Discover the joy of slow sewing in this relaxed and inspiring hand piecing workshop with Tracy Aplin, AKA Sewing Tracy.

Using acrylic templates and fabric scraps, you'll learn how to create precise patchwork entirely by hand, stitching beautiful shapes together one seam at a time. Hand piecing is a wonderfully mindful and portable craft, perfect for those moments when you want to step away from the sewing machine and enjoy the rhythm of hand stitching.

Throughout the day, Tracy will guide you through traditional hand-piecing techniques, sharing tips on fabric selection, colour placement and achieving beautifully accurate results. Whether you're dreaming of a larger patchwork project or simply curious to try a new sewing skill, this workshop will give you the confidence and knowledge to continue your hand-piecing journey at home.

What you'll learn:

• How to use acrylic templates for accurate cutting with scissors or a rotary cutter
• Choosing fabrics and working with colour, pattern and fussy cutting
• Traditional hand-piecing techniques
• Understanding the best threads, needles and pins for hand sewing
• Techniques for achieving neat, precise seams and matching points
• Slow sewing methods for mindful, portable stitching
• Tips for improving accuracy and consistency by hand

Is this class for you? This workshop is ideal for beginners wanting to learn the art of hand piecing, as well as more experienced sewists looking to slow down and enjoy a more mindful approach to patchwork. Expect a calm, supportive atmosphere with plenty of individual guidance throughout the day.

Materials: 

All materials will be provided for use during the workshop, including fabrics, needles, thread and acrylic templates.

If you have favourite fabrics or treasured scraps that you'd like to incorporate into your patchwork, you are very welcome to bring them along. Should you wish to purchase fabric specifically for the workshop, you'll receive your 10% workshop discount on fabrics bought for use in the class.

This workshop is a wonderful opportunity to make use of special fabrics that have been waiting for the perfect project.

About your Teacher: 

Tracy Aplin, better known to many sewists as Sewing Tracy (@sewing_tracy), brings a wealth of sewing knowledge and experience to the classroom. After a career as a pattern cutter and grader within the fashion industry, she discovered a passion for patchwork and quilting and has since become an accomplished quilter, teacher and exhibitor. Tracy is renowned within the sewing community for her beautiful patchwork creations and inspiring quilting projects, earning a loyal following both in person and online. She has exhibited and taught at the Festival of Quilts for many years, sharing her expertise with quilters and sewists of all abilities.

Combining technical expertise with a warm and encouraging teaching style, Tracy has a talent for building confidence and helping students achieve professional results while enjoying the creative process. Whether you're new to patchwork or looking to develop your skills, you'll be in expert hands.

Course Duration: Half a day 

When: Friday 23rd October 2026 - 10am - 1pm

Venue: The workshop is held in our modern and vibrant studio at the Clothkits shop. We are located in central Chichester, about a 10 minute walk from the train and bus station. The closest car park is The Cattle Market.