The countdown is on! The Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop comes to a close this Saturday, August 16th, but there’s still plenty of time to stop by and finish our section. Complete our section and you’ll receive our exclusive Minnesota Cutting Board regional prize—a perfect keepsake for this year’s adventure. While you’re here, don’t miss our special $2.00 Bonus Buy: the delightful Purse Parrot Scissors, yours when you spend $20 or more. It’s the perfect little tool to add to your sewing kit—and a cheerful reminder of your Shop Hop journey. We look forward to seeing you before the final day!
We wanted to give you a quick heads-up—our back parking lot will be closed for the next few weeks while the city works on some major reconstruction. Because so many of you bring in sewing machines for classes and repairs, we’ve arranged with the city to have the first spot to the right of the lot entrance marked for deliveries, loading, and unloading only. These spaces are just for a quick stop, so once you’ve finished unloading, we kindly ask that you move your car to another spot. And don’t worry—if you need an extra hand carrying things in, just give us a call. One of our friendly team members will be happy to pop outside and help you.
Even though our back parking lot is temporarily closed, you won’t want to miss stopping by Affinity For Quilts next week! We’ve got exciting specials waiting for you, and it’s the perfect time to stock up on your quilting favorites. Make plans to visit—we can’t wait to see you!
- Freebie Monday - August 18
- Double Punch Tuesday - August 19
- Fat Quarter Wednesday - August 20
- Sale Wall Friday - August 29
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Freebie Monday - August 18th
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It’s Freebie Monday! Now that the Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop has wrapped up, we’re sure you have plenty of new projects you can’t wait to dive into. To give you a true cutting edge, this week’s Freebie Monday giveaway is a brand-new 45mm rotary blade! Spend $25 (pre-tax) and receive your blade free—while supplies last.
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I’m so grateful to our amazing sample makers—your creativity and dedication make it possible for me to share such beautiful pieces with all of you. This week’s lineup includes both table runners and quilts, each one stitched with care and sure to inspire your next project.
Introducing Hocus Pocus Pumpkins by Kris Holderness Designs, featuring the enchanting Spellbound fabric collection by Deborah Edwards for Northcott Fabrics. This charming project finishes at 16" x 58"—perfect for adding a festive touch to your fall décor. A limited number of kits will be available, so be sure to grab yours before they disappear!
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The Crazy Paper Quilt Runner by Riley Blake Designs features the lovely Gentler Times fabric line and the versatile Crazy Quilt Papers from Lori Holt. Measuring 15-1/2" x 60-1/2", this runner is the perfect blend of charm and creativity. Limited kits are available, so be sure to pick yours up before they’re gone.
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Mountain Bliss by Night Owl Quilting is a beautiful throw-sized quilt measuring 53" x 66-1/2". Created with the charming Conway Cottage collection by Karen Lewis for A ndover Fabrics, this quilt is perfect for adding a cozy touch to your home. Limited throw size kits are available, so be sure to get yours while they last.
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Woodland Snowmen by Danielle Leone for Wilmington Prints is a charming throw quilt measuring 61" x 78". This festive design features a delightful snowman panel, complemented by a coordinating border stripe and beautifully pieced blocks, making it a perfect project for cozy winter décor. Limited kits are available, so be sure to get yours before they’re gone.
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I Love Fall Most of All by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics beautifully celebrates the warmth and wonder of autumn. This charming collection captures the season’s coziness with prints of clustered pumpkins, decorative gourds, whimsical mushrooms, and drifting leaves. A rich palette of deep navy, warm orange, creamy neutrals, and soft light blue reflects the crisp air and brilliant colors of fall. Every fabric in the line embodies the essence of the harvest season, perfect for creating projects that feel as comforting as your favorite sweater.
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Terri Degenkolb, creator of Enchanted Wood for Windham Fabrics, has always been captivated by the way nature interacts. She loves spending hours observing bunnies, squirrels, chipmunks, and birds as they play together. With this collection, her aim was to capture that same joyful, playful, yet soothing feeling she experiences while watching them.
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Classroom Space
If your group is looking for a place to meet, we invite you to contact Affinity For Quilts at 651-429-1039 to check availability. We offer two free Open Sew Days each month—on the 1st Friday and the 3rd Tuesday—from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Space is limited, so registration opens on the 15th of the month prior.
