selfishly like God to keep you here on earth, but perhaps your sewing lessons are more needed in Heaven.
Best regards,
Alison Ruth Defrese
Forgive me for leaving a second comment—my personal response was on Day 1—but I just MUST leave a second comment regarding what a WONDERFUL group of (mostly) women you have as viewers who are ELOQUENT, INTELLIGENT, CARING, WELL-ROUNDED and simply AWESOME human beings! I knew you were such a very special person yourself, Nancy, but who knew that EACH AND EVERY ONE of your viewers was simply awe-inspiring as well?!? I doubt any other television show could say the same of its viewers. The depth of wisdom, insight and emotion in each comment is just blowing me away. To coin a phrase, ‘birds of a feather flock together,’ and you have certainly drawn a rare and amazing group of people to you through the years. That in and of itself is such an eternal legacy. I have been praying for your full recovery, and I know that in God’s hands, your future is bright no matter what the outcome. But I have a feeling that God is not finished with you just yet <3 Keep us posted on your progress…and until we all meet in heaven some day, God bless!
Thank you for all the things you have shared over the years, I have learned a lot from you. Hopefully they will keep showing the shows for a long time to come. What will I do if I can’t watch you every Sat morning you are on here in Oregon. There is always some thing you missed or need to be reminded of.
Good luck in the future. All of our PRAYERS are with you & your family.
Dearest Nancy, my sister in the Lord.
Yes, I share your faith and our dear Lord Jesus will supply you with whatever you need, just call on His name, tell Him what you need, and He will be there to meet your every need. Amen
I just learned your news tonight, when out of the blue, the Lord led me to Google, Nancy Zieman Wiki. My heart is broken. I, too, have had breast cancer and am now a 22.5 years survivor, so I can identify with your journey.
You and I have so much in common. Born in the 1950’s, I grew up in Nebraska, a MidWesterner, who learned to sew at age 9 in 4-H. After college, I started watching your show and have probably seen every show since you started. I tried almost everything that you taught. Because of your talent, skill, enthusiasm and love of sewing, I have continued to sew. I have been sewing for over 50 years now. I still sew my own clothes because after you are used to custom clothes, it’s hard to buy RTW clothes that just don’t fit right.
Thank you for keeping sewing “exciting” in American culture. Most schools no longer have “Home Ec” and certainly do not teach sewing, so those of us who love to sew, keep the torch burning.
You are an amazing woman, admired and LOVED BY MANY.
Thanks so much for just being YOU and sharing so much with the world.
You and your family will be in my daily prayers.
Let’s Keep on Stitchin’ til we meet the Lord.
All my love to you, Ann
Nancy,
I’m a guy who can’t sew a stitch, but I always enjoyed watching your show. The best thing about it was seeing you quietly going about making beautiful items.
My God bless you and give you peace. I will pray for you.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for inspiring all the beautiful handmade creations, from those of us who have watched your show. You are a teacher and a leader, not only in sewing but in being an courageous and inspiring human being!
Love,
Marilyn
Nancy, thank you so much for sharing your talent with us all. I’ve learned so much from your work, I wish you and your family peace and comfort on your journey.
Nancy, I share your faith and I will see you “over there.” You are an amazing and inspirational woman from whom I have learned and will continue to learn so much. Love and prayers to you and your family.
My heart goes out to you and all your family at this sad time. I have followed you for many years from England and thoroughly enjoyed all you pass on to your many followers. The Lord will look after you on your journey forth.
This Love,
Linda
Nancy, my heart was heavy when I heard your news. I have watched so many of your shows over these years, I always feel like I’m getting together with a sewing friend when I watch. Now that I am retired, I have been able to get back to sewing and especially start quilting. You and your show have taught me so much. You will be greatly missed! I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Thank you so much for the inspiration you provide to so many.
Dear Nancy, Thank you so much for your inspiration, imagination and humor. I have loved your show and remember when you were the home economist for a fabric store. It is why I majored in the subject. Your note makes me sad. Thank you for writing it, though.. May your faith carry you and may God bless your family. Sincerely, Pam
PS Where do you buy your fabrics?
Dear Nancy,
You have been such an inspiration to me and mine. I have just finished watching your show and thought I’d go on-line and watch again only to see you “Goodby . . ” I am so very sorry to read this news. My prayers and thoughts will be with you. God bless you and your family.
Nancy, I am just now reading your note. I am saddened at your news, but encouraged by your faith. You have been a part of my life since the early 1980′s. I have been so blessed by your programs. Mother and I watched your show together and separately, but always had a conversation later that started something like, “What did you think of Nancy’s project or guest this week?” Your work spanned generations, including granddaughters. I think you have chosen an excellent verse. God be with you through your journey.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for being you. For your patience, knowledge, encouragement, wisdom, poise, kindness, and courage. You have blessed thousands upon thousands. I am so grateful for you. Blessings and peace to you and your family. In God’s love,
Christina Gray
Dear Nancy, you have been such an inspiration to me, both in your profession and personal life. Words cannot express the sorrow I feel at your news. May God give you peace and strength for this journey you are on. See you in Heaven.
It is with a heavy heart that I read your personal note. I have brought you into my home through public television for many years and watched episodes over to learn and remember all the knowledge you shared. I look forward to the remaining episodes and seeing your grandchildren. I like to share my love of sewing and embroidery with my grandchildren too. There are no words to explain how you have inspired me and furthered my love of sewing and embroidery through the years. You are fondly called “The Sewing Lady” in my house. I want to thank you for all you have done and shared over the years. I will keep you and your family in my prayers. Jane
Dear Nancy,
I have watched you on PBS for many years, and I have learned an awful lot from watching you every Saturday morning at 7A.M. Yes, I got up early on my day off, so I could see what you were doing, that was new to me. I’m so sorry to hear about the diagnosis that you’ve received. Try and stay strong, and keep that strong belief in God, and all will be well. We will all greatly miss you, and the wonderful ways you have taught us. Personally, I want to thank you for many years of learning from you, as you made things so much easier for us all. God Bless and Mya He Hold You in His Hands for a healing.
Much Love and Respect.
Deanna A.
So saddened to hear of your news. You have been a part of my life for a very long time. You have provided so much for so many. God Bless you in your journey. God will take care of you and your family. Until we can meet some day in Heaven. Thank you for all you have done for the sewing world. You will certainly be missed in this household.
Dearest Nancy;
I am saddened that we will not have you here much longer, but the Heavenly Father has declared – through this cancer- that you will be Heaven bound just a little sooner than you expected. Imagine what that Home-going is going to be!
You will meet your Savior face to face and will be blessed beyond what you can even imagine!
We will be praying for you dear dear lady.
The verse you chose is my favorite also!
And right now you need to, “Trust the Lord with all your heart and not lean unto your own understanding…(for He) will show you the paths He has for you.” Proverbs.3:5 and 6
You are loved.
In Him
Kris
Thank you for teaching us all new skills. Your life has made a lovely impact. God bless you and your family.
Dear Nancy, first thank you for everything!! Your show and Nancy’s Notions have helped me to learn to sew and get better at it over these many years.
You and your family are in my prayers for peace, to draw closer to each other and to the Lord.
Joshua 1:9, Romans 8:28-29, Philippians 4:13
Blessings and peace as you go through this sorrow.
Dearest Nancy: you are in my prayers—thank you for all the years you have come beside me right in my own home through the miracle of TV and knowledgeably instructed and guided me with your sewing wisdom and inspiration!
I met you in Tulsa about 18 months ago and I was in awe to be lucky enough to see you in person. When my career was over, I went back to sewing and searched for your show, knowing that while I was away, you were still teaching and would be there to help me get back to what has turned out to be a real passion. Thank you for thinking of us when you received such devastating news. We will cherish your last shows, knowing you persevered for us. God bless and keep you and your family in his loving arms as you take these last steps in life. As others have said, God’s speed, Nancy.
Nancy. One classy lady. She will leave a mark of beauty on this world. Thank you. Love Hugs and Prayers. ❤❤❤
Nancy. One classy lady. You will leave a mark of beauty on this world. Thank you. Love Hugs Prayers and God Bless. ❤❤❤
I have spent a lifetime learning about the skill of sewing from a wonderful teacher. I will miss not having you in my life. You not only taught me about sewing, you taught me how to present a lesson so others can actually follow the directions successfully. You taught me to care about others and to share sewing with others, by donating time and materials and by volunteering time to worthy causes…You will be missed, Nancy Zieman, you will be missed!
Dearest Nancy So sorry to hear this new. I have lost a few friends to horrible cancer. I have one friend in CA fighting Metastatic Breast Cancer now Liver Cancer. She recently underwent Y-90 treatments and they are working-slowly. Still some struggles. I wish you the best. Prayers for you and family and prayers for your doctors. I hope you have tried all treatments and not give up the fight.
Dearest Nancy, you’ve been part of my life for almost all of my life. Thank you for all your sewing advice and guidance. I will surely miss you. May God bless you, and hold you close.
PRAYING FOR YOU & YOUR FAMILY! Nancy, you are & always will be an inspiration to all of the sewing “family” both amateur & professionals. I DVR your show every week. You have given us all wonderful tips, tricks & awesome gadgets to help make sewing easier & more beautiful. Thank you so much for your help & encouragement through the years. GOD BLESS YOU & YOUR PRECIOUS FAMILY.
Thank you, Miss Nancy, for all the things you taught me, from fun little tips to big ambitious projects. Life, just like sewing, is best taken one step at a time. Lots of love being sent to you and gratitude for showing so many people how to sew and to sew better. Thinking of you and your family – God bless you!
Thank you Nancy for your years of dedication. I have loved watching your programs and have learned a lot of helpful tips. I am so glad you have faith in God to help you walk this difficult end of your journey. May God’s ever present love and grace carry you through.
Thank you for all the years of knowledge, etc. that you have shared. I would not have the love or the ability to sew if it had not been for your expertise and patterns and shows, etc. Stay positive and continue your life with loved ones and your faith will keep you strong. Sending much love and prayers your way.
I just wept when I read this. Your words just touched my heart. Just know you will be incredibly missed my so many. I have faith as you. I hope to be able to meet you in heaven to let you personally know how much I loved sewing and quilting with you. I send love to your family.
Dear Nancy, Thank you for your openness and for your work. I live near Philadelphia and have not seen all of your shows but from time to time I would be able to see some on local PBS channels. I learned to sew in 4-H and sewed for 10 years and won a state first on an evening gown I made. I went to college majored in math and science and taught high school math and science for 32 years until I was forced to retire due to health issues. After major surgery and in utter sadness that I had to leave the classroom, the Lord proved some words from Charles Haddon Spurgeon (1832-1892) and very famous English preacher. Here is the quote I came across in God’s providence: “”He openeth, and no man shutteth.”—Revelation 3:7.
ESUS is the keeper of the gates of paradise and before every believing soul He setteth an open door, which no man or devil shall be able to close against it. What joy it will be to find that faith in Him is the golden key to the everlasting doors. My soul, dost thou carry this key in thy bosom, or art thou trusting to some deceitful pick-lock, which will fail thee at last? Hear this parable of the preacher, and remember it. The great King has made a banquet, and He has proclaimed to all the world that none shall enter but those who bring with them the fairest flower that blooms. The spirits of men advance to the gate by thousands, and they bring each one the flower which he esteems the queen of the garden; but in crowds they are driven from the royal presence, and enter not into the festive halls. Some bear in their hand the deadly nightshade of superstition, or the flaunting poppies of Rome, or the hemlock of self-righteousness, but these are not dear to the King, the bearers are shut out of the pearly gates. My soul, hast thou gathered the rose of Sharon? Dost thou wear the lily of the valley in thy bosom constantly? If so, when thou comest up to the gates of heaven thou wilt know its value, for thou hast only to show this choicest of flowers, and the Porter will open: not for a moment will He deny thee admission, for to that rose the Porter openeth ever. Thou shalt find thy way with the rose of Sharon in thy hand up to the throne of God Himself, for heaven itself possesses nothing that excels its radiant beauty, and of all the flowers that bloom in paradise there is none that can rival the lily of the valley. My soul, get Calvary’s blood-red rose into thy hand by faith, by love wear it, by communion preserve it, by daily watchfulness make it thine all in all, and thou shalt be blessed beyond all bliss, happy beyond a dream. Jesus, be mine for ever, my God, my heaven, my all.” I will be praying for you. May our Lord bless and keep you and your precious family always. Please accept my love and gratitude for all you have done and will do.
Nancy, thank you so much for all you have given to the sewing community. I watched many shows and have come through many sewing obstacles thanks to your teachings. You always made sewing fun and easy. I have many books to treasure and will continue to catch Sewing With Nancy for ideas and problem solving. 910 shows, what an accomplishment, says a lot about what can happen when you trust God. Now go and kiss and impart love into those grand children and I’ll lift up your family in prayer.
Nancy, I was introduced to you by my mother, Eileen. She was an amazing sewer, and I knew if she watched your shows you were something special. My mother passed in 1989, but I have continued to watch your shows and follow you on FB. I don’t sew as much as my mother did, but if I am looking for inspiration, I just look your way. It was with a heavy heart that I read your note. You are a lovely person, and your faith in God will see you through. Enjoy your time with your family, they will cherish your memories always. You will live on in history, as your lessons are timeless. God Bless you.
Much love, Mimi
I have been watching your show (off-and-on) since the beginning and have learned many new skills from you. Sadly, I lost my husband in 2015 and I am feeling this same sadness while reading your post about your “retirement”. Of course, you need to concentrate on your health right now. Just know that you will be sorely missed. May God bless you and your family always.
Do you feel old if I call you a pioneer? I have been watching you for two decades and love that you have blazed the trail for so many others. Thank you for the time that you spent talking to me in Puyallup and for signing one of your booklets. God bless you and your family.
Nancy, I feel like I am losing a family member! I have watched your show since the early 80′s and have learned so much from you. You will truly be missed by many and personally, by me. I looked forward to watching your shows and continue to do so to this day! I wish you peace, love and joy for the time you have remaining. Vaya con Dios!
Nancy, I pains me of your leaving Sewing with Nancy. You have been apart of my family for over 30 years. You’ve made a dynasty of sewing. You are the mother of sewing. Your knowledge has been the essence of well known fashion designers. Enjoy your family and remember that the prayers of the righteous avails much. My faith in you and your strength is beyond measures. I love you dearly and will miss you always. Your teachings will go on for generations to follow. God speed.
I have no words but those which have already been expressed. As you, I have great faith, and love the scripture verse you shared. God bless always.
Nancy, thank you for all you have taught us, my heart and my prayers go out to you. am going to miss you.
Nancy,
Thank you for all of your inspiration, humor and talent. You shared your personal life and beautiful spirit. I am lucky to have been able to watch you through the years and learn so much. I will keep you and your family in my prayers
I wish you peace on your journey. I would like you to know that you have been an amazing inspiration to me. You will never know how many people’s lives you have touched. You are and always will be the best of the best. I thank you for your time and effort.
Much gratitude and love to you and yours,
Elaine
Sorry to see the show go but all understandable. Your verse from Proverbs is the right one to let everyone know. Enjoy your family
and I will miss seeing you on Create.
Thank you, Nancy, for all you have done to keep sewing relevant and fresh for me and so many others. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed watching “Sewing with Nancy” for many years and learned so much from you and your guests.
Nancy – I am so sorry to hear this sad news. I have watched your TV shows from the beginning and loved it so much. A bit of a connection from the past too with my roots being in Wisconsin and being neighbors and friends with Richard. I really enjoyed reading your book too. You are a special lady and I know you will be missed greatly. I’m glad you will still be on TV so I can listen to your voice and get inspired to sew.
Peace.
Phyllis
I’ve enjoyed watching you for so long and will miss seeing you on my Tv. Though my sewing abilities pale in comparison to your’s, you always gave me hope that I could get better-and did.
I’ve enjoyed watching you for so long and will miss seeing you on my Tv. Though my sewing abilities pale in comparison to your’s, you always gave me hope that I could get better-and did.
Nancy, I’ve watched your show occasionally through the years and regularly over the last few months on TPT in the Twin Cities. I’m not a quilter — I favor small and quick projects due to time constraints — but I always pick up tips and sewing inspiration from you and your show. One of your fiber artist guests recently inspired me so much that I took a weekend class from her and now have a new hobby. Thank you so much for the variety of sewing projects you’ve covered and for the careful planning and attention to detail that goes into every show, which I feel is your hallmark. I appreciate the diversity of projects and guests represented on Sewing With Nancy, as well as the times you’ve featured charity work. I admire how you’ve built the show and kept it relevant, as well as your resilience in the face of health challenges. My very best to you and your family in the times ahead. A grateful and admiring fan, Sandy
Nancy,
Recently retired this Spring, I vowed to sharpen my sewing skills and learn to sew clothes that actually fit! I took a couple of sewing classes from a professional seamstress and also checked on PBS and found your show–my favorite (more than the hands-on class)! I love the wonderful welcoming way you instruct, guide and encourage your viewers.
