Kawandi –

Kawandi – A utilitarian quilt made with found and collected scraps by the African Diaspora of India.   

Document the memories and special events of life with stitches. From start to finish, this is a complete hand-stitching project. The focus of this workshop will be on being spontaneous while selecting scraps and learning to personalize simple patchwork by using colors and fabric from your life. Sujata will share how to find the rhythm of your own between your mind and body and practice mindful stitching.   

In this five-day-long retreat, you will learn the elements of design in Kawandi and the background of people who originally inspired this art form. Sujata will also share her personal experiences growing up in India and life after moving to the United States as a colorist and a designer. 

Technique: Hand stitching

Skill Level: Beginning quilter

Supplies

Neutral color thread for basting 

Fabric scissors

Thimble

Needle grabber (optional)

Embroidery needles Bohin #7 OR of your choice

Wonderfil Specialty Thread - Spaghetti - Weight 12 Color: White or Ecru  

One 30” x 30" piece of lightweight fabric for backing 

29” X 29” square, thin batting - Quilter's Dream (request) Or loosely woven fabric

Assorted scraps,measuring to the size of your hand and strips measuring 2” to 4” wide. More random the scraps are, the better the outcome will be.  

Fabric Suggestion

To make the process interesting and engaging, please include random scraps of many different sizes, colors, and textures in your scraps bag. Lightweight fabrics will make it easier to stitch through multiple layers of fabrics. Add some shot cottons, plaid, prints and stripes to the mix. Make sure to add a scrap from a personal clothing item. Do not use batiks or heavy weight fabrics for this project. 

Sujata Shah

Author of Cultural Fusion Quilts

Email: sujatashah450@gmail.com

Blog: http://therootconnection.blogspot.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therootconnection/#