Do I dare to say that? Has anybody ever told you that? And did you think, "Watch me" ? Presuming myself to be a quilting teacher never crossed my mind. I'm retired. I make quilts for needy babies. But, as life would have it, there was one and then five, and you know how it goes, ... here I am, mostly unqualified and only a little 'willing' to teach. Last week, a beginner asked me to show her how to do a block with lots of diamonds and many inset seams. Today, one wanted to know how to do some fabric folded flowers that require serious accuracy. Do you teach? At all? Do you try to persuade beginners to begin with baby steps? or just encourage them to go for it? Polly
When people come up to me and say they want to learn to quilt, I always suggest they buy the Turning Twenty pattern and jump in feet first. That's how I learned. Then I took a beginner class and learned all the things I did wrong. But if I *hadn't* already made the TT quilt, I would not have known what I'd done wrong. But then, I was super green. I didn't even know how to thread the machine. I
*bought* the binding on one of those little cards. But I didn't have any quilty friends, and was really too timid to ask questions at LQS. I wish I *had* had friends to pester. I think if I'd started with a higher level of difficulty I would have gotten frustrated and given up. Sherry
My beginner quilts are three. I made a log cabin with white and off-white. I really did. With age, it's okay. Then I completed Sunbonnets one block at a time and tried to put them together. Next was a paper-pieced high heel sort of thing. It will never block out straight. Never. But it is gorgeous. Nobody said to me, "You can't do that". I couldn't. . . but I didn't know it and eventually I could. My concern is what you said, if they begin at a level of difficulty beyond their ability, will they give up? or will my nay-saying make them give up? It is a tricky question. Polly
When people come up to me and say they want to learn to quilt, I always suggest they buy the Turning Twenty pattern and jump in feet first. That's how I learned. Then I took a beginner class and learned all the things I did wrong. But if I *hadn't* already made the TT quilt, I would not have known what I'd done wrong. But then, I was super green. I didn't even know how to thread the machine. I
*bought* the binding on one of those little cards. But I didn't have any quilty friends, and was really too timid to ask questions at LQS. I wish I *had* had friends to pester. I think if I'd started with a higher level of difficulty I would have gotten frustrated and given up. Sherry
I don't teach quilting except to individual friends now and then, but I did teach school for many years, and taught swimming. I found that some people would plunge ahead with just about anything, and others wanted/needed to begin with simple things and be led step by step. About 25 years ago I decided I might like to try quilting, and purchased a book at K-Mart! It had traditional patterns, and a special large section in the book about how to quilt, start to finish. I read it carefully, and then stopped by a fairly new quilt shop on the way home from work, wanting an idea of the cost of quilting. Well, the owner rather snottily informed me that I couldn't possibly learn to quilt without taking special classes and investing about $200 in tools, not including needing a special sewing machine (which she could special order for me, of course). I was really offended by her attitude, particularly since the book I had read said how very little girls in early America began learning to sew by piecing quilts. And I had watched my grandmother quilt with things from her sewing basket and using sandpaper for templates. And I have always enjoyed hand sewing anyway. So I went home, rummaged through my sewing basket for equipment, and went to another fabric store. I bought a new pack of needles, a cutting mat, plastic quilters rule, and rotary cutter, plus fabric and thread for a pieced top. The mat and rotary cutter were a splurge at that point, but I figured that even if quilting wasn't for me that I would use them to make new kitchen curtains! I followed the directions in the book I had, and when the top was finished I went back to the store and got the backing fabric and batting. I took that stuff home and finished the quilt. It was far from perfect, but I found I enjoyed the process, and have been quilting ever since. When a friend wants to try quilting, I have her bring her sewing kit to my house, and we rummage through my fabric stash for fabrics to make a block she chooses. I always have batting scraps on hand, too. I figure that making a small 1-block mat will be enough to let a person know whether quilting is something she will enjoy, and you can always buy tools and gadgets later. A 12" block will make a mat to put under a bowl, and a 6", 7", or even an 8" block can be folded in half and stitched to make a glasses case. It infuriates me when people try to push folks into buying all sorts of stuff to try quilting! Needle and thread and thimble and scissors are really all the equipment needed to try it out, plus a pencil and ruler and cardboard for templates, and friends with fabric and batting scraps can supply the rest.
