Thursday, May 19, 2011

Second Class . . . . .

The second class sponsored by the Corn Wagon Quilt Co was Long Tall Sally designed by Carrie Nelson for Miss Rosie's Quilt Company. We pretty much had the same fun group of quilters for Long Tall Sally that we had for Wild Air. We lost the girls from Idaho but picked up a few new ladies.

The pattern provides directions for two quilt sizes, 53" x 67 1/2 " and 63" x 72".


Here's Carrie telling us how easy this quilt is to piece, and she was right! You just cut it out, lay it out and start sewing.

I was immediately taken with the custom quilting job on this quilt,


the dark prints have three flowers quilted in each rectangle,


and the light prints have a feather. I just love how the quilting expands into each area of each fabric.

I've had a stack of civil war reproduction fabrics in pink and brown for a couple of years, just waiting for the perfect project.

I think Long Tall Sally is the project I've been waiting for.

So my dark fabric choice came easily, the light fabric not so much.


I bought this fabric, cut it out and could have lived with it, but then I found this fabric,


a much better choice I think.

Now I'm trying to decide if I should go scrappy or alternate my browns and pinks to create a secondary pattern.....I'll just have to try out both on my design wall, stay tuned for a picture.

Some of the other fabrics selected for Long Tall Sally were Sweet Water, Lilly and Will and Sophia.

I'm thinking of making my Long Tall Sally even taller, I would like it to stretch across the end of my king size bed, more of bed runner than an actual lap or bed quilt size.

Several ladies completed the first two rows of their quilt in class. I was a little slower. But that's one of the many things I enjoy about a Carrie Nelson class. It's not the type of class where someone shows you step one, then everyone sews step one, and one person gets done lickity split and another person takes forever and a day, and everyone in the middle sits and wonders how one person can be so fast and how another can be so slow. In Carrie's classes everyone just works at their own speed. Got a question, Carrie is quick to to help, and if no one needs help, Carrie still stops by just to make sure you're on track. Some folks are really speedy, I've noticed I tend to piddle. I over pin, fuss with my fabric, and sew at turtle speed, really there's a turtle and rabbit on the speed button of my class machine and I'm all turtle! I'm a big believer in "It's the journey not the destination" and "It's a hobby not a race", but really, I could easily accomplish so much more by loosening up a bit.

How would you like to own a personalized Long Tall Sally pattern?



Just leave a comment letting us know what type of class appeals to you.

I've participated in lecture classes, step by step classes and go at your pace classes. I've taken some wonderful lecture classes from Libby Lehman, Ricky Tims and Alex Anderson. But once I got home, my efforts looked nothing like what those experts had made look so easy in class. And since I'm slow, I really dislike the step by step classes, I'm always the one holding up the entire class. Yes, a Carrie Nelson class is just my type of class.

I'll announce the winner on Saturday.

So two classes down, one day of shop hopping, Market and French General posts to go, I hope you stop back by.

Official C n D disclaimer; I purchased the pattern Long Tall Sally, Carrie Nelson did not ask me to blog about this pattern or promote this pattern. If I never blogged about a Carrie Nelson pattern she would not see a difference in pattern sales, she does just fine without any help from me.

77 comments:

  1. Hi Thelma..I am a great one to not finish what I do in a workshop/class...drives me to distraction..so when I hold one, I try to ensure that we keep going until the end!! Boy you sure have been having a ball!!!
    cheers from down here

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  2. I definitely like the "work at your own pace" kinds of classes!

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  3. When I first started quilting step by step classes were great, and where I learned some great techniques and tricks. These days I'm more of a "work at your own pace" kind of class taker.

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  4. I'm a start 15 things finish 2 or 3 kind of girl! I try usually to usually not be the fastest or slowest in the class...just somewhere in the middle.

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  5. I'm already planning what fabrics I'd use -- it would be great to win the pattern! Thanks for the chance! It's been a long time since I've had the opportunity to take a class -- I think I'd enjoy the "work at your own pace" structure.

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  6. Sure, I'd *love* a Long Tall Sally pattern. :D

    I really enjoyed the class I took a few months ago with Judy Niemeyer. It was a hybrid lecture/go at your pace. She did a lecture up front showing the initial technique ideas to get us started, then for the next 4 hours she traveled the room, helping those who had trouble with the paper piecing, and visiting with those who were fine. Then she did another lecture for those who were ready for the next stage, and the next 4 hours were spent with her meandering the room again, doing the same - chatting with the speedy rabbits, and re-showing the next stage to the turtles who got to that point later. It was a lot of fun.

