The holidays are behind us--almost--so now we can get busy and sew! We look forward to having you visit us and see all of the great goodies that we have in stock. We have new machines, notions, accessories, fabrics and of course lots of wonderful classes covering all sorts of techniques and projects. Our teaching staff is excited to offer you fun and educational sessions. We are trying a few new things, including a long-arm quilting club, Anita Goodesign Project Series and several garment and sewing technique classes, along with lots of quilting, embroidery, serger and more. The Bear Creek Quilt Show will be at the New Hurst Conference Center in February, and we will be there! There are so many new and innovative accessories and notions which create creative techniques and we just can't do them all--but we are trying!
Facebook is great in our lives these days. I am snapping pictures whenever we have "show and tell" projects from customers and at our classes--and they end up on our facebook page. Go to Richland Sewing Center and be sure to "like" us--we will keep you updated there about specials, classes and great new "stuff" around the store. Our class supply lists continue to be on the website, under the class calendar area. If you do not find one there, we can email them or you can always pick them up at the store.
We hope to see you soon as we continue to strive to be your "Sewing Know-How Center". Doug and Jeannie
Brother Events--If you are thinking about going "Bigger and Better"--think about these event days at our store. Barbara Jones, national educator with Brother, will be here two days to share and demonstrate on the Brother Quattro 6700 "Dreamscape" and the Multi Needle Brother 650 and 1000--"Extreme Embroidery". The mulit-needle day (Saturday) will focus on how to manage an embroidery business and all that these big machines can do for you. The Friday class will show the upgrades on the Quattro and highlights of that machine. More info will be announced in early January, but mark your calendars for February 10th and 11th!!
MOMO-DINI-- We are having the folks from Momo Dini here on Wednesday, February 22nd at 2:00 and 6:00 for a hosted trunk show of their beautiful embroidery designs. Two sisters do the digitizing work of these designs, and they are recognized artists in China and around the world. Their goal is to produce the best designs with high quality standards, and to give embroidery new life and energy. They consider the designs a form of art, not just threads and stitches. On these days you will see their designs and hear a little about their history and thoughts and ideas about using their embroidery. The designs will be available at sale prices--so mark these dates on your calendar. Registration is appreciated!
Dec Club--What a great group gathers each month for Decorative Machine Club. The Christmas parties were just wonderful--lots of great food, creative show and tell projects and just fun sharing and fellowship. Attendees often bring projects for "show and tell", while many just come for the fellowship. We try to demonstrate new techniques and gadgets each month, to get you inspired to sew. The secondmeeting time to allow for daytime attendees who have trouble with Saturdays is working out great. Anyone is welcome to come both times (for one low $5 price!) just to see everyone's ideas and projects. Door prizes are awarded to birthday folks, and sometimes we have great goodies for snacks. The support given by folks here for fellow "members" is wonderful, and the giving of pillowcases and caps for patients at Cook's Children's in Ft Worth and any cancer patients. No registration is required for these sessions--just come. The dates this quarter are Jan 5, Feb 2 and March 1 (Thursdays) and Jan 7, Feb 4 and March 3rd (Saturdays)
About our classes: We try to offer you the best classes in the area at the best prices, but we do need you to help us. When you register for a class, payment is requested to reserve your spot. If you cancel the class at least 48 hours ahead, your fees will be credited, but if you don’t attend and don’t let us know until “just before class”, we will not credit your fee unless an emergency is noted. We need to know if you are coming in order for the teachers to be prepared, and to allow others to attend. Class prices are noted after most class listings, and most will have a supply list, pattern and/or kit fee. If we cancel a class, your fee will be credited. The Club Member special works great—you pay for two classes and get the third for $9.00 off—half of most one session classes. Thanks for your co-operation.
***You may notice on the calendar that sometimes there are two classes at the same time--but it's OK--we put some classes "on stage" so that we can offer more great things!
Quilt Club--(formally Modaand Thimbleberries Clubs)— Brand New Start!! We are doing a whole new program this year designed by Michael Miller Fabrics and Swirly Girls Designers. The new "Club Quilt" is blues and neutrals and so pretty, plus monthly great monthly projects and ideas only for club members. We will continue to have support and benefits from Moda and Thimbleberries also. We have one evening and one daytime gathering per month. Members receive “member-only” patterns and handouts at the sessions each month, as well as a first look at the new fabrics, kits, books and patterns from the companies. The “show and tell” projects from the members are inspiring and creative—We welcome visitors at anytime, and membership includes special club discounts on the fabrics and more. These are very friendly groups, and very competitive as I found out when we have contests at the meetings! Come and join us anytime, or just stop by to ask more about either of these monthly club gatherings. Club gatherings this quarter are Jan 19 & 20th, Feb 23rd & 24th and March 15th & 16th. --these are Thursday evenings and Friday afternoons.
