Class description for MJ Kinman

Students will experiment with the unique free-motion quilting techniques I use to enhance the facets of my large-format diamond quilts. Quilting adds an additional design dimension to every quilt. In order to allow the flow of light and color to remain the focus of my work, I’ve developed random, non-directional quilting that allows the faceting pattern to shine through. This class is for students who use domestic machines rather than long-arm machines. Student supply list will be provided at time of booking.                                               

* Participants must have a solid understanding of -- and relationship with -- their sewing machine, since I won't be able to trouble-shoot mechanical issues during class.

Come learn and have fun.

Class Length: Full Day

Enrollment Fee: $55.00 / seat 

Wild Motion Machine Quilting Supply List:

• Domestic sewing machine

• Multiple bobbins pre-wound and thread

• Scissors

• 5 “fabric sandwiches” approximately 12”x 12” (top fabric, low-loft batting, backing)

• Notebook with blank pages OR regular copy paper for practicing designs by hand

• Pens or pencils for sketching

* Participants must have a solid understanding of -- and relationship with -- their sewing machine, since the instructor will not be able to trouble-shoot mechanical issues during class.

About MJ Kinman

MJ Kinman|Textile Artist

I like to tell people I make the biggest diamonds in the world. The adventure started over 20 years ago when an image of a gem captured my imagination. As a new quiltmaker, I knew there had to be a way to transform that image into a quilt, but didn’t know where to begin. I dove into the research and, seven years later, made my first gem. 

My latest series, entitled “Bourbon Diamonds” celebrates Kentucky’s favorite spirit. My current series is based on the National Gem Collection at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.

My work has been exhibited in galleries, museums, and national competitions. The National Quilt Museum (Paducah, KY) is planning an exhibit of my work in 2020. I’ve been delighted to share my work with readers of Quilting Arts Magazine, France Patchwork, McCall’s Quilting, Make Modern Magazine, Online Quilting Magazine, and World Diamond Magazine. I’ve had the pleasure of appearing on Quilting Arts TV and The Quilt Show.com with Alex Anderson and Ricky Tims. My gems are included in private and corporate collections, including Maker’s Mark Distillery.

I released my first pattern series in 2018. The Birthstone Series is a collection of 12 blocks representing the traditional birthstones, The Diamond Divas Series features larger quilt patterns inspired by fancy-cut diamonds. Northcott released my first fabric collection, “Facets by MJ Kinman”, in 2019.

I love to teach others how to use freezer-paper piecing techniques to bring their own inspiration to life. And Gem Affiliates, independent teachers around the US, Canada, and Australia who are certified to teach my patterns, are available to bring gem classes to shops, guilds, and groups around the country.

For more information, please visit my website and social media sites below:

Website: www.MJKinman.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/mjkinmantextileartist
Instagram: www.Instagram.com/mjkinman709