LINGLE – The Goshen County Quilters proudly hosted Scott Flanagan – nationally recognized quilt designer, fabric artist, teacher and author—for a special program on Friday, April 11, at North Hills Baptist Church in Lingle. The event coincided with quilting classes taught by Flanagan throughout the weekend.

Flanagan is a native of Fremont, Nebraska, a suburb of Omaha. He created his first quilt at just seven years old under the guidance of his grandmother. The early start grew into a lifelong passion, eventually leading to a career in quilt design, teaching, and textile artistry. While in college, he worked at a quilt shop and deepened his love for the craft, learning many valuable lessons along the way. As he often shares, “You learn your best lessons from your mistakes.”

Designing under the name 4th and Main Designs, Flanagan has been featured in national publications, including Quiltmaker Magazine’s 2013 issue highlighting male quilters and later in Quilters World Magazine. In 2020, he launched his website and Facebook page, released his first book and fabric line and sold his first original quilt pattern. He continues to write books and create patterns, including for his annual Summer Quilt-Along.

Flanagan credits his drive and success to the family he has found in the quilting community. In 2017, he developed a voice disorder –spasmodic dysphonia – which left him without a clear speaking voice. Quilting became his means of communication and healing. “Quilting is My Voice” became a banner phrase, describing how quilting became both his outlet and a way to share his experience. In 2018, he held a fundraiser to raise awareness and support during his struggle with the condition. 

“The quilters got me through the darkest days of my disorder,” Flanagan said.

Many of Flanagan’s designs carry personal meaning. In addition to those who pay homage to voice disorders, many of his creations reflect memories of his grandmother, his travels, and the friends he’s met along the way. His fondness for community was evident as he shared a Star Wars-themed quilt he created for a college friend. The inspiration for his 2025 Quilt-Along comes from the small towns he visits—places with vibrant city centers surrounded by local life.

Throughout the evening, Flanagan shared dozens of his quilts and the stories behind them – tales of creativity, resilience, and community. He even pointed out mistakes made along the way. While many of the Trunk Show attendees were already dedicated quilters, he encouraged those who were new or curious to get involved in their local quilting community. 

“Take a course at your local quilt shop,” he advised. “You never know where it might lead.”