sueisallaboutquilts

My first class as a beginner was a sampler quilt. We learned so many techniques!! I will always be grateful for my introduction into this wonderful art form!!

franie

My first basics class was stars and 9 patches. Teacher wanted to cover triangles. Man I learned a lot in that class but a lot did not sink in until later as I kept at it. I still hear her voice on some things in my head.

BKrenning

I'm self taught & think a sampler of all different styles will be more beneficial to beginners. I learned a lot on my very early Star Sampler--a lot of what not to do!

Instead of a complete quilt of sample blocks though, I would turn each one or a few into something like tablerunners, placemats, pillows, totes, potholders, etc. That way they won't get burned out waiting for an entire quilt to be finished and will end up with a bunch of little finished projects. I'm more stubborn than most & wanted a quilt by gosh so some may still choose to save all the blocks for a quilt.

quiltinghere

I guess that would depend on how well you students know how to use their machines.

If they don't feel comfortable with it, I'd suggest something very basic like 5" charms sewn together. They'll learn how to cut them correctly, 1/4" seam, pressing, joining the blocks, etc. etc.

Good luck!

walen

I think that a log cabin would be wonderful. Each person could choose their arrangement of blocks, and although everyone made the same blocks, each quilt would be unique! Do let us know what you decide to do. Disappearing 9 patch would be fun, too.

Ladybugnana

Mine was the Log Cabin. I didnt have to worry about lining up the blocks as I did with the 9 patch that I did later.

sewcrafty

What about a 4P to 9P or a disappearing 9P? Show them right from the start not everything is as it appears. :D

dahna42

My first class was the "Yellow Brick Road Pattern". I didn't find it difficult.
Donna

woody

I did a sampler quilt in my beginners class. We started with a four patch, a 9 patch, friendship star, some applique, a moon over the mountains which was a hand pieced curve, and a house block in which you soon found out if you were sewing a proper 1/4 inch seam, and some flying geese.
It was great fun and gave me confidence to give almost anything a go.
This was my first quilt.
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-25964-1.htm

Favorite Fabrics

I agree with log cabin, because most of the seams are t-shaped which is easier. Also... the students can be creative in how they arrange the finished blocks, too, which adds more fun.