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Feel the FABRIC...Embrace the Culture

I'm Lisa Shepard Stewart, and I'm excited to share my passion for African fabrics with you!

My obsession with African textiles began in 1986 with a trip to Senegal, West Africa.  Through my publications, website and my studio in Rahway, NJ, I encourage you to express yourself creatively, using culturally relevant techniques and materials.  I travel to Ghana regularly to source artists, fabrics and materials. I also curate and host SewJourns, unique fabric and fiber art experiences in fun destinations. 

In addition to sewing, quilting, writing and fabric collecting, I'm a part-time vegetarian who also enjoys travel, entertaining & holistic health.

Visit the main website at CulturedExpressions.com
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Courses

Welcome to my virtual classroom!
I hope you'll enjoy the pre-recorded classes and replays offered below.

ON-DEMAND:  Purchase a class once, and you'll be able to access it indefinitely, just by logging back in.

CLASS REPLAYS:  Did you miss one of my live classes? Now's your chance to view it!

And be sure to check out the CE website for kits, fabrics and supplies, and for current live events, too!

PLEASE NOTE:  All classes are copyrighted. Once purchased, your classes are linked to a unique ID.  Sharing access to your class with others may result in permanent blocking, without a refund. 
We appreciate your cooperation, please enjoy your classes!

  • $34.95

Ankara Clutch

  • Course

Create a stylish statement accessory while you learn to mix and play with African prints. The metal frame gives a professional touch with a classy, vintage feel. You’ll learn about African prints, patchwork, and accessory design in this course designed for all skill levels. NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, w/ no refund.
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  • $44.95

Corded Cabin Quilt Block

  • Course

This fresh take on classic Log Cabin blocks adds dimension and lends itself to many projects. Learn Lisa's process to create single blocks, multi-block project, quilt borders and other creative accents! Order African print fabric strips & cording at www.CulturedExpressions.com. NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, w/ no refund.
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  • $39.95

Pillow Perfection

  • Course

The perfect DIY home dec project for any skill level, budget or style. Three basic pillow styles (zippered, tuck-in, sewn), technical & creative hacks, inner structure, favorite finishing touches, to embellishments, for custom designs that are professional-looking, yet easy! NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, w/ no refund.
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  • $44.95

Ankara String Quilt

  • Course

The classic string quilt becomes a work of art with Ankara! Learn to mix the colors & patterns with confidence, bind the quilt using two easy techniques, add non-traditional fabrics to your quilt, transform the blocks into alternate projects & more! Strip bundles available. NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, w/ no refund.
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  • $24.95

Fat Quarter Pocket Pouch

  • Course

Turn a fat quarter of fabric (an 18" x 22" piece) into a self-lined zippered pouch, complete with handy outside pocket! Perfect for cosmetics, electronics to go, or your favorite essentials to run errands. They're addictive & make great gifts for anyone. Supply Kit available. NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, w/ no refund.
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  • $19.95

AnkaraPaj

  • Course

African/ankara prints (even in tiny pieces) will elevate any project, and decoupage is no exception! Grab some scraps, add decoupage techniques and create a gorgeous freestyle art piece, or try one of Lisa's other suggested project ideas. A fun, colorful no-sew craft for all ages. NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, w/ no refund.
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  • $19.95

CLASS REPLAY - Slow Stitch Tutorial

  • Course

Learn Lisa's tips and tricks for slow stitching and other embellishments, based on Cultured Expressions Bogolan Slow Stitch and Little Luxuries Creative Kits, available at www.CulturedExpressions.com. Live virtual event October 24, 2024. NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, w/ no refund.
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  • $19.95

CLASS REPLAY - Ankara Fabric Flowers

  • Course

Ankara elevates once again, this time it's the classic fabric flower. Learn easy tips and tricks, plus finishing techniques for several styles. NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, w/ no refund.
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  • $60

CLASS REPLAY - Bogolan Shrug Jacket

  • Course

This chic bolero-styled jacket is cropped in the back, giving just enough coverage for cool evenings and chilly summer AC! Pair it with a little black dress or jeans, or anything in between... Live virtual event January 30, 2025. NOTE: Classes are copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access with others may result in permanent blocking, no refund.
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  • $34.95

CLASS REPLAY - Magic Nine-Patch Projects

  • Course

Learn easy, effective techniques for creating Nine-Patch quilt blocks, then stitch fun, functional projects. While we focus on African prints & batiks, the tips & tricks apply to a wide variety of fabrics. Recommended: : 5" and 10" ankara, 7" batik squares at culturedexpressions.com/fabrics-kits. NOTE: Class is copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access may result in permanent blocking, no refund.
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  • $34.95

CLASS REPLAY - Free Spirit Dolls

  • Course

With their expressive hair and colorful, richly patterned bodies, Free Spirit Dolls make a great girlfriends project, or Mommy-and-Me activity. Free yourself creatively with culturally relevant hair options like locs, braids, twists and Bantu knots, then embellish with waistbeads and other accents. NOTE: Class is copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access may result in permanent blocking, no refund.
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  • $24.95

CLASS REPLAY - SEWstainable Market Bags

  • Course

The perfect project for Earth Day and beyond! Stitch up a few different shopping bag styles, and ditch the plastic bag habit with creative, practical variations you'll love! Learn to make GUSSETED TOTES, T-SHIRT BAGS, CLEAR VINYL, MESH PRODUCE BAGS and more. NOTE: Class is copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access may result in permanent blocking, no refund.
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  • $39.95

CLASS REPLAY - Strip-Pieced Handbag

  • Course

This uniquely styled and easy-to-sew handbag is the perfect showcase for your favorite ankara print strips. This is the bag that people literally could not keep their hands off of in the Rahway studio! Make it monochromatic, or do a classic ankara mix for a pop-of-color bag you'll love to carry. NOTE: Class is copyrighted. Your account has a unique ID. Sharing access may result in permanent blocking, no refund.
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