Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop! Open Monday through Saturday 9am-5pm & Sunday 11am-5pm

Posted by Diana Wendorf on

Welcome to What's Up Wednesday!   

The 18th Annual Quilt Minnesota Shop-Hop is in full swing, and we're having a blast seeing so many quilters at the start of this event. The Quilt Minnesota Shop-Hop runs until August 17th so you still have 17 shopping days left. We can't wait to meet you!

Our Shop Hop business hours are 9am-5pm Monday through Saturday, and 11am-5pm on Sunday. If you need a little extra time to reach us, don't hesitate to give us a call—we'll be happy to stay open until you arrive.

The North Metro regional incentive is the Wooden Tailor's Clapper. Additionally, you can collect a special bonus buy item for $1.00 at each shop when you spend $10.00, while supplies last. Affinity For Quilts is offering the Spray Misting Bottle.

Due to Shop Hop rules and regulations, we won't be holding our monthly giveaways during the event. However, don't worry—Freebie Monday, Double Punch Tuesday, Fat Quarter Wednesday, and Sale Wall Friday will all be happening in the same week!

  • August 19th - Freebie Monday
  • August 20th - Double Punch Tuesday
  • August 21st - Free FQ Wednesday
  • August 23rd - Sale on Sale Wall Fabric  
Doug Leko of Antler Quilt Design kindly lent us the Christmas sample of his design, Chatsworth. Have you ever wondered how pattern designers come up with names for their patterns? For Doug, it's inspired by his love for anything related to the United Kingdom. Chatsworth is named after a beautiful estate built in 1687. The quilt measures 74" x 88", and we have limited kits available for $210.99. Please note that the pattern book is sold separately.

Have you ever participated in a Sew-A-Long with Moda Fabrics? If not, you might want to check out the Sew-A-Long that Doug led for Chatsworth, which began in January of this year. All past sessions are still available on the Moda Fabrics website. To start with session one, just click here for some great tips and tricks from the pattern designer: https://my.modafabrics.com/inspiration-resources/chatsworth-quilt-along-blocks-1-and-2.
Noble Fir by Robin Pickens will be our featured class quilt for National Jelly Roll Day on September 21st. This modern and striking quilt uses a Jelly Roll of 2 1/2" WOF strips to create tree silhouettes and grand twinkling stars. We've used the Winterly Jelly Roll from Moda Fabrics and paired it with Moda's Thatched Soft Black. If black isn't your preferred background color, don't worry—this pattern also looks stunning with Moda's Thatched Cream. We've opted not to kit this beauty, allowing you to choose your own background. The finished quilt measures 51" x 61".
Impress everyone with the latest collection from Zen Chic for Moda Fabrics.  Shimmer features a stunning array of contemporary and geometric designs, all enhanced with a metallic sheen, making it perfect for adding a touch of flair to your next project.  
The newest addition to our batik collection is Violet Crush from Wilmington Fabrics. Just check out these stunning shades of purples.  
Stretching from Chicago to Los Angeles, Route 66 is one of the most iconic roads in the United States. Celebrated in pop culture, it has long symbolized the hope of a fresh start. American Highway by Benartex brings this legendary highway to life with stunning detail, blending vintage cars, landmarks, and road signs with classic Americana themes. Perfect for creating car quilts, apparel, and tote bags for your next road trip!

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.  
  • 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. 


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!  A simple way to increase table space when quilting is to position your ironing board next to your sewing table. Adjust the ironing board's height to match the level of the table, providing a larger surface area for your quilt to rest on.
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.
 
Quilt Minnesota 2024 
July 26, 2024 - August 17, 2024

Join us for the 18th annual Quilt Minnesota Shop Hop! Bring a friend and prepare for an exciting quilting adventure, Minnesota style. Whether you decide to explore just one region or the entire state, you won't be disappointed by the many wonderful shops you can visit.

If you pre-ordered Quilt Minnesota Fabric, please ensure that we receive payment for your order by August 3, 2024. If payment is not received by this date, the reserved products will be made available for sale again unless you have made alternative arrangements with the owner.

Affinity For Quilts Shop Hop Hours: 
Monday - Saturday:  9am-5pm
Sunday:  11am-5pm

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, August 3, 2024
  • Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
  • Instructor: Katie Glancy
  • Class Fee: $35.00
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, August 8, 2024
          Thursday, August 15, 2024
Time: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Fee: $15.00/monthly
 gathering
Instructor: Sharon  Lenertz

 

Partial Eclipse Quilt Class 

Join Susan in an exciting quilting class and craft your own stunning Partial Eclipse quilted wall hanging or table topper! Under Susan's guidance, you'll create a beautiful 32 1/2" square quilt, exploring the art of curved piecing and curved edges.

Susan will walk you through each step, sharing her expertise to ensure a successful quilting experience. The versatile pattern, designed by Robyn Pickens, welcomes various fabric choices such as charm packs, layer cake, or fat quarters for blocks. You have the freedom to bring your own fabrics or replicate our sample by choosing one of our kits.

To make the most of the class, there is some prep work involved. Follow the instructions on the supply list for fabric cutting to come prepared for a day of creative quilting.


Date: Saturday, August 10, 2024
Time: 9:30pm - 4:30 pm
Instructor: Susan Drebek
Class Fee: $55.00

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 14, 2024
Time:  9:30pm-12:30pm
Instructor:  Tammy Berry

Class Fee:  $15.00

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 16, 2024
Time: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM 
Club Leader:  Diana Wendorf
Club Fee: $15.00

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, August  17, 2024
Time: 9:30 am-3:30 pm
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
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.  The menu for August will be Tossed Green Salad, Pulled Pork, Coleslaw, Pasta Salad, and Cherry Pie Bars for dessert. 

