Double Irish Chain Quilt Workshop
Course Overview
The Double Irish Chain quilt is one of the oldest and most recognizable patchwork patterns, with roots in 18th- and early 19th-century Europe.
Built from nine-patch blocks arranged to form two interlocking chains, this pattern symbolizes connection, continuity, and community - values that were important in early quilting circles. Structurally simple, adaptable to scraps, and visually striking, it became a favourite among pioneer and farm families. Its timeless design makes it perfect for beginners, with no triangles, bias edges, or fancy rulers required.
Please Note: This course is suitable for students who have foundational knowledge of using a sewing machine.
What Students Will Learn
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Basic rotary cutting techniques and accurate quarter-inch seam allowances
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How to piece nine-patch blocks into the Double Irish Chain pattern
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Matching points for a precise, professional-looking quilt
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Tips for selecting complementary fabrics and creating a focal fabric
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Skills to easily scale the quilt to different sizes
What Students Will Take Away at the End of the Course
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A completed lap-size Double Irish Chain quilt (49” x 39” / 125cm x 99cm)
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Confidence in piecing a classic quilt pattern
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Knowledge to adjust quilt size and fabric choices for future projects
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Practical experience in foundational quilting techniques that can be applied to other projects
What Students Need to Bring
Sewing Supplies:
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Sewing machine in good working order
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36” x 24” self-healing cutting mat
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6.5” x 24” quilting ruler
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48mm rotary cutter with sharp blade
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Quilting pins (yellow-headed Birch Pins recommended)
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60” quilting tape measure
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Sharp fabric scissors
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Cheap paper scissors
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Quick Unpick (or seam ripper or awl)
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Bobbins for your machine
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Pack of universal sewing needles
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Large reel of quality cotton sewing thread (eg., Guttermann, Aurifil, or Mettler)
Fabric Requirements (100% cotton recommended):
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Focal (main) fabric: 1.4 metres
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Light fabric: 1.5 metres
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Medium fabric: 75 cms
Note: Wadding, backing fabric, and binding fabric requirements will be discussed in week 3.
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Sylvia Murray
Sylvia discovered her love of craft at just five years old and began learning to sew on her mother’s old Singer machine by the age of ten. By eleven, she was already making her own clothes. For her 18th birthday, her parents gifted her a brand-new Bernina 830—still her faithful workhorse today, despite now owning five sewing machines!
In 2002, Sylvia fulfilled a lifelong dream by purchasing a patchwork and craft shop, where she developed her business skills and deepened her love for patchwork—now her greatest sewing passion. During this time, she also taught patchwork classes that quickly became a favourite within the local community.
Later, Sylvia worked as a Leisure Learning Co-ordinator for a not-for-profit community organisation, where her passion for teaching truly came to life. She delivered several sewing and patchwork classes each week, sharing her skills with warmth, energy and a strong belief that learning should always be fun.
Sylvia’s classes are known for their relaxed, encouraging atmosphere and hands-on approach. She creates a supportive environment where students feel confident to ask questions, experiment and enjoy the creative process.
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