Marketfest Means It Is Summer in White Bear Lake Minnesota!

Posted by Diana Wendorf on

2199 4th Street  - White Bear Lake, MN  55110
Phone:  651-429-1039 
Website - www.affinityforquilts.com
FaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/affinityforquilts/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/affinityforquilts/
Hours:  Monday thru Saturday 9am-5pm
Evening hours available by appointment
Sunday:  Closed
White Bear Lake Marketfest Hours
Thursday Evening Beginning June 15, 2023 through July 27, 2023  5pm-9pm 
Welcome to What's Up Wednesday!   

Today is the last day for the All Minnesota Shop Hop.  I want to congratulate those who visited all the participating shops in the state, and thank everyone for visiting our shop.  Just a reminder your passport is mailed directly to the organizers of the event at the address listed on the passport.  Also, remember that you only have to visit 5 shops anywhere in the state to be entered into the prize drawing.  It was such a great Shop Hop, I am already looking forward to the 2024 All Minnesota Shop Hop!

Quilt Minnesota 2023 will be here before we know it!  This is always an exciting time of the year for us as we put all the months of planning into action.  The staff and sample makers are busy getting many great samples ready for you.   We will begin showcasing all of our samples in the July 5th newsletter so be sure to stay tuned.   


The 2023 Quilt Minnesota fabric line is in the shop, so please stop in and take a peak, or view on-line at www.affinityforquilts.com.  You can preorder your fabric selections on-line or in our shop. Affinity For Quilt does not require payment for any pre-orders.  Beginning July 25th you will be called to secure payment for your order.  Our website is also set up for  "zero" dollar for all pre-orders.  

With Memorial Day behind us we kick off all the summer festivities sponsored by our various communities.  In White Bear Lake we kick off our festivities with Manitou Days and Marketfest.  This year Affinity For Quilts will have two of our teachers vending for Marketfest.  Ruth, who is our instructor for the ever popular Cube Bag, will be showcasing her bag making talents with pre-made bags just waiting for a new home for the first three weeks of Marketfest.  Aryn from The Blue Fox, who teaches the Barn Quilts classes, will be showcasing her talents for the remaining weeks of Marketfest.  Affinity For Quilts will also be open on Thursday nights for your shopping pleasure until 9pm.  For the complete schedule for both our vendors please see the Classes and Events section.  

I want to take a moment to thank everyone who donates quilts and blankets for Project Linus.  If you are not familiar with Project Linus they provide handmade blankets to children 0-18 in the United States who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need.  Affinity For Quilts is a Project Linus drop off location for the Twin Cities Chapter.  If you are interested in becoming a Blanketeer please visit the Twin Cities Chapter of Project Linus at the following website for all the quilt requirements information.  
https://sites.google.com/site/gtcaprojectlinus/ 
Pictured below are just a few of the quilts made and ready for pickup.  

Nothing is better than the Grand Finale of a Firework show and all of the bursts of color that light up the night sky.  Our newest sample Grand Finale by Pine Tree County Quilts is lighting up the night sky using the Light Up The Sky collection from QT Fabrics.  The quilt measures 52" x 52" and we have limited kits available for $79.99.
I am excited to announce that tomorrow, June 1, 2023 Tilda's newest fabrics collection Bloomsville will be available for sale along with the coordinating line Abloom.   

Bloomsville was designed by Norwegian designer Tone Finnanger.  Bloomsville is an explosion of 
bright colors and flowers in bloom.  Perfect for all your summer projects.  The feature design Garden Vista is inspired by old chinoiseries and a sweet motif found on a vase from a factory that closed in the 1960's.  The bold flower motif of Late Bloomer takes inspiration from Indian chintz with large imaginative flowers that are easy to cut into, making the pattern work well for both large and small pieces.  
Tilda’s yummy blenders called Abloom, which are certainly bolder than a typical blender, work beautifully with the new Bloomsville collection. 
Welcome all you little explorers to your cosmic adventure!  Little Explorers by Patrick Lose for Northcott fabrics features brightly colored planets, stars, spaceships, and constellations.  
If you are unable find an item you are looking for, talk to any Affinity For Quilts team member and we will do our best to order it for you.  We wish we could carry all of the items for your quilting needs, but some things need to be special ordered.  

