A fascinating exploration of quilting past and present by Lauren MacDonald – textile designer, quilt-maker and author.

Lauren will talk about her new book Piece by Piece, a guide to making 20 modern patchwork and quilting projects from preloved fabrics. She’ll also dive into her own textile journey – quilts she has known and loved, and the quilts she has created over the last 15 years. She’ll also draw on one of the treasures of the museum collection – the patchwork coverlet created by Jane and her mother and sister Cassandra from scraps of dress and furnishing fabrics, which can be seen on display in the House.

Piece by Piece is a hands-on craft book complete with patterns, tutorials and projects that use a mix of quilting, patchwork and applique. Lauren shares her enthusiasm for and knowledge of quilting with approachable warmth and humour in this indispensable guide to modern patchwork and quilting.

‘Piece by Piece, the joyful, generous new title by Lauren MacDonald, is a love letter to patchwork, reuse, and the quiet satisfaction of making something beautiful from what you already have.’ – Selvedge Magazine

Lauren MacDonald is a London-based designer, author, and founder of textiles studio, Working Cloth. She’s interested in the intersections between craft, technology, and labour, particularly around activities traditionally considered ‘womens’ work’. Her first non-fiction book, In Pursuit of Color: from fungi to fossil fuels: uncovering the origins of the world’s most famous dyes was released in 2023. Her second book, Piece by Piece: modern patchwork and quilting projects to make from pre-loved fabrics came out last spring. Working Cloth has collaborated with the Institute of Making at University College London (UCL), Toast, and Sydney Craft Week. Lauren’s work has featured in The New York Times, Vogue, CNN, Hyperallergic, Country Living, Homes & Gardens and House & Home.

Details:
Date: Saturday 13 December
Time: 11am – 12pm
Location: This event will take place at Jane Austen’s House in Chawton. Find us.
Tickets: £15

This event ticket does not include House entry. If you wish to explore the House please buy an admission ticket or use your Annual Pass.

🎉 This event is part of our Jane Austen Birthday Celebration, running from 12 – 16 December 2025