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March is National Quilting Month, Classes and More!

Posted by Diana Wendorf on

Welcome to What's Up Wednesday!

Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote for us in the ByAnnie Local Quilt Shop Contest. Your support means so much to us, and we truly appreciate our wonderful quilting community for showing up in such a big way. ByAnnie is currently tabulating the votes, and the winners will be announced on March 11. No matter the outcome, we are incredibly grateful for your encouragement and for choosing Affinity for Quilts as your local quilt shop.

March is National Quilting Month, a time to celebrate the artistry, skill, and rich tradition of quilting across the United States. Established in 1991, this month-long celebration recognizes the creativity and craftsmanship that quilters have shared for generations while encouraging more people to discover and enjoy the craft. It’s the perfect time to try something new, build your skills, and connect with other quilters. If you’ve been thinking about learning a new technique or starting a fresh project, consider joining one of our upcoming classes. Be sure to visit our Calendar page for a full listing of fun classes, clubs, and sewing events happening this month.

We’re excited to welcome All Minnesota Shop Hop participants with extra shopping time this spring. To give hoppers more time to visit, we will be open on Sunday, April 19 and Sunday, May 17 from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm. If you’re planning your Shop Hop route, be sure to include Affinity for Quilts on your list and take advantage of these additional Sunday hours to browse fabrics, kits, and quilting inspiration. We look forward to seeing all the hoppers in the shop!

The first clue for Mystery Five-0 Luau dropped today, and there’s still plenty of time to join in on the fun. We still have Luau kits available, or you can let our staff help you create a custom kit with fabrics you love. Another option is to join the mystery with the purchase of a $50 gift certificate, giving you flexibility to choose the perfect fabrics for your project.

Check Out Our New Samples
Our newest sample, the Betsy Ross Main Panel Quilt, measures 46" x 55" and features the striking main panel and coordinating fabrics from the Sew America collection. This patriotic quilt is a great way to showcase a panel while creating a beautiful finished project. The pattern is available as a free download from the Riley Blake Designs website, making it easy to get started on your own version.

Tossed Imperfect Tiles by Ladeebug Design is a striking quilt measuring 55-1/2" x 73-1/2" and features fabrics from Michael Miller’s Imperfectly Perfect collection by Emma Schonenberg. This modern design highlights bold color and playful movement, creating an eye-catching quilt that is perfect for anyone who enjoys contemporary fabrics and dynamic layouts.  Limited kits available for $102.99,

New Fabric Arrivals

Get ready for a summer adventure with the Red Truck Road Trip fabric collection by Hoffman California Fabrics. Designed by Grace Popp, this nostalgic collection celebrates Americana with classic patriotic imagery and the timeless charm of the red pickup truck. One of the standout pieces is a scenic panel featuring a peaceful countryside view with a horse pasture, a red barn in the background, and a red truck carrying golden retrievers along a flower-lined dirt drive decorated with patriotic streamers. Filled with warm summer spirit and traditional red, white, and blue themes, this collection captures the enduring pride and charm of life in the American countryside.

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.
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. 

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.

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  

When top-stitching your project, take a moment to bring the bobbin thread up to the top before you begin sewing. Hold the top thread, take one stitch, and gently pull the bobbin thread to the surface so both threads start on the top of your quilt. This simple step helps prevent tangled “bird nests” of thread from forming on the back of your project at the start of your stitching. It also gives you a cleaner, more professional finish and makes it easier to secure your threads neatly when you begin and end your stitching.

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!

Wrap It Up!
Fabric Bowl Class

Create a fun and functional fabric bowl in this beginner-friendly class. Using clothesline and fabric strips, students will learn how to shape and stitch a three-dimensional bowl entirely on the sewing machine while watching fabric patterns transform as the bowl takes shape.

