Double Irish Chain Quilt Workshop

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

• Basic rotary cutting techniques and accurate quarter-inch seam allowances

• How to piece nine-patch blocks into the Double Irish Chain pattern

• Matching points for a precise, professional-looking quilt

• Tips for selecting complementary fabrics and creating a focal fabric

• Skills to easily scale the quilt to different sizes

What Students Will Take Away at the End of the Course

• A completed lap-size Double Irish Chain quilt (49” x 39” / 125cm x 99cm)

• Confidence in piecing a classic quilt pattern

• Knowledge to adjust quilt size and fabric choices for future projects

• Practical experience in foundational quilting techniques that can be applied to other projects

What Students Need to Bring

Sewing Supplies:

• Sewing machine in good working order

• 36” x 24” self-healing cutting mat

• 6.5” x 24” quilting ruler

• 48mm rotary cutter with sharp blade

• Quilting pins (yellow-headed Birch Pins recommended)

• 60” quilting tape measure

• Sharp fabric scissors

• Cheap paper scissors

• Quick Unpick (or seam ripper or awl)

• Bobbins for your machine

• Pack of universal sewing needles

• Large reel of quality cotton sewing thread (eg., Guttermann, Aurifil, or Mettler)

Fabric Requirements (100% cotton recommended):

• Focal (main) fabric: 1.4 metres

• Light fabric: 1.5 metres

• Medium fabric: 75 cms

Note: Wadding, backing fabric, and binding fabric requirements will be discussed in week 3.