I am so sorry to learn about the way you’ve had to retire. As I read the love, prayers and best wishes for you that are spilling onto this site and adding mine to the chain, I know that Positive Power is moving with and for you. God Bless you, your family and your staff. Thank you!
Dixie Light
Nancy, I am saddened to read this. I have admired your intelligence, accomplishments, and remarkably graceful personality for decades. You are such an inspiration, and only God knows how many people you’ve impacted for heaven over the years. Not surprisingly, your note is the epitome of classiness and grace. May you and your family experience amazing peace, love, and even joy – though bittersweet – as you prepare to receive your heavenly rewards. Much love to you and yours.
Nancy: My heart breaks at your news. I have watched your shows for the last several years and have always wanted to attend the Quilt Expo and was planning to do so next year. Your love of life and courage to go forward in adversity has inspired many and certainly inspired me to not give up. God bless you and your family and may he give you peace.
I love you Nancy. May God bless you and your family with a peace that surpasses all understanding. Only God knows the number of our days and I pray that you will have many more years of good health. I was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer in 1991 and I’m still here. God has the final Word. I feel as if I have known you my whole like even though we have never met.
I love you,
Carolyn
Nancy, I have read a lot of the notes written to you. There isn’t much that I can add! I have had cancer four times and I have had three Dr’s tell me I wouldn’t live and that I shouldn’t still be alive now.
Nancy I heard the same thing since 1982 , I will tell all of the Dr’s that thank God that they aren’t God, Nancy our God has the last saying . You have helped me, hang in there, enjoy every minute you are given. God does have the last word.
My husband knows on Sat. the TV is mine. I don’t go anyplace till I see your show. May God bless and keep you and your family!
Nancy, I have read a lot of the notes written to you. There isn’t much that I can add! I have had cancer four times and I have had three Dr’s tell me I wouldn’t live and that I shouldn’t still be alive now.
Nancy I heard the same thing since 1982 , I will tell all of the Dr’s that thank God that they aren’t God, Nancy our God has the last saying . You have helped me, hang in there, enjoy every minute you are given. God does have the last word.
My husband knows on Sat. the TV is mine. I don’t go anyplace till I see your show. May God bless and keep you and your family!
Though we’ve never met in person, I feel like we are good friends because of all of the times that I’ve watched your show over all of those years. Everyone in my quilting guild feels the same way. We are richer for having you in our lives. Thank you for all you have shared with me, and I will miss you until I get to Heaven and we can finally meet in person. I loved the verse that you shared, and want to share one that has always helped me get through tough times. “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Phil 4:13 I’ll see you around…
Love,
Mary
Dear Nancy
It has been a privilege having you in my life. Your tv programs have been a staple in our household. So finely created that my husband will sit down and watch with me. How can I say goodbye to you? I feel like something wonderful and solid is leaving. My wish is that you have comfort and peace now. Please know that is what you have given me each time I watch your instruction or read your blog. Your smile and steady gaze modeled how I needed to approach sewing. I send you love and thanks for your calm and consistent teachings. A legacy is what you have created. We will keep it moving because you showed us the way.
Dear Nancy – Every Saturday morning for years now, I have taped your show, then gathered pen and paper, my morning meds, and my bowl of cereal, and curled up to watch Sewing With Nancy. I’ve sewn for over 50 years and have learned so much from your shows. My laptop is jammed with saved photos, instructions, etc. from your shows. Only yesterday my friend (my age) said she wanted to learn to sew; she has a very hi-end embroidery machine that she’s never used. I suggested she watch your shows. Your recent episode on Landscape Quilting has inspired me to make a quilt like those on the show; I have bought the fabric, and today I went to your website for the instructions. That is when I saw your news of your diagnosis and retirement. What sad, sad news. Cancer touches the lives of so many of us (my dad died of cancer). My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Below is a quote I read somewhere; maybe your family will take heart when reading it. Yours in Christ, KLL
“Like a flower, which,
when the time is right,
scatters its seeds upon the wind,
so will your sorrow one day change
and be carried away in its season,
leaving the seeds of new life
and new hope
where once there was pain.”
Dear Nancy, Many have said they will miss you…I am among those. You have taught me so much about sewing, needless to say, and about perseverance, patience, and love. I have watched your show for a very long time. You have been an industry leader, example, and pathfinder. So much of what you have done (and done so well) has been with a view toward helping others. Thank you for being a bright light. I wish you joy and love and comfort in all things.
with appreciation, Neame
Nancy, I am devastated by your news as you have taught me so very much since you began your teaching shows and selling products! I faithfully watched almost every show, and it was a delight when I spoke with you on the escalator at Houston Quilt Festival years ago. I hate most of all that you and your family are going through this. I believe in miracles, and I am so happy that you live by faith. I will be praying for you and hoping you find perfect peace in the midst of the storm. Much love and respect!
This is very sad news. I will miss seeing your show. You have been a part of my life since I was a teenager. Bless you and your family through this hard time.
Dear Nancy,
Mere words are wholly inadequate but please accept my hugs and prayers. You are leaving a legacy of education and love and will not be forgotten.
Will totally miss not watching you. Had done so for so many years. My Grandmother taught me to sew which I have to say was very different than using patterns and etc. Anyway that was such a very long time ago and I have learned so much from you. I have bought many of your items and have enjoyed them very much.
Thank you for all the years of your service. God bless you for all that you have shared with your television family. We all will have prayers for you and your family. We so love you and hope that you enjoy your time with your family and home time.
God Bless.
Dear Nancy, I have been watching your show for a long time, since I came to the US and learned to sew and be inspired by you. I believe in miracles too and am praying for you. I wish you peace and love with your family and on your journey.
You will continue to inspire and educate the generations that come too. Thank you
Dear Nancy, you have inspired me for many years, thank you for all you have contributed to the world, God bless you and your family during this time, I believe in miracles and I’m praying for your health.
You have, and continue, to inspire me. Thank you! My prayers are with you.
Dear Nancy,
I’m heartbroken by your news. I am so sorry that you are going through another trial. You are a remarkable person. I am inspired by your talents and by your courage. I love your show and I watch it everyday on my PBS station in Tampa, FL. You are like a best friend from TV land and I don’t want you to go after just thirty minutes. It’s nice to be able to go to your website and see you again if I need some great information. Thank you for all your dedication to your craft, your viewers, and the sewing expo. It is greatly appreciated. I hope with all the emails and other correspondence you receive that you truly understand how much you are admired and lived. I will be praying for you also. I believe in miracles and pray you become one by being healed through the prayers God will be hearing on your behalf. Thank you again for all you have done for sewing and your fans. Go hug your babies and enjoy the love your family. Thank you!
Linda
I don’t know what to say except that I will hold you , your family and your health care team, up in my prayers. Thank you for all that you have taught in your shows and have made available. I am still learning.You have been such an incredible blessing to so many of us in teaching us to sew and create.
May God bless ,keep you and give you peace.
Dear Nancy,
Have watched and enjoyed your show over the years whenever my schedule permitted. Thank you so much for all the wonderful shows you have given us over the years — for the many, many wonderful things you have shared with us — each is like a special gift. I had no idea what you have been going through. My prayers are with you. The verse you shared has inspired me and encouraged me, too. In putting yourself in God’s hands you will be well taken care of!!!
Peace of the Lord!!!
Nancy, I have watched your shows faithfully since moving to America back in 1990. On reading this sad news I feel as if I am loosing my best and faithful friend. You have been there for me when times have been tough to get me through by watching your much loved programs! I have learned a lot and enjoyed you being in my home. I truly will miss you and wish you much comfort my friend.
I too am a Stout grad. When I entered it was Stout Institute and when I graduated it was Stout State College so you can see I’m a lot older than you. However, I have learned so much as I have enjoyed your show almost every Saturday. It is special to me. My oldest daughter and I have attended every Expo. It is a special time for us and we just love going to see the many beautiful items that have been created by so many people that love and learn from you. God bless you on this new journey. I’m sure God has special plans for you. special plans for you
Thank you Nancy, for being such a great and amazing teacher to all of us. I remember watching your show about 30 years ago when my mom introduced me to it. You have been such a blessing to so many. Peace and blessings.
Your sister in Jesus, -Nat
Godspeed, Nancy. May angels hold you close and give you peace during your journey.
Thank you for being such an inspiration. You have spread many smiles and your lasting works will be the continuance of hand and machine sewing skills for the next generations. This is not unimportant. You have made a SIGNIFICANT contribution.
Love and prayers,
Sandy
Nancy, I am so sorry to hear the news about your health. Thank you for all the years of teaching us sewing skills. I will truly miss your detailed sewing programs. You are a wonderful teacher. I will think of you each Saturday morning at 8:00 am (that’s when my PBS station ran your program). You and your family are in my prayers, I pray God will wrap each of you His peace and comfort. God Bless your staff too.
Dear Nancy: I would just like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the help you have been to me in my sewing all these years. Your show has been a must watch almost from the beginning. I started teaching my granddaughter to sew at age 3 and she has become quite good. I am now teaching her to quilt, using your shows as a guide and purchasing a couple of your booklets. For a 12 year old she does a very good job. Having lost my daughter to cancer I was devistated by your news. I include you in my daily prayers and wish you peace at this time in your life. Thank You. Bye for now
I read this note last week and have been thinking how to find the words to respond. It is so difficult to let you know, Nancy, how much you have inspired and motivated me since I started watching your show. I sewed a little through high school and college but never really took my skills very far. Then as a young working woman, I gave it up almost completely. The birth of three girls changed that and, with great timing, I found you on PBS. With your encouragement and teaching skills, I went on to sew little girl outfits and ended up doing prom dresses! With your help, I decided there was nothing I couldn’t do (although I did draw the line at wedding dresses!) And now I have grandchildren to sew for and I have started to quilt. This wouldn’t have been possible without you. And I’m sure my story could be repeated by so many others. Thank you so much for sharing your time and gifts. And, as you continue your personal journey, ‘Bye for now’.
I will miss you but thank you for making me a better quilter.
You will always be in my heart. You are an amazing and talented woman.
Nancy, I was shocked to hear about this, this morning. You were the one I tuned into to view your show back in the 70′s I was just 18 -19 you were my inspiration, I sew and teach quilting now because of you. What a legacy you will leave behind, I am praying for you and your family. Thank you for teaching the love of sewing and quilting, I do have many of your books that will be treasured for ever
Love You!!
Dear Nancy, I still own a VCR just to watch your old tapes. You will be missed.
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-26
Dearest Nancy, With all my heart I thank you for all that you have contributed to me personally through your shows.
I have watched you faithfully from the beginning and passed that passion on to my daughters and many friends.
I, among millions, will miss your smile, knowledge and love of the craft.
I have your Faith that God will always be by your side through ll the coming days of your life. My prayers are with you daily.
Peace and Love of God be with you always.
Pat
Beaufort SC
We miss you and your beautiful smile, your sewing knowledge and wisdom.! God Bless you and the peace of the Lord always with you, and keep you all of the days of your life.
You are in our prayers and hearts for ever.
We love you to the moon and back,
From all of your Faithful, loving and caring fans and friends,
Nancy,
I graduated from Stout in 1977; I don’t know for sure – but I like to think that you and I shared a class or two together. I taught Home Ec/FACS for 34 years. In my upper level creative clothing classes – each student was introduced to you as my sewing hero. My students have watch clips of your shows and made projects from your patterns. One of the favorites was making the small Amish Quilts after we visited an Amish family at their farm. Thank you for keeping it real, keeping it honest. I learned a lot from you and shared a lot of what I learned from you with others. I recently retired as a FACS teacher and used this verse. “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me.” Psalm 138:8 One of his purposes for you was your ministry in sharing the gift of sewing. The verse continues to read: do not forsake the work of your hands. You and your hands did good! Blessings and peace for you and your family as you continue your journey.
Nancy,
I graduated from Stout in 1977; I don’t know for sure – but I like to think that you and I shared a class or two together. I taught Home Ec/FACS for 34 years. In my upper level creative clothing classes – each student was introduced to you as my sewing hero. My students have watch clips of your shows and made projects from your patterns. One of the favorites was making the small Amish Quilts after we visited an Amish family at their farm. Thank you for keeping it real, keeping it honest and keeping it real. I learned a lot from you and shared a lot of what I learned from you with others. I recently retired as a FACS teacher and used this verse. “The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me.” Psalm 138:8 One of his purposes for your was your ministry in sharing the gift of sewing. The verse continues to read: do not forsake the work of your hands. You and your hands did good! Blessings and peace for you and your family as you continue your journey.
Dear Nancy, I want to thank you for the many inspiring shows you have aired over the years. I re-watch and learn something new every time. You are one very classy lady. I wish you well.
Warmest Regards and Respect from
Nancy, like everyone else has said, you have been such a blessing. It is because of you that I have once again oiled my sewing machines, purchased new blades for my cutters, and have returned to sewing. You and your guests have provided so many ideas on quilt making, home decor, etc. It was with a very heavy heart that I read your letter. You will be greatly missed. You and your family are in my prayers. May God be with you and your family each step of the way in this journey.
Nancy, it was with a heavy heart that I read your letter today after hearing of your relapse early today at a local quilt shop. Please know that everyone there is praying for you and your family now and in the days to come. You have impacted my life and so many others with your kindness and knowledge. May your faith guide and console you and your family. God bless you.
With much love and thanks.
Martha
Thank you so much for the joy you brought to my many years sewing adventures. You will be missed!
I hope this benediction by Blair Monie brings you some comfort.
As you leave this place may the Lord go with you.
May he go behind you, to encourage you;
beside you, to befriend you;
above you to watch over you;
beneath you to lift you from your sorrows;
within you to give you the gift of faith, hope and love;
and always before you to show you the way.
sending prayers of peace and love,
Rae
I am sorry to read of your illness. You are such a wonderful person, your goodness just comes through the TV and touches us, your viewers and students. May God bless you and your family during this troubling time and know in your heart that thousands of people are praying for you. Take care, be strong and thank you for all you have done and continue to do.
Nancy, like so many others have said here, you have touched my life also. My mother was a sewer and a quilter. I remember being young and seeing my mom watch Sewing with Nancy. When mom was in her 40′s, she had a massive stroke that took all feeling and movement from her right side. It took her years to learn how to walk and talk again. A large part of her recovery was made through sewing. She was right handed, but taught herself to sew with her left. As she recovered, I again remember seeing Sewing With Nancy on TV, and your books in her sewing room. Mom eventually got back into quilting again, and made quilts you wouldn’t think someone with two hands could make, much less one. Sewing was a part of her life up until the day she succumbed to liver cancer, 2 years ago. Her sewing machine was in her hospice room and I know it brought her comfort. There are few people in this world who touch lives the way you have. I feel blessed to have had you touch my life through my mother.
Thank you
Lisa
Thanks for all your inspiration over the years. Sewing has changed so much since I started with my mother’s foot treadle Singer machine. I absolutely love watching your programs. May God bless you and keep you, turn His face to look upon you and give you peace.
You are a true inspiration. Watching Sewing with Nancy on Saturday mornings was like having coffee with a dear friend. I will so miss you. I am praying for you and your family. Thank you for all the joy and education you have given me. God Bless.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for everything. You have taught me many things over the years. You taught me how to make a hooded towel so many years ago, and it has been my “signature” baby shower gift ever since. Years after the baby has grown, mothers tell me that their children are inseparable from their towels; even taking them on vacations! Thank you, and thank you again. God Bless.
Respectfully,
Cissy
September 27, 2017
Dear Nancy, Was so shocked at this news and reading your goodbye letter. I read through many of the pervious comments, but I can add nothing that has not already been said. Please know that you and your family are in my prayers. May God be with be you all and guide you through this chapter of your life.
Love and prayers, Sandra – Herculaneum, MO
Dear Nancy. Thank you for awakening my creativity in sewing and quilting. You have taught me so much through out the years. I never had the pleasure of meeting you but I felt you were my friend. May God Bless you and your family through out this journey.
Nancy, you have been my mentor for many years. I’ve always loved to sew, but “discovering” your show many years ago, I have learned so much from you. May God hold you in his arms and help guide you and your loved ones through this challenging time. You are loved. Your work is very respected and you will never be forgotten. Thank you for all you have done to support the craft of sewing and for your guidance over these many years. God Bless.
Thank you Nancy for all your years of showing what fun it is to create and sew. Thank you fro all the lives you have touched, including mine. May your faith now help you as you face this part of your life. You will be greatly missed!
Thank you for all the help and inspiration with so many projects over the years.
God bless and best wishes to you and your family!