In this class, students will learn how to:

  • Wrap fabric smoothly around clothesline
  • Form a three-dimensional bowl using a sewing machine
  • Understand how fabric patterns change during the bowl-making process


Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
Time: 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Kris Livingston
Class Fee: $40.00
Skill Level: Beginner

 

 
March Flash Monday
Petit Four & Call Me  - ByAnnie Bag Making Basics 

Curious about bag making or ready to sharpen your skills? This fast-paced Flash Monday class is a great way to dive into ByAnnie patterns with guidance from instructor Lisa, who is an expert in ByAnnie’s techniques and construction methods.

In this class, students will work through the fundamentals of sewing with ByAnnie products while building skills that easily carry over into future bag-making projects. You’ll gain confidence reading patterns, working with stabilizers, installing zippers, and creating clean, professional finishes.

Whether this is your first ByAnnie project or you’re looking to reinforce good techniques, this class offers a solid foundation for successful bag making.
 

What You’ll Learn:

  • How to read and follow a ByAnnie pattern
  • How to cut and sew with ByAnnie’s Soft and Stable
  • How to sew boxed corners for added structure
  • How to finish the top of a container so it stays open
  • How to install a zipper, including sewing mesh onto a zipper
  • Stitch-in-the-ditch techniques for clean, polished finishes
  • How to use a stiletto to improve accuracy and control

If you enjoy this class, be sure to watch for two additional classes in our ByAnnie series — the Peace Keeper Bag and Easy Does It Bag, coming in May and June.

Date: Monday, March 9, 2026
Time: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Lisa Giebink
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, March 11, 2026
Time:  9:30pm-12:30pm
Instructor:  Tammy Berry
Class Fee:  $15.00

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, March 12, 2026
                           March 19, 2026
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly gathering
Instructor: Sharon  Lenertz
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

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

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, March 20, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Club Leader:  Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00

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

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. Menu will be Chicken Tacos, Spanish Rice, Chips & Salsa, and Toffee Cracker Bars for dessert.   


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

Date:   Sunday, March 22, 2026
Time:  1:00pm - 7:00pm 
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $28.00

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 for the evening will be Chicken Tacos, Spanish Rice, Chips & Salsa, and Toffee Cracker Bars for dessert.  

Continue to inspire your fellow quilters with your handiwork during Show-and-Tell, which will take place after supper. 


Date:  Friday, March 27, 2026
Time:  4:00pm - Midnight
Event Hostess:  Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $28.00

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

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

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.

Date:  April 1, 2026 - May 31, 2026

QuiltedJacket 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

Affinity For Quilts Spring Sleep-In-Your-Own-Bed Retreat

Join us for the Affinity For Quilts Spring “Sleep in Your Own Bed” Retreat — and yes, we still have openings! If you love quilting alongside friends, receiving fun surprise gift bags, winning fantastic door prizes, enjoying delicious food, and heading home to sleep in your own bed at night, this retreat is made just for you.

Friday, April 10th, doors open at 10am and we’ll sew the day away until 8pm. Enjoy an open snack and beverage bar all day, a 2:00pm spread of meat, cheese, and veggies, and at 5pm we’ll serve Carbone’s pizza and salad.

Saturday, April 11th, doors open at 9am with pastries, fruit, and juice to start your morning. The snack and beverage bar is open all day, followed by meat, cheese, and veggie snacks at 2:00pm. Between 5:30–6:00pm, we’ll enjoy a catered dinner with your choice of beef or chicken.

Come for the stitching, stay for the laughter, and enjoy a weekend filled with creativity, community, and comfort. We would love to have you join us!

Call today to reserve your spot — space is limited and we would love to have you join us!

Date/Time:  Friday April 10, 2026 10:00am-8:00pm
                    Saturday April 11, 2026 9:00am - 8:00pm
Hosts: Diana Wendorf, Ruth Thompson, and Val Riley
Location:    White Bear Lake Masonic Lodge, 4923 Stewart Ave, White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Fee:  $175.00 For Fri/Sat 

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, April 11, 2026
Time: 9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee: $30.00
Skill Level: Beginner

 

Straight Line Quilting Class

Are you ready to elevate your machine quilting skills? Join us for this focused half-day workshop on Straight Line Quilting, designed to help quilters of all levels gain confidence with this versatile and modern quilting technique.
In this hands-on session, you'll learn how to use straight line quilting to add structure, texture, and visual interest to your quilt tops using your sewing machine.

