Quilting Gallery

Let’s Discuss … Quilt-Along Plans for 2014

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.

Mishka

54 responses to “Let’s Discuss … Quilt-Along Plans for 2014”

  1. Elizabeth Nix Avatar
    Elizabeth Nix

    I like the idea of a large medallion style quilt.

    Reply
  2. Anne Laguette Hollebeke Avatar
    Anne Laguette Hollebeke

    I fully support paying for the next QAL. I have thoroughly enjoyed doing this QAL with you! I am eager and willing to elevate and “go out of the box” and go towards the intermediate level. I have only done paper piecing once, ( a very small project) but I am eager to learn this technique in a broader range.
    I just hope there will be less half-square triangles (sorry, but not my favorite thing to do

    Reply
  3. Cora brown Avatar
    Cora brown

    I want a challenge and I am good with any design.. I love appliqué and paper piecing. Pricing is hard..I agree you should be paid. I am not sure what the going rate is. What do others charge?

    Reply
  4. thunder Avatar
    thunder

    I have always wanted to do a medallion style quilt, but also love the unique layout as in the current QAL.

    I liked the complexity of the current QAL, I have been quilting quite some time, and consider myself somewhat experienced. I think if you up it to much, that may scare away new quilters??

    I have done applique, using fusible. stitching around the pieces with blanket stitches. Have also done PP, that was hard for me to grasp!! still don’t love the technique, but I do love the results. I have done some Y seams, not a fan. But would do them if I liked the block 🙂

    Don’t know what a fair price would be?? but I do know… sometimes I have “extra” money. sometimes not. joining in for me would depend on price, and timing.
    If money was due in between my pay periods, and I was at a point of no “extra” I would not be able to join.

    think I answered everything.

    Reply
  5. Dena Martin Avatar
    Dena Martin

    This is my first quilt along that I’ve participated in and I have really assembling the blocks and seeing what others are doing. The differences among us is inspiring.

    I would be accepting of stepping up the difficulty level to intermmediate, while incorporating other quilting techniques. In fact, I have written a tutorial on how to paper piece that is very popular in the quilting community. It’s on my blog if you’re interested.

    I think a year-long quilt along with a center medallion design would be fun as well as a smaller quilt that runs for a shorter period of time. As for pricing, this is a difficult question to answer as I’m not sure what others are charging. Perhaps $5 or $10? Maybe a small fee for each lesson? I’m sorry I can’t provide a more concrete response on pricing, but I would be open to paying.

    Reply
  6. Susan Entwistle Avatar
    Susan Entwistle

    I love the unique layout of A4A. Center medallions are good, and that’s where you could incorporate paper piecing. You could also incorporate applique on the borders, but as far as a lot of applique, there are many other sites offering applique BOMs so you might want to not use it as a main focus to limit competition and accommodate those fans that think of applique as ‘the A word’. A fee is also acceptable, but I don’t know how you’d figure out what it should be. The BOMs offered by the quilt shops usually charge $25-35 just for the patterns, but again, those are already printed out with color instructions and include applique templates and pre-printed paper piecing papers. You might want to consult with Sindy Rodenmayer(?) (Fat Cat Patterns) for pricing ideas, she’s been selling patterns and BOMs for quite some time now and might be able to offer some wisdom. I’m comfortable with intermediate work and like to work on projects that are challenging to learn new techniques. There are also a lot of great videos on the web about Y seams, so no worries there.

    Reply
  7. Renee Kanas Avatar
    Renee Kanas

    I too like the medallion idea. I haven’t done too many of this type. As you know, I paper piece almost all my quilts, so I won’t mind that, but I’m not fond of applique. As to the fee, I am on a limited budget, so as long as I can afford it, I won’t mind paying.

    Reply
  8. Nana.Quilts Avatar
    Nana.Quilts

    The unique layout is why I joined this quilt-along. I’ve been itching to make a quilt with a lot of different sized blocks like this. I really like this layout, and the quilt-along has been fun.

