In this two session workshop, Catherine-Marie brings her freehand approach and colour sensibility to English paper piecing, offering both beginners and more experienced stitchers a fresh way into this age-old patchwork technique. Expect careful attention to fabric choice, an intuitive approach to pattern- making, and a strong emphasis on developing your own voice.

Session I: Freehand English Paper Piecing Foundations

The first part of the workshop focuses on the basic technique of freehand English paper piecing. Participants will learn how to construct a simple, hand-drawn grid and a small circle composition.

Through these two projects, we will cover the following:

Drawing a pattern and identifying the pieces
Choosing fabric, basting it onto card, and stitching the pieces together
Working with fabrics of different weights
Sewing sharp angles and curves
Finishing: adding a border and appliquéing the piece onto a background fabric

These exercises provide the technical foundation needed to work confidently beyond traditional English paper piecing patterns.

Session II: Advanced Freehand English Paper Piecing

The second part of the workshop shifts from technique to artistic development. We will begin by looking at a selection of contemporary artworks made using English paper piecing and discuss the different ways artists have approached the medium. From there, we will explore methods for generating ideas and translating inspiration into original compositions.

Participants will develop their own designs while learning practical strategies for:

Planning colour relationships and fabric selection
Combining fabrics of different weights and textures
Using stripes, checks, and ginghams to add movement
Scaling a small study into a larger artwork

Throughout the workshop, emphasis will be placed on experimentation, material sensitivity, and developing an individual approach to freehand English paper piecing. Participants will leave with the skills and confidence to continue exploring the technique and creating their own artworks.

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Dates
Fridays, January 8th and 22nd, 2027

Time
12:00-2:30 pm ET

Location
Zoom, a link will be sent to participants the day before class

Cost
$75 per session

Recording

All Hand Sewn Quilting Series sessions will be recorded. A link to each recording will be emailed to all registrants following the live session. Each link is live for three months after the live session.

Class Materials:

Light card paper (160 gsm paper is ideal)
Pencil, rubber, ruler
Paper and fabric scissors
A fabric glue pen (Sewline is good) or a washable glue stick
A selection of fabrics remnants: lots of solids, a few stripes and checks, perhaps a few prints, and
a variety of weights across the selection
Matching threads
One contrasting thread for basting
Needles for stitching: Milliner’s Straws no 9 (either Bohin or Tulip), or Appliqué/Sharps no 10 (Clover’s “specially polished with black plating”)
Needle for basting: any sharp but sturdy needle (I like to use embroidery needles)

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About the Hand Sewn Quilting Series

Under the guidance of contemporary textile artists, participants of all levels will engage with various quilting techniques. Beginners will gain confidence and a deeper understanding of quilting foundations, while experienced makers will expand their skills and textile knowledge beyond the basics.

Bundle Discount

When four Hand Sewn Quilting classes are added to your cart, a 25% off code will be automatically applied. All classes must be in a single order to qualify for the discount.

Scholarships

We have one scholarship seat available for this workshop. To be considered for a scholarship, please fill out this scholarship application form.