I’m compelled to send my sincerest sympathy. I’m not a seamstress but more of a crafter … but I watched your shows on Saturday mornings on my local PBS station. I usually skip the quilting shows, but I love your sewing secrets and twisting of materials to make something else! I recall specifically the petty scarves, the luggage sets, making storage cubes, various and sundry bags and totes, showing quick and easy ways to repair clothing. And I loved to watch your tailoring shows. I always learned something and left you with a spark of “I can do that!” Thank you Loydene Brock
You are such an inspiration to me, especially after having read your autobiography. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed watching your show over the years. You’ve been a major force in keeping sewing alive for me and for so many others. Thank you for all you have done for the sewing industry and all the heart you’ve put into it. I will keep you and your family in my thoughts.
Nancy, I think of you every day.I said I has going to make a quilt this year. Been sick so I didn’t get it done. I also want to buy a sewing machine like yours. Haven’t found a dealer and how much they cost. But like you said to me I could do it. I want to make quilt for my daughter and son.I can’t believe it Nancy your like a friend . I pray to my God that he will help you and that you are not in pain. I wish we would hear how you are doing? I am giving you my number 740 983 5109 just in case. I am reading your book Seams Unlikely. Just know that tnere is so many people love you and miss ypu on tv. God will be with you all the way. And not just for you but your family too. Your friend always ,Diana Hall from Ashville , Ohio
Nancy, may God bless you and your family with peace and comfort during this journey. You have blessed so many lives over the years through your gentle, knowledgable, and respectful presence.
Nancy,
Thank you for all you have done to enrich our knowledge of sewing. You have touched many lives with your wit, charm and grace. May the Lord be with you and keep you. This is yet another journey.
Judy
Dear Nancy,
I am so sorry that you were diagnosed with this, it is because of you that many years ago I attempted to make my first quilt , it was the Sun bonnet Sue for my sweet little granddaughter at the time. She is now 21 and still has this quilt. Congratulations on your anniversary, and I wish you the best. You are in my prayers.
Dear Nancy,
I am so sorry that you were diagnosed with this, it is because of you that many years ago I attempted to make my first quilt , it was the Sun bonnet Sue for my sweet little granddaughter at the time. She is now 21 and still has this quilt. Congratulations on your anniversary, and I wish you the best.
I have watched and learned over the years and will soon be opening a quilt shop and you have been an inspiration to me and many others over the years. I believe in God and his wonderful works, may he bless you and your family. I was so sad to hear of your diagnosis and know you have been through a lot in your lifetime but he is by your side daily. You are in my prayers.
Although I have not met you, I feel as though I know you. I have watched your shows from the beginning and have enjoyed learning with you. You have been a blessing to me and many others. And now I wish for you …
Blessings,
Karen Stein
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for sharing your sewing creativity, talent, and truly helpful tips these many years. Because of you I am inspired to share my sewing and other crafty endeavors however I can during my retirement. I will keep you and yours in my prayers and wish you peace.
Nancy
I am praying for you. May Jesus lead you into his kingdom of love and peace. A few years ago while I was in the Eden Sewing Center in Western New York, one of the owners asked me if I had ever attended, in person, one of your seminars or if I had ever met you. I said no, but I have watched your show for years. He continued to tell me what a wonderful and faith filled person you are. I have never forgotten what he told me about you. You have not only been a sewing inspiration but a beautiful witness of your faith. God is with you. Peace and Love.
I am so sorry to hear this. You will be missed for sure, but never forgotten. I will be thinking of you every Saturday Morning watching your show. Thank you for your personal Thank you Note for the flowers I had the pleasure to present to you in Tucson AZ.
Irene Decker 1-800Flowers/Shoppe
My prayers go out to you and your family. My good friend and I were at the first expo. It was amazing and then we came every year except 2017. I remember seeing you stand by your booth signing books. You have touched so many lives. When God calls you home he is getting a very special person. Let the love of our Lord wrap around family,extended family and be a comfort to us all Thank You Vickie
Nancy, I am so sorry to hear of your illness. I admire your strength and faith – I too, believe that God is in control, and although we may not understand the why’s, I trust him with all my heart and soul, and know that no matter what happens, everything will be alright. I am praying for you and your loved ones as you embrace this journey. I have learned so much from you, and truly enjoy your show. I will continue to watch them for as long as they are aired, and will continue to learn from you. May God bless, comfort, and keep you through this journey. In Christian love, Ella Williams
Nancy, I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis. I have learned so much from you through the years. Thank you. I am praying for you and your family. Your verse is my life verse. The LoRd is faithful and will walk this path with you.
Sorry to hear this news. Thanks for everything you have done.
God Bless you and your family!
You have been an inspiration to me for over 20 years since I first discovered quilting. Your life has blessed many. May God continue to nourish and comfort you and your family. Yours is a life well lived!
Dear Nancy,
I have been of fan of yours for many years and would like you to know that through watching your videos and reading your books that you are the main reason I enjoy sewing and quilting so much today. Quilting has been such a wonderful stress reliever for me and your videos and books have been such a helpful resource for me over the years.
I am sorry to hear of your most recent illness and pray for comfort and peace for you and your family. You are loved and respected by so many people. God bless you.
Nancy, I am so sorry to hear this news. It just blows me away at the fragile balance of life and what most take for granted. I commend you for your strong spirit and your faith. While I know you have MANY, many comments and probably more advice than you can ever think of.. I will say this. Please check out a man named Dr. William Donald Kelley. He wrote a book called Cancer: Curing the Incurable. He had first hand experience. He was also diagnosed with a cancer and was given a slim prognosis. With this knowledge, he changed his diet, etc. He lived MANY additional years with this knowledge. I happened upon this information about 10 years ago and have passed it on to as many as I could. It has helped some, with one being that the cancer had completely gone into remission. I hope and pray that somehow this information gets to you and will be successful for you as it has been others. I will continue to follow and pray.
Best to you!
My Friend Nancy~I have been with you since the beginning and have loved every minute!! Than you for all that you have taught me~I have considered you a special sewing buddy for years! Please know that you have brought such sewing joy into my life! Thoughts and Prayers to you and your Family
Nancy,
I have loved watching you bring the joy of creating things and learning new things that I thought I would never be able to accomplish. Your books is the one I refer anyone who wants to learn something new or beginning to sew to you because you have always made the seeming so complicated tasks easily mastered with always your encouraging words not only that but it always has emitted a loving environment to those of us that wanted to make something simple into something worth saving and showing our handy work to others,
We are praying for you and your family during this trying time we may not understand why we pass through the waters we do in our lives but as you know God is faithful and he never leaves us in times of trouble or adversity. God’s peace be with you.
Nancy, I have enjoyed and re-enjoyed your shows, and I wish you all the best. May God bless and help you and your family during this time. You have given me much encouragement over the years. I have purchaied books, embroidery design, and supplies for several years.
I will remember you in my prayers.
Sincerely,
Carolyn Jackson
You are loved so much. I started watching you on tv…. a long time ago. My mom had, and now I have the Singer 316G and I learned to sew on that machine when I was 10. My mom let me sew whatever I wanted, and gave me a lot of old bed sheets to cut up. She taught me how to make patterns for anything.
YOU taught me sensible sewing and skills.
I love you dear Nancy. I am so very sorry that your health has taken a tough turn. God Bless you. You are in my prayers, always. You have touched so many.
Nancy,
I am sorry for your diagnosis. You are a great teacher and have brought joy to so many teaching them your love of sewing. Thank you for what you have done. God is with you now and forever. May He give you and your family peace and comfort in the days to come.
Nancy,
My husband & I moved to Fox Lake, WI in 2001 from the Chicago area. It was as close to culture shock as I ever hope to come, but finding you and your business located here made it so much more comfortable for me.
I am not a quilter (yet) but I was a sewer for many years and have enjoyed so many of your telecasts. I thank you for your encouragement and the sharing of your talents.
Please know that although I don’t believe we have met, being in the same “neighborhood” and seeing you at occasional dinners and events has made my life here in Wisconsin so much better than it might have been.
I wish you freedom from pain, stress and fear. May your remaining days be peaceful knowing you have given so much to so many. And that you are truly loved.
Sincerely,
Beverly Quast
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for teaching me over the last years new and different sewing techniques. You have given me interest in quilting, and I love, love your quilting segments. You will never know how much!! You have inspired me to try different things and my family has been the beneficiary of many beautiful quilting projects. I have also read your book – thanks. You have done me well. I wish you peace over the next few months. And remember that your talents have affected many, many folks. Thank you. God bless you.
I am truly sorry to read about your diagnosis. Please know that we are thinking of you and your family. Wishing you a peaceful journey. With sadness, Lisa
Nancy, I was attending a sewing/embroidery in Grapevine, TX and was not staying at the hotel next to the convention. When I came down to breakfast at the hotel where I was starying, I saw a person by herself and asked her to join me and my friend. She said she had a friend coming down also. It was you, and she was Mary Malari. What a wonderful breakfast!! You and she were so cordial. I believe things happed for a reason and you had been in my life for years and to not only meet you but share in a conversation on a personal note was the whipped cream on my sundae. You are wonderful and will always be a part of my life. Thank you for your inspiration to all sewers and quilters and God be with you and your family. Barbara Barnes
Thank you for ALL the wonderful techniques and patterns you have taught and shared. I have learned so much over the years with you- about 35. You will be missed. You and your family will continue in my thoughts and prayers.
To an amazing woman with an amazing legacy. May your days be filled with joy and comfort.
Dear Nancy,
I can’t tell you how sad I am to learn of your diagnosis. My heart goes out to you and your family. I have enjoyed your programs for many years and learned so much. It’s hard to think about you not being there to do them. Thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Thank you for this beautiful letter! May our God give you comfort and continued peace in your days before you find yourself in His presence!
My life will not be the same without more Sewing with Nancy. I have thoroughly enjoyed your shows and following the changes over the years. As others have said, you have taken the fear out of sewing and made it fun. I have learned so much and continue to learn from you. Now I am learning how to finish gracefully. My prayers are with you. Cancer is terrible, but God is in control. Your verse is so appropriate. I pray that you and your family will continue to trust God with all your heart and lean on Him. Thank you for your shining example.
Nancy,
Since you announced this I have been thinking of you. I have seen you many times at market and never had the nerve to introduce myself to you. You are a star in my eyes. I have been watching your show since the very early 80s when you first came on. Yup.. that long. And I still watch and record. You have been my inspiration throughout my entire sewing and quilting career. First began in my 6th grad Home Economics class… I LOVED your shows on garment making and I enjoy your shows that include quilting now. I can’t tell you how much I admire you and will miss you immensely! I look forward to the new 15 shows. Please, enjoy your family and soak it all in! Just know that you are thought of and loved in my prayers and I wish you all the best.
Dear Nancy,
I never had the opportunity to meet you in person, but I feel lucky to have grown with you all these years. I THANK YOU for all that you have given us and for your big heart. You will be missed but NEVER forgotten. I taught my kids to sew through your show and I hope to have grandchildren someday and will use your shows to teach them as well! You will forever be in our hearts. Blessings to you and your entire family. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you, Nancy, for your many years of sharing your expertise on PBS. Know that your legacy lives on not only in your family and friends, but in the millions you have taught your tips and techniques to through the magic of television, books, and the internet. God now has another plan for you. I firmly believe that there is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every purpose under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1). May you find comfort and strength in our Lord, your family, and the millions of friends (many of whom you have never met) as you follow the path of this next journey. God Bless.
Yours is a life well-lived: teaching and inspiring others with gentleness. Thank you for sharing your God-given talents with us for so many years. You inspired me and made me believe I could let my creative juices flow and then showed me how to do it. I am so sorry for your diagnosis. Peace be with you, may His Peace fill your heart and the hearts of your family and friends. Go with God, you will recognize His voice welcoming you home.
You have helped so many and we wish we could help you. Our family has a practice/habit of singing together at family memorial services. One of our favorites is “I’ll Fly Away.” So Godspeed to you, Nancy. May you fly on the wings of eagles.
Nancy,
You have been an inspiration to me, I’ve learned so much from your shows. I never thought I could ever make a quilt but your teaching knowledge has given me the courage to take on the several projects.
I know your strength will get you and your family through.
Thank you
Dear Nancy,
Whenever I watched your show I felt you were speaking right to me, one on one, a kind person teaching me sewing and the nicest way to do it. Your voice and the expressions on your face compelling me to try it and I liked it. Thank you for all you’ve done. My heart is in awe and yet with a sadness of the spiritual journey ahead of you. See you on the other side. Much Love Always.
Thank you for coming into my home and talking fabric with me all these years! The work, skills, humor and innovation was so appreciated!
I started quilting back in the late 80′s. Family and friends would ask me to alter their clothing. I would tell them “I’m a quilter not a seamstress.” They would look at me so funny and confused. You are the first person I knew of that did both very well. I had recently began to watch your show again and have wanted to quilt again. I haven’t quilted in the last 8 years. You have brought that desire back to me! Thank you for sharing yours, your team, and others that write to for those many gifts of knowledge and loving of what you do. You are an inspiration. God Bless you and yours. I wish you an amazing journey with all your loved ones! Thank You!
I so appreciate all the years you have shared your expertise and innovative sewing ideas. I have been a lifelong fan. Thank you for the openness concerning your illness. I am not sure you can be replaced in the sewing world.Wishing you and your family God’s comfort and blessings as you go forward.
Thank you for sharing all your sewing knowledge and skills with your viewers. I am also humbled by the sharing of your illness. Prayers and love to you and your family.
Nancy–I’ve watched your show for many years and have learned so much from you. I’m so sorry to learn of your health issues. Please know that you and your family and your health care team will be in my prayers.
Hi, Nancy, I started watching “Sewing with Nancy” in 1985, I have enjoyed learning from you for many years and will miss you very much. I will be praying for you and your loved ones. Jesus will always be with you and comfort you. I will see you in Heaven one day very soon! You are an awesome Lady and I love you! Thank you.
Thank you!
Thinking of you and praying for you!
Dear Nancy and family and friends,
I have learned so much watching your shows. I have enjoyed them very much. I too have the same faith you do and I and my friends will be praying for you. May God give you the peace that passes all understanding. Love you. I will miss you very much. I live in Dover, OHio
Dear Nancy , I’m so sorry to hear about the cancer. I know somethings about what you are going through. My hair is just coming back and my eye lashes. ( which is more important to me that the hair!! ) Mine is a blood cancer.
I will miss my Saturday afternoon girl friend. The chores stop when you are on and every one knows to leave Mom along! You have increased my sewing skill ten fold and I thank you so much! I to an a woman of faith and had a sweet friend (who had to deal the the big” C” ) who would tell me It’s a win win .I stay my with my family or get to see my Heavenly Father. I have been holding tight to her words. I know other will find this offensive and strange I don’t mean to be. I hope in a small way it will give you peace . I will be praying for you and your family and your staff. ( one last thing I have laughed about the wedding dresses flying out of the back of the car many times!!Thankyou1!)
Dear Nancy,
You are and have been an inspiration to all of us in the sewing community. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers for you and your family.
God Bless,
Claudia
Dear Nancy, your Family and Friends, I have just learned of your diagnosis and retirement with a heavy heart. Only God knows the number of our days, so I will say fill your days with love, rest when you need, your family and oh, so many friends. I have enjoyed your programs and learned so much. I enjoy the segments reserved for those “special guests” and always the programs of giving to others. I wish you Comfort and Peace in this journey. May your Family and Friends be Comforted and find Peace. I will remember you in my Prayers. Barbara
Nancy, I read with sadness your personal note and wanted you to know that I have been a fan for many years and record your program regularly. I also have gone to your website to search for a video about a current project I may be doing. You are one class act, Lady, and you will be missed by many. We all know the power of prayer and have seen miracles happen. You will be in my prayers. Here’s a verse I like: “The Lord will keep you from all harm – he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Psalm 121:7-8
Dear Nancy, I, like so many others, have been so inspired and encouraged by your show since you started. I’ve learned so much and you helped me sew for my children and myself over the many years. I am so very sad to hear of the difficult journey you’ve had the past few years, and this terrible diagnosis is sad and shocking. May God Bless you and your family, and I pray you can live your life with dignity and joy.
I just read what is going on my sweet sister-in-Christ. Quite an unforeseen change of course. I love the verse you quoted. No one knows the challenges ahead of you and your family, we may have an idea based on others we know who’ve been down a similar road, but there will be differences. I will miss seeing your sweet face on TV. I’ve always felt you have a wonderful heart, now I know the extent. Just remember, when it’s hardest to pray, that’s when you need to pray your hardest. Rest and take comfort as you can in the Lord and believe. You are a child of the most high God. Lean on Him. Cry when you need to, yell and scream if you want. Just go outside and let it go. Then concentrate on finding wonder in the world and people around you. It’s there. We’re often so busy we don’t seek it or notice it. Then enjoy it’s simplicity and beauty. With much love and admiration. Let’s hope the reruns never stop for us who watch. I will continue to lift you and your family and friends up in prayer. Til we meet in heaven…..
Dear Nancy,
You are truly one of my all time favorite people! I have learned so much from you and I just wanted to say thank you from the bottom of my heart for enlightening and teaching so many of us.
Prayers of peace for you and your beloved family.
