Computerized Class Descriptions
The computerized classes will focus on the use of the CreativeStudio software and how to apply these skills when using your Statler or Elevate. Foundational Skills and Advanced Techniques are two separate sessions. Students can select to attend either session ($399) or both ($599).
Foundational Skills Classes (Days 1 and 2)
Jump Start to CreativeStudio 7 – Computer skills and navigating CreativeStudio
This class introduces common basics of navigating computers and CreativeStudio 7. Familiarize yourself with CreativeStudio as we present an overview of various sections of the CreativeStudio screen with an emphasis on customizing options, project management and pattern management. This class also covers essential computer and mouse skills for Statler owners as well as handy tips to make navigating CreativeStudio faster and more efficient.
First Things First – Loading Quilts and Edge to Edge Setup
This class will cover a quick loading method and a discussion about squaring and stabilizing quilts. This will be followed by an in depth demonstration of Edge to Edge setup using a variety of patterns. We’ll also discuss tension and shrinkage as we demonstrate stitchout of the first row on an actual quilt.
Next Steps – Completing the Edge to Edge Quilt
In this class we’ll continue to stitch out the edge to edge quilt we began in the previous session. We’ll discuss different Roll Quilt methods and other helpful skills to restart quilting and relocate quilting. We’ll also talk about options for dealing with situations where there is too little or too much pattern at the end of the quilt.
Caring for Your Longarm
The basics of caring for your longarm quilting machine for the most seamless quilting experience. This class covers the basics of oiling and maintaining your Gammill machine and how to properly set up your machine to avoid frustrating issues like tension problems and skipped stitches. We will discuss where to get help if problems do arise and have time for questions and answers. You will learn what parts to keep on hand for emergencies and how to install them. This class will help clear up some of the mysteries of your machine for a more enjoyable and quality quilting experience.
All Around the Border – Borders from start to finish
In this class you’ll see a complete border from setup to stitchout. We’ll discuss pattern selection, top and bottom border setup, shrinkage and other considerations. We’ll also talk about options for dealing with side repeats and demonstrate chunking side borders on an actual quilt.
Everything in the Middle – Placing blocks and sashings
In this class we’ll place and stitch stop borders and sashings using a variety of CreativeStudio features. We’ll also look at several methods for placing and adjusting basic block patterns on the quilt.
The What the Where and the How – Block specific treatments
In this class we’ll look at pattern choice and placement for a variety of common pieced patterns. We will explore a number of CreativeStudio features as we place, alter and stitch patterns on our quilt. We’ll work with nine patch blocks, applique, flying geese and more.
Fabulous Fixes
Description coming soon
Advanced Technique Sessions (Days 3 and 4)
Approach to Custom Quilting – Organizing and preparing for a custom quilt project
In this class we’ll discuss getting organized and prepared to begin work on a custom quilt. We’ll talk about stabilizing the quilt and deciding where to begin quilting. We’ll also demonstrate other skills like evaluating pattern choice and density as well as other techniques that will ensure a quality result. These techniques can make the difference between a great quilt and a “Wow!” quilt.
Block Work – Features for placing patterns in blocks
In this class we’ll explore several CreativeStudio features for filling blocks on our quilt. There are many ways to accomplish the same tasks in CreativeStudio and we’ll provide options that can increase the efficiency of your quilting and save you time. We’ll also talk about features and methods for manipulating patterns to precisely fit the needs of the quilt.
Not Your Ordinary Border – Advanced border techniques
In this class we’ll demonstrate border techniques that are beyond the basics. We’ll cover non-traditional patterns setups in CreativeStudio’s Border Corner feature. We’ll also cover other advanced techniques for placing and stitching patterns around the borders of your quilt.
Fill and Trim – Discover the uses of the Fill and Trim features
In this class we’ll discuss the key differences between the Trim and Fill functions in CreativeStudio 7 and when to use each on your quilts. We’ll demonstrate what makes a pattern good (or bad) for using as a Fill and show some useful and exciting ways to use Fill feature on your quilt.
Altering Patterns – Methods for changing CreativeStudio patterns
In this class we’ll talk about the many ways and reasons to alter an existing pattern. We’ll cover dividing patterns, changing start and end points, adding text, working with nodes, order join, saving designs and much more.
Designing Patterns – Creating patterns in CreativeStudio 7
In this class we’ll demonstrate creating patterns with the draw tools in CreativeStudio. You’ll see the process from start to finish including importing images, drawing arcs lines and curves, Order Join and more. We’ll also cover saving and testing and these newly created patterns.
Wholecloth Design – Techniques for designing and stitching a wholecloth quilt
In this class you will learn concepts and features to help you create a beautiful and original wholecloth quilt. We’ll discuss layouts, pattern choice, and CreativeStudio features to design and stitch a small wholecloth project. Some of the features you’ll see used are Divide, Apply, Fill and Nodes View.
Breaking Up Spaces – Dealing with open spaces, big borders, etc. (lecture)
Have big open spaces? Let’s view some examples of open spaces on quilts and how we deal with breaking up that space. We will discuss big borders, large areas of negative space and how you can use areas of relief, as well as creating textures.
