Painting Stories – A Barn Quilt Making Workshop

There’s no better way to experience the culture and history of rural Northern Indiana than by hitting the backroads and traveling the countryside. There, you’re likely to see some colorful wooden barn quilts adorning historic barns, family homesteads and public spaces. As of 2024, there are 80+ barn quilts listed on the existing Off the Beaten Path Map which can be picked up at the Shipshewana Visitor’s Center.

Painting Stories: A Barn Quilt Making workshop with Karen Weiland will be held from 2:00-4:00 pm and requires advance registration. Call (260) 499-1047 or email Karen at [email protected] – before August 13 2025. Location will be determined by class size. The workshop starts with a brief history of barn quilts, how they originated and how they’ve become popular decorations for homes, gardens and barns. You will learn to design and create your own quilt-themed piece, often inspired by traditional quilt patterns. There won’t be any actual painting because of time limits, but you will leave with a 12″ pre-primed board, written instructions and exterior paint to finish your masterpiece at home.

Cost $35 per person