    I’ve done quilt-alongs before, but never paid, so I have no idea what you might charge. Generally, they have been with the designers (Jennifer Chiaverini, Bonnie Hunter, etc.), before they publish their patterns. We try out the pattern for free; they use the photos of the different colorways in their publications. I’ve also done quilt alongs with yahoo quilting groups, but they are free too.

    Honestly, I would probably not pay to do a quilt along.

    On the other hand I do pay to take online quilting classes with Craftsy. Perhaps you might want to run your quilt along with them. I know these patterns were offered their free, so obviously you are connected with Craftsy in some way already.

    I do wish you the best with whatever you decide on for
    next year.

    Reply
  9. barb Avatar
    barb

    I would be game to try them if the fee is reasonable. I would suggest a one time fee not a monthly fee. Much easier. I dont have a clue what a mediallion center quilt is. i have done paper piecing and applique. It would depend on the cost at this point. But would most DEFINATELY consider both of the quilts. Learned much from doing this one and the trimming of the hst and qst.
    I would be game to make one or both. the row sounds great as i have never made one before. Really depends on the cost.
    Thanks

    Reply
  10. Linette Greene Avatar
    Linette Greene

    I have really loved doing the quilt along, both the designs, but most especially, the camaraderie.

    I am NOT fond of paper piecing and I do not much like applique either. I can and will do both as long as neither is the complete focus. For example, in a row by row quilt, I would be happy with one row that was paper piecing and one that was applique, but I much, much prefer traditional piecing.

    As far as paying….I also have no idea what will price your qal beyond what people will pay. The year long BOM I just am finishing up is $20 a month, but includes a professionally printed booklet for each month AND the fabric. Another I am doing is only $5 a month and includes the pattern and the fabric, but the person running that one did not write the patterns herself. It is through Accuquilt and she precuts the fabrics for us. Have to say, I like the precut pieces but I am not in love with the fabrics and I will most likely give it away when it is finished.

    I guess as far as a fee, you have to balance charging a nominal fee for lots more people, or charging a larger fee and having fewer people participate.

    Yes, I like the idea of seeing about making it a Craftsy offereing–they are doing a number of QAL. I have signed up for two different free ones through them. Not sure how the teachers are making their money–exposure? Advertising? Craftsy paying them?

    Reply
  11. Linette Greene Avatar
    Linette Greene

    Oh, as far as complexity, I am up for anything! I like to stretch myself and learn new skills.

    I prefer the idea of a unique layout again.

    Reply
  12. judith Avatar
    judith

    This has been my first QAL and it’s been great, so I’d be very interested in joining another.

    I enjoy applique and have done paper piecing on small projects but haven’t done Y seams, however I’m always up for learning something new.

    It was the assymetrical and unusual layout of this QAL which attracted me to it, but I have no preference as to what type for the next project.

    Regarding fees, I’m not sure how much, but I’d prefer to pay a one off amount rather than instalments.

    Reply
  13. Kristin Avatar
    Kristin

    I read your post and the comments above and echo many of the sentiments written. I was attracted to this quilt along primarily because of the unique layout and secondarily because of the colors of fabric (so eye-catching). I will definitely be interested in joining another QAL or two next year. Your teaching skills, as well as your research for links to assist us in our skills makes your QAL valuable in my opinion. I am an experienced quilter, so the skills I gained in this QAL don’t correspond with some of the others’ skills. I enjoyed learning about shortcuts, such as making multiple HST and QST without cutting triangles first. I have enjoyed learning about colors and placement. I also spent a lot of time over the past few months analyzing your pattern because avoiding Y seams was clearly a goal! I don’t mind Y seams but they are a step up in complexity.

    As regards to your questions: I am in favor of any pattern but would vote for a medallion version for the year long and another unique pattern for the lap QAL. I have often attempted to start a Round Robin QAL with other quilters but have never had any luck. If we do a Medallion quilt with borders surrounding it, maybe the idea of a Round Robin would grow from there. Also, Amish style quilts are so popular and medallions are one of their primary design elements. You could design it in such a way that one could use solids as well as prints.

