It's Top-A-Long Time!

Posted by Diana Wendorf on

Welcome to What's Up Wednesday!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Northwoods Quilt Trek! We were thrilled to welcome over 100 visitors to our shop. Congratulations to Sue from Owatonna, MN, the lucky winner of our gift basket. We appreciate your support and participation in this fun quilting adventure.

There’s still time to join our Top-A-Long! We meet the first Saturday of each month at 9:30am, with the final meeting on June 6, 2026. Don’t miss out on the fun, free patterns, and monthly prize drawings—join us and sew along! 

Newest Samples!
Autumn Quilt Seeds #3 by Lori Holt is part of a charming nine-pattern series, each featuring a unique pumpkin quilt block. This seed packet includes instructions for one 18" x 20" block using traditional piecing—no templates needed! Use any of the nine patterns as stand-alone wall hangings or combine them all to create a beautiful autumn quilt. Optional finishing instructions and a helpful video tutorial are also available. Each Autumn Quilt Seeds pattern is available for just $9.99. 
Latest Fabric Arrivals!

New batiks have arrived! The Strawberry Lane and Wild Thing collections from Anthology Fabrics bring fun, colorful prints that add excitement and variety to our already extensive batik selection. Stop in and explore these vibrant new designs—perfect for your next quilting project!

Escape to the tranquility of nature with Fox Den by Deborah Edwards and Melanie Samra for Northcott Fabrics. This watercolor-inspired collection features graceful foxes, cascading waterfalls, and serene forest scenes in rich teals, warm browns, and soft creams. Perfect for quilts that capture the peaceful beauty of the outdoors and bring cozy woodland charm to your home.

Our next three collections from Benartex, are thoughtfully created to complement one another—perfect for mixing and matching to inspire your next creative project.

The Marbled Earth collection by Painted Sky Studio for Benartex blends rich, nature-inspired hues with elegant gold accents for a timeless, sophisticated look. Perfect for cozy quilts and statement pieces alike, these fabrics add warmth, texture, and a touch of luxury to any creative project.
Fluidity by Marta Cortese for Benartex Fabrics blends abstract script and rich, saturated color to create an expressive, elegant look. With two script sizes and a modern palette, it’s perfect for contemporary quilts, statement totes, or apparel. Pair with Marbled Earth Better Basics for added texture and contrast.

Earth Treasures by Painted Sky Studio for Benartex Fabrics is a stunning celebration of nature’s beauty. Inspired by the treasures found in the natural world, this collection features exquisite earth tones enhanced with subtle textures and shimmering metallic accents. The result is a line that radiates peaceful sophistication and warmth. Perfect for quilts, home décor, and projects that embrace the elegance of nature.

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.

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.

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.

Join Now
Tip Of The Week  

There’s nothing worse than that heart-stopping moment when you realize you miscut your favorite fabric—especially the one that’s been discontinued since 2017. Avoid the heartbreak (and the creative language that follows) by living the quilter’s golden rule: Measure twice… cut once! Your rotary cutter will thank you, your fabric will thank you, and most importantly—your sanity will thank you.

If you have a tip you'd like to share with our readers, feel free to email Diana at quilt@affinityforquilts.com.
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!
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.  
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, October 16, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly gathering
Instructor: Sharon  Lenertz
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, October 17, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Club Leader:  Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00

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 the day.

What you'll learn: 

  • How to set up your machine for free motion quilting

  • Best practices for tension, thread, and needle choices

  • Drawing and practicing common quilting motifs like loops, spirals, meanders, and more

  • Tips for improving control, consistency, and movement

  • 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
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 Green Salad, Chicken Stew, Bread, and Apple Crisp 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, October 24, 2025
Time:  4:00pm - Midnight
Event Hostess:  Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $25.00

Fabric Collage - Laura Heine Teeny Tiny Collage Class
Looking for a creative way to use those fabric scraps you've been saving for “just the right project”? This is it!

Join Lori for a full day of fabric play as you dive into the art of collage using one of Laura Heine’s whimsical Teeny Tiny Collage patterns. These charming designs are the perfect way to explore color, texture, and layering—all while creating a unique work of art.

What you'll learn:

  • How to prepare and organize your fabrics for collage
  • Techniques for layering and fusing pieces
  • Tips for bringing personality and movement into your design
  • How to finish and display your piece

Our class sample is just one of several pattern choices available—pick the one that speaks to you and make it your own! Whether you're new to collage or looking to try something fresh and fun, you'll leave inspired and ready for more.

Pack a lunch and get ready for a day full of creativity! 

Date:  Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time:  10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lori Adameitz
Class Fee: $45.00

Downtown White Bear Lake Candy Crawl

Visit Affinity For Quilts with your little ghosts and goblins on Saturday, October 26th, for the Downtown White Bear Lake Candy Crawl.

Quilters, we’ll have some sweet treats for you too, so don't forget to bring your quilting bag—we'll help you fill it up!