QUILTING CLASSES--Quilting continues to be so fun and popular, and we offer classes to get you started or to continue making fun projects. Check out the samples and just stop by--we stock many great patterns and fabrics here, and the class or club discount is great.
Learn To Quilt--If you are ready to learn or renew skills—join this three time class which begins with fabric selection and cutting, and leads you through piecing, pressing, sashing, borders, quilting and binding as you create a three-block table runner in your color choices. Come join in on this very popular stitching activity—and become a “quilter”. Class begins Feb 6th @ 6:00 ($45)
LeMoyne Star Quilt Workshop--Using a special ruler and Jane's guidance, learn to put together an assortment of blocks from these simple cuts. Jane has lots of samples to share with this fun technique. Jan 27 @ 1:30 or Feb 27th @ 6:00 ($18)
Jelly Roll Quilt---"Changing Ways" features a new pattern by Quilt Moments and is a dramatic use of a Jelly Roll or Bali Pop Batik bundle. The basic block can be turned four different ways for a unique appearance in your quilt . Two time classes with Jane begin Feb 1 @ 1:30 or 6:00 ($30)
Fast, Furious Place Mat--It's a "Quilt As You Go" mat and stitched in a shape perfect for a round/oval table. Coordinating strips combine with a special material inside for a mat with a lot of body--great for seasonal or your décor. Mary leads this class on Jan 20 @ 6:00 or Feb 8 @ 9:30 ($18)
Palace Steps Runner-Choose a pretty fabric collection with a larger print to center in the big squares in this quilt/runner. Easy piecing finishes it off for a very pretty project. Mary leads this two time class beginning Feb 16 @ 6:00 or March 12 @ 1:30 ($30)
Bunny Runner--We're not sure of which pattern this will be just now--but it will bring Easter along with a smile! Make a runner to decorate the holiday--Two time class begins March 24 @ 1:30 ($30)
Binding Basics--You've got it pieced and quilted--now what? Practice bindings in this hand's on workshop class, cutting, piecing, stitching and finishing. Several styles will be taught and practiced. March 13 @ 6:00 ($18)
New Longarm Quilting Club--If you are a longarm owner (such as the Handi-Quilter) or a long-arm "want to be" this is the group for you. Nanc Christopherson is a national educator for Handi-Quilter and she will lead these session on topics from "How do I quilt my quilt??" ,overall quilting design, loading your quilts, borders and blocks and so much more. Part of the classes will be lecture and sharing, and part will be demonstrations, including the use of quilting tools and aids for longarms, and practice stitching. Sessions are afternoon and evenings on Jan 16th, Feb29th and March 20th. ($18)
Marti and Me Club--We are starting up again!! This group meets monthly to create a project or sample using one of the Marti Michell templates or rulers. Special "member" patterns are given each month and they are learning a lot. Projects are on display in the classroom, and if you want more information on this just ask Jeannie, Please plan to join us. If you have never used a Marti ruler--don't be afraid to try--they are great. Club sessions are on Monday afternoons and Tuesday evenings--Jan 23 & 24, Feb 20 & 21 and March 19 and 20.
Block of the Month Programs: These are classes or programs for large quilt projects, and we have several planned for the year. First is the Clubhouse quilt in our Quilt Club which anyone is welcome to join. Stitcher's Garden is described below. In February we begin the new Saturday Sampler Quilt program, which involves an initial sign-up investment, and then monthly block pick-up for a small fee. In the summer we will begin "Vintage Rouge" which is a beautiful quilt done with some "convenience" fabric cuts. Keep posted for all of these great programs!
Stitcher's Garden is a workbook/project that ends up a beautiful quilt. See the sample in the classroom, or ask someone who took the class this past year--they learned so much about their machines and had fun. Each month offers two clever blocks that highlight a foot or accessory, so the quilt project is a real learning experience for you. This project will last at least six months, and the color choices are all yours. All directions for everything will be in your class notebook--great fun and a wonderful opportunity to play with stitches and feet. Class introduction to explain the program is Jan 20 @ 9:30 or Jan 21 @ 1:30. Quilt classes begin in February.
