Spring Has Sprung!

Posted by Diana Wendorf on

Welcome to What's Up Wednesday!   
Are you ready to Shop Hop?  There are only 3 days until the start of the 2023 All Minnesota Shop Hop which begins on Saturday, April 1, 2023!  We still have some magazines in stock so if you haven't purchased yours, you still can!  If you are unable to stop in before April 1, you may be able to purchase one on the day the shop hop begins depending on how long our supplies last.  You can always order and pay for your magazine online or by phone and we can hold it for you until you arrive.  

The last broadcast for Shop Hop Live took place yesterday and they focused on all the sponsors that help make this event possible.  These sponsors are listed in the magazine and really deserve a huge THANK YOU from all of the participating stores.  It is because of their support and generous prize donations that make this shop hop so wonderful.

The featured quilt in the broadcast this week is on pages 18 & 19 of the All Minnesota Shop Hop Magazine.  Farmer's Square Dance was designed by Susan Travis & Sarah Ottesen from Farmer's Daughters Quilts.  

As we all know, errors do occur.  All corrections to the magazine can be found on the All Minnesota Shop Hop website.   Before beginning your travels take a moment to review the "store" tab on their website to ensure that you have the correct store hours for each shop you are visiting as there are some corrections listed.  Other corrections to the magazine can be found under the "articles" tab under the All Minnesota Shop Hop Magazine And Updates Tabs.  

If you missed Shop Hop Talk Tuesday you can always watch the replay on the 
All Minnesota Shop Hop FaceBook Group.   

We want to celebrate the beginning of this shop hop with our own prize drawing!   If you visit our shop April 1st - April 8th you can enter our drawing.   
  • First place -  Fat Quarter bundle from QT Fabrics
  • Second Place - Monorail pattern from Atkinson Designs
  • Third Place - $10 Affinity For Quilts Gift Certificate.
If you are not within a reasonable driving distance of Affinity For Quilts we are happy to mail your prize at no charge to you.
We have two great new samples to share with you this week. 

This week we have some great samples for you!  First, we have the Pineapple Rings quilt designed by Jean Ann Wright for Cut Loose Press.    This quilt will be offered as a class on May 13 2023.  The details can be found in our events section below.  The quilt measures 48" x 48" and we have starter kits available for 49.99.

What is a starter kit?  It is a kit that has the fabric featured in the block and binding.   You get to choose your own background and border and fabrics.  
Cabin by the Lake was designed by Diane McGregor of Castilleja Cotton.  The kit features the Northcott Fabrics Cabin View panel and fabric line. The quilt measures 54" x 72" and we have limited kits available for $106.99.
A Summer Tale by Isoletta Design for Phoebe Fabrics welcomes you to step into the magical Swedish midsummer night, where the sky is bright and the sun barely sets. 'A Summer Tale' is inspired by an ancient tradition that takes place this very night: young woman that want to see who they will marry go out after midnight and in total silence pick seven kinds of flowers. As they sleep with them under their pillow  the chosen person will appear in their dreams. True or not, this collection allows you take some of the typical Swedish flowers usually picked that night to create your very own magic with them.
The heavens shimmer and shine in Star Maps, Robert Kaufman's newest collection. Centered around a constellation map panel and accented with metallic gold, this stunning collection is available in a divine palette of deep navy, royal blue, teal and parchment.
If you are unable find an item you are looking for, talk to any Affinity For Quilts team member and we will do our best to order it for you.  We wish we could carry all of the items for your quilting needs, but some things need to be special ordered.  

Classroom Space
Our classroom space is currently open.  If your group would like a place to meet please contact Affinity For Quilts at 651-429-1039.  Evening meeting space is available; however, there will be a fee that will need to be negotiated with the shop for evening meetings.