    I do not have a problem with paper piecing or applique but I suspect that those two skills may have the following affects: 1. beginner quilters may balk at the difficulty and 2. what you need to offer in terms of printable materials will increase your cost in substantially.

    I do not have a problem with a fee. I am not in favor of a substantial fee because I am surrounded by quilt stores that have QALs that are not expensive and provide a group setting along with hands on assistance. However, I enjoy this forum greatly. My law practice schedule isn’t the most flexible… I recommend an upfront fee with a discount if paid within a certain amount of time.

    With regard to complexity, I won’t have a problem completing more complex blocks or techniques but attracting less experienced quilters is probably a goal of yours. As long as I like the design and what I can do with it and fabric, I will join.

    Reply
  14. Donna Porter Avatar
    Donna Porter

    So many questions!!!! I would love to do a medallion quilt with you, I have never done one. However, assorted blocks would be nice too. Paper piecing is not that bad if one is taught how to do it right. The only request I would have is to not do the same thing over and over again in each square as I tend to loose interest.

    I too would like a little bigger quilt. A year seems like a long time to me as once again I loose interest if I don’t feel like I am going anywhere.

    I would be willing to pay a fee for your QAL depending on the cost and the time of year financially.

    I hope that answers your questions.

    Reply
  15. Fiona Avatar
    Fiona

    This has been my first quilt along and I joined it because of the title of improving accuracy… it has been great fun adn I have definetely benefitted…. and I plan to use those learned skills in some quilt kits whcih I have piling up… so I don’t thinK I will be joining in early next year.. perhaps for the summer ….
    Hugz

    Reply
  16. Cindy Dickinson Avatar
    Cindy Dickinson

    I am happy with any complexity and any technique. Paper piecing, applique, anything is fine. I will not participate in a year long QAL. I have done several and it just drags on too long for me. I enjoy the shorter times of just several months. If I was participating, I would prefer the medallion or unique design like this one. I done several “many block quilts” and don’t desire to do another. Row quilts are wonderful.

    And last, I understand about charging and not being able to work for free, but I will not pay. I do these for fun, and I save my money for fabric. I will miss participating next year. I’ve completely enjoyed last year and this year, and I have two wonderful quilts to show for it.

    Reply
  17. Robin Horner Avatar
    Robin Horner

    This has been my first QAL and I have learned so much! I would love to have the next one move ahead in complexity and skill level. You are a great teacher and I’d love to learn more from you.

    I would like to have a medallion style quilt for the year long project. As for technique….perhaps the paper piecing and applique would add to our skill set.

    I would certainly be willing to pay a fee for your QAL. You have certainly proven that you are a skilled teacher and that you provide instruction in a concise format that is easy for everyone to follow. I imagine a fee of $25 would be reasonable.

    Reply
  18. Karen Pattman Avatar
    Karen Pattman

    I think you’ve done an incredible job with this QAL! I would love to try a queen size quilt with 48 (or so) unique blocks constructed in rows/columns. I think the experience level you’ve provided this time was just right, a bit challenging at times, but not too overwhelming. A few new techniques thrown in at random would be fine. I’d rather work on a “fun” QAL project with lots of people (like this one), rather than stress out over intense quilting issues.
    As for a fee? I’d be willing to pay a one time fee for the pattern. The cost? I don’t really know. I’ve purchased color patterns for anywhere between $4 and $15 dollars. I believe when this QAL is complete you are compiling a booklet that can be purchased. I think that is a great idea, also. Good luck, Michelle, keep us posted!

