Happy May Day!

Posted by Diana Wendorf on

Welcome to What's Up Wednesday!   

Happy May Day!   

Just a heads-up that Tuesday, May 7th is Double Punch Tuesday. Don't miss this excellent chance to quickly fill up your loyalty cards and earn $25.00 off your next purchase.

Due to the Memorial Day weekend, the dates for Midnight Open Sew and Sew-In-Sunday have been rescheduled. Please check the Classes and Events section for these updated dates. However, the shop will be open on Memorial Day for all your shopping needs, so be sure to drop by.

At times it is important to reconsider Affinity For Quilts store policies to ensure we have our community's best interest in mind.  Affinity's dedication to the quilting and needlecraft community includes providing a welcoming environment, promoting a sense of community, inclusivity and a place where new skills can be learned. With that in mind, we will be making the following changes to our Open Sew space.

  • We are pleased to offer two free open sew days each month, on the 1st Friday and the 3rd Tuesday, from 10am to 4pm. There is no charge for the space, but we ask that you call to register in advance as space is limited. Registration for each month will begin the 15th of the month prior. 
  • Private groups can use the space for a fee of $10 per day, per group. The individual reserving the space is responsible for paying this fee and can collect contributions from other attendees if desired.
  • We also invite non-profits and Guilds to use our facilities for their events. Please contact the shop to discuss and arrange your event.
 

Now onto the fun stuff!  What new fabric arrived this week?

The blooming of flowers brings undeniable beauty, and thanks to those April showers, we're now enjoying the May flowers here at Affinity for Quilts. The Summer Wildflowers collection by Michael Miller Fabrics features vibrant summer poppies, cornflowers, and daisies in vivid red, white, and blue. This collection is ideal for unique, patriotic-themed projects.

Get ready for the spooky Halloween season with the charming collection by designer Michael Davis. Meow-Gical Night showcases traditional Halloween characters including mysterious black cats, eerie pumpkins, and sinister spiders, all set against the iconic orange and purple color palette.


Classroom Space
If your group needs a meeting place, please call Affinity For Quilts at 651-429-1039 to inquire about availability and pricing. We also offer evening meeting spaces for Guilds by request.
  

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 preparing your background blocks for appliqué, ensure that the straight grain aligns uniformly. Even if the fabric seems uniform in color, it might possess a nap. Moreover, a quilt gains more strength when its fabric's straight grain runs lengthwise across it.
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
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
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, May 9, 2024
          Thursday, May 16, 2024
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly
 gathering
Instructor: Sharon  Lenertz

 

The Hudson Bag

Well how cool is a cooler!  The exterior of the bag can be made with a variety of fabrics, but the interior really needs to be made of waterproof material if you plan to put anything in it that may spill. This bag is a relatively simple but unique design, using foam as the primary source for the structure…but it also provides a construction challenge, so there are a lot of tips and tricks to help with these steps. With this bag you will learn the following:


- Working with laminated cotton
- Working with foam
- Working with Insul-Bright
- Using webbing as a strap/handle alternative
- Why video tutorials are not just beneficial but sometimes necessary

Date:  Saturday, May 11, 2024
Time:  10:00am-4:30pm
Skill Level:  Strong Intermediate
Class Fee:  $70.00 (Pattern and supplies purchased separately)
Instructor:  Ruth Thompson

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, May 17, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Club Leader:  Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00

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.  The menu for May will be Chicken Tacos, Spanish Rice, Chips and Salsa, and Margarita Bars for dessert.


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

Date:   Friday, May 17, 2024
Time:  4:00pm-Midnight
Event Host: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $25.00
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.
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 May will be Chicken Tacos, Spanish Rice, Chips and Salsa, and Margarita Bars for dessert.

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

Date:   Sunday, May 19, 2024
Time:  1:00pm - 7:00pm 
Event Host: Diana Wendorf

Class Fee:  $25.00

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

Thursday Threads - Meshing Around

Let’s get ready for the beach! Meshing Around is a lightweight drawstring backpack-style bag that is easy to make and perfect for carrying everything from swimsuits to pool toys. The breathable mesh provides ventilation and visibility of contents, and fun fabric bases add sturdiness, color and interest. Mesh slip pockets on the front also keep essentials easy to reach. A cinch top provides easy closure and opening; the closure straps double as a backpack/over-the-shoulder straps for simplicity of design and to help ensure the bag stays closed when carrying. Perfect for gifts, the bags can be personalized for each recipient. In class we will make the large size, which finishes at 15.5”W x 19”H.

Date:  Thursday, June 6, 2024
Time:  9:30am - 1:30pm
Instructor:  Ruth Thompson
Cass Fee:  $32.00
The Retro Sling
 
This has become one of my absolute favorite bags to make; I’m over a dozen now and counting! The fabric options for this bag are wide and varied – cotton, canvas, denim, vinyl and even leather.  The front has a zippered pocket, a slip pocket behind the flap, a wonderfully roomy center zippered compartment and a deep zippered pocket in the back. With this bag you will learn the following:

- Working with waxed canvas
- Working with and considerations for Decovil Light, fusible fleece, foam
- Using strap connectors
- Sewing zipper gussets
- Binding raw seams vs “birthing” the bag

Date:  Saturday, June 8, 2024
Time:  10:00 - 4:30pm
Skill Level:  Advanced
Instructor:  Ruth Thompson
Class Fee: $70.00 (Pattern purchased seperately)

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

Step into the world of umbrella crafting with our full-day 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:  Saturday, June 22, 2024
Time:  9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Instructor:  Lisa K Giebink
Class Fee:  $55.00

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

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, July 13, 2024
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lori Adameitz 
Class Fee: $45.00 
(Pattern sold separately)

Boro Sashiko
 

Join Tammy in the Boro Sashiko class, where you'll use your fabric scraps and Sashiko embroidery to create unique textile art. This class is ideal for quilters looking to repurpose favorite pieces of fabric into something new. It features a raw edge, hand-sewn approach with opportunities to learn various creative techniques.

Bring your fabric scraps, scissors, and embroidery supplies to explore the Japanese tradition of Boro Sashiko. Whether you're new to Sashiko or have some experience, this class is designed to enhance your skills and inspire your creativity. No prior Sashiko stitching experience is needed.


Date:  Saturday, July 20,  2024
Time: 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
Class Fee: $30.00
Instructor: Tammy Berry

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
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

October 5-6, 2024
St Cloud Heritage Quilters 2024 Quilt Show
Celebrating Our Stars @ River's Edge
Location:  River's Edge Convention Center, 10 4th Street, St Cloud, MN  56301
Hours:  Saturday, October 5th 9:00am-5:00pm
              Sunday, October 6th 10:00am-4:00pm
Admission:  $10.00

 
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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