New Seasons, New Samples!

Posted by Diana Wendorf on

Welcome to What's Up Wednesday!   

This week has been bustling at the shop with preparations for the new seasons well underway. We've got new samples to be displayed, and our collection of spring and summer fabrics has started to arrive.

Before diving into all the fresh happenings at the shop, we have an important lost and found notice. Last Saturday, April 6th, a customer left behind a stack of coupons and gift cards at our counter. If you've been missing these items, please contact us at 651-429-1039 to identify and reclaim them. We're eager to return them to their rightful owner.

Also, we're excited to announce that we've added an additional session for our Featherweight Club, now also meeting on the third Tuesday of every month. For those who own a Featherweight and are keen on joining a sewing circle with fellow enthusiasts, we have spots available for the upcoming gathering on Tuesday, April 16th.

Now, for the newsletter highlights! It's that time of the month when we introduce the new Villa Rosa patterns. Without further ado, let's unveil the latest designs for April.

I am grateful that my schedule affords me a few additional hours to dedicate to quilting samples for the shop. We've all tackled projects that range from tricky to straightforward.  It's not often I would describe a pattern as enjoyable. However, "Modern Lace" by Canuck Quilt Designs proved to be an exception – it is both quick and delightful to create. For this 55" x 68" quilt, we opted to use the charming Michael Miller Parisian Cats fabric collection. We have a limited number of kits available for $92.99 each.

The Vivian Crossbars quilt offers a swift, straightforward, and sophisticated project ideal for beginners. We selected a layer cake from the Northcott Vivian collection, complementing it with a contrasting accent fabric and a background choice. This quilt, measuring 53" x 62", is available in a limited number of kits priced at $89.99.

These cats are having a purr-fect day at the beach! Sandy Paws by Leezaworks from Dear Stella features these playful black cats having the time of their life playing with fish and birds, building sand cats, sitting in buckets, swimming, and relaxing on the beach. This group has a pallet of calming tans, golden yellows, soft blues, and warm oranges evokes the carefree spirit of a summer day.

The enchanting Enjoy The Little Things collection by Dan DiPaolo for Clothworks Fabrics showcases vibrant colors, playful motifs, and delightful patterns guaranteed to brighten your day. Bursting with personality and charm, this collection includes wildflowers, echinacea, poppies, and lavender. These fabrics are ideal for crafting cheerful projects that honor life's simple pleasures.
Stitchy by Christina Watson from Benartex fabrics features five modern, geometric prints in five rich colorways of fuchsia, orange, turquoise, olive, and grey.  This collection captures the joy of making beautiful things with fabric and thread while the day is young and full of possibilities!

Classroom Space
If your group is looking for a place to meet, please contact Affinity For Quilts at 651-429-1039.  Evening meeting space is available, but please note that there will be a fee associated with evening meetings.  

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. 


Sewing Machine Service

Is your sewing machine in need of tune-up or repair?  If so, Jordan is on-site to assist you with all of your machine needs.  When bringing your machine in for service, please remember to include the sewing machine, foot control, power cord, standard zig-zag foot (if your machine sews a zig zag stitch), bobbin case, bobbin and thread.  You can reach Jordan directly at  612-275-3356 to speak to him directly or to schedule an appointment. He is currently offering curbside pickup and delivery for your convenience.

The Quilting For Affinity Group
Share your finished projects!  Join the "Quilting For Affinity" Facebook group to share your work and be inspired by others. Just click here, and you will be redirected to the Facebook group.  Select 'join group' and you will be added.  It's that easy!  

 
Tip of the Week!  When conducting a color fastness test while washing your fabric, include a plain piece of muslin alongside the fabric being tested. Merely observing a change in water color does not necessarily indicate that the dye will bleed. However, if the muslin absorbs the color, it indicates that the dye could transfer to other fabrics.
Just a reminder if you have a tip you would like to share with our readers just e-mail Diana at quilt@affinityforquilts.com.  
Classes and Events
In order to provide all of our customers with the opportunity to take classes, we require payment at the time of registration.  If you need to cancel, we kindly ask for 7-day prior notification to the class date.  This allows us to offer your spot to someone on our waitlist and refund your registration fee.  Thank you for understanding this policy and happy quilting everyone.

When you sign up for a class at Affinity For Quilts you will receive information regarding the class including any required supplies needed for the class and pre-class preparations.   Make  sure to review the supply/class prep list to ensure you have everything you need for a wonderful class experience.  If you sign up and pay by phone, don't worry, we can email you all of the necessary information for a successful class experience. 

If you are interested in an event and it is full, please add your name to the waitlist.  If a spot becomes available,  we will contact the first person on the waitlist to check their availability. 
The waitlist also helps us gauge the popularity of an event and determine if we should offer it again in the future.

You can register and pay for classes in person at 2199 4th Street, White Bear Lake Minnesota, or by phone at 651-429-1039.
 
All Minnesota Shop Hop 
 
The All Minnesota Shop Hop is currently underway. 

We can't wait to see everyone!