    Reply
  19. Jacqueline hanrahan Avatar
    Jacqueline hanrahan

    -I was attracted to this QAL because of the pattern, and your color choices. I just had to participate!
    -I would love to join another quilt along with you.
    -Your patterns were quick easy and i loved the comraderie on the FB page. It’s nice to see different color ways and check in with others who are completing the same blocks.
    -The tips and techniques were fantastic, and you were accessible and present thoughout the process… I would pay for this service. I have paid to participate in a mystery quilt QAL in the past..$25 for the clues, FB page access with the designer (like you have done with this one) and a bonus pattern. I thought that was fair.
    – I love paper piecing, but I know that it intimidates a lot of people.
    – I printed off a free BOM QAL from a website years ago..( but lost the file somehow) and it was an irregular block layout like your current QAL, but there were two options for each month. One month the block would be appliqué…but the alternate block choice would be traditional piecing. It appealed to different skill levels, different techniques. Everyone’s quilt would be completely unique. I really loved that idea.
    -Thank-you for everything! We all appreciate your hard work, talent and support!

    Reply
  20. Kay Vanatta Avatar
    Kay Vanatta

    First of all I want you to know how much FUN this has been 🙂 And that is due to both of us – your teaching skills and my – for the first time – dedication and perseverance. I will finish this one!

    I did luck out and have a quilt’s worth of coordinating fabrics in my stash from a time when I fell through once before. So I know that however I made choices – the top will at least coordinate! I will be starting fresh next time.

    Experience level… hmm… I’ve been sewing/ crafting most of my life… but playing at quilting for only a few years. It’s a race now to see which quilt top will be finished first – and I have a quilt-as-you-go sampler that is almost finished.. so not exactly an experience quilter but not exactly a novice either. I haven’t done enough to be bored – and still have a LOT to learn!

    I am game to try new techniques…. though in the interest of varied time constraints (and ultimate success), I would love the option of choosing an alternate block when a new technique is put forward. IF that is even possible. I’ve never paper-pieced before but there is an Asian kimono pattern that keeps catching my eye…

    A year-long project seems daunting…. a few months feels more do-able…. or perhaps a half year for a long one? Or perhaps a design where you follow for the first half of the year and have a finished top in a smaller size …. but keep going for a larger version? I suppose that could be like a medallion with rounds? Not sure – I am too new to say… A row quilt sounds exciting – I’ve never done one!

    Payment – Yes, no problem….. I expect instruction and some hand-holding 🙂 That said – something like $20/class sounds right… like craftsy. I haven’t done too much with them yet because I live in an area where we still pay for internet bandwidth 🙂 Videos eat too much of it! But, in honesty – in real life, we buy patterns, we pay for classes… some small charge in the virtual world is not unfair. UNFAIR is expecting to you to volunteer your time for this consistently. You can still offer free things on your site but a long project is too much to do for free – particularly your own design. AND access to a private FB group has been a blast! We learn so much from each other’s skill and color choices…. and the ‘peer pressure’ of keeping up is good! No one in the real world cares much which of my projects I work on so it’s easy to get behind and not finish 🙂

    So there you go – I don’t know if I answered all your questions or not…. one thing I would be interested in is actual quilting instruction. I will be tuning into Craftsy to actually get this quilted… but would love any input that would help me do this myself!

    Thanks again!

    Reply
  21. Tracey Brown Avatar
    Tracey Brown

    Hi Michele, I love the idea of another quiltalong with a unique layout. I’m not a big fan of applique or paper piecing, but I would consider doing it anyway because they are skills that I really SHOULD improve on, but if I”m working on a challenging skill for me, I’d rather do it on a small project rather than a big one so that I don’t get overwhelmed. I liked the skill level for this quilt a long because I was able to work on the units and finish each step on one day, the steps didn’t take forever and prevent me from working on my otehr projects. And I loved all the feedback from you as well.

    As to the pay aspect, I think that $25 is a reasonable price that I would be willing to pay to participate. That’s about the same cost as a book, which I would buy to use one pattern from. I would much rather pay a one time fee than a monthly type thing. If you do a paid project the next time, I would suggest that you definitely have a facebook group or a blog that the participants can post to (on Facebook you can make a ‘SECRET GROUP’ that only members can see and post to, and it won’t show up in searches) to share their progress. Having the facebook group for this quilt a long helped keep me inspired and motivated and I made several new friends.

    Reply
  22. Nichole Alvarez Avatar
    Nichole Alvarez

    I would like to do a medallion quilt too – and as I have a queen size bed too, that size would be perfect!