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  7. For me, not only do I fuss around with my fabric and sewing but I also tend to visit and I'm always interested in each individuals fabric choices, tips for easy stitching etc. In other words, I work at a snails pace in a class room, so the 'work at your own pace' is definitely my type of class. Love em!!! Thanks for a chance at this great pattern. Hugs...

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  8. The fabric you've chosen will look just lovely with this pattern. I'm with you...I much prefer a work at your own pace type class. I really don't like to rush, but feel I must if in a class where everyone completes one step before going on to the next. I think I've got to add this pattern to my "must haves"!

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  9. I love the same type of class that you do. I am a turtle too, and I also love being able to walk around and see what other people are doing. I can't wait to see your quilts from these classes.

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  10. I have to agree that the quilting is wonderful ... thanks for sharing it.

    Traditional type quilting classes are my favorite. I don't mind it I don't get the project completed, but I hope that the teacher will show us everything we need to know to complete the project. I love taking classes because everytime I take one I learn something new. It is great that in Carrie's classes you can work at your own pace.

    Love your pink and brown fabrics .... can't wait to see your completed quilt.

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  11. I like go at your own pace classes. I really like Long Tall Sally. Love the brown/pink combo of your fabrics. Carrie's patterns are all so wonderful.

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  12. Thanks for the chance to win!! I haven't taken very many classes, OK, only two, but all I can say is - I would LOVE to take a class with Carrie!!!

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  13. I'm with you, Thelma. I like a class where you can work at your own pace, with the instructor circulating. But... I also like to get 3 or 4 of the blocks done so I can remember how to do it when I get home!

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  14. I've never taken a class before. I think I'd prefer the step by step just so I wouldn't be overwhelmed with my first one. Thanks for the chance to win!

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  15. I like classes where the teacher is ORGANIZED. There are examples of steps in the blocks. The final project is quilted and bound (took one from a national quilter that she showed just quilt tops) Then like you, I love to sew at my own pace. I pin lots. It also takes me some time to understand the parts of the quilt. I like a teacher who ENJOYS teaching:) Love your browns and pinks for Long Tall Sally!

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  16. I like the go at your own speed classes. I feel to much pressure from the people that are speedy but am slowly coming to the realization that all parts of quilting should be enjoyable and I shouldn't let anyone rob me of that joy. Carrie;s classes sound great! Love this pattern.

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  17. I don't mind the step by step classes, but I like having a finishing follow up. I end up with a half finished something at the end that never gets finished.
    The pink stash is AWESOME!

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  18. I certainly like the "talk" as you go kind of quilt class....because I like you, think it is a social event! I can sew when I get home and find I do a much better job when I am not trying to keep up with my "neighbor".....and....I am a talker! I love your blog and am a "regular".

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  19. I've never taken a class and I'm sure I should. I've been trying to sew fast & rip through a charity project with a deadline and find that accuracy, never my strong suit, has gone out the window!

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  20. I would say a Carrie style class would be my favorite too. I've done lecture, not a fan. I'm a slow poke too and always fall behind in the step by step one too.

    Love the pinks a nd browns! That's another gorgeous quilt!!

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  21. Your quilt is going to be gorgeous. Can't get enough of brown and pink. I like the go-at-your-own-pace kind of class, too.

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  22. I enjoy classes where it is at a slower pace and if you fall behind, the instructor personally helps.

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  23. I'm especially fond of classes that don't make us 'slower' folks feel like they're holding up the entire class. Also, classes where the instructor enjoys teaching...I'm amazed that some instructors come off as not liking it. I will have to take a class from Carie!

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  24. Another very cool looking pattern...haven't seen this one before. I love the stacks of your fabrics for this quilt...yum!
    I am a class junkie...I love to learn new things. I learn about sewing techniques, and teaching styles, and see new fabrics and tools...it's all fun!

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  25. A Carrie Nelson class sounds great. I hate it when you have a person in the class who doesn't know how to use her sewing machine and monopolizes the teacher to fix it.

