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Krystyna 09-14-2011 02:35 PM

I just signed up for my first ever quilting class to learn the New York Beauty block. Nothing like diving in head first. Should I sit in the back and try to hide my utter lack of skill and just pick up what I can? Ohhhhh. What have I gotten myself into? :shock:

Yikes! What should I wear? I don't have anything quilty looking!

And what should I bring my stuff in? Arghhhh! No quilty looking bag.

Should I bring my "good" machine or my plain jane old faithful?

PegD 09-14-2011 02:36 PM

Relax, you will do fine. Enjoy.

Dolphyngyrl 09-14-2011 02:36 PM

just enjoy your class. They are fun. I have taken 3 this year

jmabby 09-14-2011 02:38 PM

You are going to learn, don't feel bad for not knowing something

ube quilting 09-14-2011 02:41 PM

You never know what you're going to get when you take a class. I've been in both good and bad classes. Just go with it and focus on learning not doing perfect work. Sometimes I just met some great people and heard some great stories.

Don't forget you are with other people who are also there to learn.

The block you are going to learn is great and I wish I could share it with you! Have fun.

bring old faithful! You want to be comfortable!
peace

Up North 09-14-2011 02:50 PM

Whatever you do . do not sit in the back!! I learn so much better sitting in the from and am not distracted by the others. No one will care what you wear or what you carrie your supplies in, just have fun!

AFQSinc 09-14-2011 02:51 PM


Originally Posted by Krystyna
I just signed up for my first ever quilting class to learn the New York Beauty block. Nothing like diving in head first. Should I sit in the back and try to hide my utter lack of skill and just pick up what I can? Ohhhhh. What have I gotten myself into? :shock:

Yikes! What should I wear? I don't have anything quilty looking!

And what should I bring my stuff in? Arghhhh! No quilty looking bag.

Should I bring my "good" machine or my plain jane old faithful?

Sounds like fun. Where are you taking your class?

Krystyna 09-14-2011 02:54 PM


Originally Posted by AFQSinc
Sounds like fun. Where are you taking your class?

Here ~ scroll down a little for the workshop
http://www.liqs.org/quilters_meetings.htm

SUZAG 09-14-2011 03:09 PM

That is a beautiful quilt! Have fun and relax! People are there to learn; not to pick you apart! I used to do the same thing because of my weight...I would make myself sick and usually end up not going. I realize now (in my old age)how stupid that was of me and I missed out on a lot!

jdiane318 09-14-2011 03:15 PM

A quilting class is not a competition. There are those who think it is but the majority of individuals are all the same as you, they want to learn. I would sit in front so that I could both see and hear. I have taken several classes and felt like a dummy when I went in but what I learned was so priceless. I took a class on how to miter corners and my bindings are so great looking when I complete a quilt. You are there to learn, you have paid good money for this class so get a good return from it.

Krystyna 09-14-2011 03:17 PM


Originally Posted by SUZAG
That is a beautiful quilt! Have fun and relax! People are there to learn; not to pick you apart! I used to do the same thing because of my weight...I would make myself sick and usually end up not going. I realize now (in my old age)how stupid that was of me and I missed out on a lot!

Well, from what I can tell, the instructor is "fluffy" so that won't stop me!

Krystyna 09-14-2011 03:18 PM


Originally Posted by jdiane318
A quilting class is not a competition. There are those who think it is but the majority of individuals are all the same as you, they want to learn. I would sit in front so that I could both see and hear. I have taken several classes and felt like a dummy when I went in but what I learned was so priceless. I took a class on how to miter corners and my bindings are so great looking when I complete a quilt. You are there to learn, you have paid good money for this class so get a good return from it.

You're right, Diane. And that's just what I'll do! :thumbup:

quilter1430 09-14-2011 03:20 PM

If you don't know what you're doing, at least you know you're not bringing in any bad habits and are learning fresh. I don't think anyone is going to be paying attention to what you're wearing or what kind of machine you're bringing. And if they are, that's too sad for them. You're there to have fun and learn for YOURSELF! Have a blast!