Reoccurring Store Specials
  • 1st Tuesday of each month - Double Punch Tuesday
  • 2nd Monday of each month - Freebie Monday
  • 3rd Wednesday of each month - FQ Wednesday - Buy 6 Get 7th Free
  • 4th Friday of each month - Take an extra 10% off all Sale Wall Fabrics 
Winter Weather Notifications
  1. A Facebook post will be added to our page with details of the closure.
  2. An e-mail will be sent to everyone who is a current subscriber to What's Up Wednesday.
  3. The "Calendar" on our website will be update that the store is "CLOSED."
  4. If the weather is bad and you are unsure if the shop is open please call before heading out.  If no one answers the phone and it is between the hours of 9am-5pm then we are most likely closed.  
Sewing Machine Service
Is your sewing machine in need of tune-up or repair?  If so, Jordan is on site to assist you with all of your machine needs.  When bringing your machine in for service, include the sewing machine, foot control, power cord, standard zig-zag foot if your machine sews a zig zag stitch, bobbin case, bobbin and thread.  Jordan can be reached at  612-275-3356 if you would like to speak to him directly or to make an appointment. He is currently offering curbside pickup and delivery.


The Quilting For Affinity Group
Share your finished projects!  Join the "Quilting For Affinity" Facebook group to share your work and be inspired by others. Just click here, and you will be taken to the Facebook group.  Select 'join group' and you will be added.  It's that easy!  

 
Tip of the Week!
Affinity For Quilts Tip of the Week:   Tie a piece of ribbon to a pair of small scissors and attach to your ironing board.  That way when you are pressing you can easily grab your scissors and quickly snip any unwanted threads right away.
Just a reminder if you have a tip you would like to share with our readers just e-mail Diana at quilt@affinityforquilts.com.  
Classes and Events
In order to give all of our customers the opportunity to take classes we will be requesting payment at the time of registration.  If you need to cancel, we ask for notification 7 days prior to the class date so we can offer your spot to someone on our wait list and refund your registration fee.  Thanks so much for your understanding of this policy change and happy quilting everyone.

When you sign up for a class at Affinity For Quilts you will receive information about the class including any supplies needed for the class and often a few things that need to be completed before the day of the class.  Be sure to read through the supply/class prep list to ensure you have everything you need for a really wonderful class experience.  If you sign up and pay by phone, not to worry, we can email you all of the information you need for a successful class experience. 

If you are interested in an event and it is full, please add your name to the wait list, if someone can not attend then we will call the first person on the wait list to see if they are available to take that spot.   


The wait list is also used to see how popular an event is and if we should offer it again in the future.

You can register and pay for classes in person at 2199 4th Street, White Bear Lake Minnesota or by phone at 651-429-1039.
 
All Minnesota Shop Hop
April 1, 2023 thru May 31, 2023


The All Minnesota Shop Hop is only 24 days away so be sure to stop in to pick up your very own copy of the All Minnesota Shop Hop Magazine before they are are gone. 
 
The magazine is your passport; however, it is so much more because it also contains patterns for six different projects, articles, and information for all the participating shops. The magazines retail for $10.95 each.  

There are two ways in which you can get your copy of the All Minnesota Shop Hop Magazine. 
  • Stop into the shop at 2199 4th Street, White Bear Lake, MN
  • Order on-line at www.affinityforquilts.com.  

Are you following the All Minnesota Shop Hop on Facebook?  If not, I strongly encourage you to do so.  You can win some fabulous prizes before the shop hop even begins!   If you are not  currently following the All Minnesota Shop Hop on Facebook you can join the group by clicking here or go to www.facebook.com/groups/allminnesotashophop.
 
    We are looking forward to seeing everyone as the snow melts and the weather warms during the April-May All Minnesota Shop Hop.  
    Flash Monday - Clam Up Zippered Pouch

    The Clam Up Zippered Pouches by Annie is a great way to store and carry all your treasures.  They are easy and fun to make and come in five different sizes.  Diana will be teaching us how to make the large pouch which measures 4-7/8" high x 6-1/2" wide by 4-5/8" deep.  

