workshop

Stretch your Creativity

Shown above: Churn Dash Stretch, by Avis Shirer of Joined at the Hip

as featured in Skinny Quilts & Table Runners, by Eleanor Levie

Available as a half day or full day class
For a half-day workshop, no sewing machines necessary. Optional for full day workshop.

Discover the quilt designer and home decorator in YOU! Although there are samples shown here (Churn Dash Stretch, Basket Stretch) that you can use for inspiration, this is a design class that will give you the confidence to create your own original designs that are simply perfect for that certain space in your home!

First, you'll take a classic quilt block that appeals to you and works well in your decor, and learn how to “stretch” or skew it to make it your own. Then you'll design a table runner (or Skinny quilt) around the old or new block. I'll help you choose the perfect mix of fabrics for your original design and customize it to fit your table, color scheme, room style or china pattern.

Make a seasonal room accent, or the perfect gift for that upcoming anniversary or housewarming. You’ll start in on cutting the patches and arranging the units so you can admire the affect. Fast workers may want your sewing machines so you can stitch up your stretched blocks...but it isn't absolutely necessary.

Basket Stretch, in process, by Eleanor Levie

Shown at right: Basket Stretch
by Eleanor Levie

Supply List:

Dimensions of your dining table for customizing your piece to the perfect size for where it'll be displayed.

A china plate, candlesticks, or other tabletop item to coordinate with your design.

Fabrics—Bring extra options and choices; I recommend pre-shrinking:

* 1 yard of a multi-color focal fabric you love--one with a print or pattern that works for the room

*1/4 yard or fat quarter each of subtly textured prints in colors to coordinate with your focal fabric; bring light, medium, and dark values, plus striped fabrics

      For applique, if desired -- fusible web

      Tools and Supplies:

      2 pencils with erasers

Graph paper

      Freezer paper

     Cutting mat

     Small (4" or 6" square) and large (6" x 24") acrylic rulers

     45mm rotary cutter

     Scissors

Plastic baggies for taking patches home

Not absolutely necessary, but nice for full day workshop: sewing machine in good working order; neutral-colored sewing thread

For the class to share: 2 or 3 irons plus lightly padded ironing surfaces

I, your teacher and cheerleader, will bring:

* Many examples of skinny quilts plus copies of Skinny Quilts & Table Runners, I and II to inspire your own designs

*Classic quilt block patterns, graph paper, and suggestions for stretching or skewing or drafting to size

*A wacky sense of humor, lots of ideas, and an encouraging spirit to help you create a successful, original table runner.

Check out the many ways this workshop works:

Don't you love Mary Ellen Rilatt's solution to topping a round table? Take this workshop, and create a table runner or other accent piece that's perfectly customized to your desired dimensions, and befitting the colors, style, and mood of your room!

Variety and Verve characterize the designs of the Valley of the Mist, in Temecula, California:

See how the Chugiak Quilters in Eagle River, Alaska stretched their creativity:

Done!

These designers of original Skinny Quilts are all members of the Erie Shores Quilters' Guild in Kingsville, Ontario, Canada:

These designers of original Skinny Quilts are all members of the Northwest Quilters, in Portland, OR:

Stretched Star, flanked by classic stars

These designers of original Skinny Quilts are all members of the Oregon Coastal Quilt Guild, in Newport OR:

Just imagine what fabulous, original Skinny Quilts you will be making with a day of inspiration, encouragement, and empowerment!

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