Embroidery Classes-- Machine Embroidery is SO much fun, and we want to help and encourage you to get the most from your wonderful machines, by offering the most diverse and extensive classes and projects. Some of the classes require a larger hoop size, and most will involve the purchase of an embroidery design or program, due to copyright law. The supply list for each class will list exactly what is needed for the class or project offered. We hope that you will enjoy the variety of techniques and projects offered here.
Embroidery 101—A must for new embroidery machine owners, or those wanting to renew or perfect their skills. This is a workshop class to teach the basics of threads, stabilizers, needles, hooping, placement and stitching on a variety of fabrics. You will also get to stitch on foam! This is a fun but “workhorse” class. Machine owners that purchased here pay $25, others are $35. Class meets Jan 19 @ 9:30 and Jan 28 @ 1:30
Embroidered Towel/Scarf--Add a unique shaped edge to embroidery on a towel, giving it that shaped finish to decorate your home. Fun to stitch! Class Jan 25 @ 6:00 ($18)
Build-A-Blankie Embroidery Project--Kathy will lead this special project as your machine does the work of piecing and quilting--all you do is put fabrics into the right position. Use a variety of colors or create a tonal quilt--the size is up to you! Two time classes begin Jan 27th @ 6:00 ($30)
Quilt with Embroidery--Have some "tops" ready, or projects just waiting to be quilted--use your embroidery machine with special designs to finish them off, or add to the overall look. In this workshop class you will learn placement, hooping techniques, threads and more as you stitch out several types of designs. Class Feb 9 @ 9:30 or Feb 14 @ 6:00 ($18)
Machine Embroidered Applique-This is so fun--start your machine, add some fabric, cut around the stitches and let the embroidery do the work! We will work on kitchen towels in the class--ready for the season. Class on Feb 23 @ 9:30 or March 1 @ 6:00 ($18)
Cherry Pie Runner--"Bake" up a cherry pie with your embroidery machine and then build a runner or placemat. Realistic pie and fruit designs combine to make a special decoration for your table. Two time classes begin March 22 @ 9:30 or 6:00 ($30)
Embroidered Luggage Tags--Hope Yoder designs are a favorite with Jane, and you will create very unique "in the hoop" tags in this class, complete with personalization! Class meets March 24 @ 9:30
"In the Hoop" Project--Create something special totally in your embroidery hoop. Special designs make these projects so fun. Keep posted for the unique design for this spring! March 26 @ 1:30 or 6:00 ($18)
New Embroidery Club!!--Anita Goodesign Project Club--A new program from this great embroidery design company to encourage you to try different things with your embroidery machines. Each monthly project will focus not only on embroidery, but also on sewing and quilting. You should go home from these classes with completed projects and ready to make more. Project embroidery collections are exclusive and specially priced for the classes, and will include fashion, baby, vintage, in the hoop, quilting and heirloom. The picture here is a Christmas stocking, and just one of the new projects we are looking at. We can't wait to get started--so check the calendar for the monthly project classes beginning Feb 7th, and then Feb 28 and March 27th.
Serger Classes—Get those sergers out of the closet—or the box—and learn to use them!! Many made beautiful jackets in the serger jacket classes, and this will be offered again this spring. Sergers purchased here pay $18, others are $25 per class.
Serger I “What is this funny-looking thing?”—A basic introduction to serger application, threading, curves, corners, balanced overlocking and gathering. If you have not taken this class, even if you are not new to your machine, it will help you understand just how it all works. Serger I meets Jan 24 @ 9:30 or Jan 26 @ 6:00
Serger II--Continue the experience with introduction of the rolled hem stitch, using decorative threads and stitching the flatlock. Many project ideas are given in this class. March 6 @ 9:30 or March 12 @ 6:00
Sewing-Garment Classes--Drag out your machine and get updated on techniques or projects--and if you are new to sewing, this is the place to begin. We hope to offer more garment sewing classes and ways to make your sewing more fun for you, and more creative. Take a look at our "special technique" classes also to add to your sewing skills.