    That pattern looks perfect for a two-color quilt, or any light/dark combo. Must go on my list!

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  26. Both of your classes sound and look like so much fun! I enjoy a quilt teacher who is enthusiastic and takes the time to show you 'how' but also allows you the time you need to complete what you're comfortable with. At-your-own-pace is my favorite! Jan

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  27. Carrie's classes sound like so much fun. You are a lucky girl! Thanks for the chance to win the pattern. I like it a lot.
    Mary

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  28. My preference is the go at your own pace class. If I am learning something new I try to get as much done in class as possible. Then I can complete the project at home with ease. If I am taking the class more for the social gathering, I don't care if I finish one block.

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  29. Carrie's classes sound like so much fun!!! I prefer go at your pace classes. Lectures are fine, but I like to have some hands on time in a class, then go home and try to remember everything that was taught.

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  30. I'm like you, in the middle with a lean towards piddling. Sometimes I get to laughing so much that I forget that I'm supposed to be sewing! I do like a little hands on during the class, like others, I forget once I'm home and trying to do it on my own. Patty E

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  31. What a fantastic pattern! And I love your choice of browns and pinks -- a fave combination of mine. I like your second choice of background, too -- less busy, not quite as muted.
    My favourite kind of class ... well, mostly, any kind of class is my favourite, just because I rarely get a chance to get to one, and when I do it's such a treat to be sewing and learning and spending time with people with the same interests as me. But if I had to pick only one kind of class, it would be the go-at-your-own-pace kind of class. I'm slow and picky, and like to enjoy the process.
    Debbie R.

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  32. I really like that quilting, too!! The feathers look easy enough in that small contained space that even I could do them! LOL I'm with you on the class style. It's the kind I like to take and the kind I teach. I'm one of the whizzes -- show me a picture and let me go. A dear friend of mine piddles (and boy are her pieces beautifully accurate and wonderful!), and if the teacher isn't like Carrie (checking from time to time) she checks things out with me (improving on my riptide inaccuracy, of course). Another great pattern from Carrie (no endorsement requested! LOL).
    Blessings,
    Mary Lou

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  33. I love to work at my own pace. I tend to have one speed, super fast! I don't like to wait on others for too long. Love the pattern. I just finished Ginger Belle and Opening Day from Miss Rosie. Love them both.

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  34. Great pattern! I think it will be fantastic in the browns and pinks! I would love to win one. I think I like the "at your own pace" classes. Thanks so much for the chance to win!

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  35. I love the long tall sally! I got so excited when I saw it on Carrie's blog. I've never taken a class, but would definitely do better at an own pace non-lecture type. I'm a very learn it by do it person.

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  36. I love this quilt! I wish I could have stayed for this class too! But, alas home and family was calling. I did purchase the pattern, so a version of it will live at my house someday. I am a turtle too! I agree, it is the journey as well as the destination that makes quilting such a joy for me. Wild Air was my first Carrie class and I LOVED it! It was my type of class, slow, easy and fun! More like a group of friends getting together to sew instead of a class. And yet you are learning at the same time.
    By the way, good job taking my picture, I don't look to bad. Maybe it was Carrie's pretty smiling face and her gorgeous quilt that made me look so good! lol (I have the pattern so don't put me in the drawing.)

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  37. Welcome back, I would probably like any class, but kids and life don't leave me any time to go. So I usually teach myself through online ruts, YouTube videos, books etc or I just make it up. You are so generous with your give aways. This looks like a wonderful pattern.

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  38. You needed have agonized so much over your fabric choice for this quilt! I think you picked something just perfect!

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  39. Ahh...Thelma? I think this 5'10" Sally needs to be your winner of Long Tall Sally! What do you think? I've only taken a few classes, and I'm also a slow sewer (trying to keep those 1/4 inch seams accurate). The type of class where the instructor can take their time with you and help if you get stuck is the best kind. And yes, I'm usually the one holding up the class, just like you. Turtles unite!
    *sillysally*

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  40. I'm with you-- I like a class where you can work at your own pace. Doing things step by step and having to wait for everyone else bores me to tears.

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  41. I don't get to take many classes, but as a teacher, my style is go at your own pace. There is nothing as frustrating as a group of quilters all trying to keep up with the speedy one! I like giving each student individual attention and just having fun with the process.

