Scrap Quilts for the fabric collector- Katharine Guerrier

Forget “formula” quilts which use blocks, strips or repeat patterns. This workshop will teach you how to manipulate simple shapes using quick piecing techniques to create a unique piece of work. Using as many fabrics as you have in your collection you will combine triangles and squares in a variety of sizes to make a rich pattern and surface texture for your quilts. The workshop will be illustrated with examples of the techniques to inspire you but at the end of the day each piece of work created will be different. Most effective for quilts but could be used in smaller items such as bags or cushions.
STUDENT REQUIREMENTS

Sewing machine in good working order, plus extension lead & manual
Usual sewing kit: pins, needles, threads, cutting out scissors, tape measure etc.
Pencils, ruler, notebook & camera (optional).
Rotary cutter, board and ruler. If you have the shorter 6” x 12” ruler bring that along as well.
Neutral coloured threads, beige or grey
Iron and pad – bring your own to avoid queuing for workshop ones            

 
FABRICS

Fabrics in dress or patchwork weight cotton – plains, patterned, stripes, checks, spots, florals, large and small patterns. Anything larger than 4” (11cm) squares will do. Bring as many different fabrics as you can. It is important to include dark, medium & light tonal values. Include some bright fabrics such as yellow, orange, pink, turquoise, etc. Furnishing fabrics are not suitable for patchwork as they are too thick for the number of seams created.

 
Preparation:  If you have time before coming to the class you can prepare some of the units as follows: Quick piece together at least 16 pairs of half square triangle units in contrasting light/
dark values. Cut each combination of the squares 3 7/8” to make a 3” finished unit. Use different fabrics for each unit pair, ie 32 fabrics altogether. Using the quick piecing method for half square triangles you will have two units of each combination. (At this stage the units should measure 3 1/2” which provides the seam allowance for stitching them together, thus making a 3” finished unit.) Press seams.