    Class is currently full; however, a second date has been added for Monday, April 10, 2023.  

    Date:  Monday, April 3, 2023
    Time:  10:00am-12:30pm
    Instructor:  Diana Wendorf
    Class Fee:  $12.00
    Clam Up Zippered Pouch

    The Flash Monday class for the Clam Up Zippered Pouches was in such high demand that we have added a second class!

    The Clam Up Zippered Pouches by Annie is a great way to store and carry all your treasures.  They are easy and fun to make and come in five different sizes.  Diana will be teaching us how to make the large pouch which measures 4-7/8" high x 6-1/2" wide by 4-5/8" deep.  

    Date:  Monday, April 10, 2023
    Time:  10:00am-12:30pm
    Instructor:  Diana Wendorf
    Class Fee:  $12.00

    Straight Line Quilting & Binding Class

    In this instructional class students will learn how to finish their project using a domestic sewing machine. Katie will share the different methods of sandwiching quilts, how to quilt your project using the straight line quilting method, and how to hand bind your project.

    Students will bring their own fabric piece or small pieced top measuring no bigger than 14”x 30” to work with. A complete supply list will be provided at registration.

    Date: Saturday, April 8, 2023 
    Time:1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
    Instructor: Katie Glancy
    Class Fee: $35.00

    Easter Egg Hunt

    The Easter Bunny has contacted me asking for permission to deliver some very special Easter Eggs for our customers.  Each egg will contain a tasty Easter Candy treat along with special prizes.  The prizes include Gift Certificates; 1-$50, 1-$25, and 2-$10,   discounts on fabric purchases, free Fat Quarters, and free Villa Rosa patterns.   The All Minnesota Shop Hop and Quilt Minnesota fabric lines are excluded from fabric discount purchases.  Children with parents can hunt for eggs; however, only one egg per household or party. 

    Date:  Saturday, April 8, 2023
    Time:  9am-5pm, or until all eggs are found.

    Must be 18 or older to participate. Children with parents can hunt for eggs; however, only one egg per household.
    Sashiko Stitching Club

    Join our instructor led open Sashiko stitching group.  During your time together, you will be able to work on your own individual projects and get tips and pointers from other stitchers, and our beloved and talented instructor Tammy Berry. During each club Tammy arrives prepared to share patterns, techniques, or a new project. Participants will also receive a 15% discount for their Sashiko supplies, and fabric purchases.  Discount exclude thread, notions and Quilt MN fabrics.

    Be sure to call today to reserve your spot in this fun club!


    Date:  Wednesday, April 12, 2023  
    Time:  12:30pm-3:30pm
    Instructor:  Tammy Berry
    Class Fee:  $12.00
    Open Embroidery With Sharon

    Bring in your embroidery projects, or follow along with Sharon as she stitches Crabapple Hill's newest embroidery Block Of the Month Superstition.  The group will meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 10:00am-3:30pm.  Feel free to bring you lunch, or you can always go out and grab a bite to eat with your fellow stitching buddies at any of the great restaurants in Downtown White Bear Lake.  Sharon will be available to answer any questions you may have.  Remember to bring your Show and Tell.

    Date:   Thursday, April 13, 2023
                Thursday, April 20, 2023
    Time:  10:00am-3:30pm
    Class Fee:  $12.00
    Instructor:  Sharon Lenertz

    Laura Heine Teeny Tiny Collage Class

    Join Lori for a day of fabric collage! During this all day class you will learn how to assemble one of Laura Heine's whimsical Teeny Tiny Collages. These fun projects are a great way to use up those fabric pieces that you have been saving for just the right thing. This project is it, you have found it! Our in store sample is just one of several pattern choices for this class. The results are beautiful and the possibilities are endless!

