The summer heat is here! With an Extreme Heat Warning in effect, there's no better time to stay inside, enjoy the air conditioning, and spend some time quilting. If you're ready for your next project, stop by the shop for a little inspiration! From beautiful new fabric collections and samples to kits ready to sew, we're sure you'll find something to spark your creativity. Stay cool, and we hope to see you soon!
A heartfelt THANK YOU to everyone who joined us for our 7th Anniversary Sale! We truly appreciate your support, your smiles, and for making this celebration so much fun. It's because of wonderful customers like you that we're able to do what we love every day.
And now for our prize winners...
🏆 Grand Prize – 25% OFF all fabric bolt purchases (excluding Quilt Minnesota and Tilda fabrics) - Brenda H.
🥇 1st Place Gift Basket - Paula C.
🥈 2nd Place Prize - June J.
🥉 3rd Place Prize – Your Choice of Two 3-Yard Quilt Books - Ben G.
Congratulations to all of our winners! If you see your name, please stop by the shop to claim your prize.
Marketfest Parking Reminder – Thursday Evenings Through July 30
Marketfest continues every Thursday evening through July 30 in downtown White Bear Lake. If you're planning to visit us on a Thursday, please remember that parking restrictions are in effect and are strictly enforced during the event. Vehicles parked in restricted areas may be ticketed and towed at the owner's expense.
For the easiest access to Affinity For Quilts, we recommend parking in the lot behind the shop. You're also welcome to use our back entrance during Marketfest for a quick and convenient visit.
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Get Ready for Quilt Minnesota 2026
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The countdown is on—Quilt Minnesota begins in just 9 days! This week, we're excited to feature the Charming Four Patch pattern by Creek Side Stitches, a fun and practical way to use the 36 exclusive 5" fabric squares you'll collect—one from each shop along your Quilt Minnesota journey.
With all 36 squares, you can create:
- A 16" x 48" Table Runner
- A 16" x 16" Trivet
- Two 8" x 8" Potholders
It's a wonderful keepsake that lets you enjoy your Quilt Minnesota fabrics long after the shop hop is over. Be sure to stop by and check out our sample—we think you'll love it!
Want to make more? Pick up an extra charm pack and a few coordinating fabrics to create additional sets for holiday décor or thoughtful seasonal gifts. They're quick to make and are sure to be appreciated!
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The Gypsy Quilter Bowl Cozy Pre-Cut Batting makes creating bowl cozies faster and easier than ever! Each pre-cut piece is perfectly sized, eliminating the need to trace patterns or cut batting yourself, so you can spend more time sewing and less time prepping. Whether you're making a cozy for yourself or stitching up a thoughtful handmade gift, this product takes the guesswork out of the process. Curious to see how it works? Join us during Quilt Minnesota on Saturday, August 1, for a free in-store demonstration and see just how simple bowl cozies can be to make. Be sure to check out the Classes & Events section below for complete demonstration details.
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Paper Hamlet by Cathe Holden for Moda Fabrics is a charming quilt that beautifully showcases the collection's distinctive double border print, paired with an assortment of whimsical house prints from the fabric line. Finishing at 48½" x 60", this cozy quilt is full of vintage-inspired character and makes a delightful addition to any home. Limited kits are available for $95.99—stop by the shop or order yours before they're gone!
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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.
Our classroom is available for private group rentals for $10 per day, per group. We also welcome quilting guilds and nonprofit organizations to use our space for meetings, workshops, and special events. If you're interested, we'd love to chat—give us a call and we'll be happy to discuss the details and help you make arrangements.
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.
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Recurring Store Specials
- Double Punch Tuesday: Every 1st Tuesday of the month.
- Freebie Monday: Every 2nd Monday of the month.
- FQ Wednesday: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month. Buy 6 Get 7th Free.
- Sale Wall Friday: Every 4th Friday of the month. Take an extra 10% off all Sale Wall Fabrics.
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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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Here's a fun scrap-saving tip! Whenever you're strip piecing and cutting squares or half-square triangles, don't toss those leftover pieces. Instead, sew the scraps together into half-square triangles as you go. Once you've made a nice collection, trim them all to the same size and stitch them together for a one-of-a-kind scrappy quilt. It's a great way to turn fabric leftovers into something beautiful!
Keep this guide handy—you never know when it will come in useful while planning your next quilting project!a
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The Greater Twin Cities Area Chapter of Project Linus is partnering with the Vadnais Heights Lions Club to provide newly made twin-size quilts and blankets (approximately 60" x 80") to Sleep in Heavenly Peace's White Bear Lake chapter beginning September 1, 2026.
