Why do I get so excited when the mail carrier delivers a certain special envelope? Because it means there are five brand-new Villa Rosa patterns inside! I can’t wait to open it up and see what they’ve created this time—and of course, share them with you.
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Our newest quilt kit is here, and it’s full of nostalgia. Featuring Winnie The Pooh, a classic from our childhood, the Sweet As Honey kit highlights prints from the Winnie The Pooh fabric line by Echo Park Paper Co. for Riley Blake Fabrics. Soft colors, playful characters, and honey-sweet details come together in a project that’s as fun to make as it is to share. The finished quilt measures 55" x 62-1/2", making it a great size for a throw, a child’s quilt, or a thoughtful gift. Kits are limited and available for $86.99.
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The Highland Stars quilt kit, featuring the Highland Stars pattern by Goode Day Quilts, showcases a bold central panel framed by timeless pieced stars. Using Jason Kirk’s Highland Home collection, it’s a great choice for highlighting a standout panel alongside coordinating prints. With straightforward piecing that’s well-suited for confident beginners, the finished quilt measures 64" x 76". Limited kits are available for $115.99.
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American Gatherings III by Primitive Gatherings for Moda Fabrics celebrates the spirit of America with true reds, patriotic blues, and crisp whites. This timeless collection features classic calicos, dimensional stripes and stars, and bold crests and florals that offer a fresh take on traditional patriotic prints. Created to help commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary, it’s a meaningful choice for quilts honoring veterans, family keepsakes, and festive seasonal décor. Stitch something rich in history and heart that celebrates home, unity, and pride.
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Daybreak by Shell Rummel for FreeSpirit Fabrics is inspired by that magical moment when night begins to lift and the first light arrives. Deep, inky tones soften into lavenders and dusky blues, then warm into seashell pinks and gentle corals. This collection captures the quiet, hopeful energy of sunrise, when the world feels new again. In those early morning hours, your eyes notice lines and layers, shadows and soft glimmers of light—always searching for familiar patterns and beauty in the calm.
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Diana, our owner, is a true Coca-Cola purist, so she’s especially excited to share some fun news: Northcott has secured the licensing rights to bring an official Coca-Cola fabric collection to quilters. We’re thrilled to have this line available and can’t wait to see what you create with these classic, nostalgic designs.
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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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Winter Weather Notifications
- A Facebook post will be shared with details about any closure or delayed opening.
- An email will be sent to all current subscribers of the What’s Up Wednesday newsletter.
- The website calendar will be updated with closure or delay information.
- If the weather is questionable and you’re unsure whether the shop is open, please call 651-429-1039 before heading out. If no one answers and it’s between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., we’re most likely closed.
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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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When you finish a quilt project, take a few minutes to cut leftover fabric into useful basics—strips in 2-1/2", 2", or 1-1/2" strips, or squares in 10", 5", or 2-1/2"—and store them in a plastic container. You’ll build a ready-to-go stash that’s perfect for quick projects like Jelly Roll Rugs, strip quilts, and table runners. These pre-cut pieces make it easy to jump into your next idea, with some of the prep already done.
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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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Don't miss this opportunity to enjoy Minnesota's fall beauty, stock up for the winter season, and support your favorite small-town quilt shops.
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Midnight Open Sew
Due to weather conditions Midnight Open Sew for January is Cancelled!
Date: Friday, January 23, 2026
Time: 4:00pm - Midnight
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $25.00
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Celebrate Local Quilt Shop Day with Affinity For Quilts!
Join us for Local Quilt Shop Day, a worldwide celebration of independent quilt shops and the creative communities they support. Stop in to shop, browse, and be inspired as we celebrate quilters, sewists, fabric lovers, and crafters—and the important role local quilt shops play in strengthening our community.
Here's what we have planned:
- Free Gift: Every visitor will receive a complimentary 4-piece F8th fabric bundle.
- Prize Drawing: Enter for a chance to win some fantastic prizes.
- Discount Chips: Pull a chip at checkout for 10%, 15%, 20%, or 25% off any bolt fabric purchase (excludes Quilt MN and Tilda fabrics).
We can’t wait to see you and celebrate the passion for quilting together!
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2026
Time: 9:00am-5:00pm
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Tuffet Class
two part class
Add a touch of charm to your home with a handmade tuffet! This two-session class is perfect for anyone looking to create a unique, stylish footstool with a quilted flair.
Session 1: Creating the Tuffet Cover
In the first session, you’ll learn the foundation piecing technique to sew the tuffet cover. Kristen will guide you through the process and help you get as much sewing done as possible in class. You’ll complete any remaining sewing at home before the next session.