    I would pay for another QAL. I would love to be able to work from home myself, and gladly assist you in your efforts!

    Honestly, I’ve been pricing classes here locally, and I feel more comfortable asking questions here with you guys than I do there. It’s as if I’m too new to be considered someone to pay attention to when I go in and ask questions in person.

    I have done paper piecing on a few blocks before, so I don’t mind doing that . . . as long as it’s not ALL paper piecing . . .

    Applique – I don’t mind that on a small scale either. I finished up a BOM block from Joann’s from 3 years ago yesterday. There was a lot of applique on that, so I’ve had practice!

    Reply
  23. Mary Ann Avatar
    Mary Ann

    I love the idea of a medallion quilt but like the other ideas too.

    I would be fine with more complexity. I love paper piecing and would enjoy if that is included. Applique is ok, but as a modern quilter some applique doesn’t seem to fit my style. I think this is a more traditional group so I understand my opinion may not be the same as the majority.

    Although I would enjoy more complexity, I don’t particularly want to do Y seams.

    I would probably only be able to pay $10-$15. I definitely believe it’s worth more and would pay more if my employment situation changes before then, but right now that’s all I would be willing to pay out of my small crafting budget.

    Reply
  24. Lee Ann L. Avatar
    Lee Ann L.

    I love QALs. Haven’t done one in over a year due to a variety of reasons. I am hoping to get back into one beginning next year. However, it will have to be an easy one to help me get back into the flow of things. 🙂

    Reply
  25. Carla Finley Avatar
    Carla Finley

    How do you feel about paper piecing and appliqué? I don’t care for them at all. I’m 2 weeks behind right now but only because family came back and we had to go out of town. I don’t mind paying at all if it’s not too much.

    Reply
  26. Sophia Carroll Avatar
    Sophia Carroll

    I’m in for more complexity. I dying to learn Y-seams and curves. I’m not big on medallions, but I love the unique row patterns we did with this one. I also loved the community. I’m fine with paying!

    Reply
  27. Sophia Carroll Avatar
    Sophia Carroll

    Oops we were suppose to name a price. I would say Craftsy prices $25-40. Perhaps it could be a sliding scales. Those with a tight budget could do a smaller amount. Those who can afford could pay a little more….just a thought.

    Reply
  28. Esther Applegate Avatar
    Esther Applegate

    What attracted me to this QAlong was the unique layout with various size blocks. I also liked the prospect if completing the quilt in 16 weeks. I’ve done yearly BOMs and I get BORED when they are only one or two blocks a month. I’ve done a QA on Quilting Board that lasted a year but it had 6 or 8 inch blocks and we did two blocks a week. I liked the new project each week you had in this QA. A step up in complexity interest me because you are so thorough in teaching each step to make it doable. I’ve worked almost exclusively with templates for the past 3 years so your process was like starting quilting from scratch! I learned so much. My LQS charges $10 per session and I’m required to purchase fabric for it from them. You have to consider the charges for the actual pattern and your teaching time separately. I’ve never done a medallion quilt unless Carpenter Star counts but I set it with other 12″ blocks, not border type rows. I think you have to follow your heart and do something for us that gives you a lot if pleasure and fulfillment as well. BTW…the FB page was such a bonus. Thanks for all that you have done to make us successful!

    Reply
  29. Tracy T. Avatar
    Tracy T.

    I think $20-$30 would be a fair price, depending upon how much I liked the pattern. I’m not really interested in applique – I don’t care much for hand sewing. I’ve never tried paper piecing either, for some reason it strikes me as unnecessarily complex, but maybe I would be motivated to try it in a quilt-along format. The medallion quilt sounds pretty interesting, it would be fun if there were a variety of blocks like in this current quilt-along. I found, however with this quilt-along, without all of the directions beforehand, I had a hard time planning my quilt color-wise. Thankyou for all of your effort in putting this QAL forward, it’s been fun!

