Learn to Make a Beautiful Patchwork Cushion (Using Your Sewing Machine) — Calmly, Confidently, and Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Dreaming of making your first quilt one day but not quite sure where to begin?

This friendly Beginners Patchwork Cushion Workshop is designed to be the perfect first step into patchwork using your sewing machine (you only need to be able to sew a straight line), with no overwhelm, no jargon, and no pressure to tackle a full quilt before you’re ready.

Rather than throwing you in at the deep end, we start small and build confidence properly. You’ll learn the essential patchwork skills in a relaxed, supportive environment and leave with a beautiful finished cushion you’ll be genuinely proud of.

This workshop is ideal if you want to learn patchwork the right way: step by step, with clear guidance and plenty of encouragement.

Why I Teach Patchwork This Way

I don’t start beginners with a whole quilt — and there’s a good reason for that.

Patchwork involves learning several new skills at once: accurate cutting, consistent seams, fabric choices, and careful construction. Trying to learn all of that inside a large quilt can feel overwhelming very quickly.

So instead, we begin with this patchwork cushion project. It teaches you all the core skills you need, without overload — like learning to walk before running.

By the end of the workshop, you’ll have:

• A solid understanding of how patchwork works
• Confidence using your sewing machine for patchwork
• A finished cushion to take home and enjoy

And if you decide patchwork isn’t for you? You’ll still leave with something beautiful, without having invested in lots of specialist equipment.

What You’ll Make

A beginner-friendly patchwork cushion

Your very first patchwork project: simple, satisfying, and confidence-boosting.

What You’ll Learn

During this 1.5 day in-person workshop, you’ll learn:

• What patchwork is, and how it differs from quilting
• How to choose fabrics and colours that work well together
• How patchwork tools work (rulers, rotary cutters, mats, thread)
• Measuring and cutting accurately (with guided practice)
• How to sew a consistent and accurate ¼” seam — the magic seam of patchwork
• How to match seams neatly at the corners

Along the way, you’ll also pick up lots of small tips, tricks, and ‘aha’ moments that are much easier to learn in person, with a tutor watching your hands and guiding you in real time.

You’ll naturally become more confident with your sewing machine too — even though this isn’t a sewing-machine basics course.

And best of all, you’ll leave with a finished patchwork cushion ready to cosy up your home.

Workshop Details

Dates: Saturday 25th – Sunday 26th April 2026

Times:
Saturday: 10am – 4pm
Sunday: 10am – 1pm

Location:
Newent Community Pavilion
Recreation Ground, Watery Lane
Newent GL18 1QA

♿ Fully accessible venue

🚗 Free parking on site

Cost: £130

Easy drive from: Ross-on-Wye (17 mins), Ledbury (20 mins), Gloucester (23 mins)

What’s Included

I provide:

• All tuition
• Pattern and written instructions
• Use of cutting mats, rotary cutters and quilting rulers
• Tea, coffee and biscuits
• A friendly, relaxed and judgement-free learning environment

You bring:

• Your sewing machine (you must be able to sew a straight line)
• Fabric, cushion pad and thread (full requirements + a 10% student discount code sent after booking)
• Lunch for Saturday

If you’re unsure about your machine, I’m always happy to advise — many students upgrade later once they know patchwork is for them.

Why Learn With Me?

I’ve been sewing for over 45 years and hold a City & Guilds qualification in Patchwork & Quilting. My passion and specialism is helping beginners feel confident and capable at the machine — whether you’re just starting to learn patchwork and quilting, or you want to build on existing skills.

I’ve taught hundreds of people to sew and quilt through my in-person classes, online courses, and my YouTube channel Quilt With Kim, which has had well over half a million views. I’m also a guest presenter on Sewing Street TV.

My classes are always warm, practical, friendly and judgement-free. So whether you’re brand new or returning after a long break and seem to have forgotten everything, I promise I’ll guide you step by step in a friendly, down-to-earth way — with clear explanations, lots of encouragement, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Is This Workshop Right for You?

• Yes, if you’re a complete beginner to patchwork
• Yes, if you want to learn without overwhelm
• Yes, if you like clear guidance and friendly support

You just need to be able to thread your machine and sew a basic straight line.

Ready to Start Your Patchwork Journey?

Join us for a relaxed, confidence-building introduction to patchwork — and discover just how enjoyable it can be.

Spaces are limited to keep class sizes small, and workshops often fill quickly.

Booking details will be emailed immediately after sign-up, with fabric requirements sent two weeks before the workshop.

If you have any questions at all, please get in touch — I’m always happy to help. Contact Kim

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this workshop suitable for complete beginners?

Yes. This workshop is designed especially for complete beginners to patchwork and quilting. You don’t need any prior patchwork experience — you just need to be able to thread your sewing machine and sew a basic straight line.

Do I need my own sewing machine?

Yes. You’ll be making your patchwork cushion using your own sewing machine, so you’ll need to bring it with you.

What tools or materials will I need?

You’ll need a small amount of fabric and thread. I’ll email you a clear fabric list two weeks before the workshop, along with a 10% student discount code for my online shop. If you’re attending as a student, there’s no postage or packing to pay either.

Do I need to bring quilting equipment?

No — not at all. I provide cutting mats, rotary cutters and quilting rulers for everyone to use during the workshop.

If you already own a 45mm rotary cutter, A2 cutting mat, or a non-slip 24.5” × 6.5” quilting ruler, you’re very welcome to bring them along. If you fall in love with patchwork and want to continue, I’ll happily advise you on what equipment to buy and where. And if you decide it’s not for you, you won’t have invested in tools you’ll never need again.

I can only attend on Saturday — is that OK?

Unfortunately not. You’ll need to attend the full 1.5 days in order to complete your cushion. If this date doesn’t work for you, please keep an eye out for future workshop dates.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes. The Newent Community Pavilion is fully accessible, with a wide entrance and an accessible toilet.

Is there parking?

Yes — there is plenty of free parking right outside the Pavilion.

Can I bring a friend?

Absolutely! Just make sure you both book your places early, as spaces are limited and workshops often fill up quickly.

How many people will be in the class?

Class sizes are kept small, with a maximum of 8 people. This means everyone gets plenty of individual attention, support, and time to ask questions.

Are your classes open to men?

Yes — patchwork and quilting is for everyone, and men are very welcome. You’ll be made to feel right at home.

Are your classes LGBTQIA+ friendly?

Yes, 100%. My workshops are welcoming, inclusive spaces for everyone. Kindness, respect, and support are at the heart of everything I do — patchwork and quilting really is for anyone who wants to learn.

What’s your cancellation policy?

Because places are limited, cancellations are based on how much notice you give. 14+ days before your workshop = refund or transfer. 7–13 days = transfer/credit only. Less than 7 days = no refund. You’re welcome to send someone else in your place with 48 hours’ notice. Please make sure you read the full Cancellation Policy here.

💬 If you have any accessibility needs, or you’re unsure whether this workshop is right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’ll always do my best to help.