A portion of the design can be pieced in class to produce a sample to guide the completion of the project at home. Ancient artists created mosaic tile designs, inlaid wood patterns and other intricate designs using only a compass and a straight edge. Quilters can use this same method to produce designs uniquely suited to patchwork. Class will begin with several simple exercises to familiarize students with the compass. Students can then experiment with this method to create their own designs.
Basic class is one day, but can be expanded to multi-day format.
Waves, Wings and Other Curved Things Introduction to free-form curves. Students will experiment with several design methods to discover the many possibilities of curves in piecing. An 8 by 14 inch bird design will be constructed so that students understand pattern enlargement, template construction and piecing techniques. The ability to draw and piece curves adds an exciting, new dimension to quiltmaking and allows fantasies of the mind to become reality. Students will sew a practice block in order to perfect piecing skill, then learn enlargement techniques and unique template methods to produce a precision pattern for their own design.