Who doesn't love a free pattern? This weekend only, Saturday through Sunday, we're giving you the chance to receive a free digital copy of our latest Mystery Five-o Mini Mystery pattern Starlight! Don't miss our - scroll down to the Classes and Events section for all the details on how to claim your complimentary pattern.
Quilt Minnesota begins in just 44 days, and our Quilt Minnesota magazines will be available in-store starting Monday, June 16th. Be sure to stop by to pick one up and start planning your shop hop adventure. You can also pre-order your fabric online or in-store.
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Let’s kick things off with something fun! You might not need another tape measure, but you’ll definitely want one of these charming crocheted turtle or fish tape measure. Each one extends to 60 inches and comes in your choice of green, pink, or blue.
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Now for something practical! Cutting mats can be a bigger investment for quilters, so keeping them in top shape is important. The Gypsy Quilter Mat Cleaning Heart shaped scrubber helps extend the life of your self-healing mat by removing dust and fabric fibers that get in the way of the mat’s healing process. Just slip your fingers into the opening and rub it across the surface—its varied ridges make it an effective and hardworking cleaning tool.
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The Raindrop Quilt pattern by Fancy That Design House features a lovely geometric layout that pairs beautifully with the Moa Things Above fabric collection. Measuring 62" x 74", this eye-catching quilt makes a stunning statement in any space. We have a limited number of kits available for $135.99, so be sure to grab yours before they're gone.
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Autumn Breeze, designed by Deborah Edwards and Melanie Samra for Northcott Fabrics, is a breathtaking fall collection that captures the beauty of the season. Featuring a harmonious blend of birds, leaves, branches, soft watercolor textures, and playful dots, this collection brings the warmth of autumn to life in rich shades of emerald, teal, and orange.
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Sunny Safari by Northcott brings adventure and imagination to every stitch. Created to charm young explorers and the quilters who sew for them, this playful collection is filled with cheerful animals, sunny colors, and whimsical jungle scenes. Lions, giraffes, elephants, and monkeys come to life under bright skies and leafy canopies, while coordinating prints like footprints, stars, safari stripes, and subtle textures add the perfect finishing touch.
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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.
Please note: due to the holiday season, Open Sew will only be available on the 1st Friday in November and December; the 3rd Tuesday sessions will not be held during those months.
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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Monthly Promotions at Affinity For Quilts
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Double Punch Tuesday – Earn double loyalty punches on every 1st Tuesday of the month!
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Freebie Monday – Visit us every 2nd Monday of the month for a surprise freebie with your purchase.
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Fat Quarter Wednesday – On the 3rd Wednesday of each month, buy 6 fat quarters and get the 7th one FREE!
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Sale Wall Friday – Enjoy an extra 10% off all Sale Wall fabrics every 4th Friday of the month.
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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
Don’t toss out those old cutting mats—give them new life as base stabilizers for your handmade bags. These stabilizers are a great way to help your bags maintain their shape and prevent sagging, especially when carrying heavier items. Depending on your design, they can be sewn into the lining or made removable for added versatility.
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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, add your name to the waitlist. We’ll reach out if a spot opens, and the list helps us gauge interest for future classes.
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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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, June 12, 2025
Thursday, June 19, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly gathering
Instructor: Sharon Lenertz
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Get Your Free Copy of Starlight
A Stunning Pattern to Spark Your Next Quilt!
🎉 What a journey! We’re celebrating the success of the Starlight Mini-Mystery with a special thank-you gift! 🌟
For 48 hours only—starting at midnight on Saturday, June 14 through midnight on Sunday, June 15—you can download the official Starlight pattern absolutely FREE, no mystery involved! This charming 21” x 21” mini quilt is a perfect weekend project or a heartfelt handmade gift.
✨ Originally released through Mystery Five-0, this pattern is now yours to enjoy—FREE for a limited time!
🔐 Use code: ST4RL1GHT63 at checkout
🛍️ Download here: [Insert your shop’s product link]
💬 Share with a friend—good things are better when shared!
📌 (Regular digital price: $5.99 – now FREE June 14th through June 15th
Thank you for stitching along with us… and stay tuned for the next quilting adventure from Mystery Five-0!
Date: Saturday June 14, 2025 through Sunday June 15, 2025
Place: https://www.affinityforquilts.com
Time: Midnight to Midnight
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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.
Pre-Class Preparation
Before the class, there are a few steps you’ll need to complete as outlined on the supply list.
Join us for a fun, creative day, and leave with a quilted keepsake that showcases your pet!
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $55.00
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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, June 20, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Club Leader: Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00
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Metro Twist Quilt Class
Pattern by Sew Kind of Wonderful
Join us for a fun and skill-building class using the Metro Twist pattern by Sew Kind of Wonderful. This modern quilt features a fresh and dynamic twist design created with curved piecing, perfect for showcasing your favorite fabrics with movement and flow.
In this class, students will learn how to confidently work with curves while creating a visually striking quilt. Whether you're new to sewing curves or want to fine-tune your skills, this class will guide you through each step of the process.
Skills Taught in Class
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How to use the Quick Curve Ruler for cutting precise curved pieces and trimming blocks
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Techniques for sewing smooth and accurate curved seams
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How to cut, organize, and sew mirror image blocks for balanced and symmetrical quilt layouts
This is a great opportunity to expand your quilting skills while creating a modern and eye-catching quilt top. Join us and discover how fun and approachable curved piecing can be!
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-4:00 pm
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
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. This month, we’re serving up Burgers and Brats in Wade's famous Beer Sauce, Baked Beans, Chips and Dip, and Strawberry Oatmeal 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, June 22, 2025
Time: 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $25.00
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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.
