Hi Bobby,

Yes, you will need to take your sewing machine and other tools. Most classes will be geared towards those with rotary cutters, rulers, and self-healing mats, so that's something you will need to check out if you don't have them.

As for materials - well, I like unconventional fabric choices, so personally I would prefer a class where I supplied my own. But I have a stash, and you may not. So that decision is up to you.

Good luck with your choice - and we all can give you advice here, too.

I've only taken a few classes. I found that the more that I brought with me the better off I was (sometimes there were lines for the tools). I now prefer on line classes at Quilt University - they even teach beginners. I'm not affiliated, I just like them!

A while ago there was a discussion here about classes, the link is attached.

I hope this helps.

Lola

Here is a link that might be useful: discussion of classes

Thank you both! I do have a rotary cutter... a regular dritz one (the sweet lady who sold me my vintage machine just gave it to me), an OFLA one that I can't seem to locate that I bought when I got my self healing mat (got that years ago when I sold vacs and sewing machines at Sears), and the a Fiskars that is attached to an acrylic ruler so I can cut straight lines (impossible otherwise). I also have the Fiskars shears and snippers, so I think you all are right... I know my supplies are in good condition... just have to be careful that no one swipes them or I don't leave them behind! The idea of online classes sounds like a good idea, but I'd like to interact with people too! I want to feel like I'm actually doing something!

When you sign up to a take a class, you usually will get a class supply list. Sometimes the list is just the fabrics but others will include a list of all the supplies needed. That is something you can ask when you find a class.
Linda OH

Since you are in Orlando (Hi! Me too!) have you checked for classes in Rockledge at The Quilt Shop. It's only about an hour drive from Orlando, the shop is wonderful, and they have lots of classes.

Kate

Kate, I checked their web site and they only seemed to have two classes, neither for beginners. Maybe I should be calling places instead of e-mailing and checking web sites! Thank you for the suggestion though. Is there a guild in Orlando that you know that offers classes? Nice to see that you're a local too... man it's been cold here lately! :o)

Bobby a good way to get all of the quilting toys is 50% off coupons from JoAnns. In no time at all your hobby will take over your house LOL!
Sign up and have the flyers sent to your e-mail address. You can also use the coupons for books and Eleanor Burns has great books for beginners. JoAnn also offered quilting classes. I taught a quilting class at Seminole Community College when I lived in Longwood, but I think the economy has caused a lot of the classes to be dropped.
Quilt shops sometimes offer classes too. You can also join a guild.
Just continue to hang around with us whatever you decide, there are many talent members and we all love to help!
Rosa

And, be sure to put your name on each of your tools in big, black letters. Several times my ruler accidentally ended up on someone else's table because it looks just like hers.

Definitely call rather than email. I'm amazed how many quilt shops aren't computer savvy. Also, you might want to ask if they have a "sit and sew" or "finish that project" class. You bring in a project and work on it, with advice or help from an instructor. I did that a lot when I was starting out, and still go if I need special help on a project or just a kick in the pants to get working on it. You get to meet other people as well and see what they are making, which is fun. A few of my LQS offer those during the week, and several will let you come in and sew during the day if there aren't any classes. And if there is a class that you are interested in, ask for the teacher's contact information. It's possible she could offer it on one of your days off.

A big second to labeling everything you take to a class that belongs to you! I learned the hard way - happened 2 times with a mother /daughter who shared their supplies. Unfortunately, my supplies also. I got back some-but then my 12 precut 20" pcs of batting disappeared. That was the last class they attended (I think it was the 4th) and I learned to put my name on everything visibly. For generic stuff like batting, I put labels on them if I have to take to a class. Sometimes, I've left something, or someone else has picked up something by mistake - and it is easy to ask if my name is on it, and it will be returned. It is hard to keep track of all your supplies at classes. I keep my Gingher scissors tied to my machine around the cord.

I would also urge you to look at the shows on PBS - the old ones by El Burns are great. I DVR them and watch them late at night. The internet is also a huge research - mostly this forum. It is well worth taking a beginner class no matter how inconvenient if you want to learn to quilt. I always learned something at each class,( even from instructors I won't take another class from) and I am an excellent seamstress.

Prices in my area vary from $45.00 to $65.00, but the price is affected by what supplies or books are provided by the class. The year long Sampler class was $20.00 per class + the books, templates, etc. always I provide my own fabric (which I prefer).

Cabin Fever quilt guild in Orlando does some classes.
Have you checked with The Sewing Studio in Maitland, Fireside Quilts in Sanford, Quilters Cove on Curry Ford Road, and the Bernina place in Longwood? I think they all do classes.

Yes! Its cold in Orlando. Possible snow tomorrow! SNOW!!!!

Kate

Snow in Orlando???? whoa - I have to watch the weather channel!

I found a class at Joanne's on Tuesdays for basic sewing. I already know how to do some basic things, but I think I'm going to sign up for it anyway. I might learn something, and even if I don't, the teacher might have some ideas about quilting classes.

Has anyone ever taken a class at Joanne's? What did you think? Any idea what a basic class might cover? I asked the clerks at the register once before, but they said they didn't have a clue and I could go online to find out. I found the class schedule, but not what they cover!

Have you checked with your local community colleges?
Their adult ed classes are often at night.

Maybe you could find a "personal quilting trainer"
Most of us love quilting soooo much we would teach a beginner!

I wouldn't do JoAnn's unless it says beginning quilt class

when you find one, ask if it would be better to get your supplies after the first class so they can make recommendations.
I hope you love quilting, it's such a wonderful pastime!
Jill(who lives to quilt!)