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Celebrate Independence Day with the Stars and Stripes Forever collection by Lori Whitlock for Riley Blake Designs! This patriotic collection is filled with classic American symbols, including flags, fireworks, stars, and more—perfect for capturing the spirit of the 4th of July. Designed in a timeless red, white, and blue palette, these fabrics are ideal for quilts, home décor, and festive sewing projects. Whether you're creating a picnic quilt, table runner, or wall hanging, Stars and Stripes Forever will add a bold and celebratory touch to your designs. Let your creativity shine and make your next project as dazzling as a fireworks display!
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Classroom Space
If your group needs a meeting place, please call Affinity For Quilts at 651-429-1039 to inquire about availability.
- We offer two free open sew days each month, the 1st Friday and the 3rd Tuesday, from 10am to 4pm. Registration for each month will begin the 15th of the month prior as space is limited. Due to the holidays the open sew space is only available on the 1st Friday of November and December. The third Tuesday will not be available in November and December.
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Private groups can rent the space for a fee of $10 per day, per group.
- We also invite non-profits and Guilds to use our facilities for their events. Please contact the shop to discuss and arrange your event.
Recurring Store Specials
- Double Punch Tuesday: Every 1st Tuesday of the month.
- Freebie Monday: Every 2nd Monday of the month.
- FQ Wednesday: Every 3rd Wednesday of the month. Buy 6 Get 7th Free.
- Sale Wall Friday: Every 4th Friday of the month. Take an extra 10% off all Sale Wall Fabrics.
Winter Weather Notifications
- A Facebook post will be added to our page with details of the closure.
- An e-mail will be sent to everyone who is a current subscriber to the What's Up Wednesday newsletter.
- The website calendar will be updated with a note stating "Closed due to the weather"
- If the weather is bad and you are unsure if the shop is open please call before heading out. If no one answers the phone and it is between the hours of 9am-5pm then we are most likely closed.
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 GroupShare 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! For smoother machine quilting, apply a layer of car wax—not machine wax—to your sewing table. This creates a slick surface that allows your fabric to glide effortlessly as you stitch, reducing drag and making free-motion quilting or straight-line stitching easier. Simply apply the car wax, buff it out, and enjoy the improved maneuverability of your quilt pieces. This simple trick can help prevent snags and improve the overall quilting experience!
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| Just a reminder if you have a tip you would like to share with our readers just e-mail Diana at quilt@affinityforquilts.com. |
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Class Registration and Cancellation Policy
To ensure fair access, payment is required at registration. If you need to cancel, please notify us at least 7 days before the class date for a refund, so we can offer your spot to someone else. Thank you for understanding!
Class Prep Information
Upon registering, you’ll receive a list of required supplies and preparations. Please review this to ensure a smooth class experience! If you register by phone, we’ll email the details to you.
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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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, March 7, 2025
Time: 5:00pm - 9:00pm
Instructor: Diana Wendorf
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, March 12, 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, March 13, 2025
Thursday, March 20, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly gathering
Instructor: Sharon Lenertz
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Color-filled Fabric Bowl Class
Enjoy the interplay of colorful fabrics and make decorative and useful bowls in this engaging sewing class! We will use the Bali Bowls pattern to learn two distinct methods for creating fabric bowls, both beginning with 2 ½-inch fabric strips. The first method uses double-sided fusible batting to stabilize the bowl, while the second method relies on clothesline to form the structure.
In this class, you will receive comprehensive tips for making and finishing your bowl to perfection. Whether you are a seasoned sewer or a beginner, you'll find this class enjoyable and rewarding.
Our instructor, Kris Livingston, brings extensive experience in Jelly roll rug making and fabric-wrapped clothesline bowls. With Kris's guidance, you'll master the techniques needed to create your own unique and beautiful fabric bowls.
Join us for a creative and fun-filled session where you'll leave with a project and new sewing skills!
Date: Friday, March 14, 2025
Time: 9:30am – 2:30 pm
Instructor: Kris Livingston
Class Fee: $35.00
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Beginning Sashiko
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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, March 15, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee: $25.00
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Celebrate Worldwide Quilting Day with Us!
Open Sew Event
Join Affinity For Quilts as we celebrate Worldwide Quilting Day with a Community Open Sew Day! This special day is dedicated to bringing quilters together and honoring the craft that connects us all.
Bring your projects, sewing machine, and creativity for an afternoon of sewing and community. Whether you're working on a current project or starting something new, enjoy the camaraderie of fellow quilters in a welcoming space.
Space is limited, so please sign up to reserve your spot!
