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Greetings!  We are officially in the middle of the HOT summer--and what a wonderful time to be inside sewing--doesn't that sound great?  I know many of you are traveling and keeping busy with all sorts of "stuff", but don't forget to stop by to see what is going on at the sewing center.  We have a full class schedule with offerings in many categories and many different times and always something special for you to learn.  We also have a couple of "events" planned and hope that we will see you for those.  Keep posted on the latest by checking our website as we try to keep that updated regularly.  We do have new machine models from several companies, with more on the way.  We are attending conventions and trainings for several during the summer months and will have more ideas and techniques to share with you, as well as new products and goodies.  Be sure to come by to say hello, fondle the fabrics, take a class, test drive a new machine or just pet Snickers, as we strive to be  your "Sewing-Know-How-Center".              Doug and Jeannie

     Floriani is Coming--Walt Floriani will be here July 19th and 20th for two seminars on embroidery, including stabilizers, techniques  and software.  For more info click here.

     Fall is SCHOOLHOUSE Time!!  On Sunday, September 12th, join us as we gather for school--that's a fun day of six different classes, some hands-on, some lecture demo, taught by six different people on a variety of subjects and/or techniques.  Each student will take the same classes, just at different times as the bell rings and you move through the classroom "halls".  We provide the machines and supplies, you just come ready to learn. You will go home with goodies and several new ideas and have a great time, too.  Make your registration now--all day for $25, and class size is limited.

   

     Husqvarna Viking brings you "Let Us Show You" Saturday, along with a special sale.  Viking educator Stephanie Dilworth will be here in the store to show special techniques and products, along with our staff, to promote and let you try the latest and greatest from Viking.  We will be demonstrating machines, feet, accessories and more, and all will be available at special pricing for that day!  Saturday, Sept 11th from 9:30 to 12:30--Plan to be here!!  Door Prizes and Refreshments!! 

     Dec Club--Come join us on the first Saturday of each month for Dec Club.  Gather with other stitchers and share ideas, projects, and learn something new.  Folks bring items for "show and tell", see the newest in gadgets, notions and fabrics, and learn how to do things on their machines such as specific feet or how to create ruffles. This is a very friendly environment and we welcome newcomers or visitors!  This quarter gathers on July 3, August 7 and Sept 4th. Club begins at 9:30--just come! 

     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.

Moda and Thimbleberries Clubs—Both of these fabric based groups are going strong with many of the members making the “club quilts” from a special fabric selection.  Both groups 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—they are so special.  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. Check the calendar for specific dates for these.  New fabrics from both companies are arriving weekly and they are beautiful. Shown is the new Panel Prints from Thimbleberries

Block of the Month Programs—We are continuing with our quilt programs which started during the first quarter including American Beauty from Marti Michell, Back to Nature from Wing and a Prayer, Texas Our Texas from Alice Wilhoit and of course the Saturday Sampler program.  If you would like information on times, just check the calendar.  It's not too late to get into the Back to Nature program--just stop by and pick up kit #1!

     Marti and Me Club—Our "Marti" members are doing great and having a wonderful time learning new techniques and making projects using new tools and templates.  The Club membership will begin again in August , which will give you six classes and six exclusive Marti patterns.  If you have questions, just stop by to ask and be sure to take a look at our Marti displays.  Check the calendar for current dates for "Marti and Me". 

     TNT--Hoopsisters Embroidery is finishing, but- we stock many designs from Hoopsisters, all of which feature embroidery and quilting in the hoop to make some very unique and beautiful projects.  We have samples in the store, as well as the club class projects in the classroom. 

      Holidays at Home—We are so excited about this—as it is a brand new fabric line from Marcus used to create a very pretty holiday throw/wall hanging with a very unusual piecing technique.   Vicki Bellino of Bloom Creek developed the “strip-it” fabric technique. Strips are not always “stitched”, but “fussy cut” from a special fabric, making construction very easy and quick.  The colors are very warm, with just a bit of cardinal highlight.  Take a look at the sample soon as Jane can’t wait to get you started!   Classes continue through the summer, just check the calendar.  If you want to join in this beautiful project, just call and ask for Jane.  Kits are available. 