    Date:  Saturday, April 15, 2023
    Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
    Instructor: Lori Adameitz
    Class Fee: $45.00

    There will be a half hour break for lunch

    Midnight Open Sew

    Are you looking for a fun way to spend a Friday night? Join Diana for Midnight Open Sew. Bring your current project, machine, and basic quilting supplies for 8 fun filled hours of just sewing.  We will be having Chicken Tacos, Spanish Rice, and Toffee Cracker Bars for dessert.  

    New for 2023, show-and-tell!  Inspire your fellow quilters with your handiwork.  We will be having show-and-tell after supper, at approximately 6:30pm.   

    Add your name to the wait list.


    Date:   Friday, April 21, 2023 
    Time:  4:00pm-Midnight
    Event Host: Diana Wendorf
    Class Fee:  $20.00
    Duck, Duck, Goose Mini

    Join Becky for a day of quilting to create the adorable Duck, Duck, Goose Mini Quilt.  In this class you will machine piece the project and be introduced to applique, machine stitching embroidery as well as a bit of hand embroidery. Becky will walk you through the steps and share one of her favorite tools, the Easy Angle Ruler, and how it can be used. Becky’s kind and informative teaching style, sewing expertise with her sewing tips and tricks will make this day of quilting great fun!

    Class Prep: There is cutting required at home before the day of class

    Date: Saturday, April 22, 2023
    Time: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
    Instructor: Becky Umenthum
    Skill Level:  Confident Beginner
    Class Fee:  $50.00

    There will be a half hour break for lunch

    Sew-In-Sunday

    Are you ready to spend the day quilting with friends?  Bring your own project(s) to work on and spend the day sewing!  Dinner will be served at 5pm.  We will be having Chicken Tacos, Spanish Rice, and Toffee Cracker Bars for dessert.  

    New for 2023, show-and-tell!  Inspire your fellow quilters with your handiwork.  We will be having show-and-tell prior to supper, at approximately 4:30pm.  


    Date:   Sunday, April 23, 2023   
    Time:  1:00pm - 7:00pm 
    Event Host: Diana Wendorf

    Class Fee:  $20.00
    Affinity For Quilts Sleep In Your Own Bed Retreat
     
    Grab your quilting friends and join Diana for a fun filled weekend as we host our Spring Sleep In Your Own Bed Retreat.  This weekend will be nothing short of fun and will include: 
    • A Gift Bag for each Attendee
    • Great Door Prizes
    • Make-It-Take-It project each day of the retreat 
    • Short product demo each day 
    • In Store Shopping Discounts for retreat participants   
    • Salad and Pizza Friday night from Carbone's Pizzeria & Pub
    • Catering by Todd Scheel for our Saturday evening meal.  The menu includes Tossed Garden Salad, your choice of Pan Seared Chicken Breasts or Marinated Choice Tender Tips with Mushrooms, Cheesy Potato Bake, Green Bean Almondine, and a Fudge Brownie with Raspberry Mousse for dessert.
    If you are interested in attending the retreat you must register by  Saturday, April 15, 2023. Late registrations will not be accepted; however, we can place you on a wait list in case of a cancellation.   We are requesting a 30% deposit upon registration with full payment by April 15, 2023.  Deposit for Friday/Saturday would be $52.50.   Please indicate your food preference;  the Seared Chicken Breasts or Marinated Choice Tender Tips with Mushrooms, when registering. 

    Only 1 open space remain.  

    Dates/Time:  Friday, April  28, 2023 10:00am - 10:00pm
                         Saturday, April 29, 2023 9:00am - 10:00pm
    Location:  White Bear Lake Masonic Lodge at 4923 Stewart Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110

    Retreat Fee:  $175.00 for Friday and Saturday
    The Cube Bag Class

    Join Ruth for The Cube Bag class. In this class you will make a bag, work with foam, create pockets, and put a zipper in your project. This pattern is a smaller version of the popular Boxy Tote! It is the perfect bag to use for your on the go sewing supplies, small knitting projects, make-up bag, and more. Ruth's detail oriented teaching style and written instructions will give you the confidence and tools to make this bag again on your own!  

