Originally Posted by
PaperPrincess
My cousin teaches quilting, so this is second hand info. The beginning quilting classes sometimes attract beginning sewers, as in they don't know how to sew a straight seam or, in some cases, even use their machine. They expect her to show them how to thread it and wind a bobbin. One gal once brought a machine in an unopened box. If you are thinking of a one day beginner's class, make sure that you have some prerequisite skills listed, for instance: familiar with their machine and at least some sewing experience.
I would also start with a pattern with straight seams. The starburst is one of the patterns where she creates her HSTs with bias edges. Even some experienced quilters have problems keeping these from stretching.
You bring up a good point. Some beginners are from Step 1 and others have a bit more experience. I need to select a pattern that will help more advanced beginners to work on their own, so I can help those with lower skills.
I use best press on my squares and use the two HST sewing method to help reduce cutting errors and reduce handling the bias.