During this workshop, you’ll create a stylish tote bag featuring your very first quiltblock: the iconic Friendship Starblock. This classic quilt pattern will be the centerpiece of your bag, making it a true eye-catcher. You’ll not only learn how to craft the quilt block but also how to beautifully incorporate it into your tote bag using decorative stitches on the sewing machine and subtle hand stitching. By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a handmade totebag and a solid foundation in quilting with quiltblocks!


This workshop is suitable for all beginners familiar with using a sewing machine. A great opportunity to learn the basics of quilting through a clear and enjoyable project! Note: the workshop is conducted in English and has a maximum of 8 participants.



The workshops take place on Sunday afternoons in our atelier. The currently scheduled dates are:

  • Sunday January 12th – 12:30 to 17:00
  • Sunday March 9th– 12:30 to 17:00
  • Sunday May 11th – 12:30 to 17:00

Can’t make it but still interested? Leave your details via this link, and we’ll notify you first about new dates.



  • You’ll get introduced to quilting with quiltblocks: learn how to create a pattern using fun fabric combinations and then turn your block into a totebag.
  • Ana will share plenty of tips and tricks for sewing with a quilting foot and combining fabrics to create a beautifully quilted block.
  • You’ll work with a quilt pattern to create your very first Friendship Starblock.
  • Step by step, you’ll learn how to incorporate your quilt block into a stylish totebag.
  • You’ll also become familiar with various quilting terms, essential quilting tools, and beginner-friendly quilting techniques.


The price for the workshop, from 12:30 to 17:00, is €105

All materials are included, so you don’t need to bring anything!

For this workshop, we’ve put together various sets of quilt-fabric scraps from which you can choose at the start of the workshop. You’ll use these to design your totebag. You’ll also select matching lining and straps from our collection. You’ll have access to our cutting mats, rulers, rotary cutters, sewing machines, sewing machine feet, sewing threads, and other necessary supplies.

In addition, our atelier offers a spacious and inspiring workspace with sewing and serger machines, a steam iron, elevated cutting tables, and coffee/tea with treats.

Note: The scrap sets may vary per workshop; the photos are examples.



Ana is a passionate sewing and quilting teacher from Amsterdam with Spanish roots. She brings knowledge and experience from her studies at the London College of Fashion and from teaching numerous sewingclasses in the Netherlands and Spain. She also creates her own, well-known, modern quilt and clothing patterns under the name CocoWawa Crafts. Ana developed this workshop herself and teaches it in English.

Ana Valls

The beginner quilting workshop “Totebag with Friendship Starblock” takes place in our inspiring and cozy atelier in the Riffellokaal of the Meelfabriek in Leiden. See the contact page for directions and opening hours.


Leuke middag, veel geleerd! Quiltworkshop

17 januari 2025

Bedankt Ana voor de gezellige middag, je neemt de tijd om alles goed uit te leggen. Zo gaat iedereen met een mooi (quilt)project naar huis.

Lieselotte

Echt ontzettend leuk om te quilten!

9 december 2024

Echt ontzettend leuk om te quilten. Eerst dacht ik zo klein maar dat hoeft helemaal niet. Ben echt van plan om hier meer mee te doen. De les was in het Engels en dat was heel goed te doen. Dank jewel Ana voor deze workshop dit smaakt naar meer. Leuk leuk.

Betty Schilder Spel

Echt een aanrader!!

9 december 2024

gezellig workshop in een mooie omgeving. Heel goed georganiseerd met ervarene docent. Ik heb heel veel over quilting en patchwork geleerd

Rebecca

Is your preferred date fully booked or you wish to plan a workshop for the future? Leave your details here to be the first to know about new dates!