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Machine Quilting Basics: Finishing Your Quilt

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A collage of quilts on a longarm machine, showing colorful patchwork blocks and close-ups of quilted stitching patterns.

Introductory - No experience required
Age Requirement : 18+ Years of Age
Ticketed Workshop

Instructor: Gayle Hawley


In this hands-on quilting workshop, participants will learn the basics of machine quilting by combining a quilt top, batting, and backing into a finished piece. The focus will be on quilting with domestic sewing machines, which work best for simple designs and smaller quilts such as crib, lap, or twin sizes. Participants will learn approachable techniques for quilting layers together with confidence.

 

What to Expect

This standalone skill class meets on Sunday, September 6, from 1–4pm. This class combines demonstration and guided practice. The instructor will demonstrate layering, basting, and quilting techniques suitable for home machines. Participants will discuss design choices and practice stitching methods that add texture and structure.

For those who want extra time to continue working on their project, ask questions, or quilt alongside others, we will also offer a separate Quilt-Along session later in the month. This optional follow-up meets on Sunday, September 20, 1–4pm, and is ticketed separately at $10 ($8 for members).

 

Skills You’ll Acquire

• Layering quilt tops, batting, and backing

• Basic machine quilting techniques

• Simple quilting designs

• Managing bulk on domestic machines

 

What’s Provided

• Sewing machines and tools

• Batting and practice materials

• Instructor demonstrations

 

Who Should Attend

Ideal for quilters ready to move from piecing to finishing. Ages 18+.

 

Prerequisites/Safety Information

No formal prerequisites, but basic familiarity with a sewing machine and piecing is recommended. Closed-toe shoes are encouraged in the sewing classroom.

When
Sunday September 6th, 2026 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 $76.00
MakeHaven Members (active) $65.00

Instructor or Event Lead

Gayle Hawley

she/her

Areas: Crafts & Materials, Textiles

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.

Notices

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.