Discover the innovative company that's been quietly transforming the quilting industry for over 20 years, and why their non-slip rulers and precision tools are becoming essential in sewing rooms everywhere
There's something magical about discovering a company that truly understands quilters. Not just what we buy, but what we actually need to create our best work. When I first learned about RNK Distributing and their Quilters Select line, I'll admit I was skeptical. Another company promising better tools? But after diving deep into their story and understanding the innovation behind their products, I realized this isn't just another tool manufacturer—this is a company that's been quietly revolutionizing how we quilt for over two decades.
Jennifer Gigas, the COO of RNK Distributing, recently shared the fascinating story of how this company came to be and why their approach to quilting tools is so different from everyone else's. What started as a solution to a very specific problem in the embroidery world has evolved into a comprehensive line of quilting tools that address the real challenges we face in our sewing rooms every day.
The Birth of Innovation: Solving Problems That Didn't Exist Yet
RNK Distributing was founded just over 20 years ago with a simple but powerful mission: to create household products specifically designed for home embroidery machines. This might not sound revolutionary now, but at the time, it was groundbreaking. The embroidery industry was focused on commercial applications, and home embroiderers were left trying to adapt commercial products to their very different needs.
This problem-solving approach became the DNA of RNK Distributing. Instead of creating products and then finding markets for them, they identified real needs in the quilting and sewing community and developed solutions. This philosophy led to the creation of both their Floriani line for embroidery enthusiasts and their Quilters Select line for quilters who demand precision and reliability from their tools.
What I find most compelling about RNK's approach is how they listen to their community. The Quilters Select line, for example, was born from feedback from quilters like Alex Anderson who needed lighter, more user-friendly fusible products. This wasn't a boardroom decision—it was a response to real quilters expressing real needs.
The Game-Changing Gold: Why Quilters Select Rulers Are Different
Let's talk about those distinctive gold rulers that are showing up in more and more sewing rooms. At first glance, you might think the color is just a marketing gimmick, but there's serious innovation behind that golden hue. The real magic isn't in how they look—it's in how they perform.
Every Quilters Select ruler features a complete non-slip coating on the back surface. Not just strips or dots, but the entire back of the ruler. This might seem like a small detail, but if you've ever had a ruler slip during a crucial cut, you know how frustrating and potentially dangerous it can be. The non-slip coating eliminates that problem entirely, giving you confidence and accuracy in every cut.
But here's what really impressed me: these rulers are truly ambidextrous. The markings go in both directions, which means left-handed quilters finally have rulers designed with them in mind. As someone who's watched left-handed friends struggle with tools clearly designed for righties, this attention to inclusivity speaks volumes about RNK's commitment to serving all quilters.
The precision of these rulers is remarkable. When you're working on intricate piecing or trying to achieve perfect points, having a ruler that stays exactly where you put it makes all the difference. The non-slip coating means you can apply consistent pressure without worrying about the ruler shifting, leading to more accurate cuts and less hand fatigue.
The Weighted Wonder: Rethinking the Rotary Cutter
RNK's approach to the rotary cutter is another example of their thoughtful innovation. Instead of making it lighter (which seems logical), they made it heavier. This counterintuitive design choice actually makes perfect sense when you understand the ergonomics of cutting.
The weight of the Quilters Select rotary cutter helps keep your arm in the correct position during cutting, reducing strain and improving accuracy. It's like having a built-in guide that encourages proper technique. For quilters who do a lot of cutting, this can make a significant difference in comfort and precision over long cutting sessions.
The blade-changing mechanism is equally thoughtful. A magnetic pin keeps the blade secure during changes, preventing those heart-stopping moments when the blade goes flying across your cutting table. These might seem like small improvements, but they add up to a significantly better user experience.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding the Quilters Select Universe
What started with rulers and rotary cutters has grown into a comprehensive system of quilting tools. The recent additions to the Quilters Select line show how RNK continues to identify and solve problems quilters face.
The new 60-degree diamond and triangle rulers, along with Dresden rulers, all feature the same non-slip coating that makes the original rulers so popular. This consistency across the product line means you can build a complete set of tools that all work the same way, reducing the learning curve and increasing your confidence with each new tool.
