Introduction to quilting

What is the course about?

The course aims to introduce you to new ways of piecing fragments together, both regular and assymetrical, and explore both formal and informal qualities within the finished piece. The emphasis will be on both design and craft to create a piece that reflects your creative interests through colour, scale and repetition.

What will we cover?

This course will equip you with the skills to create a pieced, patched and quilted piece from start to finish. Depending on your ambition, this might be a throw or a small quilt. We will explore ways of assembling fragments to create a pieced top layer, which is then sandwiched with padding and a backing cloth. Quilting through the layers using different stitching methods creates the final piece, and additional imagery, embroidery or appliqué can be used to give finishing touches. These methods often originate from the purpose of using up old clothes or scraps of fabric, often associated with past life, and this ‘make do and mend aspect’ will be explored as a practical and creative device, touching on contemporary and historical examples.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Develop pieced and patched blocks using a range of structures
- Research and gather design inspiration from a range of sources and cultures
- Develop hand and machine stitch methods to construct and decorate your quilt.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is for all levels, and those with limited skills will be taught basic hand and machine stitch methods. If you have skills but little experience of designing and making a quilt you will be able to explore ways to research and develop methods to inspire your making.

For people who have some experience of quilt making this could be an opportunity to approach quilts in a fresh contemporary way, or make a piece for a specific purpose. For those who might be interested in starting a quilt group, among friends or within a community, this could provide a method. Within the framework of each session, you will be encouraged to be individual in your approach.

You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be able to make basic measurements and calculations.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

The course will be mainly practical, with a focus for each session and samples to get you thinking imaginatively. We will start with a visual presentation outlining areas for research and examples of contemporary practice, followed by examples of drawing and collage to capture ideas, and ways of continuing this in your own time. The use of a sketchbook to record your thoughts and develop your work will be encouraged. Material qualities will be discussed and possibilities for using recycled materials for you to source between sessions. Stitch and construction techniques will be demonstrated with opportunities for individual experimentation and further suggestions based on individual interest.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

A selection of fabrics will be available for you to try, or you can bring your own scraps. Suitabliltiy of materials will will be discussed abd advised upon in class. Basic materials are provided.

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When I've finished, what course can I do next?

City Lit runs quilting courses each term where you can learn different techniques. The craft also complements other textile related courses, and would also have an application to students with an interest in interior furnishings.

Please browse the website for upcoming course dates.
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday
to Friday from 12:00 – 14:00 then 16:00 – 18:00.