Classroom Space
Our classroom space is currently open.  If your group would like a place to meet please contact Affinity For Quilts at 651-429-1039.  Evening meeting space is available; however, there will be a fee that will need to be negotiated with the shop for evening meetings.

Reoccurring Store Specials
  • 1st Tuesday of each month - Double Punch Tuesday
  • 2nd Monday of each month - Freebie Monday
  • 3rd Wednesday of each month - FQ Wednesday - Buy 6 Get 7th Free
  • 4th Friday of each 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, 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.  Jordan can be reached at  612-275-3356 if you would like to speak to him directly or to make an appointment. He is currently offering curbside pickup and delivery.


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 taken to the Facebook group.  Select 'join group' and you will be added.  It's that easy!  

 
Tip of the Week!  When appliqueing dark fabrics onto dark fabrics mark the applique edges with a white chalk pencil.  The edges are easier to see and a quick swipe of the finger removes all traces of the chalk.  
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 give all of our customers the opportunity to take classes we will be requesting payment at the time of registration.  If you need to cancel, we ask for notification 7 days prior to the class date so we can offer your spot to someone on our wait list and refund your registration fee.  Thanks so much for your understanding of this policy change and happy quilting everyone.

When you sign up for a class at Affinity For Quilts you will receive information about the class including any supplies needed for the class and often a few things that need to be completed before the day of the class.  Be sure to read through the supply/class prep list to ensure you have everything you need for a really wonderful class experience.  If you sign up and pay by phone, not to worry, we can email you all of the information you need for a successful class experience. 

If you are interested in an event and it is full, please add your name to the wait list, if someone can not attend then we will call the first person on the wait list to see if they are available to take that spot.   


The wait list is also used to see how popular an event is and 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.
 
Pineapple Rings Quilt Class

In this class you will learn the pineapple block technique using the Creative Grids Pineapple Trim Tool. Sewing square pineapple blocks can be challenging, however, with Becky's guidance and using the Creative Grids ruler you will create 10” square pineapple blocks while learning precision piecing, pressing, and trimming providing students with the tools to finish the project at their own pace. Once the process is learned, the project goes together fairly quickly. You will love the way this project goes together and secondary design that the block layout in creates!

There is some class prep for this class. Follow the instructions on the supply list for fabric cutting.

Date: Saturday,  June 3, 2023
Time: 9:30 am- 4:30 pm 
Class Fee: $50.00
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Singer Featherweight Machine Maintenance Class

Spend the morning with Jordan to learn how to take care of your Singer Featherweight sewing machine. In this class you will be inspecting, oiling, cleaning, and sewing on your machine!  You will leave this class knowing the dos and don'ts of these great old Singer machines.  

Class Prep: There is no class prep for this class

Date: Tuesday, June 6, 2023
Time:10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Instructors: Jordan Frayne 
Class Fee:  $20.00

Open Embroidery With Sharon

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

Date:   Wednesday, June 8, 2023
            Thursday, June 15, 2023
Time:  10:00am-3:30pm
Class Fee:  $12.00
Instructor:  Sharon Lenertz
Beginning Sashiko

Join Tammy for this introductory class and learn the art of Sashiko. Students will learn the Japanese running stitch embroidery, using the pre-printed coasters project that is perfect for beginner students. This stitch method can be used in the traditional way to mend cloth items or to add texture and interest to new projects. Tammy will share her tips, tricks, and expertise as she teaches you this beautiful form of hand stitching. Supplies are few to try this addictive hobby.

Date: Saturday, June 10, 2023
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Class Fee: $20.00
Instructor: Tammy Berry

Sashiko Stitching Club

Join our instructor led open Sashiko stitching group.  During your time together, you will be able to work on your own individual projects and get tips and pointers from other stitchers, and our beloved and talented instructor Tammy Berry. During each club Tammy arrives prepared to share patterns, techniques, or a new project. Participants will also receive a 15% discount for their Sashiko supplies, and fabric purchases.  Discount exclude thread, notions and Quilt MN fabrics.

Be sure to call today to reserve your spot in this fun club!


Date:  Wednesday, June 14, 2023  
Time:  12:30pm-3:30pm
Instructor:  Tammy Berry
Class Fee:  $12.00
The Cube Bag Class

Join Ruth for The Cube Bag class. In this class you will make a bag, work with foam, create pockets, and put a zipper in your project. This pattern is a smaller version of the popular Boxy Tote! It is the perfect bag to use for your on the go sewing supplies, small knitting projects, make-up bag, and more. Ruth's detail oriented teaching style and written instructions will give you the confidence and tools to make this bag again on your own!  