The collaboration with Poppy Cotton Fabrics on the pink cutting mat demonstrates RNK's willingness to partner with other companies to create unique solutions. This mat features a cutting surface on one side and a crafting surface on the other, maximizing utility in smaller spaces. It's the kind of practical innovation that shows deep understanding of how quilters actually work.
The Science of Support: Stabilizers and Fusibles That Actually Work
One area where RNK's expertise really shines is in their stabilizer and fusible products. Drawing from their embroidery background, they understand the critical role these products play in achieving professional results. Their range includes cut-away, tear-away, and wash-away stabilizers, each formulated for specific applications.
The lightweight tear-away stabilizer is particularly noteworthy for decorative stitching and appliqué work. It provides the support you need during stitching but removes cleanly without damaging delicate fabrics or leaving residue. This attention to the removal process is something many manufacturers overlook, but it's crucial for achieving clean, professional-looking results.
Their fusible products come in different weights designed for various fabric types. This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach—it's a recognition that different projects require different solutions. Having the right weight fusible for your specific fabric can make the difference between a smooth, professional application and a frustrating, puckered mess.
The Comfort Factor: Batting That Understands Your Needs
RNK's approach to batting reflects their overall philosophy of understanding what quilters actually need. Their range includes wool, cotton, and cotton blend options, each designed for specific applications and preferences.
The wool batting offers exceptional softness and drape, making it perfect for quilts that will be used and loved rather than just displayed. Wool's natural properties provide warmth without weight, and it's naturally flame-resistant—a safety feature that's often overlooked but increasingly important.
Their poly-cotton blend batting addresses common concerns about shrinkage and weight. It's lighter than traditional cotton batting and shrinks less, making it ideal for quilters who want predictable results without extensive pre-washing and preparation.
For embroidery applications, they offer denser batting that provides the stability needed for detailed stitching while still maintaining the softness expected in finished quilts. This specialized approach shows how RNK's embroidery expertise informs their quilting products.
The Thread Revolution: Floriani's Lasting Beauty
While Quilters Select focuses on tools and notions, the Floriani line addresses the actual materials that become part of your finished quilts. Their embroidery thread represents a significant advancement over traditional options, particularly in durability and appearance.
The shift from rayon to polyester thread might seem like a technical detail, but it has real implications for the longevity of your work. Polyester thread maintains its color and strength over time, while rayon can fade and weaken. For quilters creating heirloom pieces, this durability is crucial.
The high sheen of Floriani thread provides the visual impact that makes decorative stitching pop, but it's the thread's consistency that really matters for achieving professional results. Inconsistent thread can cause tension problems and uneven stitching, while high-quality thread like Floriani's performs predictably stitch after stitch.
The Educational Commitment: More Than Just Products
What sets RNK apart from many manufacturers is their commitment to education. They don't just sell you tools—they help you learn to use them effectively. QR codes on their rulers link to instructional videos, making it easy to access guidance right when you need it.
Their ongoing stitch-along series on the official Quilters Select Facebook group creates a community of learning and sharing. This isn't just marketing—it's genuine support for quilters who want to improve their skills and get the most from their tools.
Jennifer's vision for expanding RNK's educational offerings shows a company that understands its role in the quilting community extends beyond manufacturing. By partnering with designers and educators, they're helping to elevate the entire craft.
The Innovation Pipeline: What's Coming Next
RNK's commitment to innovation means they're constantly developing new solutions for quilters. The upcoming "travel-size" rulers address the needs of quilters who attend classes, retreats, and workshops. These smaller tools maintain the same non-slip technology and precision as their full-size counterparts while being more portable.
This attention to different use cases—studio quilting versus portable quilting—shows how thoroughly RNK thinks about their customers' varied needs. Not every quilter works in the same way or the same space, and having tools designed for different situations makes the craft more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
The Quality Investment: Why RNK Tools Pay for Themselves
While RNK products might cost more than basic alternatives, they represent a different approach to tool ownership. These aren't disposable items that you'll replace in a year or two—they're precision instruments designed to last and perform consistently over time.