Joan WIlliams 9/18/2017
Dearest Nancy, So sorry to hear of you having cancer.God is our comforter and healer,
But just want to say I have enjoyed your shows and the videos so much,and like all the others I too have learned from you so much and love your books I have, Thank you for all the talent God gave you to share with us.
May God keep you thru all and also may God keep your family and workers. God Bless all.
Hi Nancy,
After a 25 yrs hiatus in the military and overseas and deployments, I returned to sewing in 2004 after retiring. I grew up sewing on a Singer 301 since age 7 and inheritied it from my mom. When I retiurned to MT after being medically retired from the Air Force, I found your sewing show on an OTA PBS station and was amazed to learn a computerized machine existed. I called around MT and found a dealer who agreed to order a BL Ellisimo and Evolution for me. I drove 2 hours to pick them up and stayed overnight in Missoula while his Educator gave me lessons the next day. I drove home so excited with my new sewing toys. You have been my TV sewing Educator since 2004. You brought me into the modern world of machines, fabrics and notions- quite the change since 1983 where I sewed in a log cabin with no electric, no running water and on a treadle machine with a wood stove hot iron!! When your book was published I ordered it and have read it through twice. I was also raised a Lutheran and so many of your struggles hit home and helped me to recover emotionally and live more wholesomely my medical disabilities. Your life touched me and my entire family in sew many ways. While I am deeply saddened to lose you as my TV friend, I take some comfort knowing that my mom will be waiting with our Lord to meet you along with all those you love who have left this earth. My prayers are with you and with your beloved family. Keep the Faith; Feel the Love. Amen.
Nancy, I am sorry to hear about the cancer. I want to thank you for all that you have done for the sewing community. I have learned so much. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Maria C
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for sharing your many gifts and talents with us over the years. When my children were young, some 25 years ago, your show provided a much needed break from mommy duties and gave me a boost, great content and a more than a little joy!!! I continue to love your show and pray for you and yours in the days to come!!
God bless you, Laurie
Hi Nancy
Words cannot say enough but here goes, watching you has given me inspiration and also re started my love of dressmaking on more than one occasion, I hope they keep re running the videos.
I would like to send my love to you and your family , please safe safe and well keep smiling you wonderful smile.
You will be missed but never forgotten
Luv Jane
I read your letter when you first shared it and many times since then. I cant imagine the thoughts feelings and emotions you’re experiencing, and I don’t know what to say to you except that I will miss our times we’ve spent together. I have learned so many things from you it’s impossible to list them. You have been an inspiration to thousands of sewers whether it’s making a quilt, a dress, a handbag or embroidering on a sweatshirt, I always learn something. Stay strong in faith and know that your fans are praying for you.
You know how to make your fans feel like family. And as a member of your tv family, I had been concerned. You have done so much for all of us, by sharing your expertise, but also by sharing your life’s story. Thank you so much. I continue to hope for the best for you. Sarah Hartwig, Los Angeles
Having lived the last 34 years with complicated cardiac issues, I have come to believe that we must express to each other the appreciation, respect and love we feel because none of us knows the plan our Father has for us.
Thank you so much for the wealth of knowledge you have shared and for being the wonderful inspiration you are.
The Lord bless and keep you, may His face shine on you and give you peace.
Oh, Nancy, you will be sooo missed. You interviewed me for a show many years ago, where I made tactile quilts for blind children here in Arizona. Thanks to you, people from all over this country have sent me supplies, finished quilt tops, quilt squares with wonderful ideas, and completed quilts. Over 10 years, this show was rebroadcast again and again, with fresh packages arriving at my door each time. The babies of Arizona thank you – your show enabled me and the Girl Scouts who helped me, to give away hundreds of these quilts. You will never be forgotten. I hope your final journey will be peaceful. Sending you gobs of love and hugs. Thanks for everything.
Dear Nancy you are like a part of the family and will truely be missed. Saturday mornings will not be the same without you being here and sharing the love of sewing and quilting. I too believe in Proverbs 3:5-6 and believe God will be with you and yours. Thank you for the knowledge and wisdom you have given us all who have followed you faithfully. Wouldn’t Heaven be beautiful if we all could bring our projects with us! Thank you! Marie
Nancy,
I am so sorry to hear your sad news. I want to thank you for all the information about sewing, quilting and embroidery that your show has given me. In fact I was looking for the show on how to install a zipper closure on a tote bag I am making when I read your goodbye note. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. You will be missed.
Val
Hello Nancy Zieman,
I just read your personal note because my grandmother forwarded it to me. I’m so sorry to hear that you have cancer. However, I have recently come to find out that cancer can be treated through natural ways. In fact, I have within the past couple days received an email from a man named Ari Whittman (whom I subscribe to) mentioning a man who had cancer but was able to get to rid of it through natural remedies (instead of chemotherapy). I was given a link to sign up for this man’s free video series, teaching how to fight cancer. I myself have signed up to watch the series. I believe this is something worth looking into. Here is the link:
http://urltag.net/Bw6bH
Also, there is another man who does similar work and you can find his story and recommended treatments on the website called the Truth About Cancer. I hope this helps you.
May God Bless you always.
You are right to believe that God will put on the path you need to be on.
Love, Mariana
Nancy, I know you will meet this new challenge with the strength and courage that you have faced all your previous issues. Your faith will help you. I am relatively new to sewing and quilting since my retirement and have enjoyed the knowledge you have shared. I am making your Christmas tree skirt for my daughter this Christmas and I will pray for you and your family as I work to complete this loving task. God bless you and thank you.
I just read about the retirement and the diagnosis…my heart is sad to hear this, but I am encouraged that your faith is the sustainer in this trial. I have lost a son in a tragic accident, a mother to bone cancer, and several friends to breast or colon cancer. It is not a kind disease, but I have come to know the only hope for those who go and those who remain is the grace, mercy, and love of Christ. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and gift in the needle arts. I have been a faithful viewer on OETA and have always learned a great deal. My prayers and love go out to you, your family and all your many friends.
Dear Nancy,
May the Lord bless you and your family and friends as you continue your journey, I have so enjoyed your shows, books and meeting you. You have enriched so many lives and have been instrumental in elevating so many people’s sewing skills.
God Bless you!
Dear Nancy,
Getting this news from one of my fellow quilters was a heartbreaking event. I cannot tell you how many times I have viewed and re-viewed your shows to get inspiration for the quilts we make through our church ministry. There are few things that I record from my cable network but Sewing with Nancy is one of only 3. When I get home from a long day at work, I find peace and inspiration from your hints and tips and from the many guests you have on your show.
Thank you for making your shows both inspirational and educational, providing a step-by-step approach that even I can follow.
My prayer for you is one of gratitude but also one of comfort that the peace of God will abide with you and within you as your travel this journey.
Thank you and God bless.
Nancy, I feel like I am loosing a dear friend. You have educated, inspired and shared your enthusiasm for sewing with so very many people. I look forward to Saturday morning breakfast with you on my local PBS station. My elderly mother and I recently traveled from Ohio to the Wisconsin Quilt Museum and just had to stop in Beaver Dam to see the store. We were like a couple of giddy girls. We talk about Nancy as if you were our neighbor. “Did you see what Nancy did this week?” My sister asked “Who is Nancy? ” Why, Nancy Zieman of course.” Because of you I attempted my first baby quilt this spring. We love you, Nancy! Thank you ever so much. Our prayers are with you and your family. God will be your strength.
Dear Nancy,
I began my sewing career in the 70′s like so many of us, in home ec class. But after school I learned more by reading your many books, following every step faithfully as I learned to tailor, wool suits, made curtains, and more. Then I turned around and taught my daughters in their 4-H sewing projects, and other kids as well. Then I turned to quilting – much easier than sewing for a 3-D figure! I now teach, design and write patterns. I still use books by you to assist me in my wording, helping others understand as clearly as possible, just as you have taught us so well. Thank you for all you have meant to me, to sewers everywhere, and for keeping sewing alive and well for so many years. May God bless your days, may He bless your family and friends and give you all comfort. I look forward to visiting with you face-to-face in heaven. But it won’t be sewing we talk about, it will be the wonders and Glory of God!
Nancy, first and foremost, God is by your side always. Turn to him everyday for his support. Next, you have truly been such an inspiring person to so many. Always looked forward to taping your show and getting to see it when I had the time to really focus on what you were teaching. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you have done. It is greatly appreciated in every way. You will stay in my thoughts and prayers and now go enjoy your family, you deserve it! Love & Hugs!!!!!
Nancy,
Thank you for everything you have shared and taught us through the years – my, and many others, sewing would not have been the same without you. Blessings and strength for you and your family at this difficult time.
I am so sorry to hear this. Cancer has dealt my family several devastating blows in the past and my thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family. Your show will be missed so much and I know that you will follow God’s will.
Nancy, how do we ever say thank you? You have given so much, and it has done so much for so many. You gave us that “Yes, I can” attitude when we didn’t think we could. You got us back up on our feet when we just wanted to sit down and quit. You got us through sickness and heartache when it seemed we couldn’t do anymore. I pray that you catch at least a glimmer of the love you are surrounded with by all of us, your friends. And I pray that it helps carry you through this hard time. We will see you again one day, and that is a joy to cherish. Thank you for what you have done for me.
The verse you quoted was my mother’s favorite one. She passed away January of this year. She had that verse in every room. She had Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease. The caregivers recorded her singing Victory in Jesus! God is in control! I am greatly saddened by your news. But I firmly believe you need your family around you as your life changes. They will give you comfort. You have no idea how many people you have touched through your long tenure with PBS broadcasting on how to sew. You have left a legacy that no one else can touch. I could tell you really care about teaching others a skill. That makes all the difference! I wish you a glorious time with those that care so much about you. Know that the sewing community you have built love you and care for you, but now it’s time for family. I’m so glad I have been one of your viewers and wish you the best.
My heart broke when I read your goodbye. May your faith in the Lord bring you and your family peace.
Love you Love you Love you Love Nancy, though wqe’ve never met! I’ve often said I wish you were my next-door neighbor…with Mary Mulari on the other side! i wish I knew you back when we were much younger in the 60s & 70s.
I ‘ve survived breast cancer for many years but you have more challenges than just that. You are brave & I envy your faith.
Peace to you my friend, from Palmer, Alaska
God bless you, Nancy. You have been an inspiration to me. Even though I am not a sewer, your gentle spirit made me a viewer. I will look for you in God’s perfect place in His time. May you and your family feel His presence and be comforted. And may God hold you in the palm of His hand and bless you as you have blessed so many others.
Dear Nancy,
Like so many others, I have watched your show, read your books, and considered you a friend even though we never met. Your kindness and humility shine, and your teaching inspires. I am greatly saddened to learn of your retirement and especially your illness. But I praise God for your faith. Thank you for living it out, for sharing and serving all of us. I pray for your health, peace, and comfort – Ps. 91:1 He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. God bless you Nancy!
With love from Michigan,
Elaine
I am so sorry to hear your news. I have followed you since the early days. I always enjoyed the stories about your boys growing up. I eagerly watched your shows and attended many sewing weekends. After reading your book I felt even closer to you as it sounded like we had the same childhood. May God grant you a safe and peaceful journey.
I am so heartbroken to hear this sews. One of my friends said to read your blog. I am so sad and lost for words of your illness. I got to met you about 2 yrs at the Expo in Fredericksburg, VA and got 2 of your books signed. I have been a long time watcher of your shows from when you using Phaff sewing machine and I wanted one. But couldn’t find a dealer in my area. I have been recording your shows and buying your videos, booklets, fabric, kits etc. What am I going to do now that you are saying goodbye. God Bless You and your family. Will miss you greatly.
Long time follower. Cyndi
May you have peace with God on the new journey,,,take His hand and be guided,,,,With love
I am sad to lose you, but blessed to have known you. You have made good sewing possible, even easy, for so many of us. I came to appreciate your strength and courage from your autobiography. Most of all I have loved you as an oasis of graciousness, courtesy and kindness in today’s world. All our families have legacies of quilts and art and clothing made with your inspiration.
Thank you,
Jean Symons
Nancy, I just read your farewell and I’m heartbroken! I have love your shows for years, I raised our three children, especially in the early years by sewing lots of their clothes. Financially there was not much choice! Your show has always been such a blessing, help and inspiration! I’m thankful you have a strong faith in God and pray for a touch of healing for you. Thank you so much for your love and teaching of a skill and art that has been walked away from by so many! It has always been a blessing to me as have you!
God’s blessings, Sandi/ North Carolina
Nancy,
I am so saddened by your diagnosis. I am a Grandma of 6 and I know how much being there means to me. Your faith is so special and your family will always be blessed by it. I am still praying for a remission and a cure for you. I began watching you as a young mother. My mother watched you too. I grew up watching my mom sew. With 5 children money was always tight , so mom sewed my clothes and my sisters and her own. My mom passed away in July of 2004. I continue to sew when I can. I have become a bit of a fabric hoarder. I hope to use much of for charity projects. I love that you have many great ones that you share. Ironically I just got your book before your announcement. I have just begun to read it. You were due on July 26th, that is my birthday. I was born in 1956 a month late. I was raised in the Lutheran church and we still are. Last fall our local LWML made several fleece blankets for missions.
Nancy, I am sorry to be rambling so. I truely feel so sad that you are ill. Thank you so much for the Bible verse that you shared. My thoughts and prayers are wth you.
Gods blessings and mercy to you,
Judy
Nancy,
I am truely sorry that all of this is happening to you. I pray for remission and healing for you. For time to be with your family, especially your granddaughters. I love the scripture that you shared. Your strong faith is a blessing.
I began watching you as a young mother, my mom watched too. I grew up watching my mom sew too. I feel blessed to have had your wonderful sewing talents shared with me. I pray that your program will continue for a very long time. I wish I could have copies of them all!
Thank you and God Bless and keep you,
Judy
Nancy, all these years you have been such an inspiration to me. I am saddened to hear this news. You have taught many and have worked so hard all of your life. You are very special to me. I sent you some pictures of a snowman coat that I made and you surprised me by adding it into one of your episodes and you sent me a free gift. You have no idea what that meant to me. It gave confidence to a shy sewer who didn’t really know she had talent. Enjoy your family now and I will be praying for God to watch over you closely.
Dearest Nancy,
May you feel the warm embrace of the love you have shared with all those you have taught, inspired and given to, returned to you now to uphold you and keep you and your family in the days ahead. May you know that your life has been more than an inspiration, but a testament to all that is good, kind and loving. May you have the peace that passes all understanding.
Thank You for choosing to be who you are!
Godspeed,
Loretta
Nancy, Have watched your program whenever I could over the years. I have lost my Dad to metastatic CA. The verse from Proverbs really says speaks the truth, it comforted Poppa and the rest of the family. May God bless you and all your family with HIS abundant Love and “peace that passes all understanding.” . . . . I look forward to meeting you in heaven. Peace be upon you.
Dear Nancy,
I don’t have words. I have enjoyed your show for years and am so saddened by your news. I wish you peace and comfort and offer prayers for you and your family. Your life has touched so many – thank you.
Lynn
Nancy, you are an inspiration and I have watched your shows for many years and have some of your books. So many episodes of wisdom, friendship, love of sewing, and creativeness you have shared with many. Thank you for your friendship and joy you have brought and may God Bless you!
Tears came as I read your good-bye. We’ve never met but the sadness I feel is as deep as if we had shared coffee or visited over a back yard fence for years! I’ve just recently “come back” to sewing and have become a novice quilter after years of outside-the-home employment and parent care giving. Your PBS shows, blogs and videos were just the encouragement and inspiration that I needed to return to a passion that I used to enjoy so much! Thank you. And now, as a friend, I’ll pray right along with you that your trust in God will bring Him glory and that He will surely direct your path. Good-bye.
Nancy,
God be with you and your family on this journey.
Dear Nancy
I feel like we are old friends even though we’ve never met in person. You’ve come into my home every Saturday morning to teach me so many things, you are an inspiration to me. I don’t think I could do the things I now to do, without you. I will miss you so much. God bless you and your family,
God Bless you Nancy. I wish you a peaceful journey.
First of all God Bless You. God gave you such a wonderful gift of teaching. To the many years that you have had the heart to teach the sewing and quilting I and many others can never get what you have done. This is a very troubling time for you and your family and of course your many many friends. Thank you again for what you have given all of us. Bless you and God be with you.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for all the years of your show as I learned much from you and the guests. You have been an inspiration for many and we will never forget you. Know that you have blessed us all with your knowledge, humor and courage to confront adversity. God Bless you and your family during this difficult time.
Nancy,
I was saddened to hear your news but rejoice in your faith!!! Our Lord knows best and HE is over it all.
Just an FYI. There is a Christian based hospital that deals with all types of cancer. It is called the Oasis of Hope and is in Tijuana, Mexico. My father went there in 1977 at the referral of a friend. Look it up online and if you are moved to call them, do so. One never knows.
My prayers are with you and your family.