I agree with you, Mary, a lot of stuff can not only be intimidating but very expensive.
I think someone needs to want the finished product. A lot of us learned to sew at school, and it was that ubiquitous apron-for-Mummy or laundry bag or tray cloth (FGS!) and we lothed and detested every stitch of them. They inevitably took a full school year to complete and were consigned to the nearest drawer or bin when they saw home. And these things put us off, for some people it was permanently.
My breakthrough came with a blouse pattern. I wanted that blouse, and the fabric was beautiful. The pattern was straightforward (or the instructions were) and it was made and finished and flouncing down the road in 24hrs! I was hooked!
Knitting was a different matter. I chose an aran coat as my first project, because I hated stocking stitch (all those, 'let's make a scarf' lessons) I didn't finish all of it, but a friend's mother came to my rescue after I had done one side and the back up to the armholes. Knitting has never been my thing, until I got a knitting machine anyway. But I still have, and periodically wear thaat coat.
My first quilt came about, after many years being told that patchwork was always scrappy English paper piecing hexagons, and that I couldn't use dress fabrics because they were all different weights. I went to see an exhibition at my local craft shop, when I was going for tapestry wools, I saw symmetry (my favourite thing) and a glorious quilt wall hanging of trees at Fontenbleu (yes, it was Jane Rollason).
I went straight home and found a general book and ran up a rail fence. Then realised I needed batting and a border. So it was back to the shop, where Jane gave me such encouragement (and some pointers). There was a definite feeling of, that was easy, dun-that! So, it wasn't till I visited friends in California and visited their local QS that the bug took real hold. That shop was amazing! I went nearly every day, just to gaze and ask questions and plan.
The results were two quilts, my blue medallion and the bunny BOM quilt, neither particularly easy, but I -wanted- the finished product. There is a limit to the number of tapestry cushions or cross- stitch pictures you can use, but the quilt making process (which is my joy) is satisfying, and I am yet to run out of places to deposit my finished articles.
Use and Process. Reason and Need. Inspiration and Ability. They go hand in hand. Inchworm or grasshopper? Depends on the individual. But I would never suggest someone do something 'simpler' if they had their hearts set on that kingsize Baltimore with the pieced star centre. I _might_ suggest they start with one square and see how they get on before they splurge their entire budget on it, however!
I agree with both Mary & Nel. I began by watching 'Simply Quilts' on HGTV while unemployed a number of years ago. Of course, I had sewn garments and home dec things off and on for decades by that point so the sewing part was not intimidating. Of course, seeing all those new- fangled tools was a bit interesting but I had the mindset that quilts have been around far longer than those specialty tools so I could do this without the need for them. I like traditional patterns with contemporary fabrics typically. Picked up a pamphlet with a few table runners and placemats to see if I enjoyed the process. I did. My first quilt was a double irish chain lap quilt for my grandmother. I did make the mistake of doubling the batting because I wanted her to be warm. And I HAND quilted that puppy. Needle-nose pliers are still one of my favorite quilting tools. I've done needlepoint; cross- stich; knitting; crocheting, etc. all my life. My first knitting project was a hooded 'fisherman' sweather with a pouch in the front. I got all my supplies, jumped in and started not realizing beforehand that the pattern said 'for experienced knitters only'. Really, the only reason for that was reading the directions. I did end up having to re-write the directions so I could better understand them but once that was done there was no turning back and I had that sweater for years. Most of my textile work is all self-taught. Find something in a form, try a small piece to see if I like it and go full speed ahead. Hence, NOT doing rug-hooking! I then take a class or ask a more experienced friend for help if I get myself in a pickle on a project or find something that is more complicated than I've yet to tackle. As Nel said, there are only so many places for cross-stich and needlepoint in your home. I've yet to make a quilt for myself. All that I've completed are bed-sized quilts for family and friends. I do now have a couple of completed tops that will be for me when I get a couple of other things for others out the door.
