Only 10 days remain before the 19th Annual Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop comes to a close! So far, we’ve had a few dedicated hoppers complete the entire state—best of luck to them in winning that Alaskan Cruise! We’ve also celebrated over 60 Regional finishers already, and we’re sure many more will join their ranks before the event wraps up. Whether you’re just starting your adventure or crossing another region off your list, we look forward to welcoming you to Affinity For Quilts before the Shop Hop ends!
While we're fully immersed in the fun and excitement of the Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop, our regular weekly specials are on a brief pause. As participants in this special statewide event, we're required to suspend all sales and promotions during the hop period. But don't worry — we're bringing them back right after the hop wraps up! Mark your calendars:
- Freebie Monday returns on August 18
- Double Punch Tuesday on August 19
- Fat Quarter Wednesday on August 20
- Sale Wall Friday on August 29
We appreciate your understanding during this busy time and can't wait to treat you to these customer favorites once the hop concludes!
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Hot Off the Press: New Patterns from Local Designer Terry Atkinson
We're excited to share two brand-new patterns from one of our favorite local designers, Terry Atkinson of Atkinson Designs. These fresh releases are full of charm, creativity, and versatility—perfect additions to your next quilting project lineup.
Gather Round Whether you're gathering around the kitchen table or the Christmas tree, any time you're together it's a celebration. This pattern includes instructions for three sizes, from tabletop to tree skirt, making it a beautiful and functional project for the holiday season and beyond.
Mill City Quilt Inspired by the iconic hill in Gold Medal Park in Minneapolis, this spiral design leads you around and around to the very top—just like the path that rewards you with a panoramic view of the Mississippi River and downtown Minneapolis. The pattern includes four sizes: baby, lap, twin, and queen, offering flexibility for any occasion or recipient.
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Get ready to have some fun with one of our all-time favorites—5" square Charm Packs! Moda Fabrics and Me & My Sister Designs have teamed up to bring you a delightful new program that’s full of creativity and inspiration.
Each month, we’ll feature a new charm pack and show you how to turn it into a fun little quilt you can whip up in no time. And the best part? You’ll receive the featured pattern with the purchase of the featured Charm Pack, or any Charm Pack in the store, for FREE!
This month’s spotlight is on the Purr-fect Christmas Charm Pack by Elena Amo for Moda Fabrics. Filled with adorable cats, snowy cottages, festive stockings, ornaments, and winter florals, this collection brings holiday magic to life Scroll down to the New Sample section to see what we’ve created with it. You won’t want to miss it!
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Looking for a fun and functional project? The Little Bits Pouch Sewing Pattern by Chrissy Lux of Sew Lux Fabric is the perfect accessory for carrying small items like notions, makeup, or everyday essentials. Create this charming pouch using a mini charm pack—our sample features Dotty Thatched by Robin Pickens for Moda Fabrics, adding a playful yet elegant touch. Whether you're sewing it for yourself or as a gift, this stylish little bag is sure to become a favorite!
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This month’s Simply Charming Club project is the Zig-Zag Quilt, made with the whimsical Purrfect Christmas charm pack by Elena Amo for Moda Fabrics. Finished size is 40-1/2" x 46-1/2", ideal for a wall hanging, table topper, or cozy throw. Kits include all fabric for the quilt top and binding, and are $39.99—limited quantities available!
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The Beach Dance quilt by Pine Tree Country Quilts measures 57" x 70" and comes together beautifully using quick-corner triangles and strip sets for all the block units. Planned pressing helps offset seams, making assembly smooth and precise. Kits are available for $115.99.
We’re excited to announce that Becky will be teaching this class on October 11, 2025! This is the perfect opportunity to learn new techniques, work alongside fellow quilters, and bring this beautiful quilt to life. Full class details can be found in the Classes and Events section—reserve your kit and sign up today before spots fill up!
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This Halloween quilt is truly spellbinding! The pattern, Pages Upon Pages, was designed by Laureen Smith for Tourmaline & Thyme Quilts, and we’ve chosen the enchanting Spellbound collection by Deborah Edwards for Northcott Fabrics to bring it to life. The finished quilt measures 59" x 77", making it a perfect seasonal statement piece for your home. Limited kits are available for $104.99, so be sure to get yours before they disappear.
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Embrace the magic of winter with Winter Friends by Deb Strain for Moda Fabrics, a collection that captures the charm of a snowy wonderland. Delicate snowflakes, intricate damasks, and playful snowmen bring warmth and joy to your quilting projects. The palette includes bright whites, berry reds, foggy grays, rich greens, and deep blacks—perfect for cozy winter creations. Each print tells a story of friendship, festivity, and the peaceful beauty of freshly fallen snow. Ideal for quilts, home décor, or seasonal gifts, Winter Friends will add a touch of frosty elegance to every project. Let your next creation sparkle with the spirit of the season.