Tweety2911 09-14-2011 03:20 PM

You will do great! Go and have fun and learn. Looking forward to hearing all about it!

MisDixie 09-14-2011 03:30 PM

Krystyna, you go and enjoy. Learn lots and remember when we learn we have the blessing of being able to pass on what we have learned! One of my first classes was on the NYB, Love it and passed on what I learned to my sister. I had the means...she needed the way. Sister earns her living by hand quilting for others and selling her quilts. She's still delighted that she sold that first paper peiced quilt about 10 years ago.

MadQuilter 09-14-2011 03:43 PM

Wear something comfortable.
Expect to learn something new and allow this to be a trial piece NOT a masterpiece.
Take the machine that can take the travel in the car, doesn't mind being jossled around a bit and isn't too heavy.
As for taking your stuff. Big Ziplock baggies work fine in a pinch. Even a grocery bag with handles will work. (Have used both)

Enjoy!

OneMoreQuilt 09-14-2011 03:47 PM

You will love it!!! Bring Plane Jane, sit in front, learn all you can and most importantly.....have fun! Oh, and bring your stuff in anything except a grocery bag!

Krystyna 09-14-2011 04:06 PM


Originally Posted by MisDixie
Krystyna, you go and enjoy. Learn lots and remember when we learn we have the blessing of being able to pass on what we have learned! One of my first classes was on the NYB, Love it and passed on what I learned to my sister. I had the means...she needed the way. Sister earns her living by hand quilting for others and selling her quilts. She's still delighted that she sold that first paper peiced quilt about 10 years ago.

How wonderful!

Glassquilt 09-14-2011 05:10 PM


Originally Posted by Krystyna
Yikes! What should I wear? I don't have anything quilty looking!

Something that looks good with threads. :)

kiffie2413 09-14-2011 05:14 PM

First off, try and relax...I went to my 1st quilt class, and was very nervous...ended up being a group I have joined, and we are all like sisters...be yourself, and for me humor is a great tool...I have to also say, everyone has a 1st time for a class, eh?..
Have fun! And, can't wait to see your quilt as it progresses!!
K

wanda lou 09-14-2011 05:50 PM

Enjoy!
And don't forget to post a picture.

NJ Quilter 09-14-2011 05:56 PM

I took a class for this block a couple of years ago. Took my FW - that's why I have it, right? Wore my comfy clothes and flip flops because I can't sew with my shoes on! No problems. Great class. Learned alot about pp'ing and got several blocks done. Points, curves, etc. Still haven't quilted the thing yet because I hand quilt and haven't figured out how I want to quilt it yet. Even thinking about taking a class at another (no so) LQS who rents out their longarms. Just too busy. Enjoy your class - you'll lvoe it.

Jennie and Me 09-14-2011 07:13 PM

All of the above is great advice. Wish that I lived close so that I could take that class with you. It is on my bucket list of quilts to make. :thumbup:

Jim 09-14-2011 08:44 PM

It's a class....everyone is going for the same reason, no matter what skill level...don't stress enjoy, have fun, make friends and a beautiful quilt!!!!!

ewecansew 09-14-2011 09:59 PM

Your guild has some awesome instructors this year. You should learn from Linda's techniques. I have her book and she makes it look easy. Go and enjoy yourself, be comfortable and whatever sewing machine you take will be fine, just make sure you have a new needle (and a few spares). I am sure you will get a class equipment list beforehand so you will be ready.

k3n 09-15-2011 12:12 AM

I've just started teaching workshops - have my second this morning, and I am nervous too, though the last one went well. Just remember that the teacher is human too! And it's supposed to be fun! :-D

Krystyna 09-15-2011 03:00 AM


Originally Posted by k3n
I've just started teaching workshops - have my second this morning, and I am nervous too, though the last one went well. Just remember that the teacher is human too! And it's supposed to be fun! :-D

Teachers nervous? Never! :P
I wish you lots of luck and many more teaching assignments!

lsmft 09-15-2011 03:08 AM

That little black dress you're wearing for the profile pic would be perfect - and comfortable for a day of quilting.

I wish I had known about the class sooner - I live in Suffolk Cty and would definitely have signed up.

