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Learn to Quilt in Central Iowa

I am teaching an intro to quilting class this spring! If you or someone you know in Central Iowa is interested in learning to quilt, this is a great opportunity to learn all the basics and have a great time! Some details about the class, the class supply list and how to register are outlined below.

What Will Be Taught?
I’ve developed a sampler pattern that allows participants to learn how to construct a wide variety of blocks using different piecing techniques. This will give participants confidence to continue quilt making after this course.
The Happy Sampler Quilt designed, pieced and quilted by Jessica Plunkett. Registrants will make their own Happy Sampler Quilt as a part of the class.

We’ll start by covering what exactly makes a "quilt" a quilt. We’ll learn about basic quilting terminology (the pattern contains the definition of many common quilting terms, so it’s a good resource to keep!) and learning about commonplace quilting tools and notions.

Next, we’ll define a quilt block and look at examples. Then, we’ll make our own blocks! We’ll assemble a quilt top, create the “quilt sandwich” and then quilt and bind the final piece. Lastly, but most importantly, we’ll celebrate the wonderful quilts each participant makes!

Overall, the two most important things we’ll do are have fun and make a quilt!

The Happy Sampler Quilt in a monochromatic color scheme - designed, pieced and quilted by Jessica Plunkett.


Who Is This Class For?
Anyone (ages 12+) who is interested in learning how to quilt!

Registrants must have basic knowledge of sewing. This means you’ve cut fabric and sewn two pieces of fabric together on a sewing machine. You understand how to thread your machine. Having sewn by hand – even just a button on a shirt – is helpful, too. Registrants must have their own sewing machine, in good working order. It’s really important to have and bring the machine’s manual too, but that is not a requirement.

What Supplies Are Needed?
Supplies each registrant must bring include:

  • Happy Sampler Quilt Pattern (this is included in the class fee and will be supplied to you)
  • Sewing machine and manual 
  • Sewing machine needles (suggested Microtex needles)
  • Thread & bobbins
  • Fabric (1/3 yard color #1, 1/3 yard color #2, 1/3 yard color #3, 1 1/3 yard background, 1/3 yard binding, 1 1/3 yard backing)
  • Batting (suggested 80/20 cotton/poly blend) – 42” x 42” 
  • Rotary cutter
  • Cutting mat
  • Quilt rulers (recommended 6” x 24”)
  • Pins or clips
  • Scissors or snips
  • Fabric marking pencil or pen (a standard #2 pencil works too)
  • Painters tape 
  • Basting pins
  • Walking foot (suggested)
  • Notebook for taking notes
  • Water/snack, if needed

Where Will Class Be Held?
This course is a partnership with the Waukee Schools’ Community Education program and will be held at South Middle School in Waukee. There are six classes total held on Mondays and Thursdays (March 30-April 16) from 6-8:30 p.m. The room is equipped with enough tables for each participant to have their own. It’s also equipped with ironing stations for the class.
The Waukee Schools' Community Education program offers valuable learning opportunities to those in Central Iowa.

Why Should You Take This Class?

There are so many reasons, but let me narrow it down to just a few!

1. You’ve been curious/interested/maybe tried previously but still don’t feel comfortable making a quilt on your own yet. We’re going to change that! This is a beginner course so it’s designed to teach you the basics from the ground up.

2. Making with your hands is something that appeals to you. Maybe you know the benefits of making handmade items or maybe you’d like to find out.

3. You’d like a creative outlet. Some feel intimidated by creative endeavors and don’t realize that quilting is an expression of yourself.

4. I promise you a good time and lots of fun learning! I am extremely passionate about quilting and passing on my knowledge to others about this wonderful craft.

How Do You Sign Up?
Visit https://tinyurl.com/WCSDQuilting101 for the class description. There’s a link to register on this page as well. Please note, the registration deadline is one week prior to the class start date. There’s also a maximum number of students for this session, so if you’re interested, make sure to register soon!

If you have any questions regarding the class, the supply list or how to register, you can feel free to reach me at maeberrysquare [at] gmail [dot] com.

I look forward to seeing and sewing with you in late March!


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