If you have an unfinished quilt top waiting for the perfect project, this could be a wonderful opportunity to put it to good use. Consider adding one or two borders to bring it up to the recommended twin-size dimensions of 60" x 80". Your donation can help provide comfort and warmth to a child receiving a bed through Sleep in Heavenly Peace.
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Classes and EventsRegister On-Line, In-Person or by Phone
Register for classes online, or sign up in person at 2199 4th Street, White Bear Lake, MN, or call us at 651-429-1039. If registering in person or by phone, spots will only be guaranteed for students who have completed payment.
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, add your name to the waitlist. We’ll reach out if a spot opens, and the list helps us gauge interest for future classes.
Class Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made at least 7 business days prior to the class are eligible for store credit or a full refund. 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.
Happy Quilting!
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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, July 16, 2026
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly gathering
Instructor: Sharon Lenertz
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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.
Our menu will include Garden Salad, Pizza, and a vey special dessert that I am sure you will all enjoy!
Continue to inspire your fellow quilters with your handiwork during Show-and-Tell, which will take place after supper.
Date: Friday, July 17, 2026
Time: 4:00pm - Midnight
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $28.00
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Ruth Crossbody Bag
Create a modern, eye-catching crossbody bag using TPU vinyl in this technique-focused class. This stylish bag is perfect for everyday use and a great way to expand your skills by working with materials that behave differently than traditional quilting cotton.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Work with raw edge materials for a clean, modern finish
- Navigate sewing with TPU (clear printed) vinyl
- Add a functional 3D pocket
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Construct and assemble side gusset panels
This class is ideal for advanced beginners looking to try something new and build confidence with bag-making techniques that go beyond the basics. You’ll leave class with a unique, fashion-forward bag and skills you can apply to future projects.
Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
Time: 9:30am–4:30pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Skill Level: Confident Beginner - Bag Making Experience Required
Class Fee: $60.00
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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. Our menu will include Garden Salad, Pizza, and a vey special dessert that I am sure you will all enjoy!
Prior to supper, take part in our Show-and-Tell session—share your progress, admire others’ creations, and leave feeling inspired!
Date: Sunday, July 19, 2026
Time: 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $28.00
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20th Annual Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop
Help us celebrate the 20th Annual Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop! With 36 incredible quilt shops participating.
The pre-sale for the 2026 Quilt Minnesota fabric line is now officially open! You can place your order anytime through our website at www.affinityforquilts.com. Fabric is listed in 1-yard increments, but if you’d like a custom cut—such as 1½ yards or ¾ yard—simply leave a note with your order. You’re also welcome to call us or stop into the shop to place your order in person.
Just like in previous years, no upfront payment is required at the time of pre-order. Beginning July 20th, Diana will contact customers to arrange payment so orders can be cut and ready for pickup on July 24th, the first day of the Shop Hop.
Reserve your favorite prints early and get ready for another fun Quilt Minnesota adventure!
Please note: Any pre-orders without secured payment by July 30th will be released and returned to inventory.
Date: July 24 thru August 15, 2025
Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday 11:00am - 5:00pm
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Quilted Jacket Class - Beachcomber
Create a beautiful, custom-fit quilted jacket in this immersive two-day Beachcomber Jacket workshop. Using the Beachcomber Jacket pattern by Laundry Basket Quilts, you’ll learn how to use a crewneck sweatshirt as a guide for sizing and shaping while building your jacket from your own quilted fabric pieces. Throughout the class, you’ll design your layout, quilt your sections, assemble the garment, and finish it with clean, professional-looking bias binding.
Perfect for intermediate quilters ready to expand their skills, this workshop provides the guidance, instruction, and time needed to successfully create a wearable quilted garment you’ll love.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to use a sweatshirt as a sizing and shaping guide for your quilted jacket
- Fundamental quilting techniques
- Basics of garment construction
- How to finish with bias binding for a polished look
Dates: Sunday, July 26 & Sunday, August 9, 2026
Time: 9:30am-3:30pm each day
Instructor: Morgan Meade
Class Fee: $110.00
Skill Level: Intermediate
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Children’s Art Quilt
Turn a child’s drawing into a one-of-a-kind quilted work of art! In this creative and technique-filled class, you’ll learn how to transform a simple drawing into a fabric wall quilt using appliqué, stitching, and embellishment techniques.
This class is a wonderful way to preserve special artwork while exploring a variety of artistic quilting methods in a fun and supportive environment.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Create patterns from a child’s drawing
- Use appliqué techniques to build the image with fabric
- Add embellishment and decorative details
- Explore thread-painting techniques to bring the artwork to life
By the end of class, you’ll have the foundation for a truly meaningful quilted keepsake that celebrates creativity in a unique and personal way.
