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Creative Freeform String Piecing
one day class
by Caryl Bryer Fallert

Classroom Requirements
Preferred Classroom Table Setup
PDF Format

Learn to create colorful, luminous, freeform designs with this simple method of piecing on a paper base. STRING PIECING can be used in either quilts or clothing, and with either traditional or original designs. Emphasis will be on color selection as well as sewing techniques. Everyone will have a chance to master Caryl's simple direct method for "applipiecing" curves. Students will design and create 2-3 small samples, using various string piecing and color methods.

Choose three values (light - medium - dark) of two of the above colors. You will have fabrics in 6 different colors. Bring at least 1/2 yard (or a "fat" quarter) of each.  This is your big chance to unload some of those colors in your collection that you don't like. Solid colors only please    100% cotton please. Before the beginning of class: Cut or tear six to eight strips in a variety of widths (1½"-2 ½") on the lengthwise grain (parallel to the selvedge) from each fabric. Each strip will be at least 18" long. Leave the remainder of each piece of fabric whole, it will be for your personal use.

• For your personal use, bring a handful of additional fabrics in a range of colors and values. These may include prints. If you dye your own fabric, or have fabrics dyed in color or value gradations, these may be useful. Large amounts of any one fabric will not be necessary. Fabrics dyed in color gradations will be available for sale in the class.
• Thread: medium gray cotton or polyester sewing thread
• Clear mono- filament, (polyester is recommended)
• Sewing Machine: One that is friendly and well adjusted. A zig zag, as well as straight stitch will be needed. If you own an open toed embroidery foot, bring it along. You must know how to operate your sewing machine
• Heavy duty Extension Cord with at least two outlets. Three prong adaptor if needed for the classroom outlets
• Basic Sewing Kit for hand and machine sewing.
• Iron: Preferably with steam
• Table Top Ironing Pad
• Scotch Brand Magic Tape
• Scissors (paper and fabric)
• Rotary Cutting Board and Ruler
• Drawing Tools : Fine point and ultra fine point Sharpie marker, flexible curve, pen, pencil, ruler, eraser
• Cotton swab or small watercolor brush
• Niagra Spray Starch or other liquid starch (one can may be shared by the whole class)
• Freezer paper (2-3 feet)
• Plain white copier paper (10-20) sheets.
• 1-2 Magazines or Books with colored pictures, preferably nature or science (ie. National Geographic, Scientific American, Smithsonian, etc.)
• Glue Stick
• Litter Bag

Optional

• Small Portable Light Box (If you are driving and already have one)
• 35mm film container for starch