My Mom taught me to sew.
4-H and Home Ec classes helped develop the skills.
I love 4-H and worship it, though for me the sewing portions were frustrating as our Leaders tended to ignore those of us who had machines at home and had Mother's that sewed.
Sewing was just part of life ... and I had absolutely nothing to do with piecing quilts til about 20 yrs ago when I was intrigued by a Quilt in a Day course and took it! I was hooked, though life often got in the way and there were many years in the midst where I did not sew, other than to mend.
Alas, life has changed, and I feel this time, the passion is here and my stage of life will allow me to continue with it.
So What inspired me? that Quilt in a Day course lit the spark, and for a long time it just festered and sizzled away.
And your 2nd q ... who inspired me? ... myself!
And now ... my inspiration is coming from so many quilters who are on these Boards!!!