Lady Diana

I am slow in class situations and do just fine at home. Although I can multitask, it seems that all the activity, sharing of pressing areas, machine hiccups (both mine and classmate) and trying to listen to every word of the instructor and see around numerous classmates gathered to learn the next step.....all while trying to sew that first set of pieces together is daunting. Taking all the above activity going on in class, oh, and not let's forget the food and drink. What I have learned is: Get good instructions prior to class. Piece as much as you can at home. Cut out, starch/press, your pieces before class. Have all of your tools organized for that class. Take a digital recorder and get permission to place it and use it where the instructor is conducting the class.(Tie a bright ribbon on your car keys so you don't forget to get the recorder off the table) Take your own small iron and pad. Take your own lunch so you can get right back to sewing, rather than going off campus. Ha! Doing these things will give you breathing space and you will be more relaxed. Don't be worrying about what you left at home...a tool, needles, etc. Most quilters don't mind sharing. Mark all of your tools with your name or bright colored tape or ribbon, so you are not worrying about your stuff. Take a cushion or sit upon so you are comfortable in the chair provided. Don't forget a power strip and extension cord. Also be prepared to tell the novice who sat down next to you, "I'm sorry, but I am struggling to keep up with the teacher, I cannot stop and help you, you need to ask the instructor to help you". I have had so many classes where someone who has NEVER quilted before decided to take the class and sit next to me and now wants me to be their mentor. I actually had a classmate that had never used a sewing machine until the day of class....Where is there another vacant space, please? Hope this helps for your next class.... Do some of these suggestions and then you can focus like you are at home.