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Sherbet Sunshine Flannel by Corey Yoder for Moda Fabrics is a warm and cheerful collection that combines sweet charm with timeless appeal. With a mix of soft florals and classic plaids, the fabrics feature a sunny palette inspired by pastel sherbet shades, including soft peach, buttery yellow, fresh mint, and gentle pinks. Ideal for quilts, baby projects, loungewear, or any sewing that calls for a cozy and inviting touch.
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Winter Wonders Comfort Flannel, designed by Kanvas Studio for Benartex, brings the warmth and charm of the season to your sewing projects. The collection features winter-themed patterns including playful snowmen, festive mugs, and traditional snowflakes, all set against rich reds, blues, and whites that capture the spirit of winter. Perfect for creating quilts, cozy apparel, or festive home décor, these fabrics will add a touch of seasonal joy to any project.
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Snuggle-Up Season Flannel from Lewis & Irene Fabrics is the perfect way to welcome autumn. Featuring scattered leaves, acorns, mushrooms, and cuddling gnomes, this whimsical collection captures the cozy charm of fall. As the leaves begin to change, these warm and inviting fabrics are perfect for quilts, home décor, or any project that calls for seasonal comfort. Snuggle Season will keep you feeling warm and inspired all autumn long.
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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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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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Tip Of The Week: Color vs Black and White
Photographing fabrics in full color first allows you to appreciate their richness, detail, and design. Converting those images to black and white helps reveal each fabric’s value—its lightness or darkness—without the influence of color. This makes it easier to choose fabrics that provide strong contrast and visual balance in your quilts. Incorporating this simple step into your fabric selection process can lead to more dynamic, well-balanced quilt designs with depth and dimension.
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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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🌺 Aloha Mystery Quilt Launch! 🌺
Clue #1 has dropped for all registered participants! 🧵✨ If you haven’t joined the fun yet, there’s still time. Just purchase an Aloha Kit for $99.99 or a $50 Gift Certificate to sign up.
This was a last-minute decision to bring a little Aloha spirit 🌴 into the shop, and we’re excited to add some extra fun! On the Thursday following each Wednesday clue drop, we’ll host a Sew-In Night at the shop. The How-To Video and Lara Langston storyline videos will play in the background for everyone’s viewing 🎥, and we’ll have something tasty to eat 🍽—so come hungry!
📅 Sew-In Nights 🕠 Time: 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM 💲 Fee: $15 per night 📆 Dates: August 7, August 14, August 21, August 28 🎉 Big Reveal: September 4
Don’t miss out—sign up today and join the fun! 🌊
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19th Annual Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop
Help us celebrate the 19th year of the Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop—with 42 amazing shops participating, this year’s hop is sure to be one to remember!
Date: July 25 thru August 16, 2025
Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm Sunday 11:00am - 5:00pm
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Stacking Pop-Ups Class
Get organized in style! In this fun and functional workshop, you’ll learn how to make a customizable fabric storage bin—perfect for any space and décor. Available in various sizes, these bins areas versatile as they are attractive. Use them as storage containers, collapsible trash bins, or even flower pots (just add a plastic liner).
You’ll leave class with a completed bin and the skills to make more at home. Best of all, they fold down flat and tie together for easy storage when not in use!
Class Date: Friday, August 8, 2025 Class Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Instructor: Susan Drabek Class Fee: $35.00
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Featherweight Machine Maintenance
Join us for a hands-on sewing machine maintenance class with expert instructor Jordan Frayne! Spend a productive afternoon learning how to care for your beloved Singer Featherweight sewing machine. In this class, you'll discover how to properly inspect, clean, and oil your machine—skills that will help keep it running smoothly for years to come.
Whether you're new to Featherweights or have been sewing with one for years, this class is a must-attend for anyone who wants to better understand their machine and how to maintain it.
What to Bring: Your Singer Featherweight sewing machine and a willingness to learn—no additional preparation required!
Date: Sunday, August 10, 2025 Time: 1:00pm - 3:00pm Instructor: Jordan Frayne Class Fee: $25.00
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August Flash Monday
Hanger Safe Workshop
Travel with peace of mind by creating your own Hanger Safe, a clever and discreet storage solution from The Sewing Stage. Perfect for those times when a hotel room safe isn't available, this innovative project allows you to secure your valuables by hiding them in plain sight.
