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Sewing in Strips: A Two-Part Intro to Quilt Piecing

Three images show stages of quilting: fabric strips being measured and cut (left), diamond-shaped pieces laid out in a pattern (center), and a finished quilt made of colorful diagonal strip blocks (right).
Introductory - No experience required
Age Requirement : 18+ Years of Age
Ticketed Workshop

Instructor: Ashley Zdeb


In this hands-on quilting workshop, participants will explore the colorful and creative world of strip piecing—a fast, fun method for building quilt blocks using fabric strips. You’ll learn how to plan and assemble eye-catching patterns, use a rotary cutter safely and accurately, and work with a sewing machine to bring your quilt top to life. This two-part class includes a follow-up Guided Making session, where participants can continue their project or bring in another quilt top to work on alongside the instructor and fellow makers.

 

This is a two-part class: October 19th (instruction) and October 26th (guided making).

What to Expect

Students will learn how to plan and construct quilt blocks using the strip piecing method. In the first session, you’ll work with your own fabric (or small practice scraps provided by the instructor) to learn how to lay out and sew strips into structured quilt blocks. The class focuses on technique and design, and participants are highly encouraged to bring their own fabric and/or project to work on during and after instruction.

The second session (October 26th) is a Guided Making day—participants can return to build on what they started in the first class or bring in a different quilting project to continue with the guidance of the instructor and support from fellow participants.

Skills You’ll Acquire

• How to use strip piecing to construct quilt blocks

• Measuring, cutting, and aligning fabric strips

• Safe rotary cutting techniques

• Working with a sewing machine to piece quilt tops

• Pattern planning and color placement basics

What’s Provided

• Rotary cutters, mats, and rulers

• A limited supply of fabric scraps for practice

• Sewing machines and tools

• One-on-one guidance and support across both sessions

Participants are strongly encouraged to bring their own fabric and/or project materials to get the most out of the class.

Who Should Attend

Perfect for beginner to intermediate quilters looking to explore a new technique or build confidence with rotary cutting and piecing. Whether you’re starting your first quilt top or working on your next creative challenge, this class is designed to meet you where you are.

Prerequisites/Safety Information

Basic sewing machine familiarity is required. All tools and safety instructions will be provided in class. Participants should bring their own quilting fabric or ongoing project, especially if they plan to complete a larger piece. A small amount of scrap fabric will be available for learning and practice.

 

This is a two-part class: October 19th (instruction) and October 26th (guided making)

 

When
Sunday October 19th, 2025 from  1:00 PM to  4:00 PM
Location
Classroom @ MakeHaven
770 Chapel St
1st floor, past the back staircase
New Haven, CT 06510
United States
Workshop Ticket Fee
Public Ticket $81.00
MakeHaven Members (active) $60.00

Need Based Workshop Price Adjustment

MakeHaven offers a price reduction for individuals who are below a threshold income level.
You can apply at: Workshop Price Reduction Request.

Event and Workshop Info

Learn about our event policies, such as cancellations and inclement weather: Event Policies Page
Find the answers to the most commonly asked questions about workshops and events Event and Workshop FAQ.

 

Accessibility

Our facilities undergo periodic reviews to maximize ADA compliance. We offer accessible bathrooms, elevators, and wide walkways. In tool usage, we aim for universal access and work individually to adapt tools for safe usage as necessary. If you anticipate needing an adaptation to participate in this event or have further questions, please contact us at events@makehaven.org.