Session 2: Assembling the Tuffet
Come ready to bring it all together! In this session, you’ll learn how to assemble your tuffet step-by-step. By the end of class, you’ll have a beautiful, finished 18” round tuffet ready to take home and enjoy.
Whether you're looking to add a personalized accent piece to your space or create a thoughtful handmade gift, this class is a fun and rewarding way to do it!
Dates: Saturday, January 24, & February 7, 2026
Time: 9:30am-1:30pm on January 24 & 12:00pm - 4:00pm on February 7, 2026
Instructor: Kristen Bender
Class Fee: $325.00 (includes tuffet kit and pattern)
$110.00 for students that own their kit and pattern
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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 Green Salad, Beef Stew or Vegetable Stew as a non meat option, Bread, and Death By Chocolate Cake for dessert.
After supper, take part in our Show-and-Tell session—share your progress, admire others’ creations, and leave feeling inspired!
Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026
Time: 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $25.00
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The Cube Bag Class
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.
What you'll learn:
- 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.
Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
Time:9:30am – 3:30 pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Class Fee: $55.00
Skill Level: Very Confident Beginner/Intermediate
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Thread Painting & Embellishment Class
Enhance your quilts and fabric projects with stunning thread painting techniques! In this hands-on class, you will learn how to use free-motion straight stitching and zig-zag stitching to add intricate details, shading, and texture to your designs. Whether you're working on landscape quilts, pet portraits, or printed fabric panels, thread painting allows you to bring your projects to life with depth and dimension.
What you'll learn:
- Free-motion thread painting with straight and zig-zag stitching
- Adding shading and texture with thread layering
- Enhancing printed fabric designs with stitched embellishments
- Creating realistic details for pet portraits and landscapes
Date: Thursday, February 5, 2026
Time: 9:30 am-12:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $35.00
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
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Flash Monday February
Drawstring Bag
Join us for this quick and fun Flash Monday class where you’ll make a practical and versatile bag using the Drawstring Bag pattern by The Sewing Stage. This project is perfect for beginners and makes a great gift or everyday storage bag.
What you'll learn:
- Avoid a bulky or saggy lining and achieve a nice, snug fit
- Use a simple and effective technique for creating a drawstring casing
- Understand the benefits of using larger seam allowances in bag making
You’ll leave class with a completed drawstring bag and the confidence to make more at home.
Date: Monday, February 9, 2026
Time: 1:30pm – 4:30pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Class Fee: $15.00
Skill Level: Beginner
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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, February 11, 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, February 12, 2026
February 19, 2026
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, February 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Club Leader: Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00
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Blooming Tulips Table Runner Class
Foundation Paper Piecing
Hold onto your hats—this class has a little bit of everything. In the Blooming Tulips class, you’ll create a 16" x 52" table runner featuring paper-pieced tulips and machine-appliquéd leaves, finished with sweet yo-yo accents and a pretty scalloped edge. You’ll also learn the steps to complete the project with straight-line quilting so you can leave class confident about how to finish your runner at home.
What You’ll Learn
- Appliqué techniques used in the pattern
- How to make and use bias binding
- How to create scalloped edge borders/binding
- How to make and attach yo-yo accents
- Steps for straight-line quilting to finish your runner
Date: February 21, 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm (includes a 30-minute lunch break)
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $60.00
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
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Pet Portrait Quilt Class
Capture the essence of your beloved pet in fabric! In this one-day class, Linda will guide you through the process of transforming a photo of your pet into a quilted work of art. You’ll learn techniques for replicating the colors, textures, and unique details of your pet’s image to create a personalized, one-of-a-kind quilt. This class is perfect for quilters looking to try a creative technique and leave with a keepsake showcasing their furry (or feathered!) friend.
What you'll learn:
- Creating a pet portrait collage from a photo using fabric values and color placement
- Tracing and building templates to cut and assemble pet shapes accurately
- Fusing and layering fabric pieces effectively for a clean, workable collage surface
- Thread painting and/or free-motion stitching techniques to add detail and dimension
Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $60.00
Skill Level: Intermediate
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Singer Featherweight Maintenance Class
Keep your cherished Singer Featherweight sewing machine running smoothly for years to come. In this hands-on maintenance class, expert instructor Jordan Frayne will guide you through inspecting, oiling, and cleaning your machine.
