Art Quilting 101: Design Basics
Wendy Butler Berns
Class Preview
0:49
- In-depth Instruction; over 351 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Introduction
37:13
Meet your instructor, Wendy Butler Berns, as she introduces you to the fascinating world of creating art quilts with a combination of originality, spontaneity and inspiration.
Getting Started
44:52
Art quilts are about playing, combining colors, shapes and textures. Wendy will walk you through what you need to create your masterpiece, from selecting the background materials to applying fusible webbing to your design pieces. Then arrange, re-arrange and learn to play again on your quilt.
Thread Embellishments
34:55
It's time to doodle; not just on paper, but also with thread and yarn. You will be introduced to free-motion quilting, the process of moving around your quilt with colorful and unique thread to bring out your creativity.
Thread Talk
48:53
Beware: This session will cause addiction to thread! Learn the best sewing thread to use to attach the design elements to your quilt. Then see the vast array of threads to add color, shine, design and texture to your artwork. Wendy also talks about bobbins, needles and general troubleshooting while quilting.
Texturing Ideas
1:02:08
Now it is time to add texture and depth to your quilt pieces. Go beyond standard thread designs with yarn couching and bobbin drawing to make your pieces pop. Create a collage to add interest and definition to a section of the quilt.
Principles of Design
40:04
Wendy reviews some of the principles of artistic design to help you incorporate drama and interest into your art quilts. She reviews the aspects of balance, unity and variety, and shows examples of how these are used in other artists' work.
To Border or Not To Border
16:59
Wendy gives you guidelines on whether to add a border, binding or other finishing technique. Then follow her step-by-step methods for adding a border, such as auditioning materials and squaring up the quilt.
Machine Quilting and Binding
40:07
After deciding on the batting and backing, learn techniques to machine quilt all the layers together. Learn how to prepare and attach the binding to your quilt and a rod pocket hanger for a wall quilt. Finalize your masterpiece by adding a quilt label.
Postcards and Finishing Details
25:23
You are not limited to a fabric binding for your quilt. Learn some novelty finishing techniques, such as yarn bindings and zigzag edging, while creating quilted postcards. You can even mail them to your friends to show off your artistic talents.
Explore the world of art quilting with artist Wendy Butler Berns and learn to design without using a pattern. You’ll discover how to see your world through the eyes of an artist and communicate your vision through fiber. Walk through the process of selecting background materials and arranging your design pieces. Next, you’ll use free-motion quilting to doodle with an unbelievable variety of thread options and create textural elements with yarn couching and bobbin drawing. Then, discover when to add a border and embellish with novelty finishing touches. Learn dozens of practical techniques, creative ideas and troubleshooting tips you can use in any quilting project!
Wendy Butler Berns
Wendy is an award-winning teacher, quilter and the author of Photo Album Quilts. Her quilts have appeared in regional, national and international juried shows, including the International Quilt Show in Houston and the American Quilter's Society show in Paducah, KY. She received the Jewel Pearce Patterson scholarship for quilting teachers in 2009, and her articles have appeared in Quilting Arts, Quilters Newsletter and other publications. She teaches and lectures about the art of quilting at conferences, guilds and retreats across the country.
Bonus materials available after purchase