Date:  Saturday, October 25, 2025
Time:  10:00am - 5:00pm

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, Chicken Stew, Bread, and Apple Crisp for dessert. 


After supper, take part in our Show-and-Tell session—share your progress, admire others’ creations, and leave feeling inspired!

Date:   Sunday, October 26, 2025
Time:  1:00pm - 7:00pm 
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $25.00

Clam Up Pouch Class – By Annie

Learn how to make the popular Clam Up Pouch by Annie! These fun, zippered pouches come in multiple sizes and are perfect for storing sewing notions, cosmetics, or small gifts. In this class, you’ll get hands-on practice with bag-making techniques while creating one (or more!) pouches to take home.

What you'll learn:   

  • How to read and follow a ByAnnie pattern  
  • How to sew and insert zippers
  • How to bind a small seam
  • Tips for fussy cutting to feature your favorite fabrics

We will cut out and sew during class — most students finish one pouch and some even complete two!

Date: Thursday, October 30, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-1:00 pm
Instructor: Lisa Giebink
Skill Level: Confident Beginner/Advanced Beginner

Top-A-Long Sewing Adventure

There’s still time to join our Top-A-Long!  This fun, monthly quilting event meets the first Saturday of each month at 9:30am. Each session features a new Villa Rosa Designs pattern, show-and-tell, and chances to win prizes. Can’t make it in person? We’ll mail your pattern so you can still sew along and participate. Don’t miss out on the fun — join our quilting community today! 

Kick-off Date:  Saturday, November 1 , 2025
Time:  9:30pm 
Instructor:  Diana Wendorf and Becky Umenthum
Class Fee:  $18.00  (includes monthly Villa Rosa pattern)

 
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.

Quilted Postcards & Appliqué Cards

Send greetings that will be treasured long after the occasion has passed. In this class, you’ll explore two creative methods for making custom cards: quilted postcards and appliqué cards. Learn how to design and assemble quilted postcards that can be mailed directly or placed in an envelope, plus tips and techniques for appliqué card designs you can personalize for any occasion.

Whether for holidays, birthdays, or special events, these handmade cards offer a unique way to share your creativity. You’ll leave class with starter patterns, practical skills, and plenty of inspiration to create cards that reflect your style. The possibilities are truly endless!

What you'll learn: 

  • How to create quilted postcards suitable for mailing

  • Step-by-step appliqué card techniques

  • Fabric, thread, and embellishment selection for small-scale projects

  • Tips for designing cards for different occasions

Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Instructor: Kris Livingston
Class Fee: $35.00
Skill Level: Confident Beginner

 

Boro Sashiko

Discover the beauty of Japanese hand stitching in our Boro Sashiko class with instructor Tammy Berry. Using fabric scraps and Sashiko embroidery supplies, you’ll create a one-of-a-kind textile art piece inspired by the centuries-old tradition of Boro Sashiko. This slow-stitch method embraces visible mending, raw edges, and a hand-sewn aesthetic, making each creation truly unique.

Whether you’re completely new to Sashiko or looking to expand your stitching repertoire, this class will guide you through essential techniques while encouraging creative expression. You’ll learn how to layer fabrics, experiment with stitch patterns, and repurpose your favorite textiles into something beautiful and functional.

What You’ll Learn:

  • How to prepare and layer fabrics for Boro Sashiko project
  • Boro Sashiko stitching techniques   
  • Creative ways to repurpose and reuse fabric scraps   
  • Tips for achieving balanced and visually appealing designs

Date : Saturday, November 8, 2025
Time: 9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Class Fee: $30.00
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Tammy Berry

 

Tissue Tote Cover
Flash Monday November

Just in time for the holidays, this tissue box cover and organizer is an ideal gift choice for nearly everyone on your shopping list. Its thoughtful design and practical function make it a standout present for any occasion. Get creative with your fabric selections, tailoring each cover to match the recipient’s style or home décor. Perfect in a sewing room, charming on a coffee table, or convenient on a nightstand, this cover accommodates standard cube tissue boxes and adds both style and function wherever it’s placed.

What You’ll Learn:

  • A creative method for constructing a slit-style opening
  • Tips and tricks for sewing a square to a tube shape
  • How to adapt a pattern for faster, easier results
With the pre-work completed prior to class and a few simple adaptations, you may complete up to two Tissue Tote covers during the session.

Date: Monday, November 10, 2025
Time: 2:00pm–5:00pm or 6:00pm–9:00pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Class Fee: $15.00
Skill Level:  Beginner

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, November 12, 2025
Time:  9:30pm-12:30pm
Instructor:  Tammy Berry
Class Fee:  $15.00

Holiday Runner and Ornaments

Creating with Half-Square Triangles

Get ready for the holidays in this festive class! Learn a quick and easy method for making half-square triangles using the Angle Ruler, and create table runners and/or ornaments from the same versatile block design—just in different sizes.