Ruffles, Scallops and Tucks--Use your machine and a few special tools to perfect these embellishment techniques and experiment embellishing on sample items. There are several ways to create ruffles, including a ruffle attachment and we will stitch these. You will play with the scallop rulers to try them out for samples, and also stitch several types of tucks that can be used in garments or embellishment projects. Photo here shows a towel with the scallops stitched on with rick-rack. Come to try something different! Jan 7 @ 1:30 or Jan 11 @ 1:30 ($18)
Sewing Basics--Learn a little more about how to use your basic machine functions as you put in a zipper, stitch several hems and seams, create a buttonhole and more. This is a workshop style class for learning those basic sewing skills. Jan 31 @ 6:00 ($18)
Shaggy Jacket--Mary has taught this class before and everyone loves it, but several of you have asked for it again--so here it is. Sew together strips with the seams on the outside, clip them to ravel and you have a great garment. Two time classes begin Jan 16th or 6:00 or Jan 25 @ 9:30. ($30)
Girly Gored Skirt--This cute girl's gored skirt is fun in several different fabrics, and the seams can be on the outside to fray, or the inside. Easy to sew for sizes 2 through 10. This is a great serger project also! One time class Feb 9 @ 6:00 or Feb 15 @ 9:30 ($18)
Gail's Morning Glory Jacket--Strip piecing on a creative slant over a foundation make this fun jacket, easy to stitch and wear in our Texas weather. Pick a great fabric collection and you have a great accent garment. Longer class on Feb 16 9:30 to 3:30. ($25)
Pat's Vest--Our sample is a great red, white and blue but any color combination will work for this fun vest accented with simple appliqué if desired. Basic vest techniques will be shown all done by machine. Two time classes begin Feb 24 @ 6:00 or Feb 25 @1:30 ($30)
Me and Mama Skirt--You can stitch one for you and one for a little girl--the pattern is cute for any age. Swirls of fabric create a unique look from great fabric selections. Simple to stitch or serge--Class March 7th @ 1:30 or 6:00 ($18)
New Camp Shirt--A revival of the original by Cindy Taylor Oates, this new version shirt has an optional bottom band, or my favorite view features a back band with a pleat below. The pattern booklet has several versions and great instructions--but it's fun to do it in class with other stitchers! Two time classes begin March 8 @ 9:30 or March 23 @ 6:00 ($30)
Other Great Projects and Techniques--
Zippy-Strippy Bag--Jane is having way too much fun with this project--and just ask her how many she has made! Using a great zipper technique, simple piecing and maybe some embellishment, create one of three sizes of this neat little bag. Class Jan 13th @ 6:00 ($18)
Linda's Wallet--This great wallet features a grommet closure with a stretchy band to allow for more "stuff" inside. There are pockets with zippers and lots of slots for credit cards. Make these in your favorite fabrics for friends and you! Two time classes begin Jan 18 @ 1:30 or March 9 @ 6:00 ($30)
Bonnie's Ironing Caddy--This is such a neat project and the gals at Dec Club loved it--stitch up a carrier for your hot iron using special fabrics, and then open it up to have your own personal ironing pad at your machine. Jan 21 @ 9:30 ($18)
Applique Basics--Learn the basics of decorative appliqué stitching on different shapes, using a variety of threads and stitches. Learn how to fuse and cut the designs and gain ideas for projects. If you are taking the Stitcher's Garden class this is a great workshop for you. Jan 23 @ 6:00 or Jan 31 @ 9:30 ($18)
Needles and Threads--Several have asked for this--it is a workshop on the different types of threads, weights, plys and when and where to use them, and also the different types and sizes of needles and when to use different ones. You will learn the anatomy of the needle and why different ones are important for different fabrics and techniques. You will be stitching some samples to take home using the different needles and threads. Feb 2nd at 9:30 or 6:00 ($18)
Linda's Bag--This is a brand new pattern called the "Leyvie Bag" and it is sort of "retro" and cute--compartments with a zipper closure, adjustable straps and so pretty! Come see it. Two time classes begin Feb 13 @ 1:30 or long class on March 17 @ 9:30. ($30)
Software-We continue to support Floriani, Viking and Brother software, plus selections of Janome and others, but are unable to offer classes each quarter on all of them. We will try to help you with your software at any time so that you can get more use from it. The following are classes scheduled for this quarter:
Computer Basics--If you are not sure how to organize your files, or even what a "file" is, get a design from the computer or a CD to your machine, or how to "save" and more--this basic computer class will get you going. No particular software needed, just your computer. Jan 17 @ 6:00 ($18)
VIKING 4D/5D Software Club--We are hoping to get more project oriented classes going with the various softwares, and this is the beginning. Many skill levels will be approached as Libby leads you through these classes. This quarter meets January 18, Feb 15 and March 14th @ 6:00 ($18)
Viking 4D/5D Basics--If you are new to the software or need a review of the basics including lettering, design manipulation, setting up for your machine and more--this is your good start. Jan 12th @ 6:00 ($18)
FLORIANI Software Club--Project based classes to get you using your wonderful software that has so many components. Libby leads these on Jan 9 & 10, Jan 30 & 31, and March 5 & 6th at 6:00. Bring computers! If you pay for the "club" you will get three classes for $45.
