Day: January 12, 2026

Potato Chip Workshop

PQC Potato Chip quilt workshop
PQC Potato Chip quilt workshop

I went to a workshop on Thursday with the Pacifica Quilt Club. I mentioned them a few months ago. I did join and have been to one meeting. This was my first workshop. I went because I am interested in the Potato Chip quilts and wanted to see what they had to say.

I talked a little bit with Lynette about Potato Chip quilts at the Retreat, so I knew about them, but have never made one. I have to say that I am excited to try one with some 2.5×4.5 inch piece I cut for another project I will never make. 

Spiral Potato Chip block drawing
Spiral Potato Chip block drawing

DH and I talked about the workshop at dinner and I did a little drawing of the block. He added on to it to make a spiral and I think I will start with that idea. I already have some pieces of the right size I was doing to use for another project whose time has passed. 

There were a number of examples, which show the versatility of the idea. 

Potato Chip example -flower block with self-sashing by Kay
Potato Chip example -flower block with self-sashing by Kay

One block I particularly liked was by Kay. She made a quilt, but I just took a picture of one block. It is larger and the white strip with another ’round’ of pieces makes the blocks ‘self-sash’ when you put them together. I love this kind of concept.

The blocks end up large, too, so you can quickly make a quilt.

In this example Kay has used all different kinds of flower fabrics, which shows how well loose themes work for this quilt design.

Potato Chip example -in paper by Jaysa
Potato Chip example -in paper by Jaysa

Jaysa made some paper examples showing additional layouts. These layouts look like Log Cabin blocks, but are Potato Chip blocks. 

While learning this technique we all made blocks to contribute to a community quilt. I made two blocks during this short workshop. Julie C cut all the pieces, so we didn’t have to bring fabric or spend time cutting. 

I used my fabulous wagon for the second time and got a lot of compliments on it.

Clippy Pincushions

Clippy pincushion for Carrie
Clippy pincushion for Carrie

Sue has mentioned a few times that she loves my Clippy Pincushion.

I decided that it was time to make a couple for her and Carrie. I hesitated because the pins have to go into the pincushion almost horizontally in order not to get stuck when you grab the item. I have never figured out a way to prevent that. Of course, I haven’t lined the largest pieces with foam or something either. Maybe I’ll try that.

Clippy pincushion for Sue
Clippy pincushion for Sue

Even if you just use this pincushion for WonderClips**, it is super useful. I keep one in my travel Hildegarde Notions Trunk.

I originally found the pattern in a magazine. Since then I have seen it in the book, 50 Little Gifts: easy patchwork projects to give or swap**, compiled by Susanne Woods.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

**Obviously, you should shop at local quilt shops and small businesses. However, if you are too busy or can’t find what you need there, I use Amazon affiliate links and may be paid for your purchase of an item when you click on an item’s link in my post. There is no additional cost to you for clicking or purchasing items I recommend. I appreciate your clicks and purchases as it helps support this blog.