The Stripe Revolution

TUTOR: PRISCILLA BIANCHI

Priscilla uses up to 80% of Guatemalan striped fabric in her own work.  When she learned that quilters don’t particularly like or use stripes, it was too much of a challenge to pass by!  She presents a fun approach to the subject, demonstrating many different, simple and surprising ways in which stripes can be used most effectively in quilts.  Many design options and geometric shapes will be shown for students to choose from and create with. Students will also learn to create their own original patterns and designs.

You’ll discover exciting facts…

  • You do like stripes after all!
  • the visual impact and movement that stripes can create;
  • how versatile stripes can be;
  • how perfection can be your worst enemy;
  • how to interpret and use other directional prints;
  • how to mix-and-match precious fabrics, to give your pieces a unique, ethnic flair.

Her basic design process will be covered.  Broaden your knowledge of Colour, Value, Texture, and put into practice principles of Design such as Balance, Movement, Repetition, and Contrast.  Be inspired to create designs of your own.

We’ll focus on hands-on exercises and experimentation with many different options and design ideas to choose from.

Skill level: suits confident beginner to advanced

Scroll down for Class Requirements

CLASS REQUIREMENTS

The Stripe Revolution with Priscilla Bianchi

Two-day Class: Saturday – Sunday, April 12 – 13
Class times:  9am to 5pm (2 hour lunch break)

Fabric kit cost: $60 for the kit of traditional Guatemalan fabrics. Please have the exact amount in cash in an envelope with your name on it. You will need to supply some additional coordinating fabrics, see below.

Students need to bring:

  • General sewing and machine supplies:
  • Thread, measuring tape, etc
  • Fabric and paper scissors
  • Rotary cutter, mat & ruler (at least 12” long)
  • Plastic template material & fine permanent marker
  • Notebook & coloured pencils (to sketch and take notes)
  • Masking tape
  • For the blocks:  coordinating fabrics to mix-‘n-match with the Guatemalan textiles:
    • Bring 20-30 assorted fat quarters in striped commercial fabrics. The stripe width should be at least 1/4” and preferably wider. (Thinner stripes look fuzzy and read as solid). Variety in stripes’ colour, width, and style is highly desirable!

  • Important: If you have ready-made acrylic templates in basic geometric shapes (e.g., 60° triangle, 45° triangle, square, hexagon, kite, etc.) in sizes ranging from 3” to 6”, bring them to class!

  • Optional: Priscilla may have some extra Guatemalan fabrics available to purchase. Washing & care instructions will be provided.

Sewing machines will be provided.