BROTHER PE Design Software-The computer class on Jan 26th will go "back to basics" with concentration on design management, resizing and converting, clip art to stitches and lettering, plus more. Be sure to keep your software updated by going online. Mark your calendars for Jan 26 and March 8th @ 6:00 ($18)
Machine Specific Classes--We try to keep you updated and fresh on all of the wonderful things that your top of the line machines can do. We offer the group classes at no charge to those who purchased here, and a regular class fee if you did not--and all are welcome. We don't have time to do every machine each quarter, but let us know if you would like classes on your models.
Brother Quattro --Basic class for new owners, or those needing basic review on March 9 @ 9:30 or March 10 @ 9:30
Brother Quattro--Special hands-on class for the "Tablet" included with upgrade #2. We will "draw", create and stitch designs--great fun! Upgrade is necessary for this class on Jan 27 @ 9:30 or Jan 28 @ 9:30.
Janome Horizon 7700--Hands-on class with concentration on stitch stacking, programmed stitching and quilting. Jan 14 @ 9:30
Viking Designer Diamond--Hands-on class with concentration on embroidery, design positioning and manipulation. January 14th at 1:30
New stuff around the store: We are filled to the brim with machines, fabrics, notions, accessories, designs, threads and so much more!
New Machine Models are here Now!!--The Brother 6700D is an upgraded model to the Quattro 6000D and is now on display. The brand new Laura Ashley 5000 is a sewing/embroidery combination with a lot of great features and large sized embroidery functions. We have the new Top of the line Pfaff, the Creative Sensation, which offers large embroidery, a fantastic selection of stitches and extras including the new appliqué feature--come see it. We also have the new 5D Card Shop , which allows you to create personalized embroidery cards automatically, with included templates for special occasions. The new Top of the Line Janome Horizon 12000 is big and beautiful--it sews 9mm stitches and large sized embroidery with so many great new features. ***photo 12000 Come visit our machine department and ask for a demo on any of our machines. We also have a great selection of gently used models that might be a great addition to your sewing room. See the company websites for more information on any of these models--our website will link you there.
Another great new machine for stitching and quilting is the Janome 6300. It features a longer 9" throad with 66 built in stitches plus buttonholes, plus the mandatory extras like momorized needle up/down, independent bobbin winder for the drop-in bobbin and built in thread cutter. Come in for a demonstration on this new model soon.
We welcome you to also come and test drive our new HandiQuilter Avante--the 18" longarm model. We have moved out the 24" Fusion model and brought in the Avante. We also have the sit down "Sweet 16" by Handi Quilter.
If you are not ready for a new machine, be sure to keep your current machines clean and ready for the best stitching quality. Our served team of David, James and Don are ready to tune-up your machines for the best results for your projects. Ask Jeannie to see the photo of the serger that came in for service absolutely FULL of lint--it's a great example of "what not to let happen". Remember--something as simple as a new needle in your machine or serger can make all the difference!
New Stuff around the store--Our fabric department is filled with so many beautiful fabrics and collections--Jane is kept very busy keeping things neatly organized and filled with sample ideas. We offer our club discount on all fabrics, with extra specials often posted on our email blasts or facebook.
We have lots of new software designs, and many offer special features, such as appliqué, crystal templates, in the hoop designs, free standing designs, mylar designs (they're shiny!) and more. Embroidery is just amazing now with all that the design companies and the machines offer. Don't forget to check out our OESD Embroidery Take-Out program, which is the big book of designs on the table by the register. You bring in a USB stick, choose your designs, and we write them toyour stick on our computer. Embroidery accessories are also available--the Snap Hoop and marking accessories among them. You must stop by and check things out. Our new Anita Goodesign project c lasses as well as other embroidery classes will give you a great chance to experiment with different design types.
We have great new thread collections, storage boxes and bags, new books and patterns to give you so many creative ideas--you just have to come visit!