July 2026
Introduction to Patchwork and Quilting (8-Week Course)
Tutor: Canberra Quilters Specialist Tutors
Date: Alternating Saturdays (11, 25 July | 8, 22 Aug | 12 Sept | 17, 31 Oct | 14 Nov)
Time: 9:30am – 12:30pm
Fee: $162.00 (Members) | $245.00 (Non-Members – includes 2026 calendar membership)
Skill Level: Beginners (Basic sewing machine experience required)
This comprehensive course is perfect for anyone wanting an introduction to Patchwork and Quilting. You will have the choice of making a traditional pattern or a modern quilt layout. Over 8 weeks, you will learn rotary cutting, template making, and precise measuring. Techniques covered include foundation piecing, machine construction, machine/hand appliqué, and English paper piecing. The final three weeks focus on full quilt construction, including borders, pinning, quilting, and binding.
Where: All classes are held in the Canberra Quilters room at Cook Community Hub, 41 Templeton Street, Cook.
Enrolment: Contact workshops@canberraquilters.org.au for details
October 2026
Pop-Up Shop & Workshop – Miss Leela
Tutor: Leela Brown (The Maker’s Stash)
Date: 1 & 2 October 2026
Time: Thursday Evening Meeting 1st of October (Pop-Up Store) & Friday October 2nd – 10am – 2pm (Workshop)
BIO
Leela, also known as Miss Leela, is an English Paper Piecing (EPP) pattern designer, slow stitch educator, and textile artist with over 20 years of hands-on experience in hand stitching, quilting, embroidery, and textile art. She is the founder of The Maker’s Stash, a creative business she has lovingly run for almost six years from her home studio in the Blue Mountains. Through her thoughtfully designed EPP patterns, curated fabrics, threads, paper templates, and notions, she inspires makers to embrace the mindful art of hand stitching and traditional patchwork techniques. In her workshops, Miss Leela shares the joy of slow stitching, teaching intricate piecing methods while creating a welcoming space where stitchers can connect and unwind. Whether you’re picking up a needle for the first time or looking to refine your skills, her warm, encouraging approach will inspire you to slow down, stitch with confidence, and discover the beauty in every stitch.
Christmas Star Ornament – English Paper Piecing Workshop
In this relaxed workshop with Miss Leela, you’ll immerse yourself in the joy of slow stitching as you create a beautiful Christmas Star ornament using English Paper Piecing (EPP). This class is perfect for makers of all skill levels — especially those who enjoy mindful hand-sewing and want to make something special for the festive season. Miss Leela will guide you through every step of the process, sharing her best tips for piecing diamonds, managing precision stitching, and achieving a polished finish on your ornament.
During the workshop, participants will learn how to:
- Explore the basics of English Paper Piecing with diamond shapes
- Learn how to baste, piece, and join EPP units with confidence
- Discover finishing techniques for a crisp, professional look
- Turn into a hanging decoration with wool felt and ribbon.
By the end of the workshop, participants will:
- Understand essential EPP techniques for diamonds
- Complete a finished or near-finished hand-stitched star ornament ready to display
- Gain confidence in precision hand sewing and slow stitching
- Experience the meditative and creative benefits of English Paper Piecing
Printed A5 Colour Pattern Booklet $10* (will be available to purchase on the day.)
Printed Pattern Booklet and Kit $30* (will be available to purchase on the day.)
Kit Includes
- A curated scrap pack of beautiful fabrics
- Paper templates
- Wool felt for backing
- Reel of DMC Diamante Thread
- Satin ribbon hanger
- Not Included in Kit – Thread for piecing
Click Here to Enrol
Contact workshops@canberraquilters.org.au for more information details
Have a Suggestion?
If you would like to suggest a guest tutor, request a specific skill workshop, or offer your time and talent to host a community skill share, please reach out to our team.
Contact: Fiona, Workshops Co-ordinator – workshops@canberraquilters.org.au