     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 August 24th @ 6:00 ($45)  

     Taco Salad Topper--From a new book called "Let's Do Lunch", Mary has created a cute and fun table topper in an unusual shape. Pick a great focus fabric and build around it with simple piecing techniques.  Class meets July 13th @ 6:00 or July 15th @ 9:30  ($18)

     Simple Point Table Runner--A different technique using the fusible grid, you get perfect piecing every time by folding and stitching over the gridded fabric squares--so easy and different.  This is beautiful using a focal fabric in the squares and adding a simple background.  Mary will teach this technique into a runner on July 26 @ 9:30 or July 27th @ 6:00. ($18)  

     Holly Hill Runner--From a brand new fabric line by Robyn Pandolf called "Fancy Hill Farms", she has designed this holiday runner with unique appliqué and easy piecing.  Fabric kits make your preparation easy. This two-time class will get you close to finished on your first early project for Christmas!  Classes begin August 6th @ 9:30 or Sept 21st @ 6:00  ($30)

     Underground Railroad Quilt--This is so pretty--from the book by Eleanor Burns--it features a great block selection that can be done in any colorway, but our sample is done in reproduction fabrics, and we have ordered in some Jo Morton fabrics that would work beautifully in this project.  The teacher for this class is Vivian Abrigg, who has taught in Abilene, and is excited to teach in this area.  Class will begin with a session on fabric selection and basic techniques used in the quilt.  We hope to finish in three months, but will work with student pace in mind.  Class one is August 10th @ 1:00 or August 19th @ 6:00.  ($60)

     Take 5 Gets the Point--a spin-off of the original "Take 5" Quilt, this puts the easy squares on point using five fabrics and easy piecing.  Mary is excited about this one as she leads this two time class beginning Sept 13th @ 6:00 or Sept 16th @ 1:00.  ($30)

     "Catch Me"--Gingerland Fabrics from Northcott are the focus of this fun, new quilt pattern with panel print squares in the middle of the blocks and a fun border design.  You can choose to do a runner, wall quilt or larger size--fabrics can be kitted or choose your own fun prints.  Two time classes begin Sept 18 @ 1:30 or Sept 22 @ 9:30  ($30) 

     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 July 24 @ 1:30 or August 11 @ 1:00

Embroidered Applique--This is so fun!  Using special designs, add fabrics to your embroidery and let the machine do the work!  Two different techniques will be taught and stitched in the hands-on class as you create a kitchen towel project.  Class July 31 @ 9:30 or August 4 @ 9:30 ($18)

     Piece in the Hoop--From a new book, learn piecing techniques by embroidery as you create an ironing pad for the machine so that you can press as you go without damaging your machine bed, as well as other cool projects along the way that come with the book.  Kitted project on August 2nd at 1:00 or 6:00 ($18)

     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 meets August 3 @ 6:00 or August 25 @ 9:30 ($18)

     Embroidered Lace on Tulle--If you have not done this yet--you will create a unique garment with a lace inset at the neckline from a simple tee-shirt.  Stitch the special design on tulle fabric with special stabilizer, which becomes invisible, and then add it to the tee.  Class meets Aug 28 @ 9:30 ($18)

     Wooly Pincushion-- A unique "stitch in the hoop" project using embroidered appliqué techniques with beautiful wool felt fabric.  We will have kits for this and you should complete the project in class--a great way to learn using different fabrics and the embroidery style.  Class Sept 17 @ 9:30 or Sept 18 @ 9:30 ($18) 

     Trick or Treat Bag in the Hoop--Make cute little drawstring bags with seasonal embroidery designs totally in the hoop--fast, fun and easy, and great for that Halloween party or favors.  Sept 29 @ 6:00 or Sept 30 @ 9:30 ($18)

     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 is being repeated in July. 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 August 3 @ 9:30 or August 4 @ 6:00 ($18-25)

     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. August 23 @ 6:00 or August 24 @ 9:30 ($18-25)

     Serger Jacket--Pick some fabrics, snip and tear them (really!) and serge them into a simple jacket.  You will totally finish the jacket using your basic serger overlock stitch and do just one last step at home on your sewing machine.  Basic serger skills appreciated. This photo is Linda Gray in her class project, complete with matching bag. July 17 @ 9:30

     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.