This class is intended for a confident beginner student and requires fabric to be cut based on instructors handout prior to class.  

Date:  Saturday, June  16, 2023
Time:  9:30am – 3:30 pm
Instructor:  Ruth Thompson
Class Fee: $45.00

There will be a half hour break for lunch

The Art of Embellishment

Embellishment is a technique that uses various materials to decorate an object. In this class Linda will teach you how to embellish your project.  She will be discussing material mediums and ways to embellish your projects.  Then you will be working on your own embellishment project.  It can be something as simple as a notebook cover or embellishing a collage quilt that you have created, such as the seahorse featured in our photo.

Prep:  If embellishing a collage, students must bring a completed collage piece to class.  If embellishing a notebook, students must bring a notebook to work with in class.  A complete list of supplies needed will be provided at time of registration.  


Skill Level:  Beginning
Date:  Tuesday, June 17, 2023
Time:  9:30am - 12:30pm
Class Fee:  $25.00
Instructor:  Linda Treague

Beaming Quilt Class

Join Sue for the Beaming quilt class. While this quilt looks difficult it is easy to create and quick to finish. You will practice half square triangle and flying geese techniques. The over-sized blocks will give you the opportunity to practice squaring up your blocks so that they fit together nicely. Choose from three different sizes - Baby, Lap, and Bed size. Though you may not finish in class (especially if you choose the largest size) you will leave the class having the skills to finish your project at home in very little time.

Class Prep: There is cutting required at home before the day of class.

There will be a half hour break for lunch

Date: Thursday, June 22, 2023
Time: 9:30 am – 4:00 pm
Instructor: Sue Severiano
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Class Fee:  $55.00

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.  This month we will be having Burgers and/or Brats in Wade's famous beer sauce, homemade baked beans, chips with French Onion Dip,  and the Strawberry Pretzel Dessert.

New for 2023, show-and-tell!  Inspire your fellow quilters with your handiwork.  We will be having show-and-tell after supper, at approximately 6:30pm.   


Date:   Friday, June 23, 2023 
Time:  4:00pm-Midnight
Event Host: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $20.00
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, June 24, 2023
Time:  1:00pm - 4:00pm
Instructor:  Aryn Lill
Class Fee:  $50.00  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.  This month we will be having Burgers and/or Brats in Wade's famous beer sauce, homemade baked beans, chips with French Onion Dip,  and the Strawberry Pretzel Dessert.


New for 2023, show-and-tell!  Inspire your fellow quilters with your handiwork.  We will be having show-and-tell prior to supper, at approximately 4:30pm.   

Date:   Sunday, June 25, 2023   
Time:  1:00pm - 7:00pm 
Event Host: Diana Wendorf

Class Fee:  $20.00

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 15, 2023
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lori Adameitz

Lone Star Tote Class

Create a custom tote bag to show off your quilty skills! This tote leaves a lot of room for adding your own personalized touch with your fabric choices, the lone star layout and finally quilting your design. It is the perfect summer bag! Natalie's experience teaching and her relaxed teaching style will make this a day of creating you won't want to miss!
 

Class Prep: There will be a half hour break for lunch

Date: Saturday, July 22, 2023
Time: 9:30am – 4:30 pm
Instructor: Natalie Novacek
Class Fee:  $55.00
Skill Level: Very Confident Beginner/Intermediate

There will be a half hour break for lunch

Jelly-Roll Placemat Class                 

Learn all the skills needed to make the popular jelly roll rug, with less commitment of time and materials. The class time will allow you to complete a 15 x 20- inch place-mat to use at your table or as a decorative accent. Kris is an expert on making this project and will provide her own hints and tips for success. Enjoy watching your colorful project grow. A sewing machine with zig-zag stitch at least 5.5mm wide is required for this class.

Class Prep: This project requires 2 ½ ” strips. Students can use a jelly-roll or cut their own strips prior to class.

Date: Saturday, August 5, 2023
Time:9:30 am – 1:30 pm
Instructors: Kris Livingston
Class Fee:  $35.00
Skill Level: Beginner 

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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