January 19, 2005

Dear Subscribers to QuiltWorks Today and/or Miniature Quilts,

   Last week, when I wrote to let you know what was happening at Chitra (See original letter below), I was hoping for your understanding. I was not prepared for the incredible outpouring of love and support that you showered me with. I have heard many stories about the legendary kindness of the quilting community, but let me tell you, being the recipient of it is a profound and very healing experience. While the sad reality of my situation is still the same, your generosity of spirit has entirely changed the way I feel about the experience, and for this I am endlessly grateful. What else can I say but "thank you".  
 
  While most of you have told me not to worry about reimbursement, some have expressed the very understandable wish to receive some form of fulfillment in lieu of their subscription money. This is what I think I can do. In the next few days I will be posting a form on this website to make it possible for you to let me know which back issues or books you would like to receive. All the back issues will be available on a first-come, first-served bases. All the books will also be available, except the most current ones, and that's because I do not want to undermine quilt shops that are currently selling them. Each week I will be mailing out as many packages as cash flow enables me to, so once again I am asking for your patience. Thank you again for your incredible generosity.
 
                                                             With much love and gratitude,
                                                              Christiane

PS:  The form is now online. SUBSCRIPTION FULFILLMENT FORM - CLICK HERE
 

Dear QuiltWorks Today or Miniature Quilts Subscriber,

When I started Chitra Publications 18 years ago, I never thought it would end up like this. Upon producing the first issue of Quilting Today magazine, I admit to having little knowledge of publishing and no financial support. But after working 24/7 for the first two years, I believed that the hardest part was over. Little did I know how I would feel today: Those two years now seem like the good old days! That's because three months ago I had to face the fact that Chitra was going through a crisis far more serious than just another period of financial hardship. That's when I put the magazines up for sale.

My staff and I felt very confident that we had something of great value. After all, we worked well together and created great magazines and books. Plus we had a lot of very loyal customers. This made us hopeful that Chitra would soon be someone else's dream company. We were wrong, and to tell you the truth, I still don't understand it.

By December 17th, everyone in the company was laid off. It was both heartbreaking and heartwarming to see the 16 members of the Chitra family support and encourage each other before going their separate ways. However, four people have recently returned part-time to keep the book division running.

Meanwhile, I am discovering a side of the business world that I knew existed but that had no reality for me. For me Chitra was never about money (that might be why it is where it is today), but now it seems that all of a sudden it is only about money or, should I say, the lack of it. Unfortunately, the reality is that I can't afford to refund your money. The cost of postage makes it prohibitive to fulfill your subscriptions with back issues. (Just mailing one back issue at the cheapest media rate costs $1.42.) So what am I going to do? I'm not sure, but I do know one thing: I might not be a great businesswoman, but I am a dedicated quilter. That's why I can't help feeling there's got to be some way to take all these pieces and turn them into something beautiful. And now that the downward spiral has stopped (there is something to be said for rock bottom), I feel I can think creatively again.

Grateful for your loving support in the last 18 years and for your patience and kindness during the past few months, I am asking you for a little more time. Please visit our website www.QuiltTownUSA.com as that is where I will keep you informed of any developments. I wish you a very happy and healthy new year.

                                                                      With much love,
                                                                      Christiane

PS: We still have a few quilts in the office. If one of them is yours, please do not worry. They are in good hands and will be shipped back to you very shortly. Once again, thank you for your patience.

PS:  The form is now online. SUBSCRIPTION FULFILLMENT FORM - CLICK HERE

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