Whether you’re a lifelong sewing enthusiast or just beginning your journey with these iconic machines, you’ll leave with the knowledge and confidence to care for your Featherweight at home. This class is perfect for anyone who wants to keep their machine in top condition and enjoy worry-free sewing.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to inspect your Singer Featherweight for wear or issues
- Proper oiling techniques to ensure smooth operation
- Cleaning tips for maintaining both appearance and performance
- Best practices for long-term Featherweight care
Date: Friday, March 13, 2026
Time: 10:00am-12:00 pm
Instructor: Jordan Frayne
Class Fee: $30.00
Skill Level: All Levels
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Machine Appliqué Basics Class
Learn the fundamentals of machine appliqué in this beginner-friendly class using the First-Time Appliqué book by Janet Pittman. In class, students will focus on creating one or more appliqué blocks, learning techniques that can be applied to many different projects.
Our sample projects, including a table runner, a bag, and a pouch, are inspiration, demonstrating how completed appliqué blocks can become the focal point of larger projects. Students are encouraged to get creative and decide how they would like to incorporate their finished block(s)into future projects.
What you'll learn:
- Prepare fabrics using paper-backed fusible web
- Stitch appliqué shapes using a zig zag stitch for clean, secure edges
- Use stabilizers and marking tools to achieve accurate placement and professional results
This class is a great introduction to machine appliqué and will give students the confidence to design and complete appliqué projects in a variety of ways.
Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
Time: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $60.00
Skill Level: Beginner
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Paper Roses Class
Foundation Paper Piecing
Finished Size 26"x26"
Have you ever wanted to try foundation paper piecing in a relaxed, supportive environment? This class is the perfect opportunity. Using Lori Holt’s 10" Paper Rose foundation papers, you’ll create a charming 26" x 26" wall hanging—or continue at home to build an entire quilt if you fall in love with the process!
Designed for confident beginners, this workshop will guide you step-by-step through the fundamentals of foundation paper piecing while also introducing additional finishing techniques to elevate your project.
What You’ll Learn:
- Step-by-step foundation paper piecing techniques
- How to miter the corners of your borders
- How to attach a hanging sleeve for display
Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Time: 9:30am–4:30pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $60.00
SkillLevel: Confident Beginner
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Antelope Canyon Quilt Class
The Antelope Canyon Quilt is a striking log cabin–style quilt that uses either pre-cut strips or cut yardage paired with a contrasting background. In this class, students will create bold, oversized blocks and learn techniques that help maintain accuracy and consistency throughout the piecing process. This project is ideal for quilters with a little experience who are ready to build confidence while working on a larger-scale quilt. The finished quilt measures 74" x 74".
In this class, students will learn how to:
- Pin, sew, and press to keep large quilt blocks square
- Stay organized when working with many fabric pieces
- Use partial seams to assemble four large blocks around a center square
- Improve accuracy and efficiency when working with strip-based design.
Date: Saturday, March 28, 2026
Time: 9:30am–4:00pm
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
Class Fee: $60.00
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
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Baby Bunny Class
A Funky Friends Pattern
Create a sweet, cuddly keepsake in our Stuffed Bunny Sewing Class! In this class, students will make the Baby Bunny from a Funky Friends Factory pattern—a charming stuffed animal with sewn facial features and a soft, huggable finish. Finished bunny size is approximately 16" tall.
This class is perfect for confident beginners and beyond, and is a wonderful introduction to sewing stuffed animals that are meant to be truly loved.
In this class, you will learn how to:
- Read and follow a Funky Friends Factory pattern, including matching pattern letters
- Properly stuff a soft toy for smooth shaping
- Close seams neatly for a professional finish
- Discover the joy of making handmade stuffed animals that become cherished gifts
This bunny makes a beautiful gift for a new baby, baby shower, or special little one—and students will leave class with new skills they can use again and again for future stuffies.
Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026
Time: 9:30am–4:30pm
Instructor: Lisa Griebek
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Class Fee: $60.00
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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: Saturdays, April 4 & 18, 2026
Time: Day 1 – 11:00am–5:00pm | Day 2 – 9:30am–3:30pm
Instructor: Morgan Meade
Class Fee: $110.00
Skill Level: Intermediate
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All Minnesota Shop Hop™
It’s hard to believe we’re celebrating the fifth year of this incredible sewing adventure across the beautiful state of Minnesota! While we do our best to have magazines available during the Shop Hop, quantities can be limited, so we highly recommend pre-ordering to guarantee your passport and magazine. Pre-orders are available on our website or in-store for $13.95.
For the latest updates, shop information, and Shop Hopper experiences, be sure to visit the All Minnesota Shop Hop™ website and join their Facebook group.
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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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