    Reply
  30. Carol Hyatt Avatar
    Carol Hyatt

    The medallion quilt would be fun and with paper piecing (which I love) and some applique using fusible web and raw edge stitching, but “y” seams not so much. I also love the traditional piecing so either or both would be great with me. I would enjoy stepping up into a intermediate level to expand my quilting techniques. Pricing should be fair to you, but I also would like the one time payment rather than once a month like so many shops do. Thank you for your Aiming for Accuracy quilt that we are working on now which is helping me to improve on my quilting techniques. I love the design and layout of the pattern, great job!

    Reply
  31. Theresa Johnston Avatar
    Theresa Johnston

    I would love to do a medallion quilt! I never see those as quilt alongs. I am not a fan of sampler type quilts and would probably sit that one out.

    Reply
  32. Tammy Avatar
    Tammy

    I came in very late to this QAL, so I am following along but not actually sewing, but drooling over the pieces the other participants have posted. I am still learning and found the information you have posted to be most instructional. When I complete this quilt I will be sending you a picture.

    There are not many QAL I have found that are free with a knowledgeable instructor. I am on a tight budget myself but a willing student with a hunger to learn. I guess what I am saying is that if it was a low one time fee, I would be willing to pay it, but I personally cannot afford much.

    Thank you for taking the time out to make such a beautiful project and sharing your knowledge.

    Reply
  33. Cleary Kipe Avatar
    Cleary Kipe

    I like the a medallion-style quilt, with a large centre focus and many rows going around or a standard block-based design and think it should be to the next level of quilting.
    I also liked the way you offered the patterns for this QAL and that we have the group on FB. Thank you for doing this.

    Reply
  34. Cleary Kipe Avatar
    Cleary Kipe

    I also like the idea of using the paper piecing & applique in it.
    I think a $20 to $25.00 fee would be fine for the year long one.

    Reply
  35. Mary Zaccardi Avatar
    Mary Zaccardi

    This has been my first experience with QAL. When I first found out that I had been signed up, I was kind of ho-hum about participating. Now, I find myself waiting for Thursday to come so I can get the next block. Thank you, Liz Nix, for introducing me to the QAL.
    As for future QAL’s, I’m game for anything. I have never made a medallion quilt so that might be fun, and I am all thumbs when it comes to appliqué but I am willing to try again.
    As to a fee, I have no idea for an amount.
    Thanks for sharing with us.

    Reply
  36. Terri Neely Avatar
    Terri Neely

    Sounds like a great idea to me. I have loved doing this QAL it is my first. As far as paying for it, I think that if I had put as much time and effort in it as you have a little cash for my time would be very appropriate. I am an intermediate quilter and would love any challenge as far as design. I am absolutely on board!

    Reply
  37. Marye Albritton Avatar
    Marye Albritton

    I definitely believe you should charge. Craftsy’s QAL workshop w/Amy Gibson was about $20 and I think that is fair…or even a bit more. I agree with the idea of a discount the earlier you sign up. I assume that the QAL now is available indefinitely which is a great feature since I’m way behind. LOL

    I don’t mind applique or paper piecing. Would LOVE to do a queen size medallion (I need one too).

    Reply
  38. AJ Avatar
    AJ

    I love the current QAL. I would also be open to a blocks quilt too. I’m not so much a fan of medallion but depends on the design.

    And I would understand the fee associated with a new QAL.

    I like the current skill level, but would be open for a higher level. I really like the piecing with this one. Paper piecing, depending on what the design is, would also be good.

    Reply
  39. Melanie Avatar
    Melanie

    I’m really enjoying the current QAL – I love that the blocks are all different sizes. I’ve no idea what a medallion quilt is (I know I could Google it); paper piecing I’ve not done; applique I’ve had a go but not needle turned. I’m willing to try anything – including increasing the complexity.

    I’ve loved only waiting a week for the next installment – if it was a year long would we have to wait a month (hope not). Facebook is fantastic – inspiring; challenging and fun. I love seeing what everyone else is doing; definitely gives me ideas for colours that are perhaps outside my comfort zone and the support from fellow QALers is fantastic.

