Introduction to quilting

About this course

The course introduces regular and asymmetrical approaches to piecing and patching, considering how colour, scale, repetition and material qualities affect a finished quilt. Teaching combines visual presentations, examples of contemporary practice, drawing and collage exercises, demonstrations, group discussion and mainly practical work. Participants can develop ideas in a sketchbook, investigate recycled materials and experiment with construction and decorative stitch techniques. The course allows learners to pursue individual approaches, with guidance and suggestions shaped around their interests and developing work.

What you'll learn

• Construct pieced and patched blocks using different structures
• Gather and develop design ideas from varied visual and cultural sources
• Apply hand and machine stitch methods to construct and decorate a quilt
• Use drawing, collage and sketchbook work to develop quilting ideas

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at all levels. Those with limited skills can learn basic hand and machine stitching, while learners with some quilting experience can explore contemporary design approaches or develop a quilt for a particular purpose. Participation includes practical experimentation, group discussion and following written and verbal instructions.

• Learners should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions
• Basic measurements and calculations are part of the course
• The course includes group discussion alongside individually developed work

Before you go

• Basic materials and resources are available as part of the course.
• Bring a notebook and pen or pencil.
• Bring a bag for carrying work.
• A selection of fabrics is available to try; learners may also bring their own fabrics and tools.