Beacon Digest

Explore the beauty of traditional quilt patterns—without any sewing—in this hands-on workshop led by Ali Charli Smith, who also teaches Botanical Ink Making and Simple Quilting with Sashiko Thread at That Creative Space in Beacon.

Overview

We'll look at classic block designs and the shapes that define them, then use those motifs as inspiration to create modern quilt-inspired collages. Working with a colorful range of fabrics, textures, and patterns, you'll design and assemble your own layered compositions using adhesive techniques instead of stitching.

What You'll Learn

We'll discuss the basics of quilt geometry and how quilters build patterns from simple shapes. You'll learn how to plan your design, cut and arrange fabric pieces, experiment with color and pattern, and build structure and rhythm in your composition—all in an accessible, no-sew format.

What You'll Make

Each participant will create 2–3 finished quilt-inspired fabric collages using studio materials or any personal fabric scraps you'd like to bring. This is an open-level workshop perfect for beginners and experienced makers alike.

What You'll Take Home

You'll leave with your completed collages mounted on watercolor or other high-quality paper—ready to frame, gift, or continue developing at home.

Who This Workshop Is Best For (Adults)

This workshop is a great fit for anyone who loves pattern, textiles, color play, or the cozy nostalgia of quilts but prefers a relaxed, no-sew approach. It's perfect for creative beginners, collage lovers, textile enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a satisfying, tactile project that blends tradition with modern design.

Registration

Fee: $55 (non-members), $46.75 members (includes $10 materials fee). Registration generally closes 1–2 days before the workshop date. All materials are provided, including fabric, scissors, rulers, pencils, chalk pencils, archival adhesive, brushes, and backing paper. Participants are welcome to bring their own fabric or scraps to personalize their designs.

About the Teaching Artist

Alison Charli Smith is a textile designer, natural dyer, and quilter. Inspiration for her work is drawn from traditional quilt motifs and the landscapes around her home in New York's Hudson Valley. She prefers to be outdoors and is always on the lookout for local plants to forage and make dyes and inks with. Ali studied photography and ceramics at the University of Vermont before discovering natural dyes through the Textile Arts Center. In need of something to do with the naturally dyed textiles she was creating, she taught herself how to quilt and has been making naturally dyed quilts for over a decade. Learn more at https://www.alisoncharlismith.com