Private groups may also rent our space for a fee of $10 per day, per group. In addition, we welcome nonprofit organizations and quilting guilds to host events at our shop—just give us a call to discuss the details and make arrangements.
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Sewing Machine Service
Does your sewing machine need a tune-up or repair? Jordan is on-site and ready to help with all your machine servicing needs.
When dropping off your machine, please be sure to include the following:
• Sewing machine
• Foot control and power cord
• Standard zig-zag foot (if applicable)
• Bobbin case, bobbin, and thread
To schedule an appointment or speak with Jordan directly, call him at 612-275-3356. For added convenience, curbside pickup and delivery are currently available.
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Join the Quilting For Affinity Facebook Group
We’d love to see what you’ve been working on! Share your finished projects and get inspired by fellow quilters in our Quilting For Affinity Facebook group.
Simply click on the "Join Now" button below to visit the group, then select "Join Group"—and you're in! It’s a great way to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the joy of quilting together.
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Tip Of The Week: Do you ever find it challenging to keep your ironing surface clean? Sticky residue from fusible web, adhesives, or printed materials can quickly build up and make pressing less enjoyable. Here’s a simple trick to help: the next time you’re working with fusible or other materials that can leave marks, press a sheet of freezer paper—shiny side down—onto your ironing board cover. This creates a protective barrier that prevents residue from transferring to your ironing surface. When you’re finished, simply peel the freezer paper away. It comes off easily and won’t leave any sticky mess behind, keeping your ironing board fresh and ready for your next project.
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Classes and Events
Class Registration and Cancellation Policy
To ensure fair access, payment is required at registration. Cancellations made at least 7 business days prior to the class are eligible for store credit or a full refund issued by check. If a cancellation occurs within 7 business days of the class, we’re happy to offer a refund only if we’re able to fill the spot from the waitlist.
Class Prep Information
Many of our classes include preparation instructions in the supply list that are meant to be completed at home before class. To help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, we kindly ask that you arrive with all prep work finished and ready to make the most of our class time together.
Join the Waitlist
If a class is full, don’t forget to add your name to the waitlist. We’ll contact you if a spot becomes available, and your interest helps us decide whether to offer the class again in the future.
Register In-Person or by Phone
Sign up at 2199 4th Street, White Bear Lake, MN, or call us at 651-429-1039.
Happy Quilting!
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🌺 Aloha Mystery Sew-In 🌺
Clue #2 has dropped for all registered participants! 🧵✨ If you haven’t joined the fun yet, there’s still time. Just purchase an Aloha Kit for $99.99 or a $50 Gift Certificate to sign up.
Join Diana for an enjoyable evening filled with mystery, great food, videos, laughter, and plenty of sewing. This event is open to all registered Mystery Five-0 Aloha participants. Together, we’ll review the clue instructions, watch the how-to video and the Lara Langston video, and work on solving the next clue in our mystery.
Date: August 14, 2025
Time: 5:30pm - 9:00pm
Instructor: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $15.00
Future dates will be August 21st for Clue #3 and August 28th for Clue #4 and September 4th the big reveal.
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19th Annual Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop
Help us celebrate the 19th year of the Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop—with 42 amazing shops participating, this year’s hop is sure to be one to remember!
Date: July 25 thru August 16, 2025
Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday 11:00am - 5:00pm
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Open Embroidery with Sharon
Join our embroidery circle for a day of creativity. Work on your personal embroidery projects in good company, and feel free to bring lunch, or perhaps venture out with your fellow stitchers to explore the offerings of Downtown White Bear Lake’s eateries. Sharon, our resident expert, is ready to help with any embroidery questions you might have. Be sure to carry along your completed projects for show-and-tell session.
Date: Thursday, August 14, 2025
Thursday, August 21, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly gathering
Instructor: Sharon Lenertz
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Featherweight Friends
Calling all Featherweights! Join us on the third Friday of each month for a day of sewing, sharing, and camaraderie.
Featherweight Friends is a gathering of sewing enthusiasts who share a common passion for Singer Featherweight sewing machines. Whether you're a seasoned Featherweight owner or new to the world of these compact and iconic machines, our club welcomes all sewing skill levels. Diana, our experienced instructor, will oversee our Featherweight Friends club! This is a wonderful opportunity to connect and sew with fellow Featherweight sewing machine owners. Exchange anecdotes, discuss your latest sewing triumphs, and share your current sewing projects with a friendly community of like-minded individuals.
