Workshops

Pineapple Workshop:

Six hour: In this one day class the students will learn the basic "Perfect Strips" technique as it relates to the Pineapple block. This is done in a demo where I discuss the Pineapple block itself and talk in depth about this technique and its many unique aspects. After the demo, the students begin a single three fabric block. Once each person gets to a certain point in the const Pineapple Workshop ruction, I work with them individually to discuss the many design possibilities for their particular block. For instance, we look at ways to switch fabrics or add additional fabrics within the block and look at varying the size of the finishing rows (without any complicated math) for unique design opportunities. Later in the day after everyone has a better understanding of the block, I demonstrate my technique and tips for joining blocks and do a small trunk show of Pineapple quilts. Here I point out in detail various designs, border treatments and embellishment options. If time permits, I will talk about adapting the technique to miniature Pineapple blocks. Students can expect to leave with enough knowledge to make a basic Pineapple quilt.

See a Gallery of the these Quilts

Primitive Star:

Primitive Snowman Star (150x148)

Single day: This star is made with just strips and squares (right out of the scrap basket if you have one) and no triangles or other annoying shapes. I show samples of the star and demonstrate the technique. Students are then encouraged to try a star or two or three......They are so much fun it's easy to get hooked!

The second part of the day deals with additional applications of this technique (for example, primitive half square triangles) and additional variations of the star. These variations and the possibilities are talked about and samples are shown. In addition, I teach how to adapt this star to any size and shape that might be needed in a quilt project. For example, it can be fit into the corners of borders with just a few simple calculations. Students are then encouraged to try one or more of the additional applications.

Note: This star is very forgiving and can be squared up to size very easily, allowing for many people to work on blocks. This could be a great way to make a raffle or charity quilt for your group.

See a Gallery of these Quilts

Sunburst Star:

Sunburst Workshop 1 (300x300)

Six hour: In this workshop, we make a four block Sunburst Star quilt using my "Perfect Strips" technique - just 3" squares and quick-cut 2" strips are all you need to make this interesting star. The project makes a wonderful table topper or small wall hanging. The four blocks finish at approximaely 24", and at least a 2" border is recommended but larger or multiple borders also work. The piece offers a number of design options that will allow students to customize their project. Shown is the basic four block quilt and a few, but by no means all of the design possibilities. These are all shown in similar fabrics to help illustrate the subtle (and not so subtle) changes. The same quilt works well in many colors and different fabrics. Try to imagine them in your favorites. Be sure to visit the gallery to see additional quilts made with this interesting block.

An optional design book is available for this class.

Sunburst Workshop 5 (300x300) Sunburst Workshop 2 (300x300)

Sunburst Workshop 4 (300x300) Sunburst Workshop 3 (300x300)

See a Gallery of these Quilts

Unusual Cabins:

Single day: In this one day class students will learn the basic "Perfect Strips" technique as it relates to the Log Cabin block. We then look at numerous other Log Cabin blocks that are more unusual, such as Thick & Thin, Off-center, 60 Degree Diamond, Triangle, Rectangular, and more. Students are then given time to experiment with one or more of the blocks covered. One of the more popular blocks is the Thick & Thin Log Cabin, pictured first below. Like all the blocks covered, this requires no foundations, no templates, no math and uses just quick-cut strips and accurately cut squares. The resulting blocks are unique and have unlimited design possibilities. To make it even more interesting and to add to the design potential, I show how to make flying geese corners that finish in different sizes using just strips of fabric and no math. Another popular project is the Off-center Log Cabin, pictured below right. This is just one single block, rotated to form the design. Once again, flying geese are created with no math and no triangles. Unusual Cabins