What you’ll Learn:

  • Efficient    half-square triangle construction with the Angle Ruler
  • Cutting    squares and triangles from the same strips
  • Layout    options using provided designs or your own 
  • Ornament    hanger construction
  • A    nearly invisible stitch to close ornament openings

Make one project or all of them—your choice!

Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 1:30 pm    
Instructor: Becky 
Class Fee: $35.00
Skill Level: Confident beginner and beyond

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:

  • Fabric selection for realism
  • Raw edge applique
  • Layering  Stitching  details 
  • Finishing methods

Date: Saturday, November 15, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $55.00
Skill Level: Confident beginner and beyond

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.

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!

Date: Saturday, November  22, 2025
Time:9:30am – 3:30 pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Skill Level: Very Confident Beginner/Intermediate

Thread Painting Class

Enhance your quilts and fabric projects with stunning thread painting techniques! In this hands-on class, you’ll explore how to use free-motion straight stitching and zigzag stitching to add depth, detail, and texture to your Pet Portrait project. Whether you’re working on landscape quilts, pet portraits, or printed fabric panels, thread painting will bring your projects to life with dimension and artistry.

What You'll Learn:   

  • Free-motion thread    painting with straight and zigzag stitching

  • Adding shading and texture    with layered threads

  • Enhancing printed fabric    designs with stitched embellishments

  • Creating realistic details    for pet portraits and landscapes

  • Choosing the right    threads, stabilizers, and needles for success

This class is perfect for confident beginners and experienced quilters alike who want to expand their artistic quilting skills.

 

Date: Sunday, November 30, 2025
Time: 1:30pm– 4:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $35.00
Skill Level: Confident Beginner and above

 

Holiday Hugs Ornament & Gift Card Holder

Turn your fabric scraps into charming handmade ornaments in our Holiday Hugs class featuring the pattern by Poorhouse Quilt Designs.  Each ornament has a hidden pocket - perfect for slipping in a gift card, cash, or a sweet treat.  Choose from whimsical houses, heartfelt hearts, or cozy mugs to create thoughtful gifts or festive decorations for your tree.

These ornaments measure approximately 5-1/2" x 5" and offer a fun surprise on the back.  Add a magnet for a fridge -friendly gift, or swap fabrics to make them suitable for any season.  You'll also learn a clever mock binding technique - an absolute game-change for small projects - that gives your ornaments a polished, professional finish.  

What you'll learn:  
  • How to create ornaments with a built-in gift pocket
  • Seasonal fabric selection tips for year-round gifting
  • Mock binding technique for small projects

Date:  Thursday, December 4, 2025
Time: 9:30am - 12:30pm
Instructor:  Kris Livingston
Class Fee:  $35.00 - Does not include pattern or supplies.
Skill Level:  Confident Beginner

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, December  5, 2025
Time:  5:00pm - 9:00pm
Instructor:  Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $15.00

Beginning Sashiko Class
Japanese Embroidery Fundamentals

Discover the beauty and rhythm of Sashiko, a traditional Japanese running stitch embroidery technique. In this engaging class, instructor Tammy Berry will guide you through the fundamentals of Sashiko while you create a set of elegant, pre-printed coasters—an ideal first project for beginners.

This hands-on class offers a welcoming environment to explore the art of hand stitching. Tammy will share expert tips and insights to help you refine your stitching skills and gain confidence with this timeless, meditative craft. With minimal supplies required, you’ll find it easy to continue your Sashiko journey at home.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Fundamentals of the traditional Sashiko running stitch
  • How to work with pre-printed fabric designs
  • Techniques for creating even, consistent stitches
  • Helpful tips for thread handling and pattern alignment

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Time: 12:30pm–3:30pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee: $30.00

Flash Monday December
Spiral Zipper Bag

Join us for this fun and fast-paced Flash Monday class where you’ll make a practical and stylish Spiral Zipper Bag in just a few hours! This class is perfect for advanced beginners looking to build confidence with quilting techniques while creating a unique project that makes a wonderful gift or personal accessory.

What you'll learn:
  • Quilt a quilt sandwich
  • Apply a bias tape binding to finish edges
  • Attach a continuous zipper, thread the zipper pull, and secure the zipper end

By the end of class, you’ll have a completed Spiral Zipper Bag and the skills to make more at home.

Date: Monday, December 8, 2025
Time: 2:00pm- 5:00pm or 6:00pm – 9:00pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner – Students should be comfortable using a sewing machine and have basic quilting knowledge.
Class Fee:  $15.00
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, January 9, 2026
Time: 10:00am-12:00 pm
Instructor: Jordan Frayne
Class Fee: $30.00
Skill Level: All Levels

 

Desert Sky 
Quiltworx Paper Piecing

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 methods
  • Time-saving strategies for cutting, piecing, and managing unit Tips for working with contrasting fabrics to maximize design impact

Date: January 10, 2026
Time: 9:30am -4:30pm
Instructor: Kristen Bender, Certified Quiltworx Instructor
Class Fee: $65.00
Skill Level: Confident Beginner and above

 

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.
 

Share this post



← Older Post Newer Post →