    I think you should definitely charge a fee; I’ve completed a couple of mystery QAL’s and the fee has been $5 – $10 (for the complete “mystery” not per week). I’m not sure what would be an acceptable fee for you but if you’d charged $5 per person for the current QAL you’d have earned $3450 (looking at the “members”).

    I wouldn’t follow through Craftsy (but only because of internet connection issues) – I like the current format.

    Reply
  40. Ruth Funk Avatar
    Ruth Funk

    I have enjoyed the current QAL. I am confident with my piecing now, that is a first for me. HST were terrifying before. Thank YOU! One of the other things that I liked was the time length. It wasn’t a long committment, I was away for 5 weeks, came home, got caught up and the top is nearly done. I’m glad it wasn’t a year, I may not have finished. I have a lot of other projects on my bucket list so won’t commit until I see if I really “love” the pattern. I am addicted to hand applique though and have done a bit of paper piecing and want to learn more so both of those will definitely entice me. I agree with the others about cost. I can’t afford a large fee and would like to choose my own fabric as I want to like it if I put that much time, effort and money into it. Thanks again, you have made me a much better quilter 🙂

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  41. Charo Avatar
    Charo

    I’ve enjoyed this quilt along and of course I’d love to do another one with such a wonderful teacher!

    I would love to do a medallion quilt with you, I have never done one.

    I’ve hand applique and paper piecing to and I’m longing to learn new techniches.

    I wouldn’t mind paying but not more than $10….

    Thanks for your great lessons, I’ve learnt so much with you…

    Reply
  42. Elaine Avatar
    Elaine

    I joined the QAL because of the pattern. I don’t usually like BOMs but would like to do a row quilt. Would not do a yearlong-liked the short summer project (although I am 1 week behind right now). Love applique and like paperpiecing. y seams don’t scare me (I have the Jan Krentz tool).

    There are many free QALs out there-but I have no idea how good they are as this was my first. If I loved the pattern like I did this one-I would pay a nominal fee. I believe you certainly should get much in return because of all your hard and excellent work but whether that comes in the form of paid fees or more website hits=advertisement payback-I don’t know. Hope that was helpful-do know I love this quilt-behind or not:)

    Reply
  43. Jamie Harris Avatar
    Jamie Harris

    I would love to challenge myself and do a medallion quilt. Any type of piecing is fine for me. I like to learn new things. Maybe you could “re-run” the current quilt along for the beginners (with a fee). For the next one, you could charge something like $5.00 per month or $50 for everything if you pay “up front.” (Saving $10 for the people who paid in full up front.) honestly tough, I would probably pay up to $25 for something like this. If it costs much more than a book that teaches the same thing, it seems too expensive.

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  44. Heather Avatar
    Heather

    I like QALs and have done a few. I’ve done mystery quilts for a fee. I don’t mind paying. I’ve learned however, what I do mind is paying for something I’m not gonna like in the end.

    Whatever it is (and I like the idea of a medallion quilt) I would like to see a picture of the finished product prior to signing on. Most that I have joined have been for around the cost of a pattern which is reasonable IMO. So between $12-$20.

    I’m not big on row alongs or appliqué. I’ve been there done that and don’t really like it. I don’t mind paper piecing and complexity that will challenge me and force me out of my comfort zone to learn something new. I would consider myself an intermediate level quilter.

    I’m also quite tired of sampler quilts. I like cohesive design, not a jumble of a bunch of different blocks thrown together in a quilt. I have a number of those and they are enough. LOL

    Those are my thoughts.

    Reply
  45. Linda Avatar
    Linda

    Michele – Thanks for this QA! It has been great fun! The FB sharing and visibility to so many interpretations of your pattern have been a real part of the fun…not just the finished product.

    To answer your questions: I am open to increasing complexity and including applique and paper piecing. The idea of a “row” quilt appeals, but will consider any design that catches my eye. A queen quilt is too big for me since all my beds have recently completed quilts. I would like the option to scale down or select a size that works for me.