In this class, you’ll construct a simple yet functional Hanger Safe using a single pattern piece. Once completed, you’ll be able to slip a shirt or garment over the hanger to completely conceal the spacious zippered compartment inside. You'll also learn key design tips to ensure your chosen garment enhances the disguise.
Date: August 11, 2025 Time: 2pm -5 pm or 6pm -9pm Instructor: Ruth Thompson Class Fee: $15.00
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Sashiko Club
Join our Sashiko Club! This is an instructor led open stitching group. During your time together, you will work on your own individual projects and get tips and pointers from other stitchers, and our talented instructor Tammy Berry. During each club Tammy arrives prepared to share patterns, techniques, or a project she is working on. Stitchers are welcome any time throughout the year. Join us for every session or for a few sessions as your time allows.
Date: Wednesday, August 13, 2025 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, August 14, 2025 Thursday, August 21, 2025 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, August 15, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Club Leader: Diana Wendorf Club Fee: $15.00
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Jelly-Roll Mat Class
Learn all the skills needed to create the popular jelly roll rug!
During class, you’ll have the opportunity to complete a 20" x 15"placemat, sewing mat or decorative accent. Kris, an expert in this project, will share tips on color placement and time-saving techniques for success. She’ll also bring rug samples and demonstrate how to adapt the technique for sewing both round and square rugs. Enjoy watching your colorful project come to life!
Date: Saturday, August 16, 2025 Time:9:30am – 2:00 pm Instructors: Kris Livingston Class Fee: $35.00 Skill Level: Beginner
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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 Pulled Pork, Pasta Salad, and Cherry Pie Bars 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, August 22, 2025 Time: 4:00pm - Midnight Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf Class Fee: $25.00
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The Clean Up Clutch
Create a stylish and functional diaper changing mat and clutch in this one-day workshop! Using the Keep In Mind – Diaper Clutch pattern, you’ll sew a portable, foldable mat perfect for on-the-go diaper changes. This project-focused class will guide you through bag-making techniques including zipper installation, snap tab support, and clean, durable finishing.
Whether you're sewing for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, you’ll leave class with a completed or nearly finished project and new skills in bag construction.
Date: Saturday, August 23, 2025 Time: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm Instructor: Lisa K. Class Fee: $55.00
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Sew-In-Sunday
Looking for a relaxing and creative way to spend your Sunday? Join us for Sew-In-Sunday and enjoy a full day of sewing alongside fellow quilting enthusiasts. Bring your own project(s), your machine, and your favorite supplies, and settle in for a day of stitching and fun!
Dinner will be served at 5:00 PM. The menu for the evening will be Pulled Pork, Pasta Salad, and Cherry Pie 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, August 24, 2025 Time: 1:00pm - 7:00pm Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf Class Fee: $25.00
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The Cube Bag Class
Back by popular demand: after an almost two-year run with this class we are thrilled to be offering it once again!
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.
During class, you'll learn how to
- 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!
Please note - there is pre-work/cutting required prior to class
Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025 Time:9:30am – 3:30 pm Instructor: Ruth Thompson Skill Level: Very Confident Beginner/Intermediate Class Fee: $50
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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, September 5, 2025 Time: 5:00pm - 9:00pm Instructor: Diana Wendorf Class Fee: $15.00
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Bat Moon Rising Quilt Class Mastering Curves
Join Becky to create the spooky Bat Moon Rising 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 Bat Moon Rising quilt. Whether you see your finished piece as a Halloween wall hanging, table runner, or even a cozy lap quilt with added borders, this class provides the skills and confidence needed to master those curves!
Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025 Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm Class Fee: $55.00 Instructor: Becky Umenthum
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Umbrella Class Two session class Step into the world of umbrella crafting with our two-part workshop!
Throughout this comprehensive class, you'll embark on a journey of creativity and skill-building. Led by the experienced instructor Lisa, you'll be guided through every step of the process.
No prior experience is necessary; this workshop is designed for beginners and seasoned crafters alike.
Make sure to bring your enthusiasm and a working sewing machine, as you immerse yourself in a day filled with creativity, learning, and fun. By the end of the workshop, you'll walk away with a stylish and functional umbrella that reflects your unique style and craftsmanship.
Don't miss this opportunity to join us for an unforgettable day of crafting and camaraderie!
Date: Monday, September 8 & 29, 2025 Class Time: 9:30 pm – 1:30pm each day Instructor: Lisa K Giebink Class Fee: $55.00
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Kip the Keepsake Dog Class A Funky Friends Stuffed Animal
Join us for a fun and rewarding day of sewing as you create your own adorable stuffed dog! In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to sew Kip, perfect for gifts or keepsakes. Our expert instructor, Lisa K. Giebink, will guide you through the process step-by-step, from start to stuffing and hand-finishing.
