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Overview

This 4-day course explores the wonderful world of quilting. This ancient technique will be brought right up to date with traditional techniques and their modern interpretations. You will learn how to design a quilt pattern to complement your project, to layer a quilt and then practice various techniques including free-motion quilting, stitch-in-the-ditch, trapunto and hand quilting, traditional quilting stitch, big-stitch quilting, Sashiko and Kantha.

What Will I Study?

  • Quilting designs - traditional and modern, drafting your own design.
  • Choosing fabrics and waddings for different types of quilting
  • Layering (stretching) techniques 
  • Hand quilting using a hoop and thimble
  • Machine quilting – grids, stitch-in-the-ditch, free-motion quilting.
  • Big-stitch quilting, Kantha, Sashiko (hand techniques)
  • Trapunto or stuffed quilting

Please note that this is a skills course; the aim is to practice a variety of new techniques so you will be producing samples of each technique rather than one large project. Of course, each sample will be a work of art in itself and can be made into a practical object if you wish. You are welcome to bring current projects along to discuss.

Entry Requirements

This course if for anyone with an interest in sewing. It would be an advantage to have used a sewing machine before (even at school!). If you have previous quilting experience, you will learn new techniques and tips to add to your quilting repertoire. 

Materials

You will need to source or purchase your own materials so you can work in styles and colours of you own choosing. Your tutor will send further information regarding materials and fabrics before the course and will discuss again in the first session. Basic materials, tools and sewing machines are provided.

Progression

Completion of this course could lead to a new wonderfully creative hobby in patchwork and quilting, an increasingly popular art form as well as a relaxing craft. Further study could lead to advanced skills in textile art through Adult and Higher Education courses and even a career in textiles.