Class - Improv For Planners

Date(s) and Time(s):

This class is a one day workshop.  There will be a total of 6 instructional hours + 30 minutes for lunch. 

Sunday, October 5th, 2025           10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (includes 30 minute lunch break)

Description:

Are you a planner? Does the thought of Improv make you tense? Then this class is for you!

Improv for Planners was designed specifically for quilters who prefer a structured approach but are curious about the spontaneity of Improv.  This class offers unique blend of planning and creative freedom; keeping the over whelm at bay that comes with too many choices. 

Monika Henry; Penny Spool Quilts will gently help you dip your toes into a little bit of structured, planned improve quilting.  Even our Events Coordinator who is known for being a plan-o-lic is intrigued with this class - you might see her there.

In this workshop, you will be exploring the art of Improv quilting without what can feel like the "chaos" of completely unplanned designs.  You be starting with a predetermined layout.  Monika will guide you through your colour (see fabric requirements below) and block selections - before deciding upon your final arrangement.  You will discover how your choices create a quilt that is as unique as your imagination.
 

Prerequisite: 
There are no prerequisites for this class.  However, it is assumed you are an experienced sewer / quilter who can obtain a ¼” seam and know how to use your machine.

NOTE: This NOT a Learn to Quilt class. 

Skill(s) to learn / gain:

- Improv concepts with a bit of planning and structure
- How to play with and choose colours
- Confidence

Required preparation prior to class: 

There are NO pre-class preparations. 

You will not be provided the pattern until the day of class.  The reason behind this is so you are not tempted to do some "just in case" quilt planning ahead of time.

Within a few days of registration, you will receive a copy of the instructor's "Pre-workshop Handout" for Improv for Planners

Pattern / Reference Material(s):

Pattern is included in the class fee and you will receive a printed copy on the day of the workshop.  It includes 2 layouts; small and large.

For this workshop, you will be working on the small version.
Small finishes  24" x 32"
Large finishes  48" x 64"

Fabric (required):
For this workshop, solid fabrics should be used or blenders that read as solids.
1/4 - 1/2 yard of each of 8 - 10 solids - (in 2 colour ways)

The process for colour selection is explained in the pre workshop handout or if you would like some help in selecting your fabric our Watergirl Quilt Co Staff would be happy to assist you in choosing from our large selection of Northcott Colorwork solids and blenders

Class Kit:
You will be provided a class kit at the beginning of the class.  The kit will include the following:
-printed class handout / pattern (for both small and large layouts)
- required freezer paper


Required supplies for Class:

•         45mm Rotary cutter (fresh blade recommended)
•         Fabric marking pen or chalk pencil
•         Cutting rulers
•         Thread (40 / 50 wt) for piecing 
•         Optional: paper scissors
•         7 unique coloured clips; such as Wonder Clips or Crazyclips
  Other Recommended supplies 

•         Acorn Easy Press (spray bottle) or Best Press (unscented) or Flatter (scentless)
•         Pins or Bohin glue stick
•         Seam ripper
•         Sewing machine needle Microtex 80/12 

Sewing Machine, 
- must be in good working order
- user guide / manual; always good to bring your user guide / manual incase you run into any problems.  However, you must be able to thread your machine and bobbin.
- pedals, power cords
- feet (1/4 " foot is recommended, but not required).  Bring what you have. 

In our classroom at Watergirl Quilt Co, you will be able to enjoy the use of our
- tables; sit / stand mechanical raise and lower
- chairs     NOTE: for added comfort bring a seat cushion.
- iron and ironing boards
- cutting mats on large table for cutting 
- cutting mat at each work station


Complimentary
Coffee and tea will be available in our kitchenette. Please bring a travel mug or sealed cup to avoid any spillage. Tap water is drinkable.


Lunch
There will be a 30 minute break for lunch.

Lunch (Salad bar with variety of proteins, veggies and legumes. Plus dessert) is included in the class fee. 

You are welcome to bring snacks or if you require a specialized diet you my bring your own foods / snacks to eat at your workstation.  However, we ask you do not bring any foods listed under our allergy alerts.

NOTE: our fridge space is limited, so we suggest you make use of a thermal lunch bag.  

Allergy alerts 

Customers suffer from various allergies and medical conditions.  To help avoid any incidents, we request you do not bring or wear the following:

-        Seafood
-        Peanuts
-        Perfumes / scented products

Machine rentals
Don't feel like bringing your machine with you?  Rental machines are available (limited quantity).  Please contact our store directly to confirm current pricing and availability. 


Arrival
You may enter via the main door of the store or if someone is in the classroom they can open the door to make it easier to bring your things in.   Please note that you will be allowed in as soon as the front opens at 9:30 am. You may notice staff in the store earlier, but they will be busy preparing for store opening.


Parking
Limited parking spots are available in the parking lot at store level.  Please refer to signage to ensure you are NOT parked in a spot that is designated for resident parking.  

Free long term town parking is available on the river side of our building, to the left.

There is NO parking allowed on Water Street

E-chargers are available within the Shoppers Drug Mart parking lot.  NOTE: there is a time limit for parking in their lot.

Cancellation of Classes or Retreats 

Please refer to Refund policy – Watergirl Quilt Co.