Date: Saturday March 15, 2025
Time: 1:00pm-4:30pm
Class Fee: Free
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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 sample is just one of several pattern choices for this class. The results are beautiful and the possibilities are endless!
Class Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lori Adameitz
Class Fee: $45.00
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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, March 21, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Club Leader: Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00
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Convex Illusions Quilt Class
Join us for an engaging 2-day quilt class featuring the captivating Convex Illusions pattern(60"x60"). This striking quilt gives the illusion of a center that curves outward, creating a visually dynamic project. Throughout the class, you'll learn essential techniques to master sewing and ironing strip sets so they remain perfectly straight—no curves! Additionally, we’ll explore methods for adding borders to a quilt center set on point, ensuring a polished and professional finish. Whether you're looking to challenge your quilting skills or simply try something new, this class is perfect for expanding your repertoire. Sign up today to secure your spot!
Class Prep: There is cutting required at home before the day of class
Dates: Saturday, March 22, & Sunday April 6, 2025
Time- Day One: 9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Day Two: 12:00 am – 5:00 pm
Instructor: Becky Umentheum
Class Fee: $70.00
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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 March will be Beef Stroganoff served over egg noodles, Green Salad, Bread, and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars for dessert.
We currently have five permanent open spots. If you would like to be added to the permeant attendant list please call 612-386-6959 to reserve your spot.
Continue to inspire your fellow quilters with your handiwork during Show-and-Tell, which will take place after supper. We do not expect these spot to be open for long so so not delay in securing your spot.
Date: Sunday, March 23, 2025
Time: 1:00pm - 7:00pm
Event Host: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $25.00
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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 March will be Beef Stroganoff served over egg noodles, Green Salad, Bread, and Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars for dessert.
Continue to inspire your fellow quilters with your handiwork during Show-and-Tell, which will take place after supper.
Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
Time: 4:00pm-Midnight
Event Host: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee: $25.00
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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.
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, March 29, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $55.00
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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: Thursday, April 3, 2025
Time: 9:30 am - 1:00 pm
Class Fee: $30.00
Instructor: Tammy Berry
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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, April 5, 2025
Time: 1:30 pm - 4:30pm
Instructor: Katie Glancy
Class Fee: $35.00
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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.
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, April 26, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl
Class Fee: $55.00
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April 1st will be here before we know it, marking the start of the All Minnesota Shop Hop! The Shop Hop magazine is an invaluable resource to keep in your car all year long. It includes the names, addresses, phone numbers, and hours of all 61 participating Minnesota quilt shops. Plus, it features six exclusive quilt patterns designed specifically for the event.
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All Minnesota Shop Hop
It's hard to believe we're celebrating the fourth year of this incredible sewing adventure across our beautiful state of Minnesota!
If you’re not already following the All Minnesota Shop Hop online, be sure to visit their website and join their Facebook group for updates and information!
For complete details about the All Minnesota Shop Hop, visit their website at www.MinnesotaShopHop.com.
Join their Facebook Group to see Shop Hopper experiences and learn more about the stores at FB: AllMinnesotaShopHop.
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Classic Market Tote Class
Join us for a hands-on class where you’ll learn the techniques to create a beautiful and functional market tote bag using the Auntie Two Bali Bags Revisited pattern. Instructor Kris Livingston will guide you through two methods to create this bag. The first method is covering clothesline with fabric for a unique, and creating another sturdy design using 2 ½-inch fabric strips stabilized with fusible interfacing. You will also learn to finish the top of the bag for a professional look, add fabric or purchased handles and incorporate an internal pocket for extra storage.
Kris brings her expertise in bowl and rug making techniques to this class, encouraging creativity and skill-building with your sewing machine. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your sewing techniques and create a stylish tote!
There will be a short break for lunch
Date: Friday, May 9, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 2:30 pm
Instructor: Kris Livingston
Class Fee: $35.00
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Crisscross Apron Class
Join Kris to create Minnesota designer Mary Mulari’s popular Crisscross Apron. This reversible apron slips easily over the head with no ties, making it a comfortable and practical choice for both adults and children.
In this class, you’ll learn techniques to make apron construction quick and easy, including using a rotary cutter for efficient pattern cutting and adding fun details like heart or cupcake-shaped pockets. Kris will share customization ideas and expert tips to help you create a one-of-a-kind apron. Choose from adult or child-size patterns and get creative with novelty prints—perfect for holiday baking or as a thoughtful handmade gift. Whether you're sewing for yourself or a someone else, this class is a great way to build skills and enjoy the process of making something special.
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Instructor: Kris Livingston
Skill Level: All skill levels welcome
Class Fee: $35.00
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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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