Project Instructions

We use the word ‘quilt’ in the broadest sense: that we will be sewing together unique fabric squares into one large display. Some participants may use traditional quilting techniques, but that is only one of many different ways to construct your panel, even without sewing at all.

Avoid glue wherever possible, unless it is specifically labeled for use with fabric, since adhesives tend to dry out and crack over time. (if you glue elements on the panel, then also reinforce with hand or machine stitching) Stitching and painting will last longer. Fusible interfacing, which is an iron-on layer that permanently bonds two fabric layers together can be a handy alternative to sewing too, which you can get at a fabric store. We are going to try using Steam-a-Seam brand at our workshop, for instance.

Below you will find a few techniques and ideas for your We the People Quilt panel. Use one method, or combine a few for a mixed media effect! We have linked a Pinterest board for each of these techniques to provide some instructions on how to achieve these on our Inspiration page) 

• Quilting: for those who would like to use traditional quilting techniques to create their designs, or some more modern intuitive methods, you might create the entire design with a variety of cotton fabrics and then quilt that to the muslin panel as a backing.
• Appliqué:
  Sew letters, shapes, and small fabric decorations onto the background. Try stitching instead of gluing for a long-lasting design. If you use glue to temporarily hold pieces in place, secure them with stitching, too. 
• Painting:
  Use textile paint, colorfast dye, or permanent fabric markers. Avoid puffy paints—they can stick to other panels and damage the quilt when folded. Put cardboard or a dropcloth under your work to avoid paint seeping through and staining your work surface. 
• Embroidery:
  Colorful stitched embroidery can be an expressive and beautiful addition to your design. Our board is linked to basic stitch tutorials to help you get started.
• Photo Transfer:
  You may include photos by printing them on iron-on transfers or through other media that help fuse an image to fabric.
• Printmaking:
  Silk screen, gelli plate, linocut are just a few of the options for using fine art printmaking techniques to create your designs.

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When your panel is complete, please follow instructions on our website. We will ask you to include a Panel Maker Information Form with a short written reflection about your design. Share what inspired it—whether it’s your community, family, culture, history, or a vision for the future. 

Optional: You may also include a photograph of yourself or your group to accompany your panel’s story in our archives.

There will be several options for returning your quilt panel:

1. By Mail:
   Mail your completed panel to:
   We the People Community Quilt Project
   ATTN: New Panels ADDRESS WILL BE POSTED IN APRIL
   We recommend using a trackable service (e.g., UPS, FedEx, or registered mail).
2. In Person:
   Arrange a drop-off at a designated location, partner organization or by arrangement with the organizing team. To be announced in APRIL. For questions, contact us.
3. At an Event:
   Bring your panel to one of our community workshops or meetups to return your panels.