What to Bring:
- Your Singer Featherweight sewing machine
- Sewing supplies and materials for your current project
- Any finished projects you'd like to share with the group
- Your enthusiasm and love for sewing!
Date: Friday, August 15, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Club Leader: Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00
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Jelly-Roll Mat Class
Learn all the skills needed to create the popular jelly roll rug!
During class, you’ll have the opportunity to complete a 20" x 15"placemat, sewing mat or decorative accent. Kris, an expert in this project, will share tips on color placement and time-saving techniques for success. She’ll also bring rug samples and demonstrate how to adapt the technique for sewing both round and square rugs. Enjoy watching your colorful project come to life!
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025
Time:9:30am – 2:00 pm
Instructors: Kris Livingston
Class Fee: $35.00
Skill Level: Beginner
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Midnight Open Sew
Looking for a fun and creative way to spend your Friday night? Join Diana for Midnight Open Sew— an evening dedicated to stitching, sharing, and socializing! Bring your current project, sewing machine, and basic quilting supplies for eight enjoyable hours of uninterrupted sewing time.
The menu for the evening will be Pulled Pork, Pasta Salad, and Cherry Pie Bars for dessert.
Wrap up the evening by inspiring others during our always-popular Show-and-Tell session, held after supper. We can’t wait to see what you’ve been working on!
Date: Friday, August 22, 2025
Time: 4:00pm - Midnight
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $25.00
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The Clean Up Clutch
Create a stylish and functional diaper changing mat and clutch in this one-day workshop! Using the Keep In Mind – Diaper Clutch pattern, you’ll sew a portable, foldable mat perfect for on-the-go diaper changes. This project-focused class will guide you through bag-making techniques including zipper installation, snap tab support, and clean, durable finishing.
Whether you're sewing for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, you’ll leave class with a completed or nearly finished project and new skills in bag construction.
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lisa K.
Class Fee: $55.00
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Sew-In-Sunday
Looking for a relaxing and creative way to spend your Sunday? Join us for Sew-In-Sunday and enjoy a full day of sewing alongside fellow quilting enthusiasts. Bring your own project(s), your machine, and your favorite supplies, and settle in for a day of stitching and fun!
Dinner will be served at 5:00 PM. The menu for the evening will be Pulled Pork, Pasta Salad, and Cherry Pie Bars for dessert.
After supper, take part in our Show-and-Tell session—share your progress, admire others’ creations, and leave feeling inspired!
Date: Sunday, August 24, 2025
Time: 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $25.00
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The Cube Bag Class
Back by popular demand: after an almost two-year run with this class we are thrilled to be offering it once again!
Looking for a fun project that's both useful and cute? Join Ruth for a one-day class making The Cube Bag—a smaller take on the popular Boxy Tote, designed by Penny Sturges. This handy little bag is just the right size for sewing supplies, small knitting projects, makeup, or whatever you like to carry on the go.
During class, you'll learn how to
- Work with foam to give your bag structure
- Add pockets for organization
- Put in a zipper (don't worry, Ruth makes it easy!)
- Build a bag from start to finish
Ruth's step-by-step teaching style and easy-to-follow instructions will give you the skills and confidence to make this bag again on your own.
We'll take a half-hour break for lunch, so bring a snack or head out for a quick bite. Come ready to sew and have a great time!
Please note - there is pre-work/cutting required prior to class
Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
Time:9:30am – 3:30 pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Skill Level: Very Confident Beginner/Intermediate
Class Fee: $50
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Temperature Quilt Open Sew
How is your Temperature Quilt coming along? This open sew session is a great opportunity to work on your temperature quilt blocks while connecting with others participating in the Temperature Quilt Sew-Along. Share inspiration, ideas, and see the creative progress of fellow quilters!
To maximize your sewing time, consider signing up for the Community Open Sew happening the same day from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Come hungry—pizza and salad will be served!
Date: Friday, September 5, 2025
Time: 5:00pm - 9:00pm
Instructor: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $15.00
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Bat Moon Rising Quilt Class
Mastering Curves
Join Becky to create the spooky Bat Moon Rising quilt. This class is perfect for those eager to learn or improve their skills of sewing curves with ease and precision.
