Description
Introduction to Patchwork Short Course
Project Description:
The Cross-cut block we will make in this Introduction to Patchwork workshop, starts with a standard cross block which is then cut to create blocks with greater interest – asymmetric crosses. This project is particularly forgiving – it does not require absolute precision or perfect points. A good understanding of inches and feet is also not a pre-requisite for this block (despite the patchwork world still using imperial measures).
This project has plenty of latitude to add in your own style– and the teacher Judith, is more than willing to bend from the plan if you have something you want to add. Your fabric is your palette.
The Cross-Cut block and blocks like it have emerged in recent years reflecting the growth of the modern quilt movement – and interest in quilts that are highly geometric, make strong color statements and extend the traditions of patchwork and quilting. That said, all patchwork requires a good understanding of basic techniques.
Surprisingly, there are many differences between patchworking and dressmaking– not just in sewing, but in cutting, ironing, finishing and construction. There are also huge number of techniques and technologies available to today’s patchworker. However, some techniques are fundamental and timeless – and those are the ones this class focusses on: building confidence in sewing quarter inch seams (the seam of choice for all patchworkers), using a rotary cutter to cut precision fabric pieces, ironing using finger-pressing, matching corners, sewing quickly using production-line style techniques, using a design wall to audition your fabrics and blocks, and trusting your creativity.