Dates:  April 1, 2024 thru May 31, 2024
Hours:  9am-5pm  Monday-Saturday

Special Hours on:
Shop Hop Sunday:  Sunday, May 5, 2024 11:00am-5:00pm
Friday, May 17, 2024 9:00am-9:00pm
Sunday, May 19, 2024 1:00pm-7:00pm
Open Embroidery With Sharon

Bring in your embroidery projects, or follow along with Sharon as she stitches Crabapple Hill's newest embroidery Block Of the Month Superstition.  The group will meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 10:00am-3:30pm.  Feel free to bring you lunch, or you can always go out and grab a bite to eat with your fellow stitching buddies at any of the great restaurants in Downtown White Bear Lake.  Sharon will be available to answer any questions you may have.  Remember to bring your Show and Tell.

Date:  Thursday, April 11, 2024 
           Thursday, April 18, 2024 
Time:  10:00am-3:30pm
Class Fee:  $15.00
Instructor:  Sharon Lenertz
Featherweight Friends

Calling all Featherweights! Join us on the third Tuesday 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: Tuesday, April 16, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Club Leader:  Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00

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, April 19, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Club Leader:  Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00

Laura Heine Teeny Tiny Collage Class

Join Lori for a day of fabric collage! During this all day class you will learn how to assemble one of Laura Heine's whimsical Teeny Tiny Collages. These fun projects are a great way to use up those fabric pieces that you have been saving for just the right thing. This project is it, you have found it! Our in store sample is just one of several pattern choices for this class. The results are beautiful and the possibilities are endless! 

Date:  Saturday, April 20, 2024
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lori Adameitz 
Class Fee: $45.00 
(Pattern sold separately)

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.  The menu for April will be Tossed Green Salad, Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles, French Bread and Chocolate Brownies for dessert. 

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

Date:   Friday, April 26, 2024
Time:  4:00pm-Midnight
Event Host: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $25.00
Magnolia Drawstring Bucket Bag
 
Just. Too. Cute! This is a surprisingly spacious bag on the inside. Constructed with a cork exterior provides both flexibility of the design when cinched closed and stability for the bag overall. The interior can be made with a number of fabric types from cotton to waterproof canvas and boasts a roomy interior zippered pocket.

With this bag you will learn the following:
- How to work with cork fabric
- Game changer: tiny staples
- Game changer: double-sided tape
- Creating two-toned and adjustable bag straps
- The use of and installation of grommets in bags
- How to improvise from someone else’s mistake


Date:  Saturday, April 27, 2024
Time:  9:30am-4:30pm
Instructor:  Ruth Thompson
Class Fee:  $70.00 (Pattern and materials extra)
Sew-In-Sunday

Are you ready to spend the day quilting with friends?  Bring your own project(s) to work on and spend the day sewing!  Dinner will be served at 5pm.  The menu for April will be Tossed Green Salad, Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles, French Bread and Chocolate Brownies for dessert. 

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

Date:   Sunday, April 28, 2024
Time:  1:00pm - 7:00pm 
Event Host: Diana Wendorf

Class Fee:  $25.00

Thursday Threads with Ruth

We are thrilled to begin our revised Flash Monday series now called "Thursday Threads with Ruth" and led by the talented Ruth Thompson. These classes promise to be a fun journey of creativity, sewing, and skill-building.

Taking place the first Thursday of each month, each session will provide you the opportunity to create a project from start to finish in just a few short hours. From brand new patterns to exciting twists on previous samples found in our shop, Thursday Threads with Ruth offers a wide range of projects. Each session is both engaging and productive, providing the perfect environment for you to expand your sewing skills. Whether you're sewing solo or with friends, you'll find inspiration, encouragement, and plenty of opportunities to learn and grow.

Our first project will be the fabulous Mannequin Pin Cushion!

Date: Thursday, May 2, 2024
Time:9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Class Fee:  $28.00

Beginning Applique

Delve into the  world of applique under the expert guidance of Linda. Using the instructional book 'First Time Applique' by Janet Pittman, Linda will walk you through each step of machine applique, from the initial tracing to the final finishing touches. You'll have the opportunity to choose from five different applique projects to kickstart your journey to master them all!

A sewing machine equipped with a zig-zag stitch is required for this class.

Class Preparation: Before the day of the class, there is a bit of cutting and interfacing attachment required at home.

 

Date: Saturday, May 4, 2024
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm (including a half-hour lunch break)
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Skill Level: Beginner
Class Fee: $55.00
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, May 8, 2024
Time:  9:30pm-12:30pm
Instructor:  Tammy Berry
Class Fee:  $15.00
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
9. Pumpkin

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, May 18, 2024
Time:  1:00pm - 4:00pm
Instructor:  Aryn Lill
Class Fee:  $55.00  Follow like above to register.  Class fee includes all supplies.

Bird Song Quilt Class - Mastering Curves

Join Becky to create the spring Bird Song quilt. This class is perfect for those eager to learn or improve their skills of sewing curves with ease and precision.

In this comprehensive, all-day class, you will explore the techniques behind the Mini Wonderful Curves book, utilizing the QCR Mini Ruler.  This essential tool not only simplifies the cutting of curved pieces but also helps to ensure cutting accuracy, making it an invaluable asset for your quilting projects.