In this comprehensive, all-day class, you will explore the techniques behind the Mini Wonderful Curves book, utilizing the QCR Mini Ruler. This essential tool not only simplifies the cutting of curved pieces but also helps to ensure cutting accuracy, making it an invaluable asset for your quilting projects.
Throughout the class, you will be guided step-by-step through the process of piecing together the Bat Moon Rising quilt. Whether you see your finished piece as a Halloween wall hanging, table runner, or even a cozy lap quilt with added borders, this class provides the skills and confidence needed to master those curves!
Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Class Fee: $55.00
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
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Umbrella Class
Two session class
Step into the world of umbrella crafting with our two-part workshop!
Throughout this comprehensive class, you'll embark on a journey of creativity and skill-building. Led by the experienced instructor Lisa, you'll be guided through every step of the process.
No prior experience is necessary; this workshop is designed for beginners and seasoned crafters alike.
Make sure to bring your enthusiasm and a working sewing machine, as you immerse yourself in a day filled with creativity, learning, and fun. By the end of the workshop, you'll walk away with a stylish and functional umbrella that reflects your unique style and craftsmanship.
Don't miss this opportunity to join us for an unforgettable day of crafting and camaraderie!
Date: Monday, September 8 & 29, 2025
Class Time: 9:30 pm – 1:30pm each day
Instructor: Lisa K Giebink
Class Fee: $55.00
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September Flash Monday
Vinyl Stadium Bag
We’re putting the finishing touches on something you’re going to love—our brand-new vinyl stadium bag! Perfect for game day, concerts, and events, it’s stylish, practical, and event-approved. Stay tuned… we’ll reveal all the details next week! In the meantime, be sure to sign up for the Flash Monday Vinyl Stadium Bag class so you can make your own.
Date: September 8, 2025
Time: 2pm -5 pm or 6pm -9pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Class Fee: $15.00
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Sashiko Club
Join our Sashiko Club! This is an instructor led open stitching group. During your time together, you will work on your own individual projects and get tips and pointers from other stitchers, and our talented instructor Tammy Berry. During each club Tammy arrives prepared to share patterns, techniques, or a project she is working on. Stitchers are welcome any time throughout the year. Join us for every session or for a few sessions as your time allows.
Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Time: 9:30pm-12:30pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee: $15.00
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Kip the Keepsake Dog Class
A Funky Friends Stuffed Animal
Join us for a fun and rewarding day of sewing as you create your own adorable stuffed dog! In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to sew Kip, perfect for gifts or keepsakes. Our expert instructor, Lisa K. Giebink, will guide you through the process step-by-step, from start to stuffing and hand-finishing.
This class is perfect for those looking to create a meaningful, handcrafted stuffed dog while learning new sewing techniques.
Date: Friday, September 12, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lisa K. Giebink
Class Fee: $55.00
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Pet Portrait Quilt Class
Capture the essence of your beloved pet in fabric! In this one-day class, Linda will walk you through the steps to transform a photo of your pet into a small quilt using techniques that bring your photo to life. You'll learn how to replicate the colors, textures, and details of your pet’s image for a personalized, one-of-a-kind quilt.
Join us for a fun, creative day, and leave with a quilted keepsake that showcases your pet!
Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $55.00
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Beginning Quilting Class
Three session Class
Join us for our 3 part Beginning Quilting class to learn the very basics of quilt making. In this class you will learn how to use the rotary cutter, cutting mat, basic quilt ruler, reading a quilt pattern while creating the Star Light quilt top . Diana will lead you through the steps to create this fun beginner quilt top. The pattern we have chosen is from Cotton and Joy and is created with the beginner quilter in mind. A straight stitch sewing machine is required for this class.
Dates: September 18, October 2, & 16, 2025
Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Class Fee: $55.00
Instructor: Diana Wendorf
Fee includes thread and sewing needles
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Machine Binding Class
Are you ready to take your quilting to the next level? Join instructor Katie Glancy in this hands-on instructional class, where you'll learn the tips and tricks of machine binding for quilts. Whether you're a novice or looking to refine your skills, this class offers a comprehensive guide to achieving a polished, professional machine binding finish.
During the class, you'll bring in a project that is ready for binding, and Katie will skillfully guide you through the step-by-step process of machine binding. She'll share her expert techniques and tips, ensuring that you leave with the knowledge to create a beautiful, professional-looking result. By the end of the session, you'll have the confidence and expertise to complete your future quilting projects with impressive machine-bound edges.
