AVFD215

I have taken 2 classes, nether offered kits. I have also taught a few classes (at a LQS) where the student was required to bring fabric with no problems. But I did not require anything to be precut.
Mike

Terry in the ADK

I am offering an introduction to quilting class this summer. The project is a 9-patch block which will be sewn into a pillow...quilting the patch to the pillow cover. A kit will be included in the cost of the class but a list of required fabric will also be available if they want their own fabric choices. No reductions for bringing your own fabric though. Glad to hear others agree including a kit is a good idea. Thanks also for the other suggestions.

Blueridgebeverly

Depends on the class. If it’s possible to leave with a completed project, like a mug rug or a pillow, the option would be nice....so it fits in with ‘decor’. If learning new blocks or techniques, a kit provided with cost of class would make sense.

Good luck to you! Very exciting. Smart to take a class about adult learners.

zozee

I agree with Beverly. I wouldn't want to be forced to buy a kit if it's a whole project to finish. I'd want to buy my own. I've only taken one class and was fully prepared--bought all my fabric a couple weeks in advance of the class. Was really perturbed to have to wait while others were still shopping for fabric and the teacher waited for her! Time is money.

Having the kits included in the class fee would be my preference for a techniques class. It would simplify the teaching and eliminate the shopping (and the irritation that goes with waiting for someone to shop). That said, start on time every time. Reward the students who value everyone's time, not just their own.

EvelynB

Don't cancel class at the last minute. After buying supplies it's infuriating to have it canceled because not enough people signed up. Make it fun and they will come. Every single student should be respected. Love kits that have quality supplies.

klswift

I would be very clear on the paperwork about what materials are required and give them an option to bring their own, purchase their own or buy a kit when they arrive. Be very clear that time will not be taken from the class time to help with their materials, preparation or anything else you have told them to do. I know this sounds sort of harsh, but the students who followed your instructions will be grateful. Too often folks will take advantage of a 'newbie' because they know you really, really want the customers. Just keep in mind that the happy, prepared students will be the ones getting you more students! Tip - I would carry a small box of notions (scissors, pins, seam rippers, etc.) and let them BUY them if they forget theirs. Also carry an envelope with change and a form of credit card acceptance. I have 'square' and can use it with my tablet or with my phone. If you are planning on doing this as a business you need to be prepared. Your professionalism will be noted and people will treat you as a professional. Good luck, teaching someone how to make something is an unbelievably rewarding thing!

JanieH

I agree with the above comments. I really like the idea of kits included in the cost of the class, especially for technique classes.
One class I took the instructor offered 2 different times that she would meet with students before class to help with fabric choices. She also stated that once class began she would not be available to assist in this, that all students needed to come to class prepared out of respect for the other students in the class. Sure enough, one person showed up for class and then wanted help choosing her fabrics. The instructor politely informed her that she would not be available to do this as it was time for the class to start and she could a) choose her fabrics on her own and then rejoin class, b) monitor the class and then she would help her after class, or c) leave and be refunded HALF the class fee. She chose option a and the rest of us complimented the teacher on standing firm. I took several other classes from her and she followed the same rule. Others said they came to her classes because of her stance. Word got around and people signed up for her classes because of it and it was extremely seldom that anyone showed up unprepared.

Tothill

I took a nightie making class several years ago. The instructor had us all check her measurement chart and send in our size. She not only made up kits, but she cut them out. She said the class was a sewing, not cutting class. I was a bit concerned, but then thought, well it is a nightie, if I do not like the colour or print I am only wearing it to bed. Turned out I loved the print.

For quilting, I would be happy with a kit if it is a technique class and the project could be made into something instead of becoming orphan blocks. So I guess I am saying include a pattern or two to use the finished blocks.

If I took a workshop on all the various 'Disappearing Blocks' it would be great to have kits for each block made up.

Aurora

We have an annual craft camp weekend. The first year I taught, I made kits and everything went well. The class was easy to teach. This past year everyone brought their own fabric and there was an issue with one individual.

This coming year I am teaching again. I will probably make a few kits just in case someone wants/needs one. I can always use the kits for making gifts/door prizes. While kits take more prep time, they make teaching a lot easier.

KalamaQuilts

No profit for you? You aren't thinking big, you are thinking yourself out of business. You need to account for the value of your time along with the materials costs. Start off as you intend to go on. YOU are valuable! So is your time.

I would Far rather buy a small kit to learn a technique than drag along a lot of fabrics or threads that won't get used.