Beginner Rope Tray Class with Jill

Discover the fun of sewing with cotton rope! In this beginner-friendly class, Jill will teach you the techniques for wrapping cotton rope with fabric strips and stitching it into a beautiful oval tray that's as practical as it is decorative.

Your finished tray is perfect for corralling clips, snips, thread, pins, and all those little notions that seem to wander around your sewing space. The class begins by learning how to wrap cotton rope with fabric, then you'll use a zigzag stitch to transform it into a sturdy tray. If time allows and you have rope and fabric remaining, you'll also have the opportunity to make a coordinating coaster.

You'll learn:

• How to wrap cotton rope with fabric strips
• Techniques for sewing and shaping a rope tray
• Tips for creating smooth curves and sturdy sides
• Finishing techniques for a polished, professional look

No previous rope bowl experience is required—just basic familiarity with your sewing machine.

Kit Option

For your convenience, optional class kits will be available for purchase. Each kit includes enough cotton rope to complete the project, a coordinating 1/4 yard of batik fabric, and a jeans needle. You're also welcome to bring your own supplies if you prefer. Price is $30

Sewing Machine Requirements

This project requires a sewing machine capable of sewing a zigzag stitch. Straight-stitch-only machines cannot be used for this class. If you have an older all-metal mechanical machine, they're often excellent choices for sewing rope projects because of their power and durability.

Supplies Needed

• Sewing machine capable of a zigzag stitch
• 25' of 3/16" diameter 100% cotton rope (Mountain Thread Co.)
• 1/4 yard batik fabric or 1 fat quarter (batiks are recommended because they fray less when cut into strips)
• Coordinating 50 wt thread to match your fabric
• White 50 wt thread to match the rope
• Jeans needle
• Rotary cutter
• 12" or 24" ruler
• Clothespin
• A couple of small binding clips
• General sewing supplies