Explorations with Geometric Blocks – Susan Denton

The repetition of simple geometric blocks is a form of patchwork familiar to most quiltmakers and one that forms the basis of numerous traditional and contemporary patchwork quilts. Blocks are an easily accessible way of finding effective ways to play with line and colour in your patchwork and this class explores some of the possibilities for using both traditional blocks and inventing new ones. The class is most suitable for quiltmakers with some patchwork experience, those who are less worried about technique and are seeking direction in designing individual work: however techniques can always be discussed if required. This is mostly a paper and pencil class.
Requirements

Plenty of white paper, A4 size is ideal.
Some graph paper.
Plenty of tracing paper, the same size as your white paper is ideal.
Glue suitable for use with fabric. A large UHU stick or P.V.A. glue is good. For PVA bring a brush to apply it and a small container to mix the glue and water in. Please read the note on fabrics below, if you do not bring fabric you do not need the glue.
Scissors for fabric and paper.
One each Fine and thick black felt tipped pens.
Pencils Hb, blue or red pencil, pencil sharpener, rubber, ruler.
Colouring pencils optional, I will bring some.
Set-square.
Fabric marking pencils of your choice.
A couple of magazines ( or books ) like House and Garden, Interiors or architectural magazines etc. Big, bold photographs of buildings, furniture, people or any subject which interest you, are ideal.. These will not be cut up.
FABRIC. Fabric is optional and you may prefer to use the colouring pencils.

The workshop will mostly be concerned with design, exploring ways in which blocks can be changed, manipulated and invented so there will be no time for sewing. It is also hard to decide on fabric before plans are underway. However there may be time to experiment with mock-up versions of your designs using fabric and glue. Therefore I suggest that you bring a small selection of scraps and small pieces of fabric that you already have rather than buying especially for the workshop. When sorting the fabrics try to select light, medium and dark values in a variety of colours, and, if you use patterned fabric, a variety of patterns; ie. large and small prints, geometic as well as floral prints etc.