What you'll learn:

  • Marking methods and spacing techniques
  • Best practices for managing bulk and maintaining stitch quality
  • The benefits of using a walking foot
  • Tips for troubleshooting common issues
  • You’ll work on two pre-basted 16"x16" quilt sandwiches to practice different line patterns and approaches.


Whether you're new to machine quilting or looking to refine your technique, this workshop offers a supportive, low-pressure environment to explore and grow your skills.

Date: Saturday, April 11, 2026
Time: 1:00 am – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $35.00
Skill Level:  Beginner

April Flash Monday-
Button Bowl

Join us for a quick and satisfying sewing project during our April Flash Monday class. In this class, students will create a small fabric catch-all bowl that folds flat for storage and ties into shape with a simple button closure. These handy bowls are perfect for holding sewing notions, clips, jewelry, or other small items, and they make great gifts.

The pattern is straightforward, making this a fun project to sew while learning useful skills and exploring creative fabric combinations. You’ll also enjoy seeing the different fabric choices everyone brings to class.

In this class, students will learn how to:

  • Identify time- and cost-saving opportunities within a pattern
  • Adjust the pattern size to make larger or smaller fabric bowls
  • Assemble and shape a structured fabric bowl that folds flat for storage
  • Use simple construction techniques to create a functional and gift-worthy project

Students will leave class with a finished bowl and ideas for making more in a variety of sizes and fabric combinations.

Date: Monday, April 13, 2026
Time: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Class Fee: $15.00
Skill Level: Beginner

 

 

Collage Class
Laura Heine


Looking for a creative way to use those fabric scraps you’ve been saving for “just the right project”? This is it! Join us for a day of fabric play as you explore the art of collage using one of Laura Heine’s whimsical Teeny Tiny collage patterns.

In this class, students will learn the fundamentals of fabric collage, including how to build layers, work with fusible adhesives, and use color and texture to bring a design to life. You’ll focus on creating a collage using motifs such as flowers, leaves, and other fun elements while developing confidence with the collage process.

Students will learn how to:

  • Prepare and organize fabrics for collage
  • Layer and fuse fabric pieces to create depth and interest
  • Add personality, movement, and visual flow to a design
  • Finish and prepare a collage piece for display
The class sample shown is just one of several pattern options available—students are encouraged to choose the Teeny Tiny pattern that speaks to them and make it their own. Whether you’re new to fabric collage or looking to try something creative and playful, you’ll leave class inspired and ready to continue collaging at home.


Class Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Class Time: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lori Adamietz
Class Fee: $45.00
Skill Level: Beginner

Sewing 101 - Basic Sewing & Troubleshooting
Pillowcase Class

Whether you’re brand new to sewing or looking for a refresher, this class will help you build confidence at your machine. We’ll focus on foundational skills and developing good sewing “driving” habits so you feel more in control and less frustrated when challenges arise.

You’ll learn how to troubleshoot common sewing issues, understand basic machine maintenance, and develop habits that make sewing smoother and more enjoyable. During class, students will make a pillowcase using a simple, efficient method that may inspire you to create many more at home.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Basic sewing machine operation and good sewing habits
  • How to troubleshoot common sewing frustrations
  • Basic sewing machine cleaning and maintenance
  • How to construct a pillowcase using an easy, efficient method

Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 1:00pm–3:30pm
Instructor: Kris Livingston
Class Fee: $35.00
Skill Level: Beginner

Piecekeeper Bag Class

Keep your quilt projects organized in style! In this class, you’ll create a structured and stylish zippered Piecekeeper Bag—perfect for holding quilt blocks, pattern pieces, works-in-progress, or all those “I’ll finish this soon” projects in one tidy place.

While making your bag, you’ll build confidence with essential ByAnnie techniques that carry over into many future bag-making projects.

