Intro to Controlled Improv (For Zoom)
A Guided Practice to Help You See Differently
Supply List
This workshop requires a little prep before class begins — and it's worth it!
The more you do ahead of time, the further you'll get in the guided practices during our session together.
Read through all three steps below so you arrive ready to create.
Before Class — What to Do
STEP 1: Download & Print the Template and Layout Pages:
- Print 2-3 pages of paper templates and cut them out.
- Print 8, 12, or 16 layout pages (looks like a grid) and follow the illustrations on the template page to tape 4 pages together to make a larger design layout page. Make at least two design pages. Having four made ahead of time means you won't have to stop to make them, and you can continue your practice after the class.
- NOTE: Because you are in your own sewing room on Zoom, if you have a design wall or board that you would rather use, you may do that, but the grids are designed to help you learn layout methods.
STEP 2: Select and Cut Your Fabric Pieces — Minimum Prep*
- Select at least 20 different fabrics. Scraps are a great thing to pull from. There is no limit to the number of colors, but you will likely enjoy the class more if you have 30 different fabrics. Select solid and/or blender fabrics in a variety of colors — including lights, mediums, and darks. This is your minimum starting point and will get you moving right away when class begins. SEE FABRIC DETAILS BELOW.
- Using your printed templates, cut 5-10 pieces from each fabric. The templates all measure in the 2" range. To save time and fabric, I like to cut a 2" strip from my fabrics and then lay the template on the strip and cut the sides. It helps me not waste fabric, and it is faster. Your cuts do not need to be "perfect" like they would need to be if you were sewing the pieces together. These pieces will not be sewn together; they will be glued to paper.
*Cut Extra Pieces for More Practice (Optional)
Want to get even further in the guided practice? Cut more pieces from each fabric (estimated 15-30) using the templates before class. More pieces mean more layout options and more time spent designing rather than cutting. Keep in mind that you may not use everything you cut — but having the variety on hand pays off.
What to Have Ready — REQUIRED
- Printed & Cut Templates: Downloaded above and cut out before class. See Step 1 above.
- Pre-Cut Fabric Pieces: At least 10 pieces using each template; 30 pieces are better. Solids and blenders only — see the fabric guidelines in Step 2. Variety of colors, values, and including neutrals. If you’d like to bring a variety of scraps and cut your pieces out during the class, you may, but you will not have time to finish as many designs.
- Scissors: For cutting additional fabric pieces during class if needed.
- Glue Stick: You'll glue your finished layout pieces to the provided design pages. A standard glue stick works perfectly. (Or a white design space where fabric sticks.)
- Notebook & Pen or Pencil: For notes throughout the session. Any notebook works.
What to Have Handy — NICE TO HAVE
Colored Pencils: Some students find these helpful for sketching layout ideas in their notebook. Bring a set if you have one.
Small Cutting Mat & Rotary Cutter: If you prefer cutting with a rotary cutter rather than scissors, bring a small mat and cutter. Either method works great.
Additional Fabric Pieces: Having a selection of solids and blenders nearby — in a variety of colors, lights, mediums, and darks — means you can keep creating without stopping if you have time to make additional layouts.
FABRIC GUIDELINES
What works
Blenders are fabrics with a very subtle, tone-on-tone pattern that reads as a single color from a distance. Hold the fabric at arm's length — if it looks like one clean color, it's a blender. It should be free of any contrasting spots, dots, or printed images.
Aim for this mix of values
Bring a variety of colors — including neutrals — and be sure to include lights, mediums, and darks. Value contrast is one of the five design controls we'll explore in class, so the more range you have in your pile, the more you'll learn.
What to avoid
In Controlled Improv, the arrangement of shapes and color is the design. Prints compete with that and distract the eye from the layout you're building. Keep it clean so your design decisions can do the talking.
Questions before class?
If you're unsure about anything — feel free to email with questions.
No one should leave guessing, and that starts before you even arrive.
Visit jitterywingsquiltco.com or find Mitzie on Instagram at @jitterywings.