Rope Runner (Sideways Spiral Quilts)

A new take on spirals --- looking at them from the side. Think ropes, DNA & Twizzlers. Now imagine incorporating them into a quilt design. But how do you get them there? This class, based on my book Sideways Spiral Quiltswill teach you how to easily draw ropes to fit any shape or quilt design, then create them in fabric using fusible applique and bias tape. Along the way you'll learn a fast and easy way to make bias tape without an iron and even explore decorative stitches on your sewing machine. The project is a bed runner or table runner with placemats (pattern provided).

The in-person class kit includes bias tape maker, water-soluble thread, invisible thread, printed materials and pattern. Online students will receive printable instructions and may need to purchase materials or tools (check materials list).

Click on Images link at left for fabric ideas and variations.

Class description, short version:

Learn to draw ropes to fit any shape or quilt design, then create them in fabric using fusible applique and bias tape. You'll also learn to make bias tape without an iron and explore decorative stitches on your sewing machine. Based on my book Sideways Spiral Quilts. The class project is a bed runner or table runner with placemats.

[Text version of materials list for cut-and-paste]

Important: download the materials list at http://www.ranaemerrillquilts.com/teaching/266 and follow instructions for preparation before class.

Fabric: Fabric #1 (Background): 1-1/4 yard, medium to large pattern or solid. Fabric #2 & #3 (Rope sections & Side twists): 3/8 yard each of two fabrics in different colors with similar values: monochrome textures or small dense prints that coordinate with background fabric but are clearly visible over it. Fabric #4 (Rope Outline & Side twists): 1/2 yard, solid or tiny tone-on-tone print. Backing: 1-1/4 yard. Batting: 1-1/4 yd. Binding (not used in class): 1/2 yard. Thread for sewing & quilting: match background fabric. Thread for topstitching: match or contrast Fabric #4 (such as Superior 100-weight Kimono silk).

Other materials: *1 yard (18” wide) light paper-backed fusible web such as Wonder Under (Please fuse to the back of Fabric #2 and Fabric #3 before class per instructions on materials list); 1-1/4 yards batting; Elmer's School Glue or liquid fabric glue (NOT a glue stick).

Tools: Basic sewing supplies, rotary cutter (self-closing, with a new blade), cutting mat and 24” ruler, iron (may be provided by guild or show), paper to protect iron and ironing board, stiletto or bamboo skewer, 2 clear plastic page protectors, dry erase marker (fine tip, any color). * = Available to purchase in class.

Sewing Machine set-up: zigzag foot with a cross-bar – not open toe – and zigzag throat plate. New 75/11 or 80/12 needle. (Optional: 70/10 topstitching needle for silk thread.)