    This class is intended for a confident beginner student and requires fabric to be cut based on instructors handout prior to class.  

    Date:  Saturday, May 6, 2023
    Time:  9:30am – 3:30 pm
    Instructor:  Ruth Thompson
    Class Fee: $45.00

    There will be a half hour break for lunch

    Pineapple Rings Quilt Class

    In this class you will learn the pineapple block technique using the Creative Grids Pineapple Trim Tool. Sewing square pineapple blocks can be challenging, however, with Becky's guidance and using the Creative Grids ruler you will create 10” square pineapple blocks while learning precision piecing, pressing, and trimming providing students with the tools to finish the project at their own pace. Once the process is learned, the project goes together fairly quickly. You will love the way this project goes together and secondary design that the block layout in creates!

    There is some class prep for this class. Follow the instructions on the supply list for fabric cutting.

    Date: Saturday,  May 13, 2023
    Time: 9:30 am- 4:30 pm 
    Class Fee: $50.00
    Instructor: Becky Umenthum
    Skill Level: Confident Beginner

    The Art of Embellishment

    Embellishment is a technique that uses various materials to decorate an object. In this class Linda will teach you how to embellish your project.  She will be discussing material mediums and ways to embellish your projects.  Then you will be working on your own embellishment project.  It can be something as simple as a notebook cover or embellishing a collage quilt that you have created, such as the seahorse featured in our photo.

    Prep:  If embellishing a collage, students must bring a completed collage piece to class.  If embellishing a notebook, students must bring a notebook to work with in class.  A complete list of supplies needed will be provided at time of registration.  


    Skill Level:  Beginning
    Date:  Tuesday, May 16, 2023
    Time:  9:30am - 12:30pm
    Class Fee:  $25.00
    Instructor:  Linda Treague

    Dresden Clock Class

    Make this quilted clock, based on the classic Dresden plate pattern. Choose a neutral palette or colorful hues. The clock is held in a 12” quilting hoop and uses a standard clock kit. It will be a perfect addition to your sewing room or gift to a quilting friend. Only basic sewing skills needed. Patterns are provided. The design is inspired by the book Hoop Quilts for Beginners. 

    Date: Saturday, May 20, 2023
    Time: 9:30 am - 1:30 pm
    Instructor: Kris Livingston
    Class Fee:  $35.00
    Beginning Sashiko

    Join Tammy for this introductory class and learn the art of Sashiko. Students will learn the Japanese running stitch embroidery, using the pre-printed coasters project that is perfect for beginner students. This stitch method can be used in the traditional way to mend cloth items or to add texture and interest to new projects. Tammy will share her tips, tricks, and expertise as she teaches you this beautiful form of hand stitching. Supplies are few to try this addictive hobby.

    Date: Saturday, June 10, 2023
    Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
    Class Fee: $20.00
    Instructor: Tammy Berry

    Barn Quilt Block Painting Class

    Join Aryn and create your own unique barn quilt design on reclaimed barn wood! Locally sourced, carefully selected, sanded and assembled. Choose from nine beautiful designs! Pick your own color scheme and relax at Affinity For Quilts in White Bear Lake, Minnesota.

    Designs include:
    1. Pinwheel
    2. Flag
    3. Faded Star
    4. Friendship Star
    5. Marigold
    6. Hidden Cross
    7. Blue Cross
    8. Tulips
    9. Pumpkin

    Registration is handled by The Blue Fox and must be done using the link below.  The $50.00 class fee includes all supplies needed for the call.  Follow the link below to register: 
    https://www.eventbrite.com/e/395665475087

    Date:  Saturday, June 24, 2023
    Time:  1:00pm - 4:00pm
    Instructor:  Aryn Lill
    Class Fee:  $50.00  Follow like above to register.  Class fee includes all supplies.
    Thank you for your continued support, you are appreciated more than words can ever express.

    Stay well and happy quilting everyone.   Remember, you cannot keep a good quilter down.
     

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