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

Date:   Friday, August 23, 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

Registration is handled by The Blue Fox and must be done using the link below. 
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/395665475087

Date:  Saturday, August 24, 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 August will be Tossed Green Salad, Pulled Pork, Coleslaw, Pasta Salad, and Cherry Pie Bars for dessert. 

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

Date:   Sunday, August 25, 2024
Time:  1:00pm - 7:00pm 
Event Host: Diana Wendorf

Class Fee:  $25.00

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, September 13, 2024
Time: 9:30am – 2:00 pm
Instructor: Kris Livingston
Class Fee:  $35.00

Beginner Quilting 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 17, October 1, & October 15, 2024
Time:   6:00 pm - 9:00 pm 
Class Fee: $55.00
Instructor: Diana Wendorf

Fee includes thread and sewing needles

Quatrefoil Quilt Class

Join us for a two-day class to create the beautiful Quatrefoil Quilt! A quatrefoil quilt block is a symmetrical shape made up of four partially overlapping circles of the same diameter. It is a timeless design found in many art objects throughout history. When placed side by side, these blocks create a beautiful secondary pattern.

During this class, you will learn to create the 12-inch quatrefoil block using the half rectangle ruler from Bear Paw Productions, making the process much easier. The finished quilt will measure 76" x 76" and will be a treasured piece for years to come.

This class is designed for intermediate quilters looking to expand their quilting knowledge. Join us and take your quilting skills to the next level!

 

Date& Time: October 5, 2024 9:30 am – 4:30 pm and  
                      October 26, 2024 9:30 am – 1:30 pm

Instructor:  Sue Severiano
Class Fee:  $70.00

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, September 9, 2024
Time: 10:00 am – 12:00pm 
Instructor: Jordan Frayne
Class Fee: $25.00

Noble Fir Jelly Roll Quilt Class

Join us for a special quilting class on National Jelly Roll Day! This hands-on class is perfect for quilters of all skill levels who want to learn how to create a stunning quilt using a fabric jelly roll. Under the expert guidance of our experienced instructor, students will complete the top two rows of the quilt during the class.

Class Highlights:

  • Efficient    Cutting Techniques:    Learn how to accurately cut fabric using templates to ensure your    pieces fit together perfectly.

  • Mirror    Image Blocks:    Discover tips and tricks for keeping track of mirror image blocks to    maintain the symmetry and balance of your quilt.
     

By the end of the class, you’ll have all the skills needed to complete the quilt on your own. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate National Jelly Roll Day with fellow quilters!

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

 

Date: Saturday, September 21, 2024
Time:9:30 am – 3:30 pm
Instructor: Becky Umenthum
Class Fee: $55.00

National Sew A Jelly Roll Day
 

Come celebrate National Sew A Jelly Roll Day with Affinity For Quilts. Jelly Rolls are so much fun to work with and the pattern ideas are endless. We have some great samples in our front window to give you inspiration.  Stop in on Saturday, September 17th and be inspired. 

To celebrate National Sew A Jelly Roll Day Affinity For Quilts Will be offering:

  • The first 15 people will receive a special Jelly Roll Gift 
  • Free Pattern with any Jelly Roll Purchase
  • 20% off any Jelly Roll or Strip Set Purchase. (Excludes Quilt Minnesota Jelly Rolls)
  • 10% Off Jelly Roll pattern/book purchases 

Be sure to check out our front window to inspire you for your next Jelly Roll project.  

Date:  Saturday, September 21, 2023
Time:  9am-5:00pm

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: Saturday, October 19, 2024
Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Instructor: Lori Adameitz
Class Fee: $45.00

 
Upcoming Quilt Shows
September 13-14, 2024
Apple River Quilt Guild 33rd Annual Fall Festival Quilt Show
Location:  St. Joseph's Catholic Church, 1050 Keller Ave N, Amery, WI  
Hours:  Friday, September 13, 2024 9:00am-4:00pm
             Saturday, September 14, 2024 9:00am-4:00pm
Admission:  $5.00

September 27-28, 2024
Chaska Area Quilt Club
Fall Splendor of Quilts Show
Location:  Chaska Community Center, 1661 Park Ridge Dr, Chaska, MN  
Hours:  Friday, September 27th 10:00a - 6:00pm
             Saturday, September 28th 9:00am-5:00pm
Admission:  $10.00

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 

October 12-13, 2024 
Mixed Sampler Quilt Guild 37th Annual Quilt Show
Location:  Webster High School, 7564 W. Alder St, 
Webster, WI  54893
Hours:  Saturday, October 12th 10:00am-4:00pm
              Sunday, October 13th 10:00am-4:00pm
Admission:  $5.00 

October 18-19, 2024
Evening Star Quilters present A Quilters' Country Fair
Featuring:  Member Quilt Exhibit, Crafters' Garage Sale, Guild Challenge Exhibit, Country Market Boutique, Raffle Quilt, Vendors, and Refreshments
Location:  Mahtomedi District Education Center, 1520 Mahtomedi Ave, Mahtomedi, MN  
Hours: Friday, October 18th 9:00am-6:00pm
            Saturday October 19th 9:00am-4:00pm

Admission:  $5.00
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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