I want to start a discussion, and see where everyone is at, as I plan for next year’s quilt-along events. I have tonnes of ideas, and need to start making some decisions on what I’m going to do.

I plan to host two quilt-alongs next year and both will have a fee associated with them at the beginning. I’m self-employed and I just can’t work for free.

One will start in January and last the full year (minus a few weeks for vacation, to be determined). I’d like for this one to be queen-sized (I need a new bed quilt), but depending on the design, I may also provide directions to make smaller blocks/finished quilt. I’m debating between:

  • a medallion-style quilt, with a large centre focus and many rows going around or a standard block-based design
  • a quilt with 48 (or so) unique blocks constructed in rows/columns (for this version, different block sizes could be provided resulting in a smaller finished size)
  • another unique layout like the current QAL.

The second QAL will be a row-based quilt. I just love these. This quilt will definitely have different quilting techniques (pieced, paper pieced, appliqué). This QAL won’t start until probably the summer and last a few months.

Some questions for you:

How do you feel with the current QAL’s experience level? Should the next one be of similar complexity or are you ready to jump up to an Intermediate level. I realize this is subjective, but answer the best you can … this is just a discussion.

For the year-long QAL, do you have a preference for medallion-style, block-based (rows/columns) or unique layout (existing QAL)?

How do you feel about paper piecing and appliqué? Have you done these techniques? Would you like to learn? I’m thinking of incorporating both in the two QALs. I simply LOVE paper piecing and I think you will too. The design opportunities for both techniques are unlimited. There is so much that can be learned for both.

OR would you prefer to stay with traditionally pieced units. If so, this goes back to the experience question, to what complexity? Are you ready for Y-Seams?

One final question, and I know it’s never easy to ask, so if you prefer to email me privately, by all means go ahead. What do YOU think would be a fair price, one that you’d be willing to pay, for either a year-long QAL or another lap-based row QAL? (USD please, or specify currency)

Please answer in the comments below, or email me privately, if you prefer.

Let’s Discuss … Quilt-Along Plans for 2014

54 thoughts on “Let’s Discuss … Quilt-Along Plans for 2014

  • September 16, 2013 at 10:32 am
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    I love the idea of a queen size medallion quilt! As to complexity, intermediate, would be perfect. Would definitely sign up for that!
    Pricing is always hard. I would say $15 to $25 is the going rate right now for a year long project.
    I absolutely love paper piecing. Was afraid to try it at first, but found out its not as hard as it looks. I do not have a machine that does good appliqué, so that’s out for me.
    The row quilt also sounds interesting! Now I can’t wait for 2014!

  • September 16, 2013 at 7:34 pm
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    This is my first QAL and have really enjoyed doing it. I am a self taught quilter so have learnt a lot from you. I find it hard to go and join classes as I don’t think my work is as good as others so like this group as they give a lot of encouragement. I would love to do a medallion quilt but am happy to do what you decide. I have done paper piecing and applique but would still like to do it with you as I am sure to learn much more about it. I have never done Y seams and would love the challenge.
    I am happy to move on to an intermediate level. As for the cost I am happy to pay but do not work for health reasons so funds are limited. I will definitely be joining in with you as I looked forward to the weekly lesson and the friendship on the FB site. Thank you Michelle for your time and expertise and the explanations on your weekly lessons. Very happy

  • September 18, 2013 at 10:20 am
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    Hello, I really love the current quilt a long and would be interested in a other of that type. I’m not particularly interested in paper piecing or applique, but would probably change my mind if I saw the quilt design. Will the BOM include fabric or will it be email only? Including fabric I will pay up to $25 or pattern only $5.

  • September 23, 2013 at 2:21 pm
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    I have thoroughly enjoyed this quilt along experience. Your unique pattern has been a huge success. All the quilts are amazing. The encouragement from this wonderful group of ladies has been heartwarming.

    I would like to do paper piecing but I am terrible at appliqué and wondered if there could be an alternative block for those of us who don’t want to appliqué.
    As for the price, my opinion is to keep it in the $10 to $15 range.

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