Class Date: Saturday, August 1, 2026
Class time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $60
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
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Desert Sky Paper Piecing Class
Discover the beauty of foundation paper piecing in this exciting workshop featuring the Desert Sky pattern from Quiltworx. Taught by Certified Quiltworx Instructor Kristen Bender, this class will guide you step-by-step through Judy Niemeyer’s techniques for creating crisp points, perfect curves, and striking quilt blocks.
Whether you’re new to paper piecing or looking to refine your skills, you’ll enjoy hands-on instruction, tips for fabric selection, and strategies for staying organized while working on this dynamic quilt pattern.
What You’ll Learn:
- Foundation paper piecing techniques for sharp, accurate points
- How to organize and prepare fabrics using Quiltworx method
- Time-saving strategies for cutting, piecing, and managing units
- Tips for working with contrasting fabrics to maximize design impact
Date: Sunday, August 2, 2026
Time: 9:30am -4:30pm
Instructor: Kristen Bender, Certified Quiltworx Instructor
Class Fee: $65.00
Skill Level: Confident Beginner and above
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Anything Quiltworx Workshop
Continue your Quiltworx journey in this open workshop designed for students working on any Quiltworx pattern. Whether you started in our Desert Sky class or are working on another Judy Niemeyer design, this session gives you dedicated time, expert guidance, and support using the Quiltworx paper piecing techniques.
Led by Certified Quiltworx Instructor Kristen Bender, this class is perfect for staying on track, tackling challenging units, and gaining confidence as you move through your project.
In this class, students will:
- Apply Quiltworx foundation paper piecing techniques to their own project
- Work through challenging sections with instructor support
- Build accuracy and confidence using Judy Niemeyer’s structured methods
Bring your in process Quiltworx project and join us for focused sewing time, helpful tips, and encouragement to complete your project.
Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Kristen Bender, Certified Quiltworx Instructor
Class Fee: $65.00
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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, August 12, 2026
Time: 9:30pm-12:30pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee: $15.00
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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 13, 2026
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly gathering
Instructor: Sharon Lenertz
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Travel Bag - 2 part class
The Ultimate Travel Bag- A ByAnnie Pattern Class
Take your ByAnnie skills to the next level with this feature-packed travel bag class! The Ultimate Travel Bag is a stylish and versatile project designed to fit perfectly under an airplane seat or in the overhead compartment, making it ideal for travel, retreats, and everyday organization.
This class is perfect for students with some bag-making experience who are ready to tackle a larger project while building confidence with advanced construction techniques. With Lisa’s guidance and the support of ByAnnie’s excellent video tutorials, you’ll break the process into manageable steps and gain skills you can use in future bag-making projects.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Combine ByAnnie techniques into a polished and functional travel bag
- Organize and manage multiple project pieces with confidence
- Use ByAnnie video tutorials to reinforce and revisit more detailed techniques
- Sew through multiple layers while achieving professional-looking results
- Build confidence installing zippers and working through complex bag construction
You’ll leave class with expanded bag-making skills and a travel bag that’s as practical as it is impressive.
Date: Saturday , August 15 & 29, 2026
Time: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm each day
Instructor: Lisa Giebink
Class Fee: $110.00
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner, Intermediate, Experienced
Please note: this class requires approximately 3–6 hours of preparation work at home prior to class. To maximize instruction and sewing time, students are expected to complete the required prep work before class begins.
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A Little Something Jacket
Are you ready to dip your toes into garment sewing? This beginner-friendly class is the perfect place to start! You’ll create a stylish and versatile A Little Somethin’ Jacket while learning essential skills to help you confidently work with garment patterns.
Instructor Lisa K. Giebink will guide you through the process of achieving a great fit and constructing a wearable project you’ll be proud to show off. This class is designed to take the guesswork out of sizing and help you feel comfortable working beyond “off-the-rack” expectations.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Use body measurements to determine the best pattern size and fit
- Trace patterns onto Pattern Ease and adjust between sizes as needed
- Sew seams and angles for a more flattering fit
- Construct and inset sleeves
Date: Sunday, August 16, 2026
Time: 9:30am–4:30pm
Instructor: Lisa Griebek
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Class Fee: $60.00
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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 21, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Club Leader: Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00
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Cathedral Window Quilt
The Cathedral Window quilt is a true showstopper! With its folded fabric design and stunning dimensional effect, it looks incredibly complex—but the construction method is much easier than it appears.