What you'll learn: 

  • Read and confidently follow a ByAnnie pattern
  • Take the mystery (and fear!) out of zipper installation
  • Sew with ByAnnie Soft and Stable for structure and durability
  • Use a stiletto effectively when sewing zippers and binding
  • Make and attach bias binding from a fat quarter

This class is ideal for confident beginners ready to expand their bag-making skills in a supportive, step-by-step environment. You’ll leave with a finished bag and the confidence to tackle even more ByAnnie patterns.

Date: Thursday, May 7, 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Instructor: Lisa Giebink
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Class Fee: $35.00

Umbrella Class- 2 part class

Are you ready to turn heads on a rainy day? In this two-part workshop, you’ll create your very own custom umbrella using beautiful quilting cotton — because why settle for ordinary when you can carry something handmade?

Instructor Lisa K. Giebink will guide you step-by-step through the process, helping you transform fabric into a stylish and functional umbrella that truly reflects your personality. This class is designed to be approachable for confident beginners while still offering plenty of skill-building along the way.

In this class students will learn:

  • Cut and prepare umbrella panels for a professional fit
  • Sew curved seams and reinforce pivot points
  • Assemble and attach the canopy to the umbrella frame
  • Finish and weatherproof the umbrella for everyday use

By the end of class, you’ll walk away with a completed umbrella that’s as fun as it is functional — and you may never look at a rainy day the same way again!

Date:  Saturday, May 9 & Saturday May 30, 2026
Time:  9:30 am – 1:30pm each day
Instructor:  Lisa K Giebink
Class Fee:  $60.00
Skill Level: Beginner

 

Free Motion Quilt Class

Are you 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 during this class.

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

  • Techniques for warming up your hands and eyes before stitching


You’ll also have time to draw and sketch out your quilting ideas, helping you build muscle memory and confidence before stitching.

Date: Saturday , May 16, 2026
Time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm 
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $60.00
Skill Level: Beginner

There will be a half hour break for lunch during this class

 

Machine Binding Class

Learn how to give your quilts a polished, professional finish with machine binding! In this one-day class, instructor Katie Glancy will guide you through the step-by-step process of attaching and finishing binding by machine. You’ll bring a quilted project ready for binding and work alongside Katie as she shares tips, tricks, and techniques to ensure secure, beautiful results every time. This class is perfect for beginners or experienced quilters who want to master this efficient and professional finishing method.

What you’ll learn:

  • Step-by-step process of machine binding
  • Tips for achieving a clean, polished edge
  • Techniques to secure binding for durability
  • Tools and tricks that make the process easier
Date: Saturday, June 6, 2025
Time: 1:30 pm – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Katie Glancy
Skill Level: All Levels

 

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, June 20, 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Kristen Bender, Certified Quiltworx Instructor
Class Fee: $65.00

Beginning Sashiko Class
Coaster Class

In this engaging class, students will learn the art of Sashiko, a traditional Japanese running stitch embroidery technique. Led by Tammy, an expert in the craft, participants will enjoy a morning exploring the fundamentals of Sashiko stitching.

During this class, students will focus on the intricacies of the Japanese running stitch, while working on a pre-printed coasters project specifically designed for beginners. This hands-on experience provides an ideal starting point for those new to Sashiko, allowing them to develop essential skills and techniques in a supportive environment.

Beyond learning the basics, students will discover the versatility of Sashiko stitching as Tammy will share her knowledge, offering invaluable tips, tricks, and insights to help students refine their stitching proficiency.

With minimal supplies required, participants can easily immerse themselves in this wonderful hobby creating beautiful hand-stitched pieces.

Date: Saturday June 27, 2026
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee: $35.00
Skill Level: Beginner

 

Mystery Five-0  Luau Maga Mystery

Join the fun with the Luau Mini Mystery! Clues will be released on March 4th, March 11th, March 18th, and March 25th, with the final reveal on Wednesday, April 1st. It’s not too late to join in—grab a kit or create your own and enjoy the mystery as it unfolds each week.


Date:  Clues Drop March 4 thru March 25, 2026
           Reveal on April 1, 2026
Time:  Clues Delivered:  9:00 AM
Fee:  Buy in by purchasing a kit or a $50 Affinity Gift Certificate.
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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