Nancy,
I know your family is heartbroken. I am sad. This news upset me so bad that I had to walk away and come back later to read it. I have watched and love you for years. Sometimes I would go to sleep while watching because I had sat down to watch after a tiring day. My husband would wake me and tell me I left him watching sewing with Nancy again. I am praying for peace for you and your loved ones. I am daily praying for the healing hand of God to touch and heal you.
Nancy, I’ve followed you for years. I own your books and refer to them often. You have made an impact on my art, on my quilting skill and now on my heart! I am sure you have done the same for countless others!
I wish you long life and pray for your recovery. I hope your spirit and will are strong. Don’t lose faith! That’s 3/4 of the battle! Look after yourself and live each day to it’s fullest. Fulfill your own dreams now! Hugs!
All the best! Cindy
Nancy, how many people can say they’ve made a positive difference in this world? Not too many. But you are one of the few who did. I have my Tivo set to record every “Sewing with Nancy” episode and I keep them forever. You are so talented and I’ve learned so much from you. Your guests are always amazing and generous, just like you. Thank you, Nancy! You will always be loved by your family and your many fans!
Thank you Nancy, for the confidence you have given me to reach higher with my sewing. I wish you and your family peace and comfort.
Your family, coworkers and fans all love you. We will ALL miss you and your smiling face. God has a giant sewing room for you in heaven and he wanted the best! Our home on earth is just a stepping stone. May God give you comfort and a peaceful flight home!
Dear Nancy,
Here’s hoping God is holding your hand and giving you comfort in the days and weeks to come. Your diagnosis is devastating for all who know and love you. May your family and friends find comfort with so many warm and wonderful memories. You will be missed every day and will be missed greatly. Thank you for your generous spirit and your willingness to be a teacher to so many for all these years. You are a true pioneer and endearing presence. I will think of you often as I sew.
Nancy, I was having breakfast this morning thinking about 9/11 when the New York towers came down and how many people were touched. I really hope that you realize how many people YOU have touched in one way or another. The towers were an instant compared to your lifetime of dedication to us. I have multiple sclerosis and for 19 years I have been dealing with as best as I can, but now after six hip surgeries, sewing is about all I can do. Knowing that I will be making the rest of my journey without you and yours, makes me very sad. As my Jewish Grandmother would say, “go with God my dear, your work here is done.” I am very happy to have known you, even though it was through the airwaves, God bless, Suzanne Deters Boonville, Indiana
Dear Nancy,
So sorry to hear about your health. Please know that prayers of peace and love are offered to you, from Arizona.
I’ve followed your PBS series and now recently, your blog. Ideas have been saved, and finally, at age 61, I’m taking the plunge and making my first quilt! This will be a memory quilt, using my departed husband’s ties & shirts.
Thanks for giving me the ideas (and courage), to finally try an art form that I’d always wanted to learn.
Again, blessings and prayers to you and your family.
Dear Nancy: my deepest thoughts of you for your excellent teaching shows on TV and to sadly read where you have retired due to your illness. Cancer seems to come as a great surprise to many of us.
I have learned to sew because of your programs, in fact just a few months after my husband bought & financed my Sears sewing machine I began on a journey of my own with you to learn how to use a sewing machine. We had two children , one just a few months old & my husband’s company in the oil patch with Hudson’s Bay Oil & Gas here in Canada, was going to have a Christmas party & I needed a dress ( which we couldn’t afford to purchase). I sat down & with the help of watching your programs I was able to make a very pretty dress. You were an inspiration for me to find fulfillment in my busy married life with eventually four children to sew for. Thank you for the pleasure of sharing your talent to many of us stay at home mom’s. I still tune in whenever I am able & although I am now 80 years old, I still have that passion of loving to sew.
May your next journey with God prepare us Sewing Soldiers to again join you in heaven.
With great respect,
(Mrs.) Dorine Moore
High River, Alberta, Canada
Nancy, so hate to say goodbye to the best sewing buddy ever! Saturday morning recordings for many years! Everyone in my family knows about your show andy our sewing skills. I have many accessories and tips because of your dedication to many of us. Your verse is also one of my favorites and send you hea ling spirits . I am now 75 years old and have watched you since I was in my twenties. God bless you Nancy Zieman!
I’m so sorry to hear of your cancer’s return. I too am fighting Cancer(6 years) not giving up yet. I so enjoy your shows and have learned a lot. Nothing happens on Monday mornings till I watch your show. So many of your projects I still want to do. I hope we can keep looking at the vidios of your shows. My prayers are with you, always THINK POSITIVE, I know it helps.You are a special person I wish I would of had a change to meet you. Love to you and your family. Dawn
Dearest Nancy
You have been my television friend for many years and I had the pleasure of meeting you at Sewing and Stitchery Expo, Puyallup, WA. You have taught many people how to sew, quilt and I believe be a better person. Your kindness and thoughtfulness is truly a blessing to many. I love your charities and patterns to give to hospitals and others, you inspire me. Your corner is a highlight to your show and I record it so I don’t miss a single episode. May the good Lord keep you in the palm or his hand and your faith sustain you. Blessing on you and your family.
Thank You!
Nancy
As a young mother in 1986 your show was my time. Without fail I would tune in every Saturday to watch.( I tried to schedule nap time for my baby’s when it was on) I lived in rural North Dakota at the time so when your catalog arrived at my home it was like receiving the Sears Christmas catalog but oh so much better! Later in life when my mom started Quilting from the Heartland I had the pleasure of meeting you. I remember crying, I was meeting an old friend for the very first time! You graciously took a photo with me and it is framed in my sewing room.
My heart is full of love and gratitude
Angela Weber
OH, Nancy I am so sorry to hear of your circumstance. You will be missed by many, your family, for sure, your staff, coworkers, your many fans and followers.
After 43 years of marriage I lost my husband to cancer in January and I have decided to, with the 2017 block of the month, do it in his honor. He helped me choose the colour combinations. I hope to do you both proud as this will be my 1st patchwork. As a sewer I have followed your many shows and when I retired last August I decided to follow in my grandmothers footsteps and Quilt. She did so for her church for many years.
My heart goes out to you and your family. God has other plans for you now. We thank him for sharing you with us.
God bless.
Nola McLaren
Dear Nancy, I have so much to send that I am sending you a letter. But here, I want you to know that so many of us love you for being our sewing friend and teacher all these years. You will be missed very deeply, but I know that I’ll be with you someday in Heaven. May the Lord continue to bless you and keep you and your family in the coming months.
So sorry this is happening to you, it broke my heart to hear this, I have watched your show for years and I have learned so much from you, you deserve a medal for everything that you have done in your life, your an inspiration to me and many many others. Praying for you Nancy.
Dear Nancy,
Your kindness has always shown through in all you do and share with others. Thank you for “Nancy’s Corner” and introducing so many wonderful people from around the world to your viewers. Prayers for you and your family and love from your many followers.
Peace.
Hello,
I am a “wantabe” quilter, and have had a few true quilters surrounding me all throughout my life. (I have made a few small quilted projects over the years.) That group of quilters includes my mother-in-law, who in her upper 80′s is still hand quilting. She has made numerous bed quilts in her life: starting with ones for new babies in the family, then “big bed” single-bed ones (or double sized) as the grand (and great-grand) children grew. Next came wedding quilts for every new bride and groom in her extended family.
Over the past years, I have happened upon your show & really enjoyed and been inspired by it — we’ve moved a lot and sadly it wasn’t always available to me, or I didn’t discover it right away! I am privileged to own several of your informative and inspirational books. Your life has touched and inspired so many over your TV and sewing career, including mine.
Today (9/11/2017) I caught a show about recycling denim and came to my computer afterwards to check out your website and want to now obtain your book on Denim, too. That is when I read and found out about your health diagnosis; so sorry. I commend you for sharing your favorite scripture passage–it has been mine for years also. May the Lord sustain you and your family throughout your journey over the next phase of all your lives.
Remember, God is GOOD, all the time! He will NEVER leave nor forsake us. As believers in the saving grace of Jesus Christ, we have the hope of glory, as well a deep lasting peace in this life with its trials and tribulations. May our Lord continue to bless and keep you.
Thanks for being you and allowing your light to shine to the world of quilters (and I’m sure to many others as well!
My Dearest Nancy. I would only be repeating what everybody else has said. So I will only write how you have affected me as a sewist. When my daughter told me what you are dealing with, I was heart sick. You have been part of my Saturday mornings and PBS for most of my sewing years. I have after all these years of sewing, having taught my daughters how to sew and now they have a shop that teaches sewing to other youngsters. Their daughters also carrying on the joy of sewing. My joy has turned into my daughters joy and theirs as well and couldnt make me happier. So for all that you have taught me and my children over the years is a tribute to you as a person, a mother and grandmother. You have brought this joy to so many. May your grandchildren continue your legacy and their children as well. You and your family will be in my prayers.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I appreciate your commitment to your faith. It is a comfort. I have watched your program for years. I have VCR tapes of your early episodes. I will miss your show but you most of all. Again many prayers.
I would like to send you something that I think may help you through this difficult time. I purchased your book at the Expo last week and read it. Reading about your strong religious convictions, made me wonder if you might consider spiritual healing. I am a Christian Scientist and have had many healings using what I learned in Christian Science. I would be happy to send you information about it.
There are no words. Tears and prayers for you. As so many others have said, I’ve always seen you as a friend I would love to know personally. May God hold you in His heart.
Kay
Dear Nancy,
It is at times as these that words do not come easy. Perhaps, it is because there is sadness attached.
Though I have only been quilting for a few years, thanks to my daughter giving me a gift certificate to Round Bobbin so I could finally start what I had hoped to years ago. It was not long after that, that I was very fortunate to pick up a quilting book of yours to guide me. I thought that was great as it gave me a grasp on “quilting.”
Based on that I am now ready for “free motion” quilting. So, of course, I went to your site knowing you would share some instruction on the subject. Joy. Then, I read your message which brought about sadness and you have been in my thoughts and prayers.
My mother told me the importance of touching the lives of others. You most definitely have touched my life and many others.
My prayer is for you and your family that you let your strength, courage and faith guide you. I will be praying to my saint for you. Thank you for touching my life and being my inspiration to stick with quilting. Sincerely
I am heartbroken to hear this sad news. Lately I’ve been binge watching your shows on quilting. I know you have blessed so many people with the knowledge and joy for sewing that you have passed on in your television show. I am praying for peace for you and your loved ones, and also for healing if it be God’s will. May you be blessed as you have been a blessing to others. God speed.
Thank you so much for your substantial contribution to my love and knowledge of sewing and quilting. I am one of the thousands or perhaps millions who will miss you. Safe home,
God bless you Nancy. You have done so much to teach and give to the sewing community through the years and the example you have set for the rest of us to give back to younger sewers inspires us all. Know you are loved, and we are all praying for you.
I realize how lucky I was to start my own journey in sewing with your wonderful show to give me inspiration and information. Thank you for everything you have done.
Nancy, so sorry about your health, I feel you are a dear friend that I have watched for years, I will really miss you and all your help with so many projects that I have tried from all your videos. Each time I found something I wanted to try, I knew that you would have a video that would fit the bill on how to do it. So, bless you for being such an inspiration to so many of us that love to sew. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Nancy,
I feel like I know you having watched you on TV almost since you started. I’m saddened by your diagnosis but your faith is inspiring. God bless and keep you.
Dear Nancy,
I am amazed and grateful for all you have done over all these years for us and the sewing community. I am so saddened at your news and the rough journey you are facing. I too went through cancer and it is not an easy path. I am praying for peace and comfort for you and yours and for the miracle of healing. You have so much grace, dignity, and strength, and it is evident how much you care for your audience. It’s like having a friend right in our home.
I hope you can feel all the love and caring we have for you, and all of the prayers and hugs we are sending your way.
Isa. 41:9-10 has always been of immense help and comfort to me and I hope will be for you as well. “I took you from the ends of the earth. From its farthest corners I called you….I have chosen you and not rejected you. (God knows you by name and loves you.) So do not fear, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” You are in God’s right hand and in his keeping or eternity.
May God be with you and yours.
Always your fan and friend and sister in Christ,
Charlotte
Dear Nancy god bless you I have been watching from your start. I will miss watching you on TV or my lap top I should say, you have kept me sane as my hubbys retired navy lots of time we have spent together as I had loads of time on my hands as sea courses lasted some times 12 month. we just had our 47 Ann on the 5th of Sept. I have a few toys and I am still sewing , quilting and doing a lot of machine embroidery too. god hold you in his arms wrap you in the holy spirit always you are loved. amen
Love you Nancy. You are my hero and my inspiration. Praying for your healing miracle. Jennifer AKA / The Old Sew and Sew
Nancy,
Thank you for all you have given me and the rest of the world. God bless you and your family, now and in the future.
Janet
Dear Nancy,
So sorry to hear about your illness and retirement. I am thankful you know Jesus and I will see you in Glory! What a sewing bee we will have! My prayers are with you all because with Christ all things are possible!!
Much love to you and your family
Laura
Nancy I have watched you from the first show. Will miss you. God bless you and your family.
Dear Nancy, I had been watching news of hurricane Irma praying that family and friends will be safe when I read your moving letter provoking a gut-punched feeling. You have inspired me over the years with your projects and Nancy’s Corner. While I am selfishly devastated to lose your weekly creativity and joy, you and your family are uppermost in my mind, and I can’t help but pray for a miracle. Your choice of Scripture was beautiful and I hope it gives you peace.
Nancy I am going to miss you, your books and TV shows have taught me how to use my Ovation serger and my Destiny
embroidery machine, I am 86 years old and my machines and making quilts keeps me going. I have never met you in person but I have been watching your TV shows from the beginning and I will keep watching them as long as I am able,
Thank you for sharing all your wonderful knowledge, Betty
You have truly inspired me. I purchased my Pfaff 1475 CD because I wanted to be able to sew just like you. I also purchased my Baby Lock machines with the same thought. I learned a lot from you and your programs and I will miss you. May God bless you and strengthen your Family each and every day.
Saddened by your message but grateful that you have your faith- trusting God to be holding you close and comforting all as you enter this time of your journey. I pray God gives you and your loved ones all the grace and peace that is possible and that your journey may bring hope to others that face the same road. Truth is that we all will face this inevitable journey as this is not our forever home- however dear to us it has become- such a hard concept to take hold of at times. But, what a reassuring comfort that we all will be together in glory.
I have enjoyed watching your show, shopping your catalogues and being inspired by you from the beginning. I will miss you.
Cynthia
Nancy,
How does one say good bye to a friend, You have been such an inspiration to me. Even though we never met face to face, I know in your heart that feel all our love and graditude for so much knowledge. He leads us all. We do not know His reasons, but one day when we are all together again, I can say to you that I will miss you and pray for you.
Peg Sullivan
Nancy,
I too am most saddened to read your post and learn that your Cancer has returned.
I am a newbie and have so enjoyed watching and learning from you. It is with grateful thanks for all your teaching and demos, I have learned much from you.
May our God sustain you and give you comfort and His peace during the storm you are in right now.
Always remember He loves you and is walking by your side every step of the way and will never leave you.
I think you can easily say – as the wonderful hymn states – it is well with my soul. Read the lyrics again, always gives me comfort.
Will be praying for you and always have a special place in my quilting beginnings with your teaching.
Holding you close in my heart, Carolyn in Abilene, TX
Today i heard the news and today i Grieve for a FRIEND Whom I Dearly Love and have never met. Sewing with Nancy was a must watch in my home…Will keep You and your Family in prayer.
Nancy,
Thank you for inspiring me to become a strong role model and business woman. When I was young my class visited your studio on field trips. You were larger than life-a real movie star for us. As I got older and your show gained in popularity I was comforted to see you on tv especially since I have lived out of state since graduating from school. My thoughts are with you and your family. Thank you for inspiring me all of these years.
Steph
I am sorry you will be missed on your shows and videos
you have inspired me and my friends to share what we learned from you.
No one has put more effort into teaching the world about sewing and giving back
I hope to do a small amount of giving back Have done some but looking forward to doing more
just remember all the lives you have touched
my hope your family remembers the good times
Respectfully
Donna
Dear Nancy,
My love and prayers to you and your family. I hope you know how much you are loved throughout the world of Sewing. You have touched and blessed so many lives, not just as a Sewing icon but as a person. It is easy to see God’s light shining through you.
I have met you several time in person and even though you are constantly pulled in many directions you remain pleasant and gracious to everyone. I will never forget the first time meeting you in person. I was at the Sewing Expo in Puyallup. I was at at particularly stressfully place in my life and was taking solice in Sewing therapy. Stoping for a sandwich by the fountain, you ended up sitting next to me for a break. You struck up a brief conversation with me about the beautiful day and great Expo. The fact that you, a sewlebrity would talk to an amateur ordinary sewer when you have so much to do really made my day. I bounced through the rest of the day with a renewed energy knowing that there are still genuinely good people in this world. When I got home I told my husband that I had lunch with you and he said wow, “the TV lady” how nice that she doesn’t hide away so she is not bothered.
