Quilt Theory: Designing a Quilt around Panels

Have you ever fallen in love with a beautiful fabric panel—then found yourself wondering what to do with it? This creative retreat will guide you step-by-step through the process of designing a stunning quilt around that irresistible panel.

Join award-winning quilter Mary Beth Dunn for an inspiring, hands-on workshop that begins with a gallery of 20+ panel quilts. She’ll explore a variety of layout strategies and design ideas, sharing tips, techniques, and resources to jumpstart your own creative vision.

What you’ll gain:

• 📝 A handout breaking the design process into manageable steps

• 📐 A cheat sheet for calculating yardage—perfect if you’re dreaming of writing your own quilt patterns

• 🎨 Insight into Mary Beth’s fabric selection process

• 💡 A goldmine of resources to inspire your quilt design journey

Once you’re fueled with ideas, it’s your turn. With Mary Beth’s guidance, you’ll begin building your custom quilt design—turning ideas into a cohesive, creative plan you’re excited to sew.

By the end of this workshop, you’ll leave with:

• A visual layout for your personalized panel quilt

• Confidence in designing quilt patterns

• A creative vision to guide you as you begin sewing in class—and continue confidently beyond

Supply List:
The retreat kicks off with a design and planning session, so bring a pen and your favorite note-taking tools. Then, starting Day 2, it’s time to dive into your design.

Please bring:

• Your fabric panel

• Coordinating fabrics (fat quarters, scraps, or yardage)

• Ruler, pencil, and any block/quilt design books you love

• Sewing machine and basic sewing supplies

Note: Electric Quilt software is not required and will not be taught, but if you have it, you’re welcome to reference its block library for inspiration.