WORKSHOPS
I love workshops – both taking them and teaching them.
The list of classes offered is updated quite regularly, so if you don’t see something you like, please contact me to discuss. Workshops can, of course, be combined with a talk and/or judging.
Now that so many people have become familiar with Zoom, I am happy to teach a workshop entirely online. This keeps everyone safe during these challenging times but also means that travel (and the cost of travel) is not a problem, making workshops and talks affordable.
EASY CURVYLICIOUS
Curved blocks always look spectacular, but many quilters are nervous of stitching them. Let me help you learn to love your curves!
In this pieced circle workshop, we will look at four different ways to stitch a curve. You will be encouraged to try all four and then pick a favourite. We will also focus on lining up the blocks for perfect circles.
The pieces can be cut from paper templates, but it's much easier and more accurate to cut with acrylic rulers, which I have produced specifically for this class. It may also be possible for me to provide kits.
At the end of the class, you will be well on your way to having a wall hanging or baby quilt to be proud of – and you will also have all the skills you need to tackle any kind of curved piecing.
CONSTELLATION QUILT
Create a unique constellation by making your choice of star blocks in different sizes and scattered in your own design across the quilt top. We will focus on ways to improve accuracy so that the small blocks look good, as well as providing lots of star designs for inspiration.
This project appeals to both traditional and modern quilters and is suitable for quilters of all levels as successful designs can be created from simple patterns or more challenging ones. A great variety of fabric styles and colours are suitable. The workshop sample measures 44" x 60", but you can make your quilt in any shape or size.
STORM AT SEA
The Storm at Sea pattern is on many quilters' bucket lists because it looks so dramatic. However, it can be tricky to piece because of the combination of 45 degree and 60 degree angles.
The answer is to foundation piece it, and I have plenty of advice, tips and tricks to make this a breeze. We will cover foundation piecing in general, how to match points accurately and also discuss possible quilting ideas.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced quilter, now is the time to finally stitch up a “Storm”.
QUILTED IN A FLASH - can be a 3-hour class
You may love to free motion quilt yourself, or it’s an easy and effective option to “quilt by chequebook” and send tops to be longarmed, but what to do with charity quilts, baby quilts for your neighbours’ relatives, etc. when you may not want to spend a lot of time or money to get a quilt finished.
Use the walking foot on your domestic sewing machine combined with straight or decorative stitches to create a host of easy designs that will get your “duty” quilting finished faster and easier than you ever imagined! You may find that you like the look of this quilting style so much that you use it for all your quilts.
Thread and needle choices will be discussed and there will be lots of examples to inspire you.
BEGINNING BARGELLO - can be a 3-hour class
This quilting style was originally inspired by the Bargello embroidery stitch, also called flame stitch, and it is easy to see why!
The class offers a choice of three designs and, although it looks complicated, is suitable for beginners as well as the more experienced. There will be lots of hints and tips to make construction easier.
By the end of the workshop, you will not only be on the way to creating a gorgeous quilt, you will also understand how variations and more complex designs are created. You should also be able to design Bargello patterns for yourself.
DECK THE HALLS - can be a 3-hour class
Stitch this cute little wall hanging to either deck your own halls or to give as a gift that will be cherished for years to come.
Simple fused baubles hang from sparkly gold thread attached to a thread painted Christmas tree bough.
Make yours to hang in portrait or landscape format, or use the technique to make postcards that will delight your friends!
DOODLE QUILTING - can be a 3-hour class
Choose a simple shape, stitch around it, divide it up and fill with different quilting patterns for spectacular results. The small, packed designs hide a multitude of sins while helping you practise new quilting patterns.
This technique is easier than it looks and is suitable for beginners as well as more experienced quilters and there will be lots of hints and tips to share. You will have the opportunity to practise the patterns before committing them to your chosen design.
HEXAGONS BY MACHINE - can be a 3-hour class
Everyone loves the look of hexies, and they are enjoying a big revival in popularity. Many people love to make hexagons using the English Paper Piecing method, but did you know that you can make a hexagon quilt entirely by machine? We will start the day with a quick chat on needles and thread, then move on to making hexies and considering different layouts.
Later, we will discuss quilting and finishing options. There are lots of variations to choose from, and you will be amazed at how simply a beautiful hexie quilt can come together on a machine!