This class introduces some of the major principles of designing realistic landscapes using atmospheric perspective. Emphasis will be on the effective use of color to create the illusion of depth. Participants will begin one or more of their own small, enchanting fabric "paintings" using fusible appliqué and free-motion machine stitching. This class is also available in an abbreviated (3 hour) format.
Add a new machine appliqué technique to your repertoire of quilting skills. Achieve perfect shapes and accurate placement of all your appliqué elements, no matter how small or complex. Use this method to create multi-layered appliqué motifs by machine when you can’t or don’t want to fuse.
Color Magic --- 3 hours or 6 hours
Learn recipes for color schemes that really work. Create special illusions using color
and value for dimensional effects, luminosity and luster in your quilts. Recognize your
color preferences and discover how to make them work for you whether you like bright
vibrant hues, quiet tones, or dark mysterious shades. We will work on color and quilt
block exercises with real fabric as we experiment with color. No sewing machines required.
This class is available in either a 3-hour or 6-hour version.
Bring the art of perspective, one of the most important of an artist’s tools, to your quilt making as you learn to create the illusion of depth in your work. Learn to make eye catching three-dimensional frames to border your quilts. The simple techniques we study are essential for creating realistic landscapes and interiors.We will practice some exercises in linear perspective, learn about columns and arches, as well as other architectural details.
Who doesn’t love flowers? Capture the unexpected burst of color of a wildflower in the woods, or the riotous hues of a summer garden in your quilts. You will learn the process of transforming a sketch or photo into a beautiful free-motion appliquéd flower portrait. This is a good class for intermediate to advanced quilters who are looking for a new technique to add to their skills. Photos and patterns will be provided, but you may also bring your own photos of favorite flowers.
The Embellished Landscape --- 9-12 hrs (one and a half to two days)
Learn to construct a landscape that shows depth and realism. Then make a decorative shaped border to frame your landscape and effectively break the borders to suggest another layer of depth and dimension. Embellish the landscape with thread work, machine needle lace, sheers and textured fabrics. Designs for one or more landscapes will be provided, however you will have freedom to exercise as much creativity as you like.
From Photo to Quilt --- 12 hrs (a two day workshop)
Have you ever seen a beautiful scene and thought it might make a great quilt?
Do you have vacation photos waiting to be made into quilted memories? This class will address both design and construction of pictorial quilts, teaching
you how to create a pattern from your favorite photos and to turn them into realistic quilted pictures using applique
and thread embellishment techniques. This class is available as a two-day workshop, or may be
expanded for a more in-depth approach if time permits.
Explore techniques and strategies to use in creating
beautiful quilted landscapes and seascapes. Starting with fabric selection and design
planning, you will learn how to translate a sketch or photograph into fabric for a
stunning quilt. Learn how to combine various forms of machine appliqué and decorative
embellishments to create a unique environment that will intrigue its viewers. Quilting
strategies specifically suited to landscape quilts will also be covered. This is intended
to be a machine appliqué class, although hand appliqué enthusiasts are welcome to adapt
the lessons to their needs. This class is available as a two-day workshop, or may be
expanded for a more in-depth approach if time permits. LecturesOn Land and Sea --- 12 hours (a
two-day Landscape workshop)
Sampler Settings --- *NEW* Lecture, 45-60 minutes
Do you have a group of blocks but don’t know what to do with them? Have you won your guild’s Blocks of the Month? In this lecture, learn how to make disparate blocks into a cohesive quilt. Group participation is a must as we look at your sampler quilts, both the ones that worked and the ones that didn’t.
Susan Brittingham
Post Office Box 543
Floyd, Virginia 24091
email: sbritt@swva.net
Suggested skill requirements for my classes.
If you email me to request additional information, please include your snail mail address or an alternative means of getting in touch. I have problems sometimes in replying to AOL email addresses so if you do not hear from me, this could be why. Spam filters also can block messages. Thanks!
I am currently accepting teaching jobs predominately in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Eastern Tennessee, Eastern Kentucky, West Virginia, and Maryland. Check with me about larger conferences outside this area. Available April through October.
