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The Sew What’s New Archive
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From: twilhelm
Date: 09-12-2005, 11:25 AM (1 of 7)
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Hi everyone! I'm a little new to quilting, but so far I really enjoy it. I've decided that I would like to take a class to help me get better at it, and to also help open up all the options that are available! I'm not sure which class to take, so I'm hoping that you all could help me decide what is best. There are basic hand quilting classes, beginner hand and machine piecing classes, rotary cutting classes, etc. Here's my experience: I've made two quilts: 1 for my grandmother made up of my grandfather's old shirts after he passed. It's not even close to perfect (I just did basic squares and sewed them into strips and then 'tied' the front to the back by putting the buttons from the shirts at the corners of the squares). This one was huge, and I did 4x4 inch squares. The second one was a basic block one for my sister's sorority. I did bigger squares, but everything else was the same. I have a basic sewing machine and used the rotary cutter to cut all the fabric for these two. My next project is a t-shirt quilt made of my husband's high school football t-shirts. I'm stuck on this because the fabric stretches and I need to get a book or something to help me out. (The only class on this type of quilt is on a Saturday which I already have plans. Any pointer for the right class for me? (I'm in Northern Virginia, if you have any suggestions for where to take it as well!) Thank you so much for your help and expertise!! |
User: twilhelm
Member since: 09-12-2005 Total posts: 1 |
From: Hogmami
Date: 09-12-2005, 12:44 PM (2 of 7)
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On the t=shirt quilt, I found when I made my husbands, that you should put iron on interfacing on the back. It keeps it from streching.
Carolyn
Michigan |
User: Hogmami
Member since: 09-30-2004 Total posts: 800 
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From: MaryW
Date: 09-12-2005, 01:56 PM (3 of 7)
Hi Twilhelm and welcome to Sew Whats New.  I would say a beginner machine piecing class would prove valuable as well as a rotary cutting class. You'll be sure to learn lots of tips and tricks for your next quilt. Sorry I can't help out with an area. I'm 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: HeyJudee
Date: 09-12-2005, 07:23 PM (4 of 7)
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Twilhelm, I would agree with Mary about taking a beginner machine piecing class. I had made one quilt by myself and then I took a beginner class. I learned so many things that it was definitely worthwhile and has given me a good base for quilting. Can't help you out as I am also in Canada, but try contacting a quilting store in your area. Good luck.
TTFN from
Judy |
User: HeyJudee
Member since: 01-25-2005 Total posts: 1366 
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From: LadySloPokes
Date: 09-13-2005, 08:30 AM (5 of 7)
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Hi Twilhelm, and welcome! Well, you're way ahead of me in the quilting arena already. Mary might be right about the machine piecing, sewing and cutting. Here in Western NY state (Buffalo area) we have quite a few places that offer beginning classes. Two of those places are Hancock Fabrics and Joann Fabrics. Sadly for me  they offer their classes on Saturdays and I work weekends. You might also want to check out some community centers or smaller sewing machine dealers-some of them might offer something that would be helpful and convenient. As for me...I'm doin' it myself with a couple of books to guide me for the time being... 
Cookie
LadySlo...yes am I, but hey, I'm gettin' there! Are you sure it's supposed to look like this?! Proud owner of Singer Quantum Decor 7322 & Singer Quantum Futura CE 200.. "A balanced diet is having chocolate in both hands!" |
User: LadySloPokes
Member since: 08-15-2005 Total posts: 198 
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From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 09-13-2005, 11:43 AM (6 of 7)
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If there is a community college near you, check their catalog.. Specially the fall ones.. They will be the least expensive, always.. If they do not have a class, if a certain number of people request one, they will have it.. I have forgotten whether the number is 10 or 12, but it is no more than 12, for sure..Around here, they teach several sewing courses as 'extension courses' and have them in the local high schools in the evenings, so as to reach more people..There are quite a few different interesting courses taught that way..
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: SandyGirl
Date: 09-26-2005, 12:11 PM (7 of 7)
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Just look under Quilt Shops and ask them if they have classes. I just started quilting this August and so far just completed my first quilt top. Next step is the filler and quilting. I take one class a month at my local quilt shop. It is informal and fun. I am learning a lot and everyone is going at their own pace. Really been invaluable to me! Sandy |
User: SandyGirl
Member since: 09-16-2005 Total posts: 97 |
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