Layer by Layer: Coverlet Course with Ruth Holmes

We are delighted to welcome Ruth Holmes to Eau Brink Studio for a year-long journey into the world of coverlets.

• Start date: Tuesday 6th January 2026

• Schedule: First Tuesday of each month, 7pm – 9pm

• Duration: 12 months (one session per month)

Payment Structure
Participants will book in blocks of 4 months at a time, with each session priced at £25.00. Therefore, each block will cost £100.00

Payment & Materials

• Each block is booked and paid for in advance at £100.00 (4 sessions per block).

• In addition, there is a £6.00 charge per block for interlining.

• For each monthly workshop, there is also a £6.00 materials fee, payable at the session.

Example for one block (4 months):

• Block booking: £100.00

• Interlining: £6.00 (per block)

• Materials: £6.00 per month (£24.00 total for 4 months)

Additional Requirement:

• In Month 11 (November 2026), learners will need to purchase backing fabric for their coverlet. This can be brought from home or purchased directly from Eau Brink Studio.

Refreshments
As always, tea and homemade cake will be provided.

Block 1: January – April 2026

• January: Explore fabric dyeing, layering, and stitching techniques using both hand and machine methods.

• February: Create unique fabric pictures with sublimation and jacquard printer fabrics, enhanced with colour and stitch.

• March: Experiment with transfer inks and dyes to colour lace and ribbon.

• April: Learn water-soluble techniques to add delicate, layered stitching.

By the end of Block 1, learners will have four stitched pieces, ready to assemble as the first section of their coverlet.
For those choosing not to continue, Ruth will also provide instructions on how to transform these pieces into bags or cushions.

Block 2: May – August 2026

• May: Discover creative ways of making rubbings onto fabric for unique textures and patterns.

• June: Use stencils and stamps to design and print pictures directly onto fabric.

• July: Learn how to cut and use freezer paper to create your own personal stencils, moving beyond commercial designs.

• August: Explore the art of appliqué to add colour, shape, and depth to your coverlet pieces.

By the end of Block 2, learners will have developed a range of fabric surface design skills that can be layered, combined, and stitched into their ongoing coverlet project.

Block 3: September – December 2026

• September: Practice free-motion machining across a coverlet section, using a spare sample piece made specifically for this purpose.

• October: Learn how to construct your coverlet, bringing together the sections created throughout the year.

• November: Focus on creating edgings and preparing backing to give your coverlet structure and finish.

• December: Complete the final touches, add backing, and celebrate your achievements with homemade Christmas pudding! 🎄

By the end of Block 3, learners will have a fully constructed and finished coverlet — a beautiful heirloom piece to treasure.