     Judy's Cool Shirt--Sally Brown will lead you through this fun pattern,  a loose fitting camp shirt that is as much fun to make as it is to wear. Piece a cool dog or cat to give it that special touch, or just use fun fabrics.  You'll love how comfortable it is and your friends will rave about it.  Two time classes begin July 28 @ 6:00 or July 29 @ 9:30 ($30)

     Easy Pants--Using the ideas and patterns from Taylor Made, pick a couple of fun fabrics and whip up these elastic/drawstring pants--great for leisure or for pajamas.  Basic pants fitting will be shown in this two time class beginning August 9 @ 6:00 or Sept 8 @ 1:30 ($30)

 

     Software Classes-- Software Support—We have several new software programs from Viking, Brother and Janome and hope to offer classes on these soon. 

     PE Design Software meets monthly on July 7, August 25 & Sept 8  @ 6:00. ($18)   

     BES Lettering Software Class-August 16 @ 6:00

     4D Viking Digitizing Basics—Learn all that this program can do, get a sneak peek at the new 5D's digitizing features including vector graphics, or renew you skills on the computer on Sept 15  at 6:00 ($18)

     4D Software Project Class--Using some of the unique features of this software, create your own designs in this computer class as you learn more about manipulating the elements.  A demonstration on the new 5D will also be done at this session.  August 18 @ 6:00

     5D Demo--Get a good sneak peek at the new 5D software and what it can do on August 7th after Dec Club, and also at the Viking Day on Sept 11th @ 9:30.

     Machine Specific Classes—Learn more about your  wonderful machine at these free hands-on classes. If you did not purchase your machine here these classes are available for $25.

     For the Designer Diamond, we will work on something new from our summer convention!  Come to try something new or improve your machine skills. August 14 @ 9:30  We would like to include a workshop for the Designer SE, and if you are interested please call in and leave your number for Jeannie

     Brother Quattro Project Workshop- If you have basic skills on your machine, come to make this fun purse project on August 28 @ 1:30 or Aug 31 @ 9:30. If you are brand new--it's fine to come to this and learn more about your machine.

     Brother Quattro Upgrade Sneak Peek--There is going to be a wonderful upgrade available for this machine which we will learn about at the Brother meeting this summer, and we plan to share it with you on Sept 24 @ 6:00 or Sept 25 @ 12:00. 

More fun projects and Techniques-- 

     Embellishments with Gail -"Part 2" --Make a sample notebook with many techniques for future reference. This class will complete Part 1 and add different techniques that can be used on garments, bags or accessories for the home. The notebook with all the sample fabrics will be provided for a kit fee.   If you missed class 1 you can still sigh up for this one and have a great time learning.  Class July 29th @ 1:00 or 6:00 ($18)

     Pockets All Around--A brand new pattern from Whistlepig Creek features a fat quarter friendly bag that sports pockets everywhere on a 13" X 11" bag that is also lined.  Linda can't wait to put buttons, yo-yo's or other embellishments all over it as you combine great fabrics into this comfortable bag.  Two time classes begin July 27 @ 9:30 or July 30 @ 6:00 ($30) photo pockets all around

     Welcome Banner--from the newest Art To Heart Book "Garden Song", create a banner for your door or wall using fabrics from the Benartex collection, or your own colors.  Techniques include piecing and appliqué, and then some simple quilting.  Special hanger for your project will be available!  Two time class begins July 31 @ 1:30

     Turned Under Apron Applique-- (Oh, no--it's a hand technique--maybe!) Go back in time by creating a vintage apron mini-quilt.  You will learn multiple methods on how to turn the fabric back and use your favorite appliqué method, hand or machine.  Applique methods will be taught in class.  Sally Brown has won prizes for her appliqué on quilts, and you will have fun with her in this class.  Two time classes begin August 12 @ 9:30 or August 14 @ 1:30. ($30)

     Tropical Paradise Applique--Continuous line appliqué means you get two projects for the work of one--almost.  Special cutting techniques turn two fabrics into mirror image projects, and these will become placemats.  Debbie Parker has had fun creating these and you will too.  Batik fabrics are great for these projects.  Classes August 20 @ 1:30 & 6:00 ($18)

     Shaded Poinsettia--Another preview project  for the holidays, if you liked the Alpine Wonder tree-this same designer has created a beautiful poinsettia wall hanging using two different colors of the shaded fabrics on light or dark backgrounds.  This was shown at market and is so beautiful, and will encourage you to finish and add lots of "bling".  Two time classes begin Aug 27 @ 9:30 or Sept 10 @ 6:00 ($30)

