
Quilters interested in exploring the beauty of Celtic design will have an opportunity this spring when instructor Leona McCann leads a two‑day Celtic Love Knot Quilt workshop at the Gualala Arts Center. The class will be held Wednesday and Thursday, May 13–14, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The workshop fee is $120 for Gualala Arts Members and $150 for non‑members sign up online at GualalaArts.org or the Gualala Arts Front Desk by May 10
“Isn’t the Celtic Love Knot Quilt complicated to make?” Leona hears this question all the time, and the truth is – it’s easier than it looks! With just a few partial seams and clear step-by-step instructions, you’ll be surprised at how smoothly it comes together. If you can sew a log cabin block, you’ll can make this quilt. And the best part? There are very few seams to match up!
It is advisable to have the fabric cut prior to the class and ensure to have the pieces labeled. Labels are provided to print. A YouTube coloring page is available on “Prequilt” to play around with color choices before purchasing fabric.
Find Cutting Instructions Here
Instructor’s Background
McCann began quilting more than 17 years ago after being captivated by the artistry and color of quilts in a local shop. Her enthusiasm quickly grew—she upgraded her sewing machine, enrolled in classes, and soon invested in a long‑arm machine to complete quilts from start to finish.
Originally from Ireland, McCann draws inspiration from the flowing, interwoven motifs of Celtic art. A childhood visit to the Book of Kells sparked her fascination with knotwork symbolizing continuity and connection, themes she now expresses through piecing, embroidery, and long‑arm quilting. With a background in software development, she also embraced the digital tools of modern quilting and later founded Tir na nOg Studio, where she blends traditional Celtic aesthetics with contemporary techniques.
McCann says teaching the Celtic Love Knot Workshop allows her to share both her cultural heritage and her love of quilting, guiding students as they discover the accessibility and beauty of these timeless designs.
Materials List:
Sewing machine in good working order with power cord and foot control
¼” presser foot (recommended)
Rotary cutter (with sharp blade)
Cutting mat
Quilting ruler (at least 6” x 24”)
Pins
Seam ripper
Iron and pressing mat
Neutral piecing thread
Spray starch
Small scissors or thread snips
Extra Sewing Machine Needles
Gualala Arts Promoting public interest and participation in the arts since 1961
