Let's see how two artists interpret the same core technique. Free-motion couching is one of those traditional quilting techniques that, in the hands of an art quilter, can open up new levels of artistic detail and expressiveness. In the first segment, Sally Manke works on a domestic sewing machine, showcasing several options for presser feet, and explores methods for preparing your surface as well as fiber possibilities. Next, artist Shannon Conley works on a mid-arm quilting machine to share how she uses couching to complement her quilting, filling in the surface with intricate, colorful, textural details. Where will free-motion couching take you after today's episode of Quilting Arts?

What's a season of Quilting Arts without an episode on color-wonderful, transformative, expressive color? In this episode of Quilting Arts, artist Lisa Thorpe explores multiple methods for applying color to stamped designs, blending and building with different tools. Next, artist Brandy Maslowski challenges you to play with value in monochromatic color waves. Put color theory into color practice with this episode of Quilting Arts!

Whet your appetite for applique! Artist Sarah Anne Mattson Spencer presents her technique for Pop Art style pet portraits, from tracing to fusing to sewing. Fabric Artist Sondrasa simplifies complex applique by pre-building layers on a silicone mat, before adhering it to a background. With the techniques featured in this episode, you'll be able to 'apply' your creativity to any type of fusible applique.

New technologies can enable you to tell the story YOU want to tell, and on this episode of Quilting Arts, we embrace those creative opportunities. First, guest Shannon Conley creates 3-dimensional topographical landscapes using a digital cutter. And then guest Kestrel Michaud - who is always exploring the intersections of tech and art - discovered that augmented reality glasses can be a healthier, pain-free solution to quilting woes!

This episode of Quilting Arts presents two different impressionistic takes on the natural world. Vicki Conley's improvisational techniques provide an energy that brings her nature-scapes to life. The backgrounds that Pat Bishop creates are natural, textural, and complex...and still allow the more realistic subject shine. Tap into your own wild, stitching nature!

On this episode of Quilting Arts, we're celebrating surface design! Guest Mel Beach teaches the basics of block printing, from carving the stamps to printing on different substrates. Brandy Maslowski incorporates metallic foil, felting with wool roving, and using thicker machine stitches for a textured look.

The episode begins with David Owen Hastings' lessons for planning your quilting; he uses simple tools like vellum and markers to test layered designs that complement the piecing. In the second segment, Susan Brubaker Knapp presents a more free-form approach using free-motion, also complementing the fabrics and piecing, for a big impact on little quilts. Two different approaches, two different results, two methods worth learning - on this episode of Quilting Arts.