Structured Hand Piecing Class

Class: Structured Hand Piecing

Teacher: Zaheera Jiwaji

Cost: $90

Date: Saturday May 4, 2024

Time: 10 am to 4:30 pm

Level: beginner

Where: Blue Barn Quilt Co. Classroom & ZOOM

Quilters are happiest when making quilts. However, there are times when it’s not possible to be at the sewing machine. The intention of this set of two classes is to provide quilters with hand-piecing techniques to add to their quilt-making practice. Hand-piecing adds portability and sociability to projects; such as when on a trans-Atlantic flight, while binge-watching Netflix on the sofa, or while visiting with friends and family. As long as we keep our seam allowance consistent, machine-pieced blocks can be integrated into hand-pieced blocks within a project.

The first class focuses on structured piecing techniques. The second class focuses on improv piecing techniques. Students are invited to register for either or both classes. There is no pre-requisite.

The first class focuses on the use of templates in hand-piecing. We’ll begin with acrylic templates. Acrylic templates are wonderfully convenient and quilt designers often issue an acrylic template pack in addition to their quilt patterns. We’ll discuss how the same set of templates can be used for both machine- and hand-piecing. Next we’ll explore the use of fabric templates to hand-piece. This is a method I’ve adapted from the world of foundation-piecing which does not require paper nor tracing. It creates beautifully precise quilt blocks. We’ll end the day with designing our own unique block, transferring that design to a template, and creating a piecing chart. This is a technique class so the focus will be on acquiring skills not necessarily completing blocks in class. However, since our sample blocks are fairly small, don’t be surprised if you leave with completed blocks to include in a new or WIP quilt. Keep this in mind when selecting which fabrics you bring for class.

There is no required kit. A tools and materials list will be available on your Blue Barn Quilt account upon registration.

If you would like to replicate the teaching samples in the photos, a fabric kit and an embellishment pack is available for purchase the day of class.