Strip piecing is a versatile quilting technique traditionally used to create crisp checkerboards, zigzags, and diamond patterns, while also offering endless possibilities for improvisational design. In this workshop, we will look at strip-pieced designs developed by the Seminole makers in the early twentieth century alongside other traditional patterns that utilize the technique, before shifting into an exploration of its improvisational potential.
Participants will begin by working with paper to experiment with composition, rhythm, and pattern-building through a series of unique design studies. We will then translate these ideas into cloth, covering the fundamentals of hand-sewing stripped pieces.
Date
Friday, September 11th, 2026
Time
12:00-2:30 pm ET
Location
Zoom, a link will be sent to participants the day before class
Cost
$75
Recording
All Hand Sewn Quilting Series sessions will be recorded. A link to each recording will be emailed to all registrants following the live session. Each link is live for three months after the live session.
Class Materials:
NOTE: We will be doing two activities in class. The first will explore the design possibilities of
strip piecing by working with paper. The second will cover everything you need to know about
the technique for hand sewn strip piecing.
Paper exercise:
- 4 to 6 sheets of white paper – 8.5” x 11” or larger
- A few sheets of colored paper that we will cut into strips
- Anything will work so long as it
has contrast to white paper - Sarah likes to cut up old magazines and junk mail.
- Anything will work so long as it
- Glue stick
- Paper scissors
- Paper for drawing – graph paper is recommended but not required
- Pencil with an eraser
Sewing exercise:
- Needle and thread
- Marking pencil or pen
- Rotary Cutter
- Clear Ruler (18: is best)
- Cutting mat (18” x 24” is best
- Iron
- Fabric: Please bring at least two contrasting fabrics to class approximately ¼ yard of
each- These can be scraps, but it should be possible to cut them into strips that are at least 15 – 20 inches long
About the Hand Sewn Quilting Series
Under the guidance of contemporary textile artists, participants of all levels will engage with various quilting techniques. Beginners will gain confidence and a deeper understanding of quilting foundations, while experienced makers will expand their skills and textile knowledge beyond the basics.
Bundle Discount
When four Hand Sewn Quilting classes are added to your cart, a 25% off code will be automatically applied. All classes must be in a single order to qualify for the discount.
Scholarships
We have one scholarship seat available for this workshop. To be considered for a scholarship, please fill out this scholarship application form.
Our Teacher
Sarah Nishiura is a Chicago based quiltmaker who utilizes traditional techniques to craft quilts out of recycled and vintage materials. Inspired by numerous textile traditions including 19th and early 20th century American Quilts, Sarah’s work explores and celebrates the infinite possibilities of geometric design. Her quilts have been exhibited in museums and galleries in the U.S. and abroad, including the Iowa Quilt Museum, the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Art, the San Jose Museum of Quilts and Textiles, and the Yokohama Quilt Fest in Japan. Her quilts have been featured in numerous magazines and blogs, including Martha Stewart Living, QuiltFolk Magazine, Chicago Magazine, and Food and Wine, and they are included in private, corporate, and public art collections throughout the United States. Sarah’s work has been supported by grants from the Illinois Arts Council and the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs. Sarah has an MFA in painting from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, and a BA in visual arts from Brown University.
More information about Sarah’s studio practice can be found at:
http://www.sarahnishiura.com/