Jump in and help them, Polly. I can't imagine that you don't have a wealth of knowledge to pass on to those folks. And your sense of humor will make the more challenging aspects of teaching a treat for all of you.
The only times I tell someone to start with something simpler is when a complete sewing novice who has never made ANYTHING wants to START with a bias cut chiffon slinky wedding dress!
Then I advise that they take some lessons and start with something easier, and build up to bias cut slinky silk chiffon via shirt weight cottons and poly satin and chiffon, and learn how to handle the fabrics, machines, and other sewing equipment so that they know what they are doing when they get to the dream dress!
I remember when I first came here some folk were concerned about me starting with a stary quilt with lots of bias cut bits, until I reassured them that I had just been making a poly satin evening gown with a bias cut bodice and circular skirt!
I start the kids sewing with Christmas Stockings and bags, all lined. They put windows in them, applique's on them, and all sorts. The trick is to teach them the bits they need to know and the bits they want to try, and not tell them that anything is difficult until after they have mastered it.
I LOVE the challenge of doing what someone says can't be done. You've heard the expression "Never take 'No' for an answer from someone who doesn't have the authority to say 'Yes'"? Now substitute "vision" for "authority", and that's me (or it used to be).
I began teaching (not quilting, but I'll get to that) continuing education classes because I saw an ad that said, "If you have a skill or special knowledge that you'd like, or be willing, to share, why not get paid for it?" I believed I had such knowledge, and the desire - nay, *passion* - to share it. I wrote up a course description and outline, it got approved, and away I went. My first time out I got the highest rating (by people who took my class) of any first-time instructor at BOCES.
From there I did several more, and eventually got hired by one of Rochester's universities to teach a summer session course at full professor rate because of my knowledge and experience. I've also done guest lectures at other schools, colleges, museums, hysterical societies, and corporations.
A year or two ago (I think I may have related this story here before) I was just watching a class on EQ at a LQS (while DW was shopping). The teacher got stumped by some question for which I knew the answer/ solution, so I excused myself and offered to help. The class (and store owner) were impressed; the class joked that I should be teaching the class, and the owner asked if I'd be interested in teaching one. I haven't taken her up on it - it wasn't my intention to show anyone up or step on any toes.
My DW has gotten into it as well. She decided she wanted to share what she had learned about color with her quilting circle, so she offered to give a presentation at one of their monthly meetings. From that she was invited to give the same presentation at a few other groups in the area.
Polly, something I learned when I was a lot younger is that people - especially umm... more experienced/retired people (Whew!) are a lot more "qualified" than they think they are, and their knowledge and experience has value. Life's too short as it is, and if teaching (*anything*) weren't as rewarding as it is, so many people wouldn't be doing it for so little pay. The jumping in vs. baby steps thing depends on the subject matter and the particular student - you'll get a feel for that, along with the rest, very quickly.
GO FOR IT! And if you get to the point where someone wants to pay you for it, just send me... no, no... put the money back into your baby quilts, upgrading your machines, gadgets, some chocolate, Yogi treats, etc.
Most of you know I teach. And I firmly believe that most of what I teach a fairly new beginning quilter can do. I do specify that the student be able to sew a good scant quarter inch seam, and know their machine (also suggest bringing the manual, etc.) In my very humble opinion, every new technique is practice. You may be making it into a project but the first one (or three or?????) will probably not come close to "perfect". And that is very much Okay. As long as you can see where you need to improve and work on that, you are doing well.
Now for your beginner who wants to do a block with lots of diamonds and inset seams, I would probably suggest practicing both of those with less complex blocks. Or break the block into units that can be practiced with.
Folded fabric flowers are just fun. And yes they are much better with precision. But when I teach them I recommend starting with muslin, and starch it so it holds creases well. Once the fingers have the movement in "memory" they can easily move to other fabrics. (And light colors show the folds and details much better, darker fabrics can hide a lot of 'almosts')
I am always up for encouraging everyone to "go for it" but with small steps. Remember it is all one seam at a time. Then the next seam and so on. What is challenging for some is easy for others. And when someone wants to do something, they will work to do it. And, if they are so inclined, will work to perfect their technique. If they aren't so inclined, if they are happy with it, that is what counts.
