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Description
The workshop covers unique machine-piecing techniques and color and fabric guidelines for creating the complex and mobile reflection of a kaleidoscope. While gaining insight into the nature of symmetry and intricately printed fabrics, students will learn to create a design that sews together successfully and renders a kaleidoscopic image filled with luminosity and dramatic impact.
On Day 1, students learn to draft a perfect angle and the template techniques I use to create complex images by sewing a pattern called Sixty-Thirty.
Days 2-3 will explore more advanced themes (ie: piecing curves, innovative use of fabrics, learning to identify and join divergent angles) while using a pattern called Sunstar.
This product and process class culminates in the creation of a unique and fabulous kaleidoscope block. Often effects more wonderful than you imagine occur, making you both the one who makes the magic and the one who is surprised.
SUPPLIES
Fabric/Supply List Questions can be directed to Paula at: Needlestar@aol.com
NOTE: *An asterisk means that this important item will be available for sale in the classroom so do not waste time finding it on your own if not convenient.
1. Graph paper with an eight-to-the-inch grid and a bold inch line; will be provided by instructor.
*2. Sheets of see-thru plastic template material with an eight-to-the-inch grid and a bold inch line. PREFERRED AND AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN CLASS : Visi-Grid by Paula Nadelstern
3. Thin rulers PREFERRED AND AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN CLASS: C-Thru 6"
4. Sharp pencils with ample and accessible erasers
*5. Extra fine-point permanent marker. PREFERRED AND AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN CLASS: Multimark S/Faber Castell Fine point
*6. Method to mark dark fabric. PREFERRED AND AVAILABLE FOR SALE IN CLASS: Uniball Silver Gel Pen)
7. A sharp fabric scissor (consider Karen Kay Buckley’s 6” Perfect Scissors)
8. Template/paper scissors: A template scissor should not be the discarded kitchen shears or shaped for a five-year-old's hand. It is the essential, indispensable tool from which all other acts follow. I use OlfasCS-1 multipurpose scissors.
9. Set-up for rotary cutting, including a rotary cutter, ruler and mat.
10. Sewing machine with well-defined quarter-inch seam allowance guide + single hole throat plate when available
11. General sewing supplies including fine pins and black thread
12. Ziplock baggies to hold templates
13. Simple, inexpensive compass
FABRIC
NOTE: BILATERALLY SYMMETRICAL fabric designed by Paula Nadelstern will be available for sale in the class.
Fabric: If it catches your eye, bring it! The palette of fabric does not have to match. Diversity is the key. Remember, more is more! Important: Multi-colored cotton fabrics printed with at least 8 or 16 on-grain motifs which are identical and bilaterally symmetrical; in other words, the motif can be divided into identical halves by a line passing through the center. Also good: symmetrical patterns and mirror-imaged motifs printed off-grain (ie: paisleys).
See examples: http://paulanadelstern.com/fabric/fabric-intro.php?line=12
http://paulanadelstern.com/fabric/fabric-intro.php?line=10
Also: a variety of 1/4-1/2 yards of small to medium all-over prints, textures, gradations, stripes, marbled and stuff speckled with gold (a black splattered with gold is excellent). Include rich, saturated jewel tones and painterly fabrics that evoke luminosity, translucence, iridescence. Black and white all-overs such as dots or dashes are useful.
Important: Black or dark saturated color that reads like a solid but isn't. Can be a batik as long as it doesn’t read blotchy.
NQM has Janome 6700 sewing machines available for use if you are unable to bring your own. There is no charge, but we ask that you request a machine prior to the start of class by contacting bglasby@quiltmuseum.org
How do I apply my Friend of the Museum discount?
Friends of the Museum at the Benefactor level and above receive 20% off classes, programs and gift shop purchases. You'll receive a promo code via email that can be applied during checkout.
How do I become a Friend of the Museum?
Visit our website: https://quiltmuseum.org/friends/
Workshop FAQs - Workshops & Classes are In-Person
What are the times of the workshop?
Workshops are 3 days: Thursday – Saturday. Class runs 9:00am - 4:00pm each day. Students must be out of the classrooms when the Museum closes at 5:00 pm.
Friday evening, we offer you the option to stay until 7:00 pm and work on your project or visit the Museum galleries.
How many people will be in the workshop?
We can accommodate up to 20 students per workshop – each student having use of one 3’x6’ table. Irons and ironing boards are provided by NQM, and shared by all participants.
When can I bring in my supplies?
You may unload materials between 1:00-4:30 pm on the Wednesday before the workshop begins. NQM has Janome 6700 sewing machines available for use if you are unable to bring your own. There is no charge, but we ask that you request a machine prior to the start of class.
Where do I park?
Loading and unloading materials can be done from the Museum parking lot. We have several flatbed carts available if you need help bringing materials inside. Once you’ve unloaded, please park in the municipal parking lot located on 2nd Street behind the Museum during class hours (near the Farmer’s Market Stand). All parking is free.
How do I get into the Museum?
Please use the Main Entrance to the Museum. The automatic-accessible door will be unlocked each morning starting at 8:30am for you to enter the building.
What about lunch?
Lunch break is 1 hour and timed at the instructor’s discretion. There are a variety of restaurants within walking distance of the Museum that are open for both lunch and dinner.
Can I bring my own food?
Bottled water, coffee and hot water, and snacks will be provided. You are welcome to bring your own tea bags, drinks or snacks for your own table.
Do I have to pay admission to the Museum?
No! As a workshop participant your admission to the galleries is included. If you are a Friend of NQM at the Benefactor level or higher you also receive a 20% discount on all purchases in the Gift Shop.
Refund Policy
If you have to cancel more than 30 days before the workshop, NQM will issue a full refund.
If you have to cancel within 30 days of the workshop, NQM will issue a refund for the class amount minus a $100 deposit.
If NQM has to cancel the workshop for any reason, participants will receive a full refund.
Please note, workshop/class tickets are non-transferrable.
Date & Time
Oct 1, 2026 9:00 AM - Oct 3, 2026 4:00 PM
Venue Details
National Quilt Museum
215 Jefferson St.Paducah, Kentucky 42001