I now work in the Sewing industry and try to always follow your example to make everyone feel special. One of my favorite sayings is, “people my forget what you show them but they will never forget how you made them feel”. You make people feel special.
Thank you for touching all our lives so deeply. The imprint you have left on this world runs deep and wide. My love and blessings to you in your journey home. Please know how much you are loved.
Sincerely,
LeAnne
Nancy,
I am saddened by your news–you have helped me and so many other people over the years!! You are an inspiration
to all of us. Know that you and your family are in our prayers.
God can do anything and healing is not too hard for him!
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with all of us.
God bless you and your family as you walk through this, and may he give you strength and peace .
Carol
Dear Nancy, I am so sad to hear of your news! You have been a major factor in my love of sewing. I never thought I would be creative but you changed that when I became ill and started watching your show. Your art quilts inspired me to try quilting and to know it was okay to think outside the pattern. I make pillows and bags because of your encouragement. God bless you and know you are in my prayers.
Dearest Nancy,
I am so sorry to hear about the return of your cancer. I myself am a survivor for many years thanks to Gods Love and grace. You have given so much over the years and educated as well as entertained many people. I thoroughly enjoy your show and learned so many things too many to count.You are going to leave a legacy within the sewing and quilting world as well as a kind and loving individual.
My prayers will be with you and may Gods love shine on you and make the journey he has chosen for you easier to bare. Live life to the fullest and the world will miss you terribly.
My love and prayer.
My thoughts and prayers will be with you on this journey. I have watched your show for many years and drew much inspiration from it. God be with you and your family thru this time.
The power of Prayer. The Lord can heal all things, through the power of prayer. Keep strong, Nancy. We are praying for you.
Dear Nancy………..I have watched you over the years and learned so much from your programs. Your warmth and beautiful smile was always there in the way that you guided every listener to learn something new. Be proud of all the ways you helped the sewing community. Sincerely, Audrey G.
Thank you so much for sharing all your time, knowledge and talents. I truly always enjoyed watching and learning from you. I saw you in a store one day and now wished I would have at least said hi. Take care, God bless you and your family.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing quilting with us. I’ve now made 10 quilts with my husband in our retirement and we always recorded your show. Thank you for sharing your faith to your big audience. See you in heaven
I’m stunned, absolutely speechless. My love and prayers to you and your family. I thank them for sharing you with us all these years, to You, for sharing your knowledge and courage and strength. You Are A Candle in the Wind…I will keep praying for you and your family. May God be with you.
Nancy, thank you for sharing your time and talents with the sewing world. I have watched and rewatched many shows and learned so much from you! You will be greatly missed.
Dear Mrs. Zieman,
My heart was heavy after reading your article. I pray God will spare you and your family with His healing. You, Martha Pullen, and Sue Hausmann have been my sewing heroines for many years and I have been especially blessed to have been able to meet all of you through the years. I met you a few years ago in Florida and have a picture of us together (like probably a million other women!) sitting on an end table in my living room. God bless you and I hope to meet you again in Heaven one day.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for all you have taught me about sewing and quilting. You have always shown poise, and patience while hosting your show. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God Bless.
Diane
Nancy’s Corner is ingenious and inspirational. I heard about the “Mending Projects” idea from your show. I have my first Mending Station scheduled with my local library on 9/30/17 in Denver Colorado.
I’ve been sewing my whole life and watching your show has meant so much to me. Thank you for being you.
Kathy Mullin
God Bless you and all your family. You are in our prayers.
Hi Nancy,
I have watched and looked up to you my whole life it seems. I am going to miss you. You and your family will be in my prayers. Thank you for being a light in my life. Godspeed.
Nancy
You have been such an inspiration to me. Thank you for a great show which you kept on a PBS station. Thank you
Nancy I was so saddened to learn of your illness & for what you have been going through the past couple of years. Please know your knowledge, time & inspiration that you have given so many from your Heart, has been gratefully appreciated by so many. I have been watching Sewing with Nancy since the 80′s. I have learned so much from you in all areas of sewing. I tape all your shows just to make sure I don’t miss one. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts & prayers. For the many years you have enriched so many lives I thank you.
Love and God Bless,
Dianne
OMG! Such an outpouring! I found you only a few short years ago and I wasn’t finished learning from you and enjoying your PBS publications I have been thinking of you since I heard the news. I hope that your website exists for a LONG time. I also hope that those closest to you find some peace reading all these posts. What an amazing testament to your impact on the world. May all your favorite things and people be with you all your days. Thanks for all you have done.
Nancy,
OMG!! Such outpouring from so many! I discovered you just the last 5 years or so. I have so enjoyed your PBS shows and will refer to your website often. I hope it will live in perpetuity for any new sewists. I wasn’t finished learning from and enjoying your teaching ways. I loved reading your very personal book and Thank You for sharing. Peace be to you all your days which I hope are filled with All that you love. Thank you too for sharing the situation you are in. I’m not sure I would be so open. I hope your family will find some peace in the messages here. I’ve been thinking about you since I heard the news.
Dear Nancy Z,
Thank you.
Thank you for showing more than just sewing and encouraging me to make so many things. The times I would laugh when fabric would roll off the tilted board or miss an occasional measurement. I would wait days and hours to see your wit and Sewing with Nancy show. Only my mom could do more. I would run to my sewing machine because of you. May I only say Bye for Now to my sewing room and think of you. You have touched so many you will never know. The Bob Ross of sewing.
Thank you.
Nancy, I am saddened by this news. You have taught so many and I hope we will all continue in your footsteps. So sorry you couldn’t “knit” another life for you to continue, however, those IN CHRIST have another home to journey to, HEAVEN. It must be a wonderful place because no one has returned to earth to tell us about it. I wish you comfort and peace, and to your family, many prayers and great memories to them. God will welcome you with open arms, so until we meet again, God Bless you.
Dear Nancy, It is with great sadness that I read of your diagnosis; I pray that your strong Faith will guide and support you. “…and under His wings you will find refuge.” Ps. 91
Thank you for all you have done, for all of the lives you have touched with your warmth, knowledge, and gentle humor.
Beverly
Nancy – I was so sorry to hear your news, but I am so glad you are spending precious time with your family and friends. I pray that God will continue to keep you and your family in his hands and I pray for you daily. I first found you on PBS when we got married in 1989. I recently found that your shows are online and have started watching the ones that I had missed. You always have tips and tricks that have helped me sew and spread the love of sewing to the kids in my 4-H sewing group. I will be sure to share your videos with them.
Nancy, Thank you for your years of education and entertainment. Both my mom and I love watching your show Saturday mornings. I will miss seeing you and learning from you. Wishing you and your family hope and peace.
Nancy,
You are a very special brave lady.Loved your wonderful shows and notions… So sorry to hear about your illness..Just remember God loves you and will hold you in the palm of His hands..
God bless you and your family…
Mary from Newfoundland
Nancy, your creativity and encouragement has been a pleasure to watch. Thank you so much, you will be missed. Cresside
I’m so sorry that you and your family are going through these terrible times. Your faith is so inspiring. I’m 72 and learned sewing in high school and have watched and learned so much from you over the years. What a legacy you leave. Two years ago I brought my Mom home for hospice and like you, her strength and love were incomparable. I lost my Dad six months later, and my brother one month after my Dad. Please know that the love you are sharing with your family and friends is so precious. May God watch over you all
Thank you for sharing your life and talents with us over the years.
I wish you and your family peace. Joan
Nancy and family, know that you are thought of kindly and tenderly by people you will never meet. Xox
Nancy,
You have touched so many with your courage, inspiration and God given talent to teach and share. I lost my mother November 9th to breast cancer and metastasis to her spine. She was the most amazing mother, teacher, seamstress, and woman of faith I have ever known. God blessed me with the privilege of having such a mother and also having the opportunity to spend the final 2 months of her life caring for her constantly. Those were the best days of my life. We spent many nights watching videos of “Sewing with Nancy” online when she couldn’t sleep and needed a distraction from her pain. She had already seen all of them, she never missed an episode, but she still enjoyed watching. I would get some of her fabric collection and she would plan what projects she wanted to do and eventually began to explain which projects she wanted me to complete for her great-grandchildren, her Angels. Now, she is our angel and I know she is rejoicing in heaven. I see how many people have been pouring out their love for you and I don’t know if you will read all of these comments, but I want you to know, if you read this one, you not only touched my mother in her life’s journey, but in her final days, she still found joy from your work. I pray you and your family take the time to cherish every moment you have together, we all should.
With great appreciation, love and prayers,
Linda Tolleson
Dear Nancy first great big hugs for you. I and many of us are praying for you. Your show has been my favorite for years, I have learned so very much from you. You are the kindest sweetest person i know, Your great journey here may come to an end but you have a new journey ahead of you with our Lord. You will be missed. I will continue to faithfully watch your show . Thank you so much for sharing so much of yourself with us.
Nancy, I first found you when my youngest was born in 1984 and couldn’t sleep. I was immediately hooked on your show.
For me, you have become an instant friend who was always there with new ideas, and encouraging words. I just want to say ” Thank you”. Your program is the best and has always been my favorite.
I have learned many things, including we all make mistakes.
I have watched and learned that there are always more than one way to do things.
I will never forget and I will pass on the information that I have learned from you.
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Take Care,
Ava Latimer
A grateful viewer
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for all your years of dedication. I have learned many things from you. I always looked forward to watching your program.
When my daughter moved to Juneau,WI, I was so glad because I finally had a reason to visit your store. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your extended family.
Thanks again for the many lessons.
Therese
Nancy, I DO share your faith, and while I did not know in detail, your faith has shown forth in all you do. Praying for strength and grace for you and your family. None of us can really know what you’re going through unless we’ve been through it ourselves. We have a daughter born with a malformation of her brain resulting in a seizure disorder, developmental delay, and more. She is 22 yrs. old and the verse that has carried me often times is John 9:3–When Jesus was asked why a certain man had been born blind, he answered, “…that the works of God should be made manifest in him.” I’m certain this has already been true in your life. I have been sewing for over 50 years, yet I have learned so much from you, been inspired by you and appreciate your sharing your expertise and your life with us. Hold fast to those verses the Lord has given you, and God bless you.
Aloha Nancy, I remember my weekends, early mornings, watching & anticipating on what I would be learning & you never disappointed me.. I thank you for putting all that time, love & energy into your shows & work & sharing that with everyone. You are an inspiration. My prayers & thoughts are with you & your family…
Cheryl
Dear Nancy,
Just think back to all of the comments here and you will know how I feel about you and all that you have done in the sewing world. You are a very gracious lady in all that you do and you sharing your personal life with us speaks so highly of you. Thank you for all I have learned from you and all that I still have to learn. May God bless you and your family at this time and I pray for eternal peace for you. God be with you till we meet again.
God Bless You and Your Family. Thank you for sharing so much of your life story with us in Seams Unlikely, it was truly an inspiration. I haven’t watched your show for the whole 30 years but I have watched for many years and enjoyed each episode Take care and again, thanks.
Susan
God bless you and your family.
Dear Nancy, I am forever grateful to you for inspiring me to return to sewing and eventually turning my skills toward quilting. I love your shows, mostly because you come across as a kind and caring individual with the talent and wisdom to make the world a better place. I will greatly miss my 6 a.m. New York visits with you on learning new and improving old techniques. I feel as though I know you through my viewing hours and cannot express enough my sorrow at your illness. Please know that you are loved by many besides your friends and family–you have made a mark on this earth for many quilters who are grateful for the knowledge and the chance to share our skills with others through charity and wellness. God Bless You and your family through this terrible time. Love and Peace to You. Edna
Thank you for your dedication to sharing your knowledge and expertise with those of us who needed guidance!
Be encouraged! May the grace and mercy of our Heavenly Father sustain you; may the love of Christ inspire you; may the power of the Holy Spirit empower you.
May the love of those who surround you give you strength.
DEAR NANCY,
I DISCOVERED YOUR SHOW ABOUT 5YRS AGO AND IT HAS REALLY BEEN AN INSPIRATION TO ME, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE OF THE SEWING WORLD I HAVE ENJOYED YOUR SHOWS, I WILL NOT SAY GOODBYE ONLY GOD KNOWS YOUR PATH I WILL HOWEVER SAY SEE YOU LATER AND I WISH YOUR GRANDDAUGHTER ALL THE SUCESS THAT HER WONDERFUL GRANDMOTHER HAS HAD AND THAT SHE TO WILL INSPIRE YOUNG GIRLS AS I AM TRYING TO TEACH MY GRANDDAUGHTERS TO SEW. SO WITH THAT SAID THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART, GOD BLESS YOU AND I WILL PRAY THT HE WILL HEAL YOU.
A LOVING FAN ALWAYS
Dearest Nancy,
You are a thread that runs through the tapestry of so many of our lives, ever present and forever a part of the picture that makes us who we are. I look at you as being a blessing to so many and know that we would not be able to sew as we do without your sharing your love of sewing and making the impossible, possible for us. I count myself very blessed to have had you in my life as a mentor. My prayers and love are you and your family. Sue
Dearest Nancy, I have followed you on You tube for many years, and you have shown me how to turn my home into a place of elegance. With your wonderful ideas and patient explanations of how to make something stylish out of a piece of fabric. Like you, I have been ill and been able, thanks to you, to lose myself in making beautiful things for not only myself, but also my friends and family. I hope you do not mind my expressing my thanks to you for assisting me in my needlework endeavours, I have yet to see all of your episodes on You Tube, but I am getting there! Now is the time for you to put your feet up, and take that well deserved rest and as they say, “Go with God”. May He bless and watch over your family, my prayers and love are sent to your and your loved ones, and thanks once again for the informative and wonderful ideas and beautiful things you have helped me and many others to make over the years.
May God take you in His arms and hold you forever,
Meg R.
my prayers are for you. but your life has just begun. thanks for the memories. If your life is right with God, you will have more than enough to share up in Heaven. Thanks for keeping us sewing and busy with our lives. thanks and may God bless your family
Nancy, I have so enjoyed watching your show with so much admiration not only for your talent but for who you are. Your scripture verse from Proverbs is my life verse also. We cannot understand so we must trust God and what he has for us. I pray for you peace and comfort. Thank you for your contribution to our sewing lives.
My first encounter with you was in Waupaca where you demonstrated how to sew a half slip nearly 4 decades ago. You have used your skills in teaching and encouragement to bless thousands since. 2 weeks ago I was struggling to deal with the impact Hurricane Harvey would likely have on the fabric art from water and mold in our condo at the eye of the storm in Tx. A previous program inspired me to start making “Hurricane” blocks out of scraps leftover from my original wall hangings. You have equipped many to cope and care by taking their scraps and turning them into quilts and other useful blessings. That will continue for generations. You and I have been blessed by generations before us (Spiegelbergs and others) who have used their hands to bless others. There is vivid evidence in your life of Romans 8:28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose”. You certainly have headed His calling on your life. Thank you for blessing so many in the process. Marcia Rhone
I’m 37 years old, so I’ve been watching you literally my entire life. I can’t remember when I started, but I also can’t remember a part of my life without you in it. You, and my mom, taught me to sew. I will be grateful for the rest of my life for those skills, and for you. Thank you.
Thank you for all you’ve done over the years to promote the love of sewing and creating. You’ve been an inspiration to so many of us. I’m keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
God Bless you, Nancy
I have enjoyed watching your show for as long as I can remember. I want to thank you for everything. Many blessings~
Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful talents with all of us over the years. All of your hard work and dedication has clearly, from all the comments here, not gone unnoticed or unappreciated. I remember seeing your show when I first came to this country and being excited that there was a “sewing show” on TV. I had never seen an entire show all about sewing before. In the years since, I have loved watching your show, looked up YouTube videos of yours when I was stuck with a project and pinned a bunch of your projects on Pinterest. You have been (and will continue to be) a wonderful teacher to so many people.
May God bless you and your family with an abundance of His love, strength and peace during this difficult time.
So sorry to hear this. May God give you strength as you go through this next journey in your life. I’ve always enjoyed your show. Sending prayers of comfort & peace to you.
OMG Nancy, I count you as one of my outstanding teachers. I don’t like going to take classes, but to sit in my living room and watch you present these creative shows were among the highlight of my sewing years. I have been sewing since 1968 and have been inspired by you and your guests for many of those years.
May God grant you peace and help you and your family thru this time.
Nancy, I think that your show is one of the best fiber arts shows I’ve seen. I’ve learned so much from watching you and love the practical projects that you’ve shown. I’m thankful that I’ve been able to watch and learn from you. God bless you and your family and friends. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Dearest Nancy,
I just today read your letter letting us all know of your plans. I was so touched that you felt you could be open with us and I feel so saddened and shocked by your medical diagnosis. Thank you for your outreach to all of us and please know that you will be in my prayers. Blessings to you and all your loved ones.
Thank you for the many years you have enriched so many lives.