Have fun, Pati, > Do I dare to say that? =A0Has anybody ever told you that?
You all have given me lots to think about. Part of that has been an attitude adjustment. I know that your time is precious and want to thank you for taking some of it to share with me. There is a fine line between being a 'discouraging word' and encouraging someone to attempt something that's likely to frustrate them to the point of abandoning quilt altogether. Polly
Polly YOU are very*precious* yourself too Me mom had no patience to teach me anything!!She'd rather do it her self.(she said it was quicker that way) I was so hurt that I just walked away. Poor thing can't do anything but feed herself now so I have stopped trying to please her & I feel I can don anything(well, almost!!) Thanks to people like you all that I can proudly say "YES I CAN"!! Pardon me for shouting.
Polly YOU are very*precious* yourself too Me mom had no patience to teach me anything!!She'd rather do it her self.(she said it was quicker that way) I was so hurt that I just walked away. Poor thing can't do anything but feed herself now so I have stopped trying to please her & I feel I can don anything(well, almost!!) Thanks to people like you all that I can proudly say "YES I CAN"!! Pardon me for shouting.
Polly YOU are very*precious* yourself too Me mom had no patience to teach me anything!!She'd rather do it her self.(she said it was quicker that way) I was so hurt that I just walked away. Poor thing can't do anything but feed herself now so I have stopped trying to please her & I feel I can don anything(well, almost!!) Thanks to people like you all that I can proudly say "YES I CAN"!! Pardon me for shouting.
Thank you, Nana. Don't know about precious, just concerned. My mom and grandmothers were the same way about cooking. They didn't want anyone underfoot in the kitchen; it was private territory. Polly
"NanaWilson" Polly YOU are very*precious* yourself too Me mom had no patience to
My mum would allow any of us in the kitchen when she was cooking so long as we helped. Started with peeling spuds and scrubbing carrots, progressed to washing salad and chopping veg, and from stirring the porridge and the scrambled eggs on the Ideal Boiler (coke fed, for heating the hot water) to full scale cooking, including using the knives my father kept razor sharp* and the Kenwood Chef.
I have always been a social cook as well, though also being a teacher, I don't mind just an audience. The GMNT was always too interested in the food to keep his hands off it, so I taught him how to use the knives properly! He now occasionally cooks the whole dinner. Usually about once a week. Not bad for a 15 YO.
*Literally: he tested them by shaving the hairs off the back of his hand!
I can see their point; I don't like others messin' 'round with my cooking/baking either - they're sure to mess something up (with the best of intentions) and nobody likes wasting food or trying to fix others' gaffs. If what I make comes out wrong, I'd rather it all be on me and no-one else.
My Mum said of my Dad, when he retired, " I married him for better of worse... but not for LUNCH!"
He was used to bossing all sorts of folks and wanted to carry on in Mum's domain. Recipe for disaster!
SMIL demanded, in exhasperation, on the eve of her wedding to be taught to make gravy. She said she could manage other cooking out of a book, but there didn't seem to be one for making gravy. Her Mum did everything for her until she married at nearly 30.
I learned by watching and then going to try it out myself. I remember being taught to sew on a button; to thread a needle and to knot it, but the rest I learned by trial and error. I still recall the row I got into when I spent my entire Summer Holiday money (2d for every month I had been alive, was the criteria, I didn't get pocket money the rest of the year) on a small tapestry picture.
It's still in my mother's house, on the wall. OK it took many years, but I DID finish it, and gave it to my great aunt who had come to my defence of the purchase and taught me the half-crosstitch on the QT later to start it. THEN it became important, and Mum wouldn't be parted from it, now.
We try our best with the juggling game that is child-rearing, but oh dear, who's got the manual?
Nel :-) (Gadget Queen, from a long line of Gadget-Lovers)
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