Activity
Oh, the humble nine patch — a perfect use for all those Scraptacular remnants! One of the simplest quilt blocks, the nine patch was often the first taught to young girls due to its ease and accessibility for hand stitching. These quilts gained popularity during the Civil War, when fabric was scarce and only small remnants were available, often repurposed from discarded clothing or uniforms.
In this workshop, participants will hand stitch their own nine patch quilt block, experimenting with composition and color. A ribbon loop and fragrant filling (lavender or balsam fir) will then be added to create a festive ornament. Alternatively, the finished block can be used as a decorative patch for a favorite pair of jeans or a tote. These blocks can also be collected and combined into a larger project — such as a pillow, wall hanging, or quilt — offering endless creative possibilities.
This class is open to all skill levels. Basic hand stitching techniques will be covered, including back stitch, combo stitch, and running stitch.
No previous experience is necessary. This class is great for beginners!
Dates
Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025
Time
12 pm – 2:30 pm ET
Location
Zoom, a link will be sent to participants
the day before class.
Cost
$75
CLASS MATERIALS
- Small scraps of cotton woven fabric (enough to make one ornament)
- (5) pieces cut to 1.75″ square of one fabric
- (4) pieces cut to 1.75″ square of a contrasting fabric
- Tip: Prepare a few sets in different colors to play with composition and design.
- 4.5″ square of backing fabric. Quilting cotton or linen recommended
- 4.5″ square of muslin or double gauze
- Cotton sewing thread. Beginners may prefer a thread color that contrasts slightly with their fabric for better visibility
- Embroidery thread or thin sashiko thread
- Embroidery needle or sashiko needle
- Hand sewing needle. A thin needle is ideal (e.g., John James Sharps size 7)
- 4″ piece of ribbon, twill tape, or thin cord (optional, for hanging ornament)
- 1 cup of balsam fir filling or dried lavender
- 6″ clear ruler
- Thread snips and fabric scissors
Our Teacher
For the last 25 years, Karen Stevens has been a freelance CAD instructor, training textile and fashion designers to create knits, prints and wovens for the garment industry. But these days you are more likely to find her in her creatively cluttered studio than on her computer, adding one more vintage patch to a favorite pair of jeans or double gauze shirt. Her love of visible mending, natural fibers, hand dyed fabrics and slow stitching has recently turned into a small side business, creating one of a kind stitched curiosities.
“You repair the thing until you make it completely.”– Louise Bourgeois