Traditional Crazy Quilting

Crazy quilting is a decorative quilting style that combines patchwork and embroidery in a free-form, expressive way. Originating in the Victorian era, it embraces irregular shapes, mixed fabrics, and abundant embellishment. The result is richly textured, imaginative, and endlessly creative. 

This is a fully hand stitching style class, where no machines will be used. 

What You’ll Learn

This class is divided into two parts:

• Foundation Piecing: Assemble a crazy quilt square by hand using foundation piecing. Hand basting will be demonstrated, with the option to machine stitch if preferred.

• Embellishment & Embroidery: Learn decorative stitches including herringbone, blanket, feather stitch, couching, French knots, and more (time and interest permitting). We will also explore embellishing with appliqué, ribbons, and lace.

Skill Level

All levels welcome. No prior experience required, though basic embroidery knowledge is helpful. This class is ideal for anyone who enjoys hand stitching and detailed work on a small scale.

Project Outcome

Participants will complete (or nearly complete) one crazy quilt square, suitable for a small pillow top. Additional finishing ideas will be discussed. ** Please be aware that you may not leave with a fully finished square. This is dependant on how decorative you wan to be. 

Supply List

Required

• 9"–10" square of lightweight cotton (base layer) (Available from our curated scrap bins)

• 10–20 fabric scraps, approx. 5" × 10" (Available from our curated scrap bins) 

• Neutral sewing thread for basting

• Embroidery floss (variety of colours)

• Sewing scissors

• Needles suitable for chosen threads

• Pins

• Pencil or fabric marker

• Quilting ruler (also available from studio supplies if you do not have your own)

Optional (These will be available for use during the class) 

• Rotary cutter and small cutting mat

• Embroidery hoop

• Embroidery reference books

• Beads, sequins, decorative buttons

Fabric Notes

**We will have fabric from our recirculated scrap bins to choose from if you like. Please be prepared to prep your fabric during the class. 

Quilting cotton is easiest to work with, but traditional crazy quilting welcomes variety. Consider bringing:

• Quilting cotton scraps

• Velvet, brocade, silk, satin, or wool

• Men’s silk ties

• Upholstery samples (not too heavy)

• Embroidered denim or garment scraps

• Vintage embroidered linens

• Ribbons, lace, doilies

• Personal or meaningful fabric motifs

Choose fabrics with contrasting colours, prints, and textures. Stripes and pre-embroidered pieces work especially well. A bold motif (bird, flower, logo) can serve as a focal point. Variety is key.

Embroidery Thread

Standard 6-strand embroidery floss is recommended. Wool, silk threads, or narrow ribbon may also be used. Bring colours that contrast with your fabrics.