I am available for workshops and lectures. Please contact me if you interested in scheduling one.
Workshop Descriptions
Every workshop I teach is specifically tailored to fit the needs and
desires of the participants. However, my classes all have a similar
format, which are based on my method of construction called Pinless
Piecing. The techniques are from the book Pieced Curves So Simple. Workshops are open to all levels of quilters, from novice to expert.
In all workshops, including a one-day class, the first three hours are spent learning and mastering 6-minute circles. The technique is thoroughly explained and practiced so quilters can be assured of success when they go home.
During the second three hours of a one-day workshop, students learn either more techniques or make a specific quilt design using the Pinless Piecing technique. The pattern is taught using detailed written instructions. I always bring my latest design experiments which students are also welcome to play with.
A two-day workshop starts the same as a one-day workshop. The second day, students either continue working on a quilt, or focus on learning more techniques. These skills culminate in the making of a block from the leaf quilt “To Leaf”. A less experienced quilter in this class may comfortably choose to work on a circle quilt, while the more accomplished quilters relish the opportunity to stretch their abilities.
Workshops lasting more than two days are more open-ended. Students
start with learning how to make
the six-minute circle. Next, new skills
are introduced until all the necessary and requested techniques have
been learned. In subsequent sessions students design and construct
their own quilts. Color exploration and fabric selection are discussed
extensively.
Students may choose a design as simple as circles in squares or as complex as a butterfly. The students are encouraged to create their own designs, as simple or elaborate as their comfort level dictates. If they would prefer to use one of my designs and focus on playing with color and learning the techniques, that option is available as well.
Workshop: SIX–MINUTE CIRCLES AND SO MUCH MORE
Skill level – All
Novice or accomplished, traditional or contemporary, quilters love the notion of circles and curves in quilts but only too often avoid them thinking they are too difficult. Based on the top selling quilt book, PIECED CURVES SO SIMPLE, this class will transform how you quilt. Learn to machine piece the six-minute circle with all of its nuances and variations using my extraordinarily fast, easy, pinless piecing technique.
This is my most popular class as it covers all the basic skills in the book and is all skill levels. First I teach how to make a 6-minute circle. Then I show students some quilts they can make just using circles. Easy instructions are available to everyone. There are always people who just want to make circles and a quilt and nothing else. In the afternoon I teach how to make tips, convex curves and play with patterns in the context of making simple leaves
Workshop: JUST CIRCLES
Skill level - All
Novice or accomplished, traditional or contemporary, quilters love the notion of circles and curves in quilts but often avoid them thinking they are too difficult. Based on the top selling quilt book, PIECED CURVES SO SIMPLE, this class will revolutionize how you quilt. This class starts with a lesson on how to machine piece the six-minute circle using my extraordinarily fast, easy, pinless piecing technique. After a discussion of color and value with your fabrics, you will start a quilt using either your or my design. Extensive help will be given to facilitate completion at home. This is a fun relaxing class that will add zing to your quilting.
Workshop: LEAVES SO SIMPLE
Skill level – Beginning Intermediate and up
People love leaves but machine sewing curves and sharp points can be intimidating. Teaching from her top selling quilt book, PIECED CURVES SO SIMPLE, Dale makes sewing leaves painless and speedy. This class starts with a lesson on Pinless Piecing, an extraordinarily fast, easy, technique of machine piecing difficult shapes. The workshop will focus on Pinless Piecing a variety of leaf shapes, discussions of color and designing a quilt that celebrates nature.
Workshop: PLAYTIME WITH CURVES
Skill level – All
Are you a quilter who wants to transcend blocks and straight edges to create quilts that are truly original? Do the techniques required and the process of design intimidate you? If so, this is the class for you. Playtime with Curves will help you gain the skill, knowledge and confidence to create unique designs with harmony.
You will learn a design approach and new techniques in an integrated way. In a manner that harkens back to kindergarten, we will play with fabric, shapes and color to create original designs. When you have an image you like, I will help you gain the skills needed to creatively translate an idea or image into an heirloom quilt. Using an easy to learn pinless piecing technique you will learn to sew it together. This innovative, easy way of machine piecing allows you to quickly sew any shape including curves, opening up endless ways to express your personal vision. In this class, you will gain the confidence to work intuitively while learning new ideas and skills. In this nurturing atmosphere, I will help you develop quilts in all the glorious colors and shapes you can dream.
Workshop: COLOR YOUR QUILTS!
Skill level –Beginning Intermediate and up
Gain confidence and skill in selecting fabrics for quilts that have zing and reflect your personality. Explore color, value, and texture in fabric. Discover what makes a great selection and then with help create a fabric pallet of your own for your next quilt.
Lecture Description
My lecture is about translating inspiration into art. I reflect on the many different paths an idea can take before it becomes a quilt. It is about gaining the confidence to call myself an artist and finding ones own style.
The presentation consists of slides, quilts and takes about an hour.
I look forward to meeting you and teaching you some of my time saving curved pinless piecing techniques.
