Designing Monday

Did I tell you that I am taking a beginner long arm class?  We are so fortunate here that the local technical college has decided to invest in artists and craftspeople by offering classes in sewing, quilting, jewelry making, ceramics, and woodturning.  Each craft has a room for their equipment and materials and dedicated teachers and technicians.  You first must complete a course for certification and then can use the equipment during open studio time for a fee.  All very reasonable.  The point is to introduce people to new crafts or trades and provide business info as well in the event you want to take it to the next level and earn a living from that craft.

Anyway, here is the outside of the building. Looks like a weaving or quilt that is painted on.  It is an unassuming building that was once office or factory space.

Here is the front.  It's called the Artisan Center.

 Across the street is the Art Garage.  That's a whole other blog post.

So I am in week 5 of my 6 week class.  There are only 3 students plus the teacher.  She is a great teacher and I have learned a great deal.  In weeks 1-3 we learned how to mount quilts to the long arm frame and practiced stitching on small muslin pieces which then get donated to the local animal shelter for bedding.  In week 4 we had to mount the quilts with minimal help from the teacher and then we each got to quilt our own quilts.

Here is Sue working on her quilt as a gift for a new baby.  So bright and colorful.

Joyce is giving her advice.

I brought this little owl quilt which is a donation quilt for the guild and it will go to a pediatrics ward.

                                         

My first quilt on the long arm.

I found this clip art online and then made a machine appliqué.

Here is a close up of the quilting.  Lots of loop-de-loops and hearts.

So now I have to prepare another quilt for this week.  Since I have a closetful of unquilted tops, this should not be a problem.  LOL!

Hop on over to Judy's blog to see some beautiful designs.