Purchase your pattern before class and read through the instructions in your pattern at least one time before class.

Yardage amounts are listed in the instructions and on the back of the pattern. If you would like help choosing fabrics, I will be at Creative Stitches on 10/26 for another class and could help you then.

Check the supply list on the web page.

Pre-class Cutting Instructions: The preparation work for this class requires you to pre-cut all your fabrics for each of the foundation units in Chapter 1. Follow the cutting instructions in the pattern for each unit. Cut out only the large rectangle pieces that fit under the Template Layout Sheets for each unit. After the large fabric pieces are cut for each of the Template Layout Sheets place them into a bag with both the layout sheets and foundation papers. Don’t cut the individual template pieces apart before class. In class I will show you how to arrange your colors and pre-stack your fabrics before cutting the individual template pieces apart. I will demonstrate the easiest and fastest way to use your Template Layout Sheets to cut out your fabric pieces. The cutting is not difficult but it may take you a little time to work through the colors. Read carefully and if you don’t understand something set it aside and proceed with the next step. Work through each of the steps one at a time. Try to get all your fabric cut out prior to coming to class. If you can’t figure something out you can send me email. If I am unable to get back to you or solve your problem we will figure it out in class. It is your responsibility to come to class prepared and ready to work.

Foundation Papers: Separate the foundation papers for each unit. Place them into the bags that are listed in the pattern under the information for the Foundation Papers. I would like you to bring four foundation papers precut and ready to use for each unit to class. Bring the rest of your foundation sheets with you uncut. I will demonstrate a very simple process on how to stack the pieces before cutting the section apart. This will save you several hours of prep-work. When cutting out the foundation papers trim the excess paper off from around the outside cutting line approximately 1/8”.

Template Layout Sheets: Most of the templates are arranged and grouped together on “Template Layout Sheets.” Each foundation unit has one or two Template Layout Sheets. In class, I will show you how to use the layout sheets to cut the fabric so don’t stress over what you are doing. Don’t glue the on Template Layout Sheets onto any plastic. Template Layouts Sheets should remain as paper templates.

Photocopy the Templates and Template Layout sheets: In your instructions it will tell you if you need to make photocopies of any of the Templates and Template Layouts Sheets. So read your instructions. If it says to make copies then make the copies before you come to class. Follow the instructions in your pattern for the correct number of copies. Take your patterns with you to get your copies. Some places are a little sticky about making copies on my patterns.

Caution! Always check your templates for accuracy after photocopying or scanning to the original templates in the pattern. If the templates are not sized properly before cutting your fabrics, the fabric pieces you cut could end up the wrong size and you may need to re-cut and start over with new fabric.

Please bring with you several boxes of small and medium size binder clips. You will probably use 3 boxes of 12 for this quilt. You will find binder clips, will become your next best friend after working with templates for foundation paper piecing.

In this class you will have the opportunity to learn some of the techniques that Judy teaches and writes about in her patterns. I teach a process of foundation paper-piecing that uses a chain-piecing method. This process is possible because all of the fabric is pre-cut using templates that Judy designed and included in the pattern. I also teach speed-cutting techniques for both paper and fabric. I teach sewing and pressing techniques that will enable you to do foundation paper piecing, curved piecing, and traditional piecing. This quilt also has applique, so I will be teaching Judy’s method for turned edge machine applique, too.

If you are interested in entering Judy’s contest for the Coxcomb, think about your applique and how you can make your quilt unique! Remember to buy your fabric at Creative Stitches!

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me prior to class by phone or e-mail.

I look forward to seeing you in class!

Diana Simkins