This class is perfect for those looking to create a meaningful, handcrafted stuffed dog while learning new sewing techniques.
Date: Friday, September 12, 2025 Time: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm Instructor: Lisa K. Giebink Class Fee: $55.00
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Pet Portrait Quilt Class
Capture the essence of your beloved pet in fabric! In this one-day class, Linda will walk you through the steps to transform a photo of your pet into a small quilt using techniques that bring your photo to life. You'll learn how to replicate the colors, textures, and details of your pet’s image for a personalized, one-of-a-kind quilt.
Join us for a fun, creative day, and leave with a quilted keepsake that showcases your pet!
Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025 Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm Instructor: Linda Heimerl Class Fee: $55.00
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Beginning Quilting Class Three session Class
Join us for our 3 part Beginning Quilting class to learn the very basics of quilt making. In this class you will learn how to use the rotary cutter, cutting mat, basic quilt ruler, reading a quilt pattern while creating the Star Light quilt top . Diana will lead you through the steps to create this fun beginner quilt top. The pattern we have chosen is from Cotton and Joy and is created with the beginner quilter in mind. A straight stitch sewing machine is required for this class.
Dates: September 18, October 2, & 16, 2025 Time: 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm Class Fee: $55.00 Instructor: Diana Wendorf
Fee includes thread and sewing needles
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Machine Binding Class
Are you ready to take your quilting to the next level? Join instructor Katie Glancy in this hands-on instructional class, where you'll learn the tips and tricks of machine binding for quilts. Whether you're a novice or looking to refine your skills, this class offers a comprehensive guide to achieving a polished, professional machine binding finish.
During the class, you'll bring in a project that is ready for binding, and Katie will skillfully guide you through the step-by-step process of machine binding. She'll share her expert techniques and tips, ensuring that you leave with the knowledge to create a beautiful, professional-looking result. By the end of the session, you'll have the confidence and expertise to complete your future quilting projects with impressive machine-bound edges.
Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025 Time: 1:30 pm - 4:30pm Instructor: Katie Glancy Class Fee: $35.00
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Foundation Paper Piecing Colorburst Table Topper Pattern
Have you wanted to learn Foundation Paper Piecing but didn’t know whereto start? Now is your chance! Join instructor Susan Drabek for a full-day, hands on workshop where you’ll learn how to construct the Colorburst table topper using Foundation Paper Piecing techniques.
While our shop sample uses three blocks to create a table runner, the Colorburst pattern is versatile— once you've learned the paper piecing techniques you will be able to make additional blocks at home to turn your table topper into a runner, throw, or full-size quilt! Whether you're new to paper piecing or looking to sharpen your skills, this class will guide you through the process of precision piecing with confidence.
Skills Taught
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Foundation Paper Piecing technique
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Seam matching for a polished finish
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Reducing bulk in your seams for flatter blocks
Leave class with new skills and a beautiful project to show for it!
Date: Tuesday, September 30, 2025 Time: 9:30am - 4:00pm Instructor: Susan Drabek Class Fee: $55.00
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Atlas Zipper Case Class
Get organized in style with the Atlas Zipper Case! This hands-on class will guide you through creating a beautifully quilted, multi-functional organizer that's as practical as it is polished. Whether you're storing sewing supplies, electronics, jewelry, makeup, or everyday essentials, the Atlas Zipper Case is the perfect solution, featuring two large slip pockets, one large zippered pocket, and two small zippered pockets—ideal for keeping small tools or personal items neatly contained. With a finished size of 8"x 10" when closed and 16" x 10" when open, it’s compact enough to tuck into your on-the-go bag with ease. Join us for a fun and functional project that will leave you with a professional-quality organizer and valuable skills to apply to future bags and accessories!
Dates: Friday, October 10, 2025 Time: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm Instructor: Lisa Giebink Class Fee: $55.00
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Beach Dance Quilt Class
Add motion and warmth to your next quilting project with the Beach Dance pattern! This dynamic and versatile quilt design is the perfect setting to learn practical techniques that will elevate your piecing and make your quilting more efficient.
In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to:
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Use the "stitch and flip" method for making triangles — no drawn lines needed
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Plan and press your seams so points match up with ease
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Sew partial seams as part of block construction — a valuable skill for modern piecing
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Apply time-saving piecing and pressing techniques that help you quilt faster without sacrificing precision
Perfect for confident beginners and experienced quilters alike, this class offers the skills and strategies to bring your Beach Dance quilt to life with confidence and style.
Class Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025 Class time:9:30 am – 4:30 pm Instructor: Becky Umenthum Class Fee: $55.00
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