This month, we’re serving up Burgers and Brats in Wade's famous Beer Sauce, Baked Beans, Chips and Dip, and Strawberry Oatmeal 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, June 27, 2025
Time: 4:00pm - Midnight
Event Hostess: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $25.00
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Landscape Collage Quilt Class
Turn a favorite landscape photo into a one-of-a-kind quilted wall hanging in this creative class! Working from your own photo, you’ll learn how to trace, fuse, and layer fabrics to bring your image to life in fabric form. Building your composition from background to foreground will add depth and detail to your project
This is a class of intermediate difficulty for those who want to explore art quilting techniques in a supportive, hands-on environment.
Date: Saturday, June 28
Time: 9:30 am-4:00 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $55.00
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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, July 9, 2025
Time: 9:30pm-12:30pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee: $15.00
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Christmas in July: Creating with Half-Square Triangles
Get a head start on your holiday projects in this festive class! Learn a quick and easy method for making half-square triangles using the Angle Ruler, and create table runners or ornaments from the same versatile block design—just in different sizes.
In This Class, You’ll Learn:
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Efficient half-square triangle construction with the Angle Ruler
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Cutting squares and triangles from the same strips
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Layout options using provided designs or your own
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Ornament hanger construction
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A nearly invisible stitch to close ornament openings
Make one project or all of them—your choice!
Perfect for confident beginners and beyond.
Class Date: Saturday, July 12, 2025
Class Time: 1:00-pm -4:30 pm
Instructor: Becky Unemthum
Class Fee: $35.00
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Flash Monday--July
We’re excited to bring Flash Monday back -- and it's better than ever! These fun, 3-hour classes are all about making something great — and fast. Spend a few hours with Ruth and she'll walk you through each project step-by-step!
July’s Project: The Travel Case
This month we’re making the Travel Case from P3 Designs — a slim, stylish little organizer that’s packed with storage. Perfect for carrying your sewing tools, and it only takes a few fat quarters (or 2/3 yard of fabric) plus a bit of interfacing to make!
Grab your fabric and come join us for a few hours of sewing, learning, and fun!
Date: Monday, July 14, 2025
Time: 2:00pm - 5:00pm -Or- 6:00pm-9:00pm
Instructor: Ruth Thompson
Class Fee: $15.00
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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.
During class, you’ll learn:
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How to prepare and organize your fabrics for collage
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Techniques for layering and fusing pieces
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Tips for bringing personality and movement into your design
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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!
Class date: Saturday, July 19, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lori Adameitz
Class Fee: $45.00
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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!
The pre-sale for the 2025 Quilt Minnesota fabric line is now open! You can place your order directly through our website at www.affinityforquilts.com. The site is set up for 1-yard increments, but if you'd like a different amount—like 1½ yards or ¾ of a yard—just leave a note with your order. Prefer a more personal touch? Feel free to give us a call or stop into the shop to place your order in person!
As in past years, no upfront payment is required. Starting July 21st, Diana will begin reaching out to secure payment so we can have your fabric cut and ready for pickup on July 25th, the first day of the Shop Hop. Please note: if payment hasn’t been secured by July 28th, your pre-order will be released and returned to inventory.
Date: July 25 thru August 16, 2025
Store Hours: Monday - Saturday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday 11:00am - 5:00pm
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Tuffet Class
Add a touch of charm to your home with a handmade tuffet! This two-session class is perfect for anyone looking to create a unique, stylish footstool with a quilted flair.
Session 1: Creating the Tuffet Cover - July 26, 2025
In the first session, you’ll learn the foundation piecing technique to sew the tuffet cover. Kristen will guide you through the process and help you get as much sewing done as possible in class. You’ll complete any remaining sewing at home before the next session.
Session 2: Assembling the Tuffet - August 9, 2025
Come ready to bring it all together! In this session, you’ll learn how to assemble your tuffet step-by-step. By the end of class, you’ll have a beautiful, finished 18” round tuffet ready to take home and enjoy.
Whether you're looking to add a personalized accent piece to your space or create a thoughtful handmade gift, this class is a fun and rewarding way to do it!
Dates: Saturday, July 26, & August 9, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-1:30 pm each day
Instructor: Kristen Bender
Class Fee: $325.00 (includes tuffet kit and pattern)
$110.00 for students that own their kit and pattern
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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: Sunday July 27, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee: $25.00
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Hexi Fun Quilt Class
Join us for a hands-on quilt class where you'll create the Hexie Fun quilt by Sew Mariana for Cut Loose Press, a 28" x 28"project perfect for learning and showcasing new techniques. You'll master the Creative Grids Hexie Ruler to maximize your fabric and create precise hexagon designs with ease. Susan will share her expertise in straight-line quilting, offering tips for achieving professional results using your domestic sewing machine. To complete your quilt, Susan will demonstrate how to add a hanging sleeve, giving it a polished finish and making it easy to display. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your quilting skills!
Key Takeaways
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Mastering the Creative Grids Hexi Ruler: Maximize your fabric by learning the ins and outs of using the Creative Grids Hexie Template/Ruler.
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Straight-Line Quilting: Susan will share tips on successful straight line quilting with your domestic sewing machine
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Hanging Sleeve Demo: Susan will demonstrate how to add a hanging sleeve for a professional touch and easy display of your finished projects.
Date: Thursday, July 31, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $55.00
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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: Sunday, August 3, 2025
Time: 9:30am - 4:00pm
Instructor: Susan Drabek
Class Fee: $55.00
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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: 2:00pm - 4:00pm
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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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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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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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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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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