Free Form Patchwork: Expanded Possibilities

Free-Form Patchwork: Expanded Possibilities

With Wholecloth Studio

Level: Suitable for those with some basic sewing experience

Format: Hand sewing / no machines required

Materials: All provided, including a selection of Wholecloth's plant dyed textiles. In this session we’ll dive deeper into the possibilities of free-form hand-pieced patchwork. Using just fabric, scissors, needle and thread, we’ll cover a variety of practical techniques including hand piecing straight and curved lines, free-form interpretations of traditional blocks, and appliqué shapes. Then we’ll talk about bringing these elements together into a single piece, balancing colour and shape. Towards the end, there will be a demonstration of some of the many finishing options for each piece, including adding wadding for structure, quilting stitches for texture, stretching on a frame, binding as a wall hanging, or even incorporating it into a bag or clothing.

This is a relaxed and playful session, intended to stimulate creativity, explore new ideas, and enhance skills.

Your tutor will be Elli Beaven from Wholecloth Studio.

Elli Beaven is a textile artist, quilt maker, and natural dyer based in rural Galicia in northern Spain. Working under the name Wholecloth Studio, she creates tactile, richly coloured patchwork pieces using thoughtfully sourced vintage and repurposed textiles.  Her use of plant dyes - grown in her garden or carefully foraged from the local countryside - imbues each piece with a luminous colour palette that roots her work firmly in the surrounding landscape.

Her practice spans a broad range of work that explores the boundaries between fine art and craft, from wall hangings and stretched patchwork compositions to functional quilts and everyday textile goods. Each piece incorporates her favoured hand-stitching techniques, bringing depth, texture, and character to the finished work.

There will be a 45 minute lunch break from 1-1.45pm. You are welcome to bring a packed lunch or purchase something from the town centre. Options for eating out on a Sunday in Stroud are Star Anis, Leola, Simple, Woodruffs Cafe and The Retreat.