I am praying for you Nancy. I have faith too, so there is nothing to fear. Thank you for all that you have taught and inspired me to do over the past many yrs. You will never know how much you’ve meant to all of me (us) before we even had all these internet visual & social groups now days. Thank you so much for all of your hard work & teachings, you were wonderful. God Bless you!
I can’t find the proper words in this situation, all I can say is: THANK YOU FOR ALL. In the country where I am from, we use to salute like this: GOD HELP!
Thanks for enriching my life. You are an inspiration. Pax vobiscum.
Dear Nancy,
You have encouraged me in hobbies that have given me great joy. Your grace, courage and faith inspire me. Thank you for these wonderful gifts. Prayers for you on your journey. You will be remembered with love.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you seems so inadequate for all the things you have taught me through the years, on TV as well as on the web. I have so many of your notions, you are a true pioneer. Once again you are showing us something new, I wish you peace, I love your faith and hope your forward journey is a blessing to your family. See you on the other side.
While I have only started watching your shows within recent years, I’ve been blessed by your willingness to share your gift and knowledge of sewing with the world. Thank you. May God be with you and your family during this time.
Nancy, God is leading you in a different direction and I have prayed for many people with cancer so I would encourage you to try clinical trials. Put yourself completely into God’s hand and trust him to bring you through. I am reading Psalms and realize how David was hanging on by the skin of his teeth. All my love and all his love,
Prayers Lifting! God Bless you and your family, you have given so much of yourself, and helped so many – We love you!
Lynda
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for sharing your love of sewing with the world. I have learned so much from your tv shows, I am a confident sewer and quilter because of you. You have been a wonderful role model for all of us. “God gives us all a special gift, what we do with that gift is our special gift to God.” Wishing you all the best.
Dear Nancy,
So hard to hear this….can’t imagine what you and your family are going through. I pray that you find peace and comfort in our Lord.
You have taught me so much over the last few years. Also brought my mom and I hours of learning together. She has Alz, and sewing is new to her again. Thank you for giving me an Avenue for my bittersweet memories with my mom.
Love you
I would like to thank you for all of the products that you have developed and all of the shows that you have been in and produced. You have been a go to teacher for me. I am really sorry for you to have your cancer to come back. I do agree with you on your faith. I with you the best for the rest of your time with your family and friends.
Dearest Nancy,
I am so sorry to hear of you retiring and the terms you were handed. Not easy for you or your family. Enjoy each day to the fullest. Take trips before it gets to hard. I know God is good but very hard to understand at times. You are probably the person I watched on PBS. I have learned so much and I thank you for all you have done for the quilting and sewing industry. You will never be forgotten–that is your legacy—love you much,Wendy Dillon
Nancy,
My sewing skills have grown, so much, because of you…I thank you very much. Your belief in God will help carry you and your family, through this difficult time and on. This isn’t a good by, just a see you later. You will always remain in our hearts and prayers.
Fran
I am so sorry to hear of your illness. Believe in God and I will be praying for you and your family. Loved your shows and books.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you so much for sharing your talents and love of sewing with us! I have learned so much from watching you as a kid and have continued watching you throughout my life as an adult. My daughter and I now watch your shows on the WPS website and we love them! You have been a source of sewing encouragement and education for many across the globe! I am grateful for all the skills that I have learned from your shows and books. I never doubted that I could do it because you said we could! Hugs to you!
Nikita
Thank you Nancy for all the years of encouragement and knowledge that you have shared with so many of us. I began sewing at the age of 12 and even though I had a good understanding of sewing techniques, you gave me so many wonderful tips and ways to expand that knowledge. You have inspired all of us with your selfless giving and all of the worthy causes you have supported over the years. My heart goes out to you and my prayers for you and your family. God Bless you.
Nancy, I have enjoyed watching you through the years on PBS. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 8/2015. I was going through surgeries and chemotherapy about the same time as you. I know had hard it must have been to endure that and keep the schedule you did. I admire you. Thank you for that, and for your guidance through the years. I pray for the best possible outcome for you, and for courage, strength and peace, each day.
Hi Nancy. I have so enjoyed watching your show on PBS through the years. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 8/2015 and was going through surgeries and chemo about the same time as you. I know how difficult it must have been to go through that, and keep the schedule you did. I admire your strength. I pray for the best outcome for you and continued courage, strength and peace. ❤️
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for all the years of teaching & inspiration. I will pray for you.
God bless,
Doreen
Dear Nancy,
You do not know me at all, though somehow I feel I know you; we both share faith in our Lord Jesus Christ; and you have been a mentor to me, both for sewing and for life. I feel sorry I never wrote to give you a word of thanks and tell you how much you meant to me, (but I felt I was just a very small dot in the ocean of your viewers). I am sure there are countless others for whom you have made this difference, and from the bottom of my heart, I thank you dearly and kindly. I will be praying for you, and look forward to meeting you in that bright and shining Beulah Land one day, with the Lord God of creation Who gives us this gift of artistic creation and Whose gift you so beautifully used and blessed others with. Nancy, may all your days be full of the grace and dignity you have always possessed and shared with us, and may the Lord Jesus Christ full of all grace and mercy receive you unto Himself with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Love in Jesus, Margaret
Nancy,
While I am not someone who sews, I had the honor and pleasure serving with you, shoulder to shoulder, on a non-profit board supporting adoption. I appreciate your insight, wisdom, and dedication.
Know that we are praying for you and your family during these difficult days.
I am so sorry to hear about your illness. I was not aware of any of this. You have done great all these years, working so hard and dealing with illness as well. I have watched you for years and purchased your books and notions as well. You have been such a blessing to sewers and quilters. I am so glad you talked about your faith and peace and I will be praying for you. A scripture that has blessed me so much in the last months ( I recently lost my husband) is from Psalm 23. “..You LEAD ME” beside still waters and in the paths of righteousness….” God bless you – you are great!
Nancy,
I have watched you since the beginning. I raised my boys and sewed their clothes right along with your tv shows. Your sewing techniques were a bright spot in my life. I almost lived to sew in the 1980s! I loved all your ready-to-wear techniques that gave great results and fast results. Throw away those pattern instructions! I do this Nancy’s way. Thank you for being you and sharing yourself with all of us. You made a difference. Bless you. I wish the very best.
Dear Nancy,
I have known you since we were four years old. You have always amazed me with your talents, but above all, I continuously marvel at your courage to rise above all the health issues you have encountered throughout your life. You exude class and poise that very few people can even hope to achieve. My prayers are with you as you continue your journey.
Marde
Your work has provided many inspirations…in quilting, sewing, and sharing with others.
May you find that God is holding you even closer now. May your faith in Him inspire others, encouraging them to follow closely after our Lord.
Nancy, You have been my favorite since I can remember. Yeh hints, tips and how tos have been the reason I continue to sew. My you find peace in knowing all of the many people you have helped. I pray for you and your family.
Dear Nancy,
I have watched you and learned from you for so many years. Peace and strength to you and your family and friends. The friends must number in many thousands!
Best,
Karen Harvey
Dear Nancy,
I hope you know that you are so inspirational for so many people, not only generously sharing your vast sewing expertise, but also inspiring “lapsed” sewists like me into rediscovering our sewing and quilting passion again and truly enjoying the process. You are so loved by all of us as a trusted friend we see every week who inspires us to be our best. You are such a gifted teacher! You are a shining example of how to reach our potential while living life as a truly kind person. Bless you and your family now and always. ~Lisa, a sewist since age 4
Much love and many prayers are with you, mine included. The Scripture you quoted has been my life verse for many years. On our life’s path, God is in front of us, behind us and along side of us. We serve an awesome God.
Nancy, Nancy, Nancy, You sure know how to drop a horrible leaded balloon! And I’m sure your feeling the same. Goodness gracious, this was not supposed to be your part of the story.
You’ve fought and conquered sooo very much. Your untouchable!
Well, I’m guessing the good man upstairs has another and another hurdle to jump over when he see you. I don’t get it though!!!
You’ve been a wonderful companion and a great friend dearest Nancy. I’ve watched you from the beginning in your dining room all the way through and just finished your book. So enjoyed it and what similarities.
My heart and prayers will always be with you and your family and friends. God bless you. With lots of tears and great hugs,
Kris Crocker
Nancy,
You have touched my life and many, many others through the years as you have shared your many sewing talents. You are so loved and will be greatly missed. God has had His hand in your life and will continue into the spirit world. He must have a greater need for your there if He is calling you home. I look forward to meeting you again when it is my turn to leave this mortality. Sending you my prayers for peace and love.
Nancy,I have watched your program for many years;my late Mom & I enjoyed your show together,I’m glad I have that memory.I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis but,I do share your belief,keep your faith strong in God and He will see you through anything you face.There are many,like myself,that will miss your show but,I will continue to watch any and all future programs aired.I will keep you and your family in my prayers as you face unknown roads of health issues and you will always be in my heart and memory as the elegant lady that sews.God bless you Nancy with love and peace that passes all understanding,that only comes from God. Thanks,take care and God’s blessing,Amy
Thank-You so very much for all you have done from your corner talks and tv show inspirations. I will miss you so very much as I do my own mother, we used to watch you together, until she passed. I still watch you on Sundays even if it is a repeat or a show I love. You have been a blessing to my soul for many years. Sending heartfelt love and prayers to you and your family. Much Love, Deb
Nancy, I have watched your your show my entire adult life. You have been an inspiration. God is with you and I am praying for you and God’s healing powers.
I read this last week. I was so saddened about Nancy’s letter. I feel as if I am loosing another friend. let me rephrase that. I feel I have known Nancy a very long time, I have always trusted her, and whenever I was stuck I looked to Nancy for advise. I guess Nancy was a friend. May the rest of your days be abundant with love and family. Jane
Thank you Nancy for all you have shared with us.
God Bless you and your family.
Annette
Dear Nancy,
Thank you!
Bless you,
Holly
Nancy,
Your show has touched thousands, if not millions. You have inspired me in my sewing over the years. Thank you.
The Lord always carries us. I had a near death experience over 25 years ago during a car accident. You have absolutely nothing but beauty and the love of God to surround you as you transition from this life to the next. You will be celebrated, both here and there. May you be sustained by the peace only God can give. God Bless You.
Dear Nancy,
I have learned so much from you over the years. I feel so blessed to have met you at Sew Expo in Washington a few years ago, you graciously chatted with me as you signed your book for me. What a gift you have given the world by inspiring so many to sew and share their talents with others. God must be overwhelmed with the prayers coming in for you and your family, I pray He will carry you in His loving arms through this journey. Peace and love be with you and yours.
Diane
Dear Nancy,
My prayers are with you. I have watched your shows and ordered your products. I also have my mother’s books that you published. She was an amazing fan of yours as well. My granddaughters are learning to sew and I use your books on the Serger techniques, as well as sewing projects I found in the books of yours that my mom had and I inherited. I am sure as you travel to heaven, my mother will be sewing with you there. God bless you and be with you as you travel to his kingdom.
Marcia Stewart – Cheyenne Wy
Dear Nancy:
Thank you for sharing your talent and skill with me for so long a time. Whatever you presented taught me something new and helped me create.
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you as the Lord directs your path to Him.
With love,
Chris
Nancy
I want to tell you,even though I have sewn since I was eight, reading your book 10, 20, 30 minutes to sew changed my life! From that time on I made time to sew every day. I read anything you wrote, watched you on TV and thought of you each time I entered my sewing room. You inspired me to make 30 little dresses and 10 pairs of shorts for Africa and countless blankets and hats for charity. You are definitely my hero. I am so saddened by your situation and send prayers and positive thoughts for you and your precious family. We are all losing a trusted friend. Your memory and incredible body of work will live on! Blessings
Dear Nancy, I am so sorry about the reasons for your retirement. May God be with you as you travel this very difficult road. You have been such an inspiration to so many through the years. I have watched your shows for 30 years. I was fortunate to attend a couple of events at my dealers where you appeared. It was so great to actually meet and see you in person. I have several tapes I have recorded and always record and save your shows.
God Bless you always.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for all the wonderful shows you have made over the years. I am old enough to remember the first ones and was amazed at how anyone could know so much about sewing. Over the years you have changed your hair style and updated your clothes, but you remain the wonderful personality that you are. God be with you.
I am so sorry, mostly for myself, because I will miss you so very much. You have been a huge part of my life for so long. I just want to tell you goodbye old friend and run toward the light!
Much love,
P. J. Varner
Nancy,
Blessings to you and your family at this terribly difficult time. I have been a fan of your show for many years. Being a Wisconsin “girl” myself, I love that you have been such a big part of WPT. I have enjoyed my lazy Saturday mornings watching your show many times. Please know that you have impacted lives all over and that you have made a difference. Trust in your faith to carry you through this. Godspeed.
Nancy, I only discovered you in the last few years via You Tube, and I would like to join everyone in thanking you for sharing your talents so generously. I have joined with others here in the U.K. in making some little dresses for Africa, thanks to your good advice on construction, as well as learning eagerly from your other videos there.
I will keep you in my prayers and entrust you to God.
Thank you for everything, and God bless you.
Theresa
People helping people. By reading all the thoughtful notes from many of your viewers you have helped them immensely. I included. Hopefully, I can take what I have learned from you and pass it on to others that will miss your direct help. You and your knowledge of sewing will be missed. Hugs from Portland, Oregon.
Cancer has been around a long time and my hope is that someday the scientists will find a shot that will make out bodies fight the cancer as we do with the mumps and measles shots.
Dear Nancy Z,
Just a note that the scripture was one I repeated each day during my treatment for breast cancer. It gave me assurance as it sounds like it does for you. I have always appreciated your clear teachings. Thank you for all you have done for sewers everywhere.
Nancy A
You have given people so much courage , I have admired you all these years. HAVE LEARNED SO MUCH FROM YOU, NOT ONLY SEWING, BUT STRENGTH. MAY GOD BLESS YOU
I was shocked to hear of your news! With deep sorrow I say goodbye to you, you have taught me SO much! I’m so overjoyed that you too are a believer… God IS with you ALWAYS. HE is your strength, your healer, your God…HE loves you & will direct your steps. By HIS stripes You ARE healed. Past tense, already are, receive your healing by FAITH. Just as the woman with the issue of blood…Jesus said “daughter, by Your FAITH, you are healed”.
I say goodbye to you from the TV. Enjoy your retirement and your family, for years to come!!!!
Thank you for many inspiring episodes, and years of sharing your sewing, quilting, and embroidery knowledge with the needle arts community. You are a treasure.
Wishing you peace and love.
Dear Nancy, My mother was a self taught sewer who always loved to watch your show and who learned so much from you. I remember her talking about how helpful your show was and surprized at how simple you made something which she had thought was impossible. She never would have tried making pants without your help and once she got the hang of making them, that’s alll she wore. Reading your note brought tears to my eyes, I’m sorry to hear of your illness. You’ve inspired and helped so many people who have appreciated all that you have done. God bless you and thank you.
Dear Nancy,
I need to add my voice to the countless who thank you for enriching their lives.
Like so many, I have all of your excellent books, including Seams Unlikely (couldn’t put it down) and have travelled to hear you speak and instruct (always a thrill), have poured over and ordered from your fabulous Nancy’s Notions catalogues, and have many of your branded products, which I love – but Sewing With Nancy is the charm.
I have watched all episodes intently and happily, then played them (usually over and over) again while I worked on my current project, so I could have your company in the sewing room while I created!
As you wind down your professional career, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being the gracious star of your own life and for the magic of Sewing With Nancy.
God bless you in your next steps. Your fans will keep you close in our hearts and prayers.
Karen
Dear Nancy,
I am so sorry for your diagnosis. I pray that God will be with you. You have inspired me for many many years. I remember I went to Nancy’s Notions weekend seminar in Beaver Dam many many years ago. I was so impressed with you. It was my first trip to a seminar and I did it on my own. I even took a sewing machine along and sewed in my hotel room. You have inspired so many! Take Care. Paula
Nancy,
My mother watched your shows for years and used to “tape” them back in the video recording days.
Thank you for sharing with so many the love of sewing and creating! God bless, Kathi
Dear Nancy, My heart aches for you & your loved ones. May God be with you through this. Thank you for all you have done to help & teach beginners & accomplished sewers. God bless you, Mary
Nancy, at age 65, I can hardly remember a time I did not watch and learn from you. You have been my idol for a very long time and I was blessed to meet you in person at the Puyallup, Washington Sewing Expo in 2009. Thank you for all you have given to us.
May God Bless you and guide you and your family in the days ahead. Praying for you peace..
Whenever I had a chance, I watched and thoroughly enjoyed “Sewing with Nancy”. Your serene, pleasant, friendly attitude allowed one to learn so easily. Even with your retirement, this show will continue onward and I declare that you will live on too! When we have Him we literally have it all. He will honor your confession and acknowledgement. You will have life, life more abundant, plenty days in pleasure and years in prosperity. God is with you and so are my prayers. Be blessed! Be whole! …and I am quite sure we will hear from you again.