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  42. I'm looking forward to reading more about your adventures in quilting.

    I haven't taken a class in forever--over 13 years. I've only taken hands-on classes--and I enjoyed those. Wouldn't the others just mostly be a lecture? I really need some one-on-one time!

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  43. First: I love those CW fabrics. What a beautiful bundle!

    I couldn't imagine you going any faster. The speed in which you crank out those quilts is amazing! Stay your own speed, enjoy the process, and savor every stitch! We are not factories!

    Don't count me in your giveaway. I already have a mile long of quilts I want to!

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  44. I like the classes that you work at your own pace. When I taught classes I would go by steps to a degree but try to never make anyone feel they needed to be on the same level. I firmly believe in not really sitting and moving around the class makes you more available for questions and to offer hints and advice.

    Thanks for the chance.

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  45. Glad you had such a great time on your trip - it has been fun reading about it. I am a bad class taker because I'm a 'figure it out myself' kind of person so I end up teaching myself even if I'm in a class - yes I'm one of those speedy ones. I couldn't take a lecture class and get anything out of it I don't think, I'm too tactile. I have taught step by step classes, but I try to divide the lesson up into parts so that even if you are not ALL done with step 1 you can move on to do at least some of step 2 etc. Then I expect the slower students to catch up between classes. I am interested in how this pattern is put together and I love the testelating pattern. Pick me! Pick Me!

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  46. When I started quilting 10 years ago, step by step classes were really great for me. Now I'm more of a "work at your own pace" kind of class taker.
    Jana in Prague, Czech Republic

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  47. I like a class where the teacher shows how to do a couple of steps (or just one if it's complex or there is a lot of step one work to do before we get to step two!), visits everybody to help them individually and then demonstrates further steps/techniques to those who are ready and repeats the demonstration as many times as is needed so that everybody knows what to do (and some can watch twice!). I also like to know any other steps or tips that will help me finish my project. Most of all (like someone has already said!) I like a teacher who is organised, adaptable and who loves to teach as much as they love to stitch and can share their enthusiasm and passion. (Oh, and someone that doesn't say "It's in my book..." in answer to queries about techniques, etc. but won't actually tell you the answer!)

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  48. oh, I just ADORE this quilt pattern!
    I've never taken a quilt class before (been quilting for about 20 years though!), so I don't know what type of quilt class I would like best! But, easy to construct and go at your own pace would probably work best for me! :)

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  49. Cute pattern. I just finished a Schnibbles pattern from Carrie's first book. I like the classes that go over everything and then you work at your own speed or one that you learn part of it the first day, finish what you can in class and the rest at home, then go back for the second part of the instructions and finish. That way you see what everyone elses looks like.

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  50. Whether I win the pattern or not, I'm going to be making a "Long Tall Sally" because I think it's adorable! I am definitely a "go at your own pace" class attender...like you - I participated in a workshop with Carrie about a year ago and loved every minute of it...she's a great teacher.

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  51. I haven't taken very many classes - two, I think. I prefer books or patterns or just muddling along on my own. However, I would choose one of Carrie's classes anytime.

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  52. I love taking technique classes, where I can work at my pace, and get help from the instructor when needed. I also have a tendancy when the instructor says " it can't be done" and I go about trying to disprove it. Must be some issue from my child hood where I felt the need to show my independance.;-)

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  53. I took a hand-piecing class from Jinny Beyer and I loved it. The nicest part is that she's left-handed (though she sews right-handed) so it was easy for her to show me how to do things from my angle. And she was gracious and sweet when she told me I'd sewn part of my Mariner's Compass upside down and even said "Wow, it even fits like that. :) So that's the kind of class I like, ones where mistakes are opportunities for learning.

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  54. Of course I like the Long Tall Sally quilt - even with the different spelling of Sallie :)
    I prefer classes that allow people to work at their own pace, but the instructor is organized and available. Thanks for the giveaway!

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  55. I love this pattern! I like classes that teach me new skills. I would take a hand applique class as I don't know how to do that, but I would not take a piecing class. (I took a class when I made my tuffet, for it had challenging paper piecing techniques that I did not understand.) Always want to learn how to do something new!

