Events

Classes and Events
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!
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

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

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, March 15, 2025
Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Instructor: Tammy Berry
Class Fee:  $25.00

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

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

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

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
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
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. 

D
ate:   Friday,  March 28, 2025
Time:  4:00pm-Midnight
Event Host: Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $25.00
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  

Mystery Five-0 Star Bright Mini-Mystery

Are you ready to start your Star Bright Mini-Mystery Quilt but unsure how to choose the right fabrics? 🎨✨

 

Good news! Teresa Coenen, co-founder of Mystery Five-0, has put together a fantastic video to guide you through the fabric selection process. Whether you’re using one of our curated fabric bundles or pulling from your stash, this video will help you make the best choices for a stunning quilt!

📌 In this video, you’ll learn:
✔️ How to balance contrast & complementing colors
✔️ Understanding fabric value (light, medium, dark)
✔️ Choosing print scale for the best effect
✔️ How to work with directional fabrics


If you haven’t picked up your Star Bright Mini-Mystery Quilt fabric bundle yet, we still have a few left! Get yours before they’re gone!
 

🛍️ Shop curated bundles
here: https://www.affinityforquilts.com/pages/mystery-five-0

 

We can’t wait to see your fabric selections—get ready for the mystery to unfold on March 29th!

Date:  March 29, 2025
Location:  Affinity Mystery FIve-0 Facebook group page: 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/affinityforquiltsm50mystery
Time:  9:00am first clue will drop

An email option is available; however, it won't provide the same level of interaction and community as the Facebook group. If you prefer not to use Facebook, you can email Diana at quilt@affinityforquilts to request to join the email group.

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.  

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.
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

Affinity For Quilts Spring Sleep In Your Own Bed Retreat

Get Ready for a Weekend of Quilting, Fun & Friendship!

The countdown is on for our Affinity For Quilts Sleep In Your Own Bed Retreat, and we can’t wait to welcome you for an unforgettable weekend of stitching, laughter, and relaxation!

This retreat is packed with incredible perks and surprises, including:

  • A Special Gift Bag for each attendee
  • Fantastic Door Prizes throughout the weekend
  • Exclusive In-Store Discounts just for retreat participants
  • Delicious Meals & Snacks:
    • Meat and Cheese Mid Afternoon Snack Tray on Friday and Saturday
    • Friday Night: Salad & Pizza from Carbone's Pizzeria & Pub
    • Saturday Morning: Pastries, muffins, fresh fruit, & juice
    • Saturday Evening Feast: A mouthwatering catered meal by Todd Scheel featuring:
      • Tossed Garden Salad
      • Signature Pan-Seared Chicken Breasts or Beef Stroganoff
      • Oven-Roasted Baby Red Potatoes
      • Green Bean Almandine
      • Decadent Fudge Brownie with Raspberry Mousse


This is your chance to sew, socialize, and savor every moment of this fun-filled retreat! A few spots are still available, so grab your quilting friends and sign up before they’re gone!

Don’t miss out on this amazing quilting getaway—secure your spot today!


Dates:
Friday, April 4, 2025 | 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday, April 5, 2025 | 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Retreat Fee:
Both Days: $175.00
One Day (Friday OR Saturday): $125.00
Location: White Bear Lake Masonic Lodge, 4923 Stewart Ave, White Bear Lake, MN
Your Hostess:  Diana Wendorf

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

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, April 9, 2025
Time:  9:30pm-12:30pm
Instructor:  Tammy Berry

Class Fee:  $15.00

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  

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

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

Thread Painting & Embellishment Class

Enhance your quilts and fabric projects with stunning thread painting techniques! In this hands-on class, you will learn how to use free-motion straight stitching and zig-zag stitching to add intricate details, shading, and texture to your designs. Whether you're working on landscape quilts, pet portraits, or printed fabric panels, thread painting allows you to bring your projects to life with depth and dimension.

Techniques covered include:   

  • Free-motion thread painting with straight and zig-zag stitching       
  • Adding shading and texture with thread layering     
  • Enhancing printed fabric designs with stitched embellishments       
  • Creating realistic details for pet portraits and landscapes 
  • Selecting the right threads, stabilizers, and needles for optimal results      

This class is perfect for confident beginners and experienced quilters looking to expand their artistic quilting skills. Join us and discover how thread painting can transform your quilting projects into stunning works of art.
 

Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 9:30 am-12:30 pm
Instructor: Linda Heimerl 
Class Fee: $40.00

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, June 6, 2025
Time:  5:00pm - 9:00pm
Instructor:  Diana Wendorf
Class Fee:  $15.00