Explore our Academy Classes!
Sewing Machine Partner:
Aimed at the more ‘experienced’ quilter; subjects include layered surfaces, eco-printing, pattern drafting, improvisational Longarm quilting, textile art using Tyvek.
Fantastic for those wanting more intensive learning, these workshops are held in quiet air-conditioned spaces off the main show floor.
Our Top Picks!
Starting Points (for Stitch) (2-Day Class)
Tuesday 1st August – 10:00am – 5:00pm
Tutor name: Hazel Ryder & Terry Donaldson, InStitches
Working without a defined end point, first on paper and then in fabric, you will explore and develop a series of starting points for creative stitch. “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have.” Maya Angelou. In this workshop we’ll be encouraging you to work with inspirational visual prompts and various design methods, different media, fabric and stitch to create texture and pattern so that plain white paper or fabric will evolve to make a unique personal resource for future work relating to your theme (if you have one), or as a beautiful object in its own right.
First Steps in Swedish Weaving Embroidery
Wednesday 2nd August – 10:00am – 5:00pm
Tutor name: Sarah Boardman
This pre-show workshop is an introduction to the hand embroidery technique of Swedish Weaving – the perfect way to relax with a class before the show begins! You will learn basic stitches and work a small piece suitable to be made into a card or bookmark. The workshop will begin with a brief overview of the technique before jumping in and having a go. You will be guided step by step through the sample stitches learning how to read the stitch chart before starting on the main design.
Pattern Rings: Foundation Piecing & Improv Curves
Thursday 3rd August – 9:30am – 4:30pm
Tutor name: Jo Avery
Using black, white and one colour along with Jo’s Freehand Foundation Piecing technique you will be creating a number of improv-pieced quarter rings which will explore a wide range of patterns. Learn how to draw your own quarter ring patterns before foundation piecing them and then tackling a number of wonky curves. Jo will be sharing all her pattern ideas for you to try, from spikes to wedges and beyond, so that each of your quarters will have something different to offer.
Quilters' Recycled Vessels
Friday 4th August – 9:30am – 4:30pm
Tutor name: Kate Sandford
This is the ultimate in recycling! During this day long class you will learn how to take scrap fabric and wadding left over when you have finished your latest quilted masterpiece, and turn it into a coordinating vase. You will learn how to form a new shape using wadding, creating curves and even a neck on a straight sided jar. Kate will show you various different stitching techniques to attach your fabric to the form, even how to incorporate orphan blocks into your design.
Modern Triangle Sampler
Saturday 5th August – 09:3am – 4:30pm
Tutor name: Sheila Christensen
In this one day class, learn to use a triangle ruler and open up the world of 60 degree piecing by machine with Sheila’s easy techniques. Turn your blocks into a beautiful sampler, runner or cushions. Sheila will share her easy techniques for cutting and sewing triangles, diamonds, trapezoids, hexagons, jewels and more using a triangle ruler, rotary cutter and sewing machine. During class you will make enough of the blocks shown above to learn all the techniques you need to complete the whole quilt.