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025
Time: 1:30 pm - 4:30pm
Instructor: Katie Glancy
Class Fee: $35.00
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Foundation Paper Piecing
Colorburst Table Topper Pattern
Have you wanted to learn Foundation Paper Piecing but didn’t know whereto start? Now is your chance! Join instructor Susan Drabek for a full-day, hands on workshop where you’ll learn how to construct the Colorburst table topper using Foundation Paper Piecing techniques.
While our shop sample uses three blocks to create a table runner, the Colorburst pattern is versatile— once you've learned the paper piecing techniques you will be able to make additional blocks at home to turn your table topper into a runner, throw, or full-size quilt! Whether you're new to paper piecing or looking to sharpen your skills, this class will guide you through the process of precision piecing with confidence.
Skills Taught
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Foundation Paper Piecing technique
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Seam matching for a polished finish
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Reducing bulk in your seams for flatter blocks
Leave class with new skills and a beautiful project to show for it!
Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025
Time: 9:30am - 4:00pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $55.00
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Straight Line Quilting Workshop
Are you ready to elevate your machine quilting skills? Join us for this focused half-day workshop on Straight Line Quilting designed to help quilters of all levels gain confidence with this versatile and modern quilting technique.
In this hands-on session, you'll learn how to use straight line quilting to add structure, texture, and visual interest to your quilt tops using your sewing machine.
We’ll cover:
Marking methods and spacing techniques
Best practices for managing bulk and maintaining stitch quality
The benefits of using a walking foot
Tips for troubleshooting common issues
You’ll work on two pre-basted 16"x16" quilt sandwiches to practice different line patterns and approaches.
Whether you're new to machine quilting or looking to refine your technique, this workshop offers a supportive, low-pressure environment to explore and grow your skills.
Class Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Class time: 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $35.00
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Atlas Zipper Case Class
Get organized in style with the Atlas Zipper Case! This hands-on class will guide you through creating a beautifully quilted, multi-functional organizer that's as practical as it is polished. Whether you're storing sewing supplies, electronics, jewelry, makeup, or everyday essentials, the Atlas Zipper Case is the perfect solution, featuring two large slip pockets, one large zippered pocket, and two small zippered pockets—ideal for keeping small tools or personal items neatly contained. With a finished size of 8"x 10" when closed and 16" x 10" when open, it’s compact enough to tuck into your on-the-go bag with ease. Join us for a fun and functional project that will leave you with a professional-quality organizer and valuable skills to apply to future bags and accessories!
Dates: Friday, October 10, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lisa Giebink
Class Fee: $55.00
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Beach Dance Quilt Class
Add motion and warmth to your next quilting project with the Beach Dance pattern! This dynamic and versatile quilt design is the perfect setting to learn practical techniques that will elevate your piecing and make your quilting more efficient.
In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to:
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Use the "stitch and flip" method for making triangles — no drawn lines needed
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Plan and press your seams so points match up with ease
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Sew partial seams as part of block construction — a valuable skill for modern piecing
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Apply time-saving piecing and pressing techniques that help you quilt faster without sacrificing precision
Perfect for confident beginners and experienced quilters alike, this class offers the skills and strategies to bring your Beach Dance quilt to life with confidence and style.
Class Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
Class time:9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
Class Fee: $55.00
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Free Motion Quilting
Ready to break free from straight lines and explore the creative side of quilting? Join us for this Free Motion Quilting workshop, where you'll learn to move beyond the feed dogs and discover how to quilt fluid, expressive designs—all on your home sewing machine.
This hands-on class is designed for confident beginners and beyond. You’ll practice on multiple quilt sandwiches as we guide you through:
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How to set up your machine for free motion quilting
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Best practices for tension, thread, and needle choices
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Drawing and practicing common quilting motifs like loops, spirals, meanders, and more
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Tips for improving control, consistency, and movement
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You’ll also have time to draw and sketch out your quilting ideas, helping you build muscle memory and confidence before stitching.
Date: Saturday October 18, 2025
Time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $55.00 |
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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
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, November 1, 2025
Time: 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Instructor: Aryn Lill
Class Fee: $55.00 Follow like above to register. Class fee includes all supplies. |
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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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