The non-slip coating on the rulers doesn't wear off with use. The weighted rotary cutter maintains its balance and precision through thousands of cuts. The stabilizers and fusibles perform consistently, reducing waste and frustration. When you calculate the cost per use over the lifetime of these tools, they often prove more economical than cheaper alternatives.
More importantly, quality tools improve your quilting experience and results. When your rulers don't slip, your cuts are more accurate. When your rotary cutter feels balanced and secure, you can cut with confidence. When your stabilizers perform predictably, your decorative stitching looks professional. These improvements in your work are worth far more than the price difference between good tools and great ones.
Building Your RNK Toolkit
If you're considering adding RNK products to your sewing room, start with the tools you use most frequently. For most quilters, that means rulers and a rotary cutter. The immediate improvement in cutting accuracy and comfort will convince you of the value of investing in quality tools.
From there, you can add specialized rulers for specific techniques you use regularly. The 60-degree rulers are perfect if you love working with diamonds and triangles. The Dresden rulers open up new design possibilities. Each addition to your toolkit expands your capabilities while maintaining the consistency and reliability you've come to expect.
Don't overlook the stabilizers and fusibles, especially if you do appliqué or decorative stitching. Having the right support materials can transform challenging techniques into enjoyable ones. The difference between struggling with inadequate stabilizers and working with products designed for your specific needs is dramatic.
The Community Connection
One of the most appealing aspects of choosing RNK products is joining a community of quilters who value quality and precision. The Quilters Select Facebook group provides ongoing support, inspiration, and education. It's a place where you can ask questions, share successes, and learn new techniques from fellow quilters who understand the value of good tools.
This community aspect extends beyond social media. RNK's partnerships with educators and designers create opportunities for learning and growth that go far beyond what you'd get from a typical tool manufacturer. When you invest in RNK products, you're not just buying tools—you're joining a community committed to excellence in quilting.
The Future of Quilting Tools
RNK Distributing represents the future of quilting tool manufacturing: companies that listen to their customers, innovate based on real needs, and support their community with education and resources. Their success over the past 20 years shows that quilters are willing to invest in quality when they see real value.
As the quilting community continues to grow and evolve, companies like RNK that understand both the technical and emotional aspects of our craft will continue to thrive. They're not just making tools—they're enabling creativity, supporting learning, and helping quilters achieve their best work.
The gold standard in quilting tools isn't just about color—it's about a commitment to excellence that shows in every product, every innovation, and every interaction with the quilting community. RNK Distributing has set that standard, and they continue to raise it with each new product and initiative.
Your quilting deserves tools that match your passion and skill. Isn't it time you discovered what the gold standard can do for your work?
Your RNK and Quilters Select Questions Answered
What makes Quilters Select rulers different from other non-slip rulers? The non-slip coating covers the entire back surface, not just strips or dots, providing superior grip and stability. Plus, they're truly ambidextrous with markings going in both directions.
Are RNK products worth the higher price? Quality tools like RNK's are investments that pay for themselves through improved accuracy, reduced frustration, and longer lifespan. The cost per use over time often makes them more economical than cheaper alternatives.
Where can I learn to use these tools effectively? RNK provides QR codes on their rulers that link to instructional videos, and they maintain an active educational presence on the Quilters Select Facebook group with ongoing stitch-alongs and tutorials.
What's the difference between Quilters Select and Floriani products? Quilters Select focuses on quilting tools and notions (rulers, cutters, stabilizers, batting), while Floriani specializes in embroidery products (threads, stabilizers, software).
Do I need to buy the entire system at once? Not at all! Start with the tools you use most frequently (usually rulers and rotary cutter) and add specialized items as your needs and interests develop.
Ready to experience the RNK difference? Visit Linda's Electric Quilters to explore the complete Quilters Select and Floriani product lines. Your quilting precision and enjoyment are about to reach a whole new level!
SEO Keywords: Quilters Select rulers, RNK Distributing, non-slip quilting rulers, Floriani thread, quilting tools, precision quilting, rotary cutter, quilting stabilizers, fusible batting, embroidery supplies, quilting accuracy, professional quilting tools, quilting equipment, sewing room tools