    My experience with year-long BOM has been keeping up momentum and enthusiasm is challenging. I like progress and getting-it-done at a certain point! The current weekly segments, of something that can be reasonably accomplished in a week, have worked for me….and also means that the supplies/in-progress materials don’t need to be put up so I can sew on another project while I wait for the next installment. If the design is complex and requires longer to complete, then a different approach/schedule is understandable to prevent that pressured/not so much fun feeling.

    I really value selecting my own fabrics vs. having a monthly/weekly kit provided.

    A cost for your pattern and to participate is an understandable necessity to ensure that you can continue to provide the quilting community with your art and knowledge.

    Most of us have many options to learn: local quilt shops, guilds, on-line, community extensions, etc. most of which have a fee.

    Some of the things I consider: specific on-site class time commitment vs. flexibility to work at my own pace (when time available even if middle of the night!), real-life interaction with expert (especially for complexity), will I use the skill/concept often or one-time and the end result/finished product of the class. I value the expert’s helpful hints, lessons-learned, consider-this-type advice VERY much!

    And I regularly pay for patterns appreciating that someone else has figured-it-all-out so I don’t need to. 🙂

    My decision to join will focus upon the pattern, potential skills to improve/learn, my available time to commit when it is offered and whether I’m looking for something easy/fun or something very challenging at the time.

    Thank You Again! I look forward to your next offerings!

    Reply
  46. Wendy Avatar
    Wendy

    This is my first QAL! I have learned a ton and like everyone else has said am very accustomed to paying for patterns, I have not ever had a class before! I am moving to a REMOTE area without access to classes, shops and help so I will be learning exclusively online. Certainly I am not the only one with such a situation? I would definitely be interested in doing a medallion, I have not ever done one. I have paperpieced and appliqued but there is always room for improvement and I would probably do both QAL with you! I would want a one time fee, and not a pay as you go. FB group such as this one was fantastic! Easy to interact, ask for feedback , and contact others and make friends! I very much appreciate the opportunity I have had to participate! Thank you Michelle for doing this!

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  47. kbo Avatar
    kbo

    Michele, I stumble upon this years QAL and just love the whole process. I would consider the second option for myself because it sounds like it would involve many techniques & a shorter time span. But whatever you choose, best of luck and I’m sure you’ll have a fair price for us followers.

    Reply
  48. Rumeysa Avatar
    Rumeysa

    Though I’m three weeks behind very happy with the current qal. I hope to catch up this week. Working with big blocks was a bit hard for me at the begining but I feel much more comfortable now.

    For the upcoming qals any design would be nice for me (I just love sewing with you) but I would love to give medallion quilt a try. Also excited for the row quilt.

    I love appliqué and paper piecing too. I have never done Y-seams before, I would love to learn.

    I would be willing to pay a fee but I’m not sure how much is a reasonable amount.

    Reply
  49. Betsy Rodgers Avatar
    Betsy Rodgers

    This is my first QAL and I have enjoyed it so much. I’m just getting back to quilting after many years. I like the idea of the medallion quilt and I’m very intrigued by paper piecing. I have never tried it and I would love to learn. I’d be willing to pay a fee but don’t have any idea what would be a fair price. I’m really excited and can’t wait to get started on the next project.

    Reply
  50. Judy Davenport Avatar
    Judy Davenport

    I really like all of the ideas for the quilt. A more challenging one would be nice. The multi-sized blocks of this one was fun. I would be open to a medallion if the borders were designed to make a rectangle, as I am not fond of square quilts. One of the other BOM quilts that I am doing online charged $15 dollars when you signed up and then she emailed a link to the pattern at the beginning of each month. I thought that this was a good price, especially considering I had to use my own paper and ink.

    Reply
  51. Marie Avatar
    Marie

    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!

    Reply
  52. Susan Stephens Avatar
    Susan Stephens

    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

    Reply
  53. Ava Avatar
    Ava

    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.

    Reply
  54. Jan Taylor Avatar
    Jan Taylor

    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.

    Reply

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