Applique work was common in Old World cultures. European and African traditions of decorative applique date back centuries. This intarsia embroidery was common in Italy, Spain, and France. In America, conventional applique blossomed in the mid-19th century. These same techniques were employed to decorate fabric that was then layered with batting and backing and quilted into the finest bed quilts. Today, applique techniques are used in bed and art quilts, framed art pieces, and mixedmedia collage and to embellish garments.

Participants in this workshop explore a variety of techniques for hand sewing applique. Students sew samples of both onlay and reverse applique using the conventional invisible, running, embroidery, and whip-stitches. Methods of preparing fabric with facings and turned seams and rawedge technique are demonstrated and discussed using many classroom samples.

This is a process-oriented workshop; however, instructor’s patterns are provided, and students may choose to bring a garment to embellish. A supply list is mailed prior to class.

Instructor Jeanne Benson has exhibited her quilts widely in both solo shows and invitationals.

One 7-hour session, including a lunch break (participants provide their own lunch)

The American History Museum has an impressive collection of more than 500 quilts and quilt-related items referred to as the National Quilt Collection. View the online collection of appliqué quilts.