Whenever I had a chance, I watched and thoroughly enjoyed “Sewing with Nancy”. Your serene, pleasant, friendly attitude allowed one to learn so easily. Even with your retirement, this show will continue onward and I declare that you will live on too! When we have Him we literally have it all. He will honor your confession and acknowledgement. You will have life, life more abundant, plenty days in pleasure and years in prosperity. God is with you and so are my prayers. Be blessed! Be whole! …and I am quite sure we will hear from you again.
Nancy, I am glad that you know my Savior! I have watched your show, while at my mom’s side when I was a girl ( 30 years ago or so), and I continue to watch your shows with my 3 daughters at my side. I love your creativity and your legacy will live on through many pieces you have inspired. God bless you and may He comfort you and your family. <3 I don't know you, but with sewing and Jesus, I know I would like you.
Prayers from Alaska
Dearest Nancy. It is with great sorrow I feel upon reading your letter of farewell. You can never imagine what you have given to me and millions of others. I can feel what you are going through at this time, once there myself. Fourth stage and Hospice, and now my daughter. Cervical lung and now discovered 2 brain masses. However we put our faith in the Lord as I am sure you do the same. My favorite verse is John 14: 14. Ask anything of me and I will give it to you to honor and glorify my father in Heaven. He saw me through and I agreed to keep sewing for the babies in the hospital and the children at other places. You have taught me so much over these years. Charity sewing. Interment wear etc. I am 85 now and still sewing. I have been cancer free 3 years now. We can never give up hope. God is the great healer. As long as we never veer from believing that He can and will keep his word and a positive attitude, miracles do happen.
Nancy, You will be in my prayers always. May God keep you safe and bless you and your family.
In christian love. Marian J.
PS: I too set my alarm Monday thru Friday to be sure and watch ” Sewing with Nancy” on WUSF.” I wouldn’t miss it for the world.
Thank-you for sharing your talents. You have been a wonderful teacher to many and will continued to teach others in the years to come. I have watched and enjoyed for many years. God Bless you, Nancy.
Dearest, Nancy — rest assured that you have given us invaluable information and happiness from our shared love of sewing. Thank you – I learned so much from you over these many years. My prayers are with you and your family.
Nancy,
All these years I have been watching your programs and learning so much from you. I started watching when I was a young adult in Wisconsin (yes, I went to UW Stout too), then moved to New Mexico (where few people sewed), and now in Oregon (where sewing flourishes) for 25 years. You and I have been together all of these years.
I especially loved your sewing shortcuts and the viewers’ tricks and tidbits.
I thank you so very much for the strong role model, creative woman, and good person that you are. I am so grateful for the time we had together!
Blessings and peace to you,
Jill A.
Breast Cancer survivor
April 21, 2015
I HAVE WATCHED YOU FOR A LONG TIME, I HAVE BEEN INSPIRED BY YOUR PRESENTATIONS, I HAVE BEEN HEARD SAYING -to the tv – I FORGOT ABOUT THAT, I HAVE LEFT SEWING FOR A TIME BUT I ALWAYS COME BACK BECAUSE YOU WERE THERE REMINDING ME HOW GOOD IT FELT TO CREATE.
THANK YOU. GOD BLESS YOU AND PRAYERS FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
Your in my prayers. I have learned a lot from your show. You have inspired me in many ways, that only sewers know how that feels.
I know your shows will continue to be truly watched and enjoyed by many both young and old. Thank you and God bless!
Donna McCauley
Dearest Nancy, my heart and prayers are with you and your family. Thank you for all you have done to share your love of sewing.
I have enjoyed watching your program on PBS in Austin Texas for many years. I too have been a lover of sewing since my early teen years, and Today is my 62nd Birthday.
May you find peace and comfort in knowing our loving Father surrounds you with love❤️
I grew up on pbs in mn…..before cable…..Sunday’s had sewing with Nancy……I haven’t watched in years……but you were a part of my life I remember…..I’m sorry this happened you…..I hope many things for you
Dear Nancy,
You have inspired so many of us and will live on through our sewing and making you proud that you have given us your talents which will pass down for generation. You and our family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kendra
Hi Nancy, I hope you remember me from UW-Stout! I’m so sorry to hear of you recent diagnoses and wish you only the best. You are a wonderful person and I see all the great comments others have made about you and your shows. You’ll be in my prayers and whatever happens – God loves you and will take good care of you and your family. If there is anything I can do, please contact me here on Facebook! Prayers and Godspeed young lady! – Dave Dworak
Your show has been a blessing. Don’t give up hope for healing. I’ve been on a healing journey this year though not as challenging as yours. There are so many options and resources. Praying God shows you a pathway to healing.
Nancy,
You have been an inspiration for so many years, not only guiding us in our sewing endeavors, but providing an example of how be a truly good person. Bless you and your family now and always.
Cherished Nancy, Thank you for the many years of inspiration and for being the kind of human being who has not only taught me how to sew but has taught me how to live. You will be in my prayers always. In the depths of my soul, I know that disease and death are not the final answer or the final destination for our lives (that’s why I keep a “Heaven Bucket List” in my mind, one entry of which is “Sew with Nancy–in person!!”). I’m sending you worlds of love and this devotion, which has often soothed my soul: “On the first Easter morning, the apostles and holy women did not see a ghost of Jesus. They saw him in the flesh, but in a different flesh, as the oak tree is different from the acorn that was its origin. We touch on the mystery of a body, not just Jesus’s body but our own: a body that will express us at our best, will not dull our spirit with weariness and rebellion, but will express it with ease and joy. This is a mystery beyond our imagination, but it is the center of our faith. When we wish one another a happy Easter, we should take deep joy in the knowledge that the best part of us will cheat the grave. Our lives sometimes disguise that joy as weary bones and heavy flesh, and addled brains distract us. But our bodies already hold the seeds of resurrection. We are none of us mortal” (from Sacred Spaces devotional). With much love, Cate
You’re one of my personal heroes. Sewing has brought me years of joy and accomplishment, but I’ve learned a great deal more than sewing from you. God bless you and keep you in grace and good cheer. You are in my heart and my prayers, dear Nancy.
You are an inspiration to quilters and sewers everywhere, akin to Mr Rogers and his neighborhood to children. May your quilting episodes and escapades be re-shown for generations to come!
Dear Nancy,
I will miss you but I will be praying for you and family. God bless you and lead you on this your next journey. Until we meet again on heavens sweet shore, God be with you.
Dear Nancy,
Thank you for making the world a better place. You are a beautiful woman who has inspired and enlightened so many with your knowledge and kindness. You are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Meme
My dearest Nancy,
I am as shocked as everyone else and because you have so many other comments, I’m not sure you will even see this. I want to thank you for being you. Hang on to your faith and I will keep you and your family in my prayers. You have always been an inspiration to us all and one of the nicest people I’ve ever met.
My husband and I stopped into your store many years ago on our way back home from a trip to Ca. and you took time out of a meeting you were in, to come out so I could meet you in person! I’ve never forgotten that and still, to this day,talk about that day. For me it was like meeting the most famous star in the world!
I will miss you immensely! You are loved by millions.
Jessie Fyfe (Manchester, Pa)
It is with a heavy heart that I read your goodbye. I learned so much from your shows when I was sewing my own clothing. Thank you for giving me the knowledge you shared with so many others.
May God bless you now, always and forever ❤️❤️
Nancy, I will keep this simple. You have meant a lot to me and so many others. God bless.
Dear Nancy,
I am so sad to read this, but I know that your show will keep going, so I’m going to pretend. In the meantime, I wish you a calm and peaceful journey with those that you love. God bless you and keep you.
Sara Ann
I am so sorry to hear this but want to thank you for being such a lovely lady all these years. I have watched right along for many years and always enjoy your program. God Bless you and your family. Psalm 139.
May the Lord bless you and keep you, may his face shine upon you and bring you peace ❤️
Dear Nancy, I’m so sorry to hear about the cancer. I will pray to St Jude for you and your family. I started watching sewing with Nancy in 1982 when my daughter was born, and enjoyed every minute of it. You always asked the questions that as a viewer I wanted to ask. Your grace and giving heart have set marrk on the world. I will for ever miss seeing you.
I love you Nancy.
I was a new home every teacher when I first discovered your TV series and books. Learned and taught many of your techniques and tips. Thank you for sharing your gift.
Dear Nancy,
You, above everyone else taught this “self-taught” sewer. I am sorry to hear of your diagnosis. You are on my prayer list. God Bless you and keep your Faith shining. Thank you, thank you, thank you, for all of your shows. Thank you for being YOU.
I am a 70 year old woman, who has sewed right along with you, Nancy, from the beginning. I have learned so much from you; and as you grew, so did I. Thank you for your gifts to our sewing/quilting community. Thank you for your grace. Thank you for your spirit. Thank you for teaching us, even now. God Bless you, and yours.
Nancy sorry to hear the news of why you are going to retire. I had a boss who at 39 was given 6 – 12 months with his cancer, he is now 74 and has many bouts of cancer but his faith has helped him to overcome. My girlfriend also was given 6 months but fought it and lived 2 1/2 years and enjoyed her family. I pray and hope your prays help you. I have enjoyed many years of watching your show as well as ordering from you. God bless and good luck
Thank you for all the years of positively influencing others to be creative and do good things. I have never met you in person, but you seem like an old friend! Praying for you and your journey. God is always good.
I probably would have given up on sewing if it wasn’t for you Nancy. Thank you for giving me the love of sewing.
Dear Nancy,
I was saddened to read your goodbye letter but its time for you to concentrate on you and your family. Thank you for all the years of quality quilting ideas and instructions. I set my alarm many times just to see you and all your wonderful ideas. For years I felt I was the only person who loved creating quilts and then I ran across your program and realized there was a whole world out there for people like me, so thanks. My prayers are with you and your family. With love, Coleen
Going to miss your shows. Your show was one of the first sewing shows that I watched when my kids were little. I would take the hour when they were in bed for a nap and enjoy the peace and quiet. I still tune in on YouTube so that I can learn from you and your wonderful guests. Enjoy your retirement.
Nancy, my prayer are with you and your family. I went to the Sew Expo with my friend Bertine Hofmann in the 80′s for the first time and continued for sew many years with her. I had Kidney cancer in 2015 and survived. I love your TV shows and own many of your books and products. Most of your products I get through Quality Sewing as I belong to their Sew Fun and get the new products there. A Washington State Fan!!!
Your faith is in the right One!
Dear Nancy, As cancer survivor myself, I can honestly say that we never know where this road will lead us. I have been a faithful viewer of your program starting first when I visited my family in Bismarck, North Dakota, and later when I could find it on the public stations in California. I learned many things from you and your program and shopped your products many times. I loved sewing and am sad that it is not as popular as when I started in the 1950s. I look forward to viewing your show in the years to come. Most of all thank you for all you have given to your public and my thoughts and prayers are with you going forward.
As a new follower, I was so happy to stumble across your video through a pin I found on Pinterest. I watched it and then saw you had posted a good by video. I am heartbroken by the news of your illness. I think your note was beautifully written and heartfelt. I wish you the very best and I know you are in good hands with your journey. God bless you and thank you for sharing your beautiful talent and story.
Nancy,
I am so sad, and yet thankful for the times I have been able to watch you and get to know you through your show and your blog.
Thank you for pouring your life into others. Thank you for sharing your gift.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Much love to you and yours Nancy, and Godspeed. <3
Jenn
For years, I would set my alarm on Saturday mornings to get up early and finish my chores so I could have uninterrupted TV time when your show came on. I always admired your lovely creations, cool style and upbeat personality. I often wondered how you did it all. You are a beacon of light to us all Nancy. My prayers go with you as you continue. And remember He will never leave you nor forsake you.
Xoxoxoxo,
Tish
Houston, Texas
I am so sorry to hear your news. I share your faith and I wish for you a blessed journey. I have told many of my quilter friends that I am a Nancy Zieman quilter–I enjoy your how-to section of your program but I really love your Nancy’s Corner highlighting the sewers who sew to help others. I sew for a few charity groups and I will do so, remembering you.
Dearest Nancy, I wrote to you after I saw your Good Bye letter, but it was under a shared Facebook stream by Susan Stulkis, Quilting. I want you to know how much you’re admired, & what an inspiration & Godly Example you’ve been to me & other women. I’ve been watching you since I was a young woman. I Love You Nancy, & I extend my Love to your family & production crew. Since those youthful years, I have been Baptized INto Christ’s Kingdom, & Hope That By the time it’s time for me to Transition, that it will be with many Good Deeds done in part through my sewing techniques — many which I’ve learned from you; & that these Good Deeds, Witnessed By Our Holy Spirit, Which The Lord Imparts To Us During our Redemption, Will Give Pleasure To Our Lord & GOD. I hope to meet you in person, IN Heaven. In the meantime, I have Prayed For You IN Jesus Most Holy Name; GOD’a Will Be Done. Goodbye — for now
Nancy,
I don’t have words to express how your good bye message affected me. My Mom forwarded it to me. I was a young girl when I remember my Mom watching your shows. I was young, and haven’t thought of it for years, but it brought back fond memories! I was sad because I have heard many similar experiences with cancer. Recently I have started to understand that there are many cancer alternatives that offer hope and a series I watched specifically about some of them…. https://www.cancertutor.com/global-cancer-documentary/
Ty lost his dad to cancer and this spurred him on. I have found an amazing health and nutrition company that has pure and potent products that have helped people with cancer. I know you have fought and may not want to look outside of where you currently are, but when I read your final message, I felt compelled to at least try to share my website (the link I entered above, where you can see it right up at the top with my personalized message with Proverbs 3:5-6)…. The quote from proverbs which you quoted is the quote that I have dedicated my Shaklee business endeavors with. I feel so keenly that quote sums up so much! I tears came. You are so right and I hope you see this comment so that you know that your message has touched me.
Go With God,
Anastasia Martinez
Dear Nancy,
I grew up on a dairy farm in Menomonie, WI and learned/loved to sew while very young. My grandmother and mom were accomplished seamstresses. My mom (“Jimmie” Quilling) was the secretary to the Assistant Dean of Home Economics at UW Stout for many years. I’m sure your paths crossed. Both she and I are Stout grads and always felt pride for what you have accomplished. Hugs and prayers for you and your family.
Thank you for hours and hours of entertainment and learning, and thank you for the hours and hours of frustration you have saved me. You are a role model of perseverance and caring. I am just another one of those faceless people who love Nancy Zeiman.
I hope your staff will continue your empire and a Wisconsin quilting show. I will watch your reruns for the rest of my life.
Thank you! Stay strong! and may you enjoy your retirement. You are beloved!
Beth
Dear Nancy.
I’m normally not one who submits comments, but I was so touched by your personal good-bye note to your followers, and that you took the time to write at a most painful and devastating time for you and your family, that I felt compelled to write you.
I have been sewing since I was a child, and I have watched your show since the early 80′s when I was newly married. Since then you have inspired me to learn quilting and embroidery as well. You have been a friendly face that visits my living room every week, so I feel like I know you. Every week I look forward to seeing your show, and I will so miss seeing you on Sewing with Nancy, but will continue to watch and re-watch past and future episodes.
You are a true inspiration, Nancy, and I thank you for your hard work and dedication to teaching the wonderful art of sewing, quilting, and embroidery. The world needs more selfless people like you.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you.
Debbie Boudreau – New Brunswick, Canada
Nancy, like all the other thousands said, You have been inspirational in all you do and create to me plus most my quilter friends. Let that comfort You in this time of distress. Your legacy will go on as long as this world exists, in a Good Way!! God Bless YOU & your family in your onward journey. Thank you for talents, products & time you’ve shared with us all. Love U
Nancy,
When I was young I was told that you never know who may be listening to you or watching you, and if you are to meet a stranger, that stranger could be an angel sent by God to help you so be sure to listen carefully. You, Nancy, have made a difference in my life. You taught me things about life that no one else ever could and I am thankful that I took the time to listen to you. You are a blessing to all that know you. It is okay to be sad but all of us want you to enjoy every second that you can. Thank you for being you. Celia
You will be missed by all. I have watched your show for many years. I am sure you have helped many women and some men learn to love quilting. From Canada many Thanks for all the years of fun and learning.
Dear Nancy,
I am at a loss for words. May I just start with THANK YOU for all that you have shared with all of us for so very long. I will cherish your gentle guidance and incredible generousity for always. Thank you ever so much for allowing me to be a part of your blog activity and for all of the creativity you have inspired through out the world. Your lessons are like twinkles in the air as each recipient grasps a new idea or concept in expanding their inner selves, and for that, you will carry on for generations. God bless you, Nancy.
I can think of very few people who have inspired so many to discover the joy of creating. Your life, as a whole, well beyond your sewing, is one that honors an indomitable spirit. I know you will take that into your treatment, and I pray that all those who are medically taking care of you will do so with the compassion, and love you deserve.