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  56. Since I work a full time job, my sewing time is very precious to me. When I take a class, I prefer "go at my own pace" which is usually pretty fast. I do love the socializing part, too, in the classes. I find there are always wonderful women in these classes and it is nice being around people who "get" my love of fabric! Carrie's patterns are fun to make and I would love to have Long Tall Sally

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  57. Lecture is in one ear and out the other for me. And step by step seems to always be a race for one class member to finish first and then disrupt everyone else who is trying to catch up. I am a go at my own pace girl.

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  58. I'm a "go at my own pace" type of gal. I like having the instructor help you get started, but then take off on your own. Might as well enjoy the entire process!

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  59. another beauty
    oh my this would be beautiful in browns and pinks, I like your second choice for the background...can't figure out whose fabric that is, a hint please! its a great background!!!!
    lucky me I just happen to have a few browns and pinks too...
    can't wait to see a progress picture from you!!!!
    Kathie

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  60. Hi Thelma! Its been so long since I took a class! The last class I took was in 2002, yep...almost 10 years ago. I remember that class because I was super speedy and got the whole top done in one night! Of course, it now sits in my bin of quilt tops to be quilted! I would love to take a class from Carrie! I bet she would be really fun!!

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  61. Any class that I get a chance to take I would love..I don't live near a LQS so I have not taken a class in a long time. As for Long Tall Sally, I would love to win her to make for my mom Sally...from her Long Tall daughter! Lisa in Texas

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  62. Thelma,
    I tend to be a middle to turtle speed quilter. I would prefer a work at your own pace quilt class, where I can take it all in at my own pace and ponder. I also prefer to watch the instructor do demonstrations of their technique's and do show and tell's of their own works, to get more ideas.
    I really like the fabrics you have chosen. The pinks and browns are very pretty. And I see what you mean about the background fabric you chose. I prefer the smaller print as well.

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  63. I LOVE all types of quilt classes. The only one I've taken that I didn't like was when the teacher kind of had us all just following the pattern while she worked on a project of her own. That was so lame. Usually, classes are very fun & informative.

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  64. I'm with you on the "go at your own pace" type of class rather than step by step. I want to enjoy the process and not get stressed because everyone doesn't hit the finish line at the same time. The step by step classes always make me feel like the Quilt Police are lurking, waiting to take me away because I WASN'T speeding....ha ha......

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  65. i need to SEE and HEAR and TOUCH
    and then DO
    and sometimes i need someone to hold my hand when i'm doing the doing
    that is a weird looking word - it looks like boing, but with a d

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  66. A Carrie Nelson 'go at your own pace' class would be ideal for me. It's always fun to learn and try new things. Her patterns are great.

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  67. I like the go at your own pace classes although I have to admit I'm one of the speedy ones.

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  68. I like the go at your own pace class.
    Sherrell

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  69. I'm a go at your own pace quilter!
    It's awful being first or last!!
    Great pattern by the way

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  70. Ooh! I love this pattern!

    I like go at your own pace classes. I tend to work fast!

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  71. I've never had a chance to take a quilting class, but I think I would be in that middle pack ... but more towards the slow end! It sounds like I would enjoy the way that Carrie runs her courses

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  72. Welcome back! Sounds like you had a fabulous time! I saw a picture of Long Tall Sally somewhere recently -- probably on Carrie's blog -- and love it. I've only taken two quilting classes, but I prefer a class where you can work at your own pace, and I especially like an instructor to make the rounds during class. I'll have to check Carrie's web site and see if she's going to be in the Northwest any time soon.

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  73. How lucky you are to go to Carrie's class ! Welcome home ! What a wonderful pattern and I love your choice of fabrics !

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  74. I guess I prefer a step by step class...especially mystery quilt classes!

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  75. I enjoy technique classes. Learning something new is so inspiring!

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  76. I have not been fortunate enough to take classes with big-name teachers like the ones you mentioned. However, I have been fortunate to take several classes at Quilter's Dream in Colleyville, TX and each one I have attended were exactly like you describe Carrie Nelson's to be. I am one of those who are a little more "speedy" so I like being able to move on when I am ready. I think this type of class works well because no one is held up and the slower workers get a little inspiration (I hope) by seeing someone else's coming together. Also, some of us faster workers provide teaching points when we do something wrong - or right. :D

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  77. I like lecture classes and the type where you can go along at your own speed. By the way, I think the pink and brown combination should be beautiful! It's my favorite.

    Karen H

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