Throughout the class, you will be guided step-by-step through the process of piecing together the beautiful Bird Song quilt. Whether you see your finished piece as a spring wall hanging, a charming table runner, or even a cozy lap quilt with added borders, this class provides the skills and confidence needed to master those curves!

Highlights of the Class

  •    Learn  to sew curves with ease, an essential skill for any quilter

  •    Master  the use of the QCR Mini Ruler for cutting and trimming curved pieces

  •    Step-by-step  guidance through the construction of the Bird Song quilt   

  •    Techniques  applicable to a variety of quilting projects beyond the class   

  •    An  opportunity to complete a project that can be adapted to a wall hanging, table runner, or lap quilt.


Date: Saturday, June 1, 2024
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
Class Fee:  $55.00

Featherweight Machine Maintenance

Join us for a hands-on sewing machine maintenance class with our expert instructor, Jordan Frayne. Spend a productive morning learning how to take care of your cherished Singer Featherweight sewing machine. In this class, you will gain valuable insights into inspecting, oiling, and cleaning your machine. Whether you're a sewing enthusiast or just starting your journey with these iconic sewing machines, this classis a must-attend.

No class preparation is required. Just bring your Singer Featherweight sewing machine and an eagerness to learn!
 

Date: Monday, June 10, 2024
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00pm 
Instructor: Jordan Frayne
Class Fee: $25.00

Beginning Sashiko
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: June 15, 2024
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee:  $25.00

Stripology Ruler Demonstration & Trunk Show

Enter the world of efficient and precise cutting with the Stripology Ruler Demonstration and Trunk Show. Whether you're new to Stripology rulers or looking to maximize your usage, this lecture by certified Stripology Instructor Peggy Alspaugh, is designed to unveil the versatility of these innovative tools.

Highlights

  • Ruler Features :    Discover the unique features of all four Stripology rulers. Learn  how each ruler can revolutionize your quilting process, making it faster, more accurate, and infinitely more enjoyable.

  • Live Demonstrations:    Witness firsthand the efficiency of Stripology rulers. Our live    demonstrations will cover a wide range of techniques, including    cutting quarter-inch increments, managing multiple layers with ease,    cutting angles without hassle, and mastering the creation of half    square triangles and flying geese.

  • Comprehensive Guidance:    Understand the full potential of these rulers through detailed    discussions on each one's capabilities. Learn how to leverage Stripology rulers for various quilting projects, enhancing both creativity and precision.

  • Trunk    Show:    Be inspired by a stunning display of quilts, all crafted using Stripology rulers. This collection will showcase the rulers' versatility and adaptability to different quilting styles and    patterns.


Date: Saturday, June 29, 2024
Time: 10:00 am- 12:00 pm
Instructor: Peggy Alspaugh
Class Fee:  $25.00

Quilt Minnesota 2024 
July 26, 2024 - August 17, 2024

Don't forget to add the 18th annual Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop to your calendar. If you're eager to get your hands on the 2024 Quilt MN fabric you've been eyeing, you can pre-order it now by visiting our website at www.affinityforquilts.com. There, you'll find all the details on pricing for panels, precuts, and fabrics. The website currently shows a price of $0.00 for these items, meaning you won't be charged until the Shop Hop is about to start. Starting July 22nd, we'll reach out to you by phone to arrange for payment. If we haven't secured payment for your order by August 3, 2024, the reserved products will be made available for sale again, unless you've discussed alternative arrangements with the owner. Detailed pricing for the Quilt Minnesota Fabric line can be found in the description section for each fabric on our website. If you'd rather place your pre-order in person, feel free to visit our store. Please note that the actual fabric will not arrive in-store until June 2024.

Affinity For Quilts Shop Hop Hours: 
Monday - Saturday:  9am-5pm
Sunday:  11am-5pm
Upcoming Quilt Shows
March 27th-April 19th, 2024 
Quilt Art for the Love of It

Dakota County Star Quilters' 29th Annual Quilt Show
Dakota County Historical Society Museum
130 3rd Avenue North
South Saint Paul, MN 
Special presentation and trunk show by Carol Hancuh "Growing a Voice in Quilting on Tuesday April 9th at 1:00pm and 7:00pm..  Tickets available at Evenbrite.com

Museum Hours:  Wed & Friday 9am-5pm, Thurs 9am-8pm, and Sat 10am-3pm
Suggested museum donation:  $5.00 

May 3-May 4, 2024 
Maple Grove Quilters' 2024 Quilt Show Spring Fling
Featuring:  Member Quilt Exhibit, Guild Challenge Exhibit, Demonstrations, Boutique, Raffle Quilt, Vendors, and Prizes.
Location:  Maple Grove Community Center, 12951 Weaver Lake Rd, Maple Grove, MN  55369
Admission:  $7.00 

June 13-15, 2024
Minnesota Quilters Quilt Show 2024
Location:  Duluth Entertainment Convention Center, 
 350 Harbor Drive, Duluth, MN 55802
Admission:  MN Quilters Member $12.00 - Non Member $15.00
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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