Together, in this class, we will explore piecework, or, maybe more familiarly, patchwork

techniques using both hand and machine sewing. We will be making something new from the scraps of your life.  Guided by my thesis on cultural resilience and storytelling through African American quilting, we will look at the history behind the improvisational spirit of the enslaved women who turned found scraps into not only quilts and clothing for their survival, but into art that they were proud of; art that carried their stories how they wanted them to be told.  Not only will you explore common no-pattern techniques, like Housetop, but will also piece together your own expressive patchwork piece, creating a fabric mosaic that reflects your experience and your creative voice. Your final piece will become functional fabric, ready to beused in a personal project. I often turn my finished mosaics into clothing.

This isn’t just a sewing class. It’s about letting go. Trusting yourself. Telling your story.

This class is all about picking up our pieces and turning those scraps of life into something

powerful, beautiful, and unique, like each of you.  Bring your fabric scraps and your stories. All levels welcome. No quilting or sewing experience. Ages 14 and up.