Enjoy! and do well!

Tinabodina 09-15-2011 03:09 AM

I think it is great that you have taken the first step.
Don't worry about anything. Ask if there is a supply list, and by all means, take the machine you are most familiar.

Annaquilts 09-15-2011 03:16 AM

Wear comfy cloth, sit in the front so you hear everything, bring the machine you like the best to sew on, pack so you are organized. Oh don't forget to have fun! DD uses a freeby softcase, black and white paisley ice chest on wheels to transport her sewing machine in. You'd be surprises how many have it all quilters have covet her case. LOL

Krystyna 09-15-2011 03:17 AM


Originally Posted by Tinabodina
I think it is great that you have taken the first step.
Don't worry about anything. Ask if there is a supply list, and by all means, take the machine you are most familiar.

Thanks! I have several machines but am worried about them getting knocked around, so it will be my simple Singer 7442 that makes the trip. I bought it at Kohl's for $79 several years ago. Little did I know that I'd end up sewing for a living with this little old machine!

Krystyna 09-15-2011 03:17 AM


Originally Posted by lsmft
That little black dress you're wearing for the profile pic would be perfect - and comfortable for a day of quilting.

I wish I had known about the class sooner - I live in Suffolk Cty and would definitely have signed up.

Enjoy! and do well!

Just sent you a PM. Not to late to sign up!

ragqueen03 09-15-2011 03:21 AM

Have fun - that is a beautiful block to learn!

olebat 09-15-2011 04:17 AM

When in doubt, phone the instructor, or one of the class organizers. Ask about the temperature of the room so you'll have a better idea of what to wear. Fashion is not as important as comfort. Ask if the project will require anything besides a straight stitch, then carry the most comfortable machine which fits the need, and an extension cord, and/or a multi-outlet strip. Ask if you'll need a mini iron or a full size iron. Some classes run short on pressing space, so an ironing pad is handy. Other classes blow electrical circuits when too many things are plugged in, and that makes no one happy. Go over you list of supplies multiple times, carry your foot collection and extra bobbins for the machine you'll be using. If you need a steam iron, remember to carry a bottle of water to use. Put your name on everything. When you get there, and find you've forgotten something, even after going over your list several times, do not hesitate to borrow (or loan). Quilters share - just be certain to return, or claim the item at the end of the class. Laugh it up, have fun!

catladyquilts 09-15-2011 04:27 AM

don't worry about what to wear or take your supplies in, just go, take a trusty machine, wear comfortable clothes and enjoy. classes are fun, people will help if you have questions and you will learn and have fun at the same time.

ka9sdn 09-15-2011 04:30 AM

You are going to learn so get there early, get a good location, take notes and just do your best. We all started from first base and improved as we practiced.

Krystyna 09-15-2011 04:40 AM


Originally Posted by olebat
When in doubt, phone the instructor, or one of the class organizers. Ask about the temperature of the room so you'll have a better idea of what to wear. Fashion is not as important as comfort. ... Laugh it up, have fun!

After so many kind suggestions of what to wear, I just wanted to say that I was joking! :D In my imagination everyone would be wearing quilted clothing and carrying their machines in hand-quilted pouches! :D

Judith 09-15-2011 04:41 AM

Wear what's comfortable, take the machine you like best and are most comfortable with, sit as close to the front as you can so you can see everything that is going on, assume that everybody is going to help you as much as they can, and have a good time! Every single quilter out there was new at one time! Some of us are not so new any more but we still love to learn new things!

chaskaquilter 09-15-2011 04:58 AM

Wear something comfortable, bring a machine that is going to run well for the whole class and put what ever you have to bring in what ever you have. I think I used a grocery bag. Yes, sit in front if you get there early enough to grab a spot. Have fun, learn and laugh.

carolynjo 09-15-2011 05:07 AM

Don't worry about what you look like or how you carry in your "stuff". Clean and oil your machine, take extra needles and have several bobbins wound. Take your old faithful that you know works well and the one you are most familiar with. Label all your tools so they don't grow legs and walk away. AND, most of all, enjoy yourself.


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