Learn the basics of foundation paper piecing with these adorable patterns in two separate classes!
1) Introduction to Foundation Paper Piecing: Gemology Diamond
2) Introduction to Foundation Paper Piecing: Snail Mail
Foundation paper piecing is a quilt block design technique used to achieve consistent seams with tiny pieces, odd angles, and complex seams. You’ll learn all the tricks for this method, how to approach patterns, and the tools and supplies involved. 

These are technique courses, so you will complete one or a few blocks in class but not a whole top or complete a quilt. Your block will be perfect for turning into a quilted mini wall quilt, pillow, or make a few more and make your own quilt! Classes are each $40 and last 2 or 3 hours. You must sign up for the classes individually. Both classes are held at our Studio.

Niku Arbabi

Your teacher is Niku Arbabi. Niku has been sewing for as long as she can remember. She’s taught sewing of all kinds full time at the Stitch Lab since 2009, and is excited to branch out into different parts of Central Texas. Niku loves all aspects of quilting; the variety and adventure, the inspiration and support of the quilting community, and sharing her sewing experiences and experiments. She is a a proud member of the Austin Modern Quilt Guild.

You can follow Niku’s sewing projects, and her trusty cat helper, at @xostitches on Instagram and find more events and workshops at xostitches.net.

Supplies and preparation: Each class has specific supplies required. See below. Supplies can be purchased at our Studio. Preparation is also required for some classes.

1) Introduction to Foundation Paper Piecing: Gemology Diamond: Learn the basics of foundation paper piecing with this adorable diamond pattern: “Gemology Diamond” by Sarah Rose! Book now.

Supplies and preparation are required: The tools and supplies are available at our Studio. Fabric purchased for class at Sew Crazy (right down the street) receives a 10% discount when it’s purchased for class – just let them know. They have lots of precut fat quarters which are perfect for these projects.
Supplies:
♦ Gemology Diamond pattern by Sarah Rose. You can purchase it here.
♦ Fabric needed for each block:
– Background fabric (neutral / solid / contrast): 1/4 yd
– Gem: 3 scraps at 7″ x 10″ each;  5 scraps at 6″ x 7″ each
* Fabric amount listed is the amount needed for a single gem. We may have time to make several, so please bring extra fabric if you’d like to make more!
♦ The “Foundation Paper Piecing tool kit”:
– fabric glue stick (Sewline glue pen preferred)
– rotary cutter
– quilting ruler (at least 6×12″)
– paper scissors
– piecing thread
– size 14 needles
– seam roller
– tweezers (regular household tweezers, for removing papers)
– fabric marking pen
– thread snipper
– seam ripper
Preparation:
♦ Print the pattern onto regular printer paper. Cheap, generic printer paper is best because it will be lighter weight and easier to remove after sewing.
♦ Print 3 copies of the pattern (just the pattern, extra copies of the instructions aren’t necessary)
♦ Cut out the pieces of one pattern, right on the lines. Save in an envelope or ziploc baggie.
♦ Bring two copies of the pattern uncut.

Details for “Introduction to Foundation Paper Piecing: Gemology Diamond“
♦ Price: $40
♦ Six students maximum
♦ Length: 3 hours 
♦ Supplies and preparation are required. Please see above. Most supplies are available at our Studio
♦ Book now

2) Introduction to Foundation Paper Piecing: Snail Mail: Learn the basics of foundation paper piecing with these sweet paper pieced envelopes that are perfect for featuring your favorite fussy cut prints! Pattern by Basil and Ivy. The pattern is available for purchase and download. For more examples and inspiration, look up the #youvegotmailblock hashtag on Instagram. Book now.

Supplies and preparation are required: The tools and supplies are available at our Studio. Fabric purchased for class at Sew Crazy (right down the street) receives a 10% discount when it’s purchased for class – just let them know. They have lots of precut fat quarters which are perfect for these projects.
Supplies:
♦ 1 piece of template plastic, at least 5×5″ for fussy cutting interior envelope piece.
♦ Woven quilting cotton fabric
– For the envelope: 8″ x 8” piece
– For the interior of envelope: at least a 6″ x 6” piece. Or bring a large piece if you’d like to fussycut a shape in the middle
– background fabric (neutral/solid/contrast) 8″ x 12” piece
* Fabric amount listed is the amount needed for a single envelope. We may have time to make several so please bring extra fabric if you’d like to make more!

Preparation:
♦ Print the pattern onto regular printer paper. Cheap, generic printer paper is best because it will be lighter weight and easier to remove after sewing.
♦ Print 3 copies of the pattern (just the pattern, extra copies of the instructions aren’t necessary)
♦ Cut out the pieces of one pattern, right on the lines. Save in an envelope or ziploc baggie.
♦ Bring two copies of the pattern uncut.

Details for “Introduction to Foundation Paper Piecing: Snail Mail“:
♦ Price: $40
♦ Six students maximum
♦ Length: 3 hours 
♦ Supplies and preparation are required. Please see above. Most supplies are available at our Studio
♦ Book now