Celebrate 7 Years with Us! Our 7th Anniversary Sale is happening now through Saturday, and we couldn't have reached this milestone without you! Thank you for seven wonderful years of quilting, creativity, and community. To celebrate, we're offering special savings throughout the shop all week long. Be sure to check out the events section below for complete sale details, dates, and all the exciting ways we're celebrating!
Marketfest Parking Reminder – Thursday, July 9nd Marketfest continues this Thursday evening in downtown White Bear Lake and runs every Thursday through July 30. If you're planning a visit, please be aware that parking restrictions are strictly enforced during the event. Vehicles parked in restricted areas may be ticketed and towed at the owner's expense.
Visiting Affinity For Quilts? The easiest place to park is in the back lot behind the shop. Customers are welcome to use our back entrance for convenient access during Marketfest.
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Get Ready for Quilt Minnesota 2026
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Only 16 Days Until Quilt Minnesota! We are excited to unveil our Quilt Minnesota quilt samples! Both projects were created from Fabric Café's Panel Perfect book, which is filled with creative designs that showcase scenic and feature panels beautifully. Whether you're looking for inspiration or planning your next Quilt Minnesota project, we hope these samples spark a few ideas. Stop by the shop to see them in person—they're even more beautiful up close!
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Manhattan showcases the beautiful large winter scene panel from this year's Quilt Minnesota collection. To preserve the full beauty of the panel, we modified the original pattern so it wouldn't need to be trimmed. Our easy-to-follow modified instructions will be included with every kit. The finished quilt measures 50" x 60", and limited kits will be available for $56.99.
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Bombay is a beautiful way to showcase this year's Quilt Minnesota block panel. The striking design highlights the panel while creating a timeless quilt that's perfect for displaying year after year. The finished quilt measures 39" x 56", and limited kits will be available for $52.99 while supplies last.
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Check Out Our Newest Sample!
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Bring the beauty of a northern winter into your home with our new Chunky Charmer quilt sample! Created using the Northern Brights fabric collection by Amarilys Henderson for Moda Fabrics and designed by Copper Kettle Quilt Company, this cozy quilt is full of seasonal charm and rich winter colors. The finished quilt measures 63½" x 72½", and limited kits will be available for $72.99 while supplies last.
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Add a touch of holiday whimsy to your home with our new Farm Fresh quilt! Featuring the playful Merry Cats fabric collection by Peggy Collins for Benartex and the Farm Fresh pattern by Molly Cook for Villa Rosa Designs, this delightful quilt is filled with festive felines and seasonal charm. The finished quilt measures 49" x 68", and limited kits will be available for $58.99 while supplies last.
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Check Out July's Villa Rosa Patterns
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Fresh inspiration has arrived! The July Villa Rosa Designs patterns are now in stock at Affinity For Quilts. Whether you're looking for a quick weekend project, a beautiful quilt to showcase your favorite fabrics, or your next creative adventure, this month's collection offers something for every quilter. Stop by the shop to see all the new designs and find your next favorite pattern!
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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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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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Have you ever wondered how much fabric is actually included in your favorite pre-cuts? This handy reference can help with quilt planning, fabric calculations, and estimating yardage for your next project.
- 10" Squares (Layer Cake – 40 squares): Approximately 2⅞ yards
- 2½" Strips (Jelly Roll – 40 strips): Approximately 2¾ yards
- 5" Squares (Charm Pack – 42 pieces): Approximately ⅝ yard
- 2½" Squares (Mini Charm or Candy – 42 pieces): Approximately ¼ yard
Keep this guide handy—you never know when it will come in useful while planning your next quilting project!
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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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Help Us Celebrate 7 Years Affinity For Quilts Anniversary Sale
Join us July 6th–11th as we celebrate seven wonderful years of quilting, creativity, and community! To thank you for being part of our journey, we're offering special storewide savings and exciting prize drawings all week long.
Anniversary Sale Savings
- 15% OFF all regular-priced bolt fabric purchases (excludes Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop fabric)
- 10% OFF all pre-cuts and quilt kits
- Sale Fabric just $7.00 per yard unless otherwise marked (minimum ½-yard cut)
Anniversary Prize Drawings
No purchase is necessary to enter! Simply stop by the shop July 6th–11th, complete an entry form, and you're entered to win. Visit us multiple times throughout the week to enter again and increase your chances of winning!
🎉 Grand Prize Receive 25% OFF all regular-priced bolt fabric purchases for one full year! (Excludes Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop fabric, Tilda fabrics, and Specialty fabrics.)
🥇 First Prize – Gift basket filled with quilting goodies
🥈 Second Prize – $50 Affinity For Quilts Gift Certificate
🥉 Third Prize – Two 3-Yard Quilt Books of your choice
Winners will be drawn on July 15th and notified shortly thereafter.
Please Note: Because our Anniversary Sale already features some of the best savings of the year, Loyalty Rewards cards will not be punched. Thank you for your understanding, and thank you for celebrating seven wonderful years with us!
Dates: July 7th thru the 11th, 2025 Time: 9am-5pm
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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, July 10, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Club Leader: Diana Wendorf Club Fee: $15.00
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Flash Monday – July Cut It Out Scissors Case – A ByAnnie Pattern
Keep your favorite scissors safe and stylish with this quick and practical project! In this Flash Monday class, you’ll create a handy scissors case using the Cut It Out pattern by ByAnnie—perfect for tossing into your sewing bag or keeping tools organized at home.
This beginner-friendly project is a great introduction to working with Soft and Stable and simple bag-making techniques, all in a fun, low-pressure class setting.
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Work with ByAnnie’s Soft and Stable for structure
- Create and apply binding to finish edges
- Install a simple closure (magnet snap or ByAnnie snap)
- Use helpful tools like double-sided tape and a stiletto for cleaner results
- You’ll leave class with a finished scissors case and a project you’ll want to make again for gifts—or to keep all your scissors organized!
Date: Monday, July 13, 2026 Time: 1:30pm – 4:30pm Instructor: Lisa Giebink Skill Level: Beginner Bag Maker 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, 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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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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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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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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