In this class, you'll learn a simplified approach to creating this classic quilt while building skills you can use in many future projects. The finished quilt is a beautiful display piece and a wonderful opportunity to explore a unique quilting technique.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Use an alternative "quilt-as-you-go" construction method
- Create and insert the fabric window sections
- Master the folding and stitching techniques that give Cathedral Window quilts their signature look
- Build confidence working with dimensional quilt construction
You'll leave class with a strong understanding of the Cathedral Window technique and all the skills needed to complete this stunning quilt at home.
Class Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
Class time: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $70.00
Skill Level: Intermediate
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Eva Beauty Bag
Create a stylish and practical beauty bag that's perfect for travel, sewing notions, cosmetics, jewelry, and so much more! The Eva features a wide-opening zipper, interior accordion pockets, customizable slip pockets, and sturdy handles, making it as functional as it is beautiful.
In this class, you'll work with exciting specialty materials, including faux leather and ripstop fabric, while learning bag-making techniques that can be applied to many future projects. The class will focus on constructing the small-size bag, ideal for TSA-approved travel items and everyday organization.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Work confidently with faux leather
- Construct a bag using gusset panels
- Apply raw-edge binding for a professional finish
- Customize interior slip pockets to suit their needs
Whether you're expanding your bag-making skills or trying specialty materials for the first time, you'll leave class with a beautiful organizer and techniques you'll use again and again.
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2026
Time: 9:30am–4:30pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner - Bag Making Experience Required
Class Fee: $60.00
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Flash Monday – September
Gotta Have It Bag
Keep all your favorite tools organized and visible with the Gotta Have It Bag! This clever zippered organizer features multiple vinyl pockets, making it perfect for sewing notions, makeup, art supplies, travel essentials, and more.
The goal of our fun Flash Monday classes is to create an entire project from start to finish and leave with a finished item that's as practical as it is versatile.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Install multiple zippers with confidence
- Sew with quilting vinyl
- Create simple quilted layers using straight-line quilting
- Construct a functional organizer with clear vinyl pockets
You'll leave class with new skills and plenty of ideas for making more for yourself, gifts, or organizing projects around the house.
Date: Monday, September 14, 2026
Time: 1:30pm – 4:30pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Skill Level: Beginner Bag Maker
Class Fee: $15.00
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It's a Sign
Celebrate National Sew a Jelly Roll Day by creating this festive Christmas quilt featuring cheerful cardinals and colorful Jelly Roll strips! It's a Sign combines the speed and fun of a Jelly Roll Race with eye-catching pieced cardinals to create a quilt that's sure to become a favorite holiday decoration.
Whether you're looking to try a Jelly Roll Race for the first time or pick up new piecing tips, you'll leave class with techniques that can be used in many future quilting projects.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Use the Easy Angle Ruler to quickly and accurately make half-square triangles
- Plan seam pressing to reduce bulk and improve point matching
- Learn tips and tricks for a successful Jelly Roll Race
- Create crisp, accurate blocks while keeping the project fun and efficient
Join us for a day of quilting, creativity, and celebration as we sew our way through National Sew a Jelly Roll Day together. You'll leave with new skills, plenty of progress on your quilt, and inspiration for your next Jelly Roll project!
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
Time: 9:30am–4:00pm
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Class Fee: $65.00
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Pumpkins Galore
Celebrate the beauty of fall with this charming pumpkin wall hanging! In this confident beginner-friendly class, you'll create a festive seasonal decoration while learning several quilting and embellishment techniques that can be used in many future projects.
This project combines appliqué, texture, and decorative stitching to create a dimensional wall hanging that's perfect for displaying throughout the autumn season.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Use appliqué techniques to create the pumpkin design
- Add dimension with trapunto (raised appliqué) techniques
- Incorporate simple hand embroidery or machine stitching for decorative details
- Attach a hanging sleeve for easy display
Class Date: Saturday, September 26, 2026
Class time: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $65.00
Skill Level: Beginner
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Spellbound Witch Hat
Create a whimsical witch hat that's perfect for Halloween, dress-up play, costume parties, or seasonal decorating! This fun project combines sewing, shaping, and finishing techniques to create a hat you'll treasure for years to come—and may even become a favorite family tradition.
Choose to make the adult size taught in class, and you'll also receive instructions for a child-sized version that can be made from the same pattern.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Work with foam or fusible fleece to add structure and shape
- Properly apply Pellon Decor Bond 809 for a crisp, professional finish
- Create and apply bias binding as both an edge finish and decorative flat binding
- Construct a sturdy hat that can be enjoyed for many Halloweens to come
Whether you're sewing for yourself, a child, or creating a special costume piece, you'll leave class with new skills and a magical project that's sure to bring smiles year after year
Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Instructor: Lisa Giebink
Skill Level: Beginner +
Class Fee: $45.00
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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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