     Terrific Travel Pouch--designed by Sally, you will learn how to sew perfect curves and make a handy travel pouch for just about anything--sewing supplies, machine accessories, make-up, jewelry, coupons….the sky's the limit!  A technique called "Piec-lique" is used on the front--very special! Come see the sample at the store.  Two time classes begin Sept 2 @ 1:00 or Sept 4 @ 1:00. ($30)

     Jane's Placemat--Called "Easy Waves"--you stitch up 2 1/2" strips, then turn them down to stitch curves into the design.  These are quick and easy and look so pretty--she got the pattern at the spring market and is so excited to share it.  Class Sept 8 @ 9:30 or Sept 14 @ 6:00. ($18)

     Look at this smiling face!  Diana Davis made this adorable dress for her granddaughter, Haylee, and also for her American Girl Doll.  She entered it into the contest at the recent Martha Pullen Show and won First Place!!--look at that big ribbon.  Diana takes lots of classes here and has a machine from here, so we feel a part of her win.

     Coming next quarter--Trunk show and presentation from Crooked Nickel Quilts, Brother Sew Four Fun Program,  and more great classes--keep posted!

New stuff around the store--

     Fabrics are blooming everywhere!!  We have new lines, including lots for the holidays, from a variety of fabric companies.  Some come with suggested project ideas and some we are using in our new class samples--and there are many to choose from.  The Benartex Nativity panel features "button on" ornaments to complete the scene.

 Our "sale" fabric is always stocked with many great pieces at terrific discounts. Look at the photo of the new "Twinkle" fabric from Blank Quilting.  We have several colors coming and are excited about the possibilities.

     Did you pick up a bag for the "Ugly Fabric" Challenge?? There is still time as the entries are not due until August 4th, and judging will begin August 7th.  There are several categories, so just pick up a bag containing two half yards of fabric for $5.00 and make something special!

     If you have not seen the new machine models, they are changing all of the time, including basic, embroidery and sergers.  The Janome 7700 "Horizon" is just beautiful and sews like a dream with an 11" throat!  Some models, including embroidery, have upgraded to add more features and accessories.  Our summer conventions promise us lots of new items to offer our customers, so keep checking with us.


     Brother has introduced the new Laura Ashley machine and we have it at the store now.  This features a longer throat and a lot of wonderful stitches.  It handles most fabrics easily, as well as doing free motion quilting so smoothly, sensor foot stitching and a wealth of sewing techniques. It would be a wonderful machine for most any type of sewing, as well as a great second machine for those with an embroidery machine.  Come and give this pretty new model a test drive soon!


     We have so many books and patterns--there is a great sale posted on all of these!  There are many on garments, quilts, appliqué, bags and more.  We try to keep the newest patterns and books in stock to satisfy all of your interests. This is one of the brand new patterns from "Judy Did It" designs, and Jane already has the "Texas" sample hanging.

     Our Anita Goodesign Event was so fun, and they are putting out lots of wonderful new designs and projects, as well as our other design companies.  Shown is a sample from the new Lunchbox Quilts design for embroidered appliqué boots--too cute! Also shown is the vest back which Bethney stitched from the Patriotic pack from Anita Goodesign.  Many of our design companies are offering so many varieties of designs with new and different techniques--come take a look!


5D Software is coming this summer!! Get ready for the latest in embroidery software!  The 5D(TM) embroidery system, launching August 2010, brings you to a new level of creativity and personalization in embroidery.  5D(TM) embroidery software interacts with most embroidery files types and, therefore, is compatible with most machines.  5D(TM) software allows you to edit embroideries in real time, on your garment.  You are in control of the embroidery with tools that allow you to resize, view metallic threads, change colors, edit stitches and so much more.  The possibilities are endless!

Coupons!!

     Regular club member class coupon--Pay for two classes and get the third $9.00 off

     Thread Sale--all in-stock threads 25% off August 1 through 21st, 2010

     Books and Patterns 25% off through July

     Club Member Fabric Sale--25% off all in-stock fabrics (1 yard cut minimum) July 1 through July 24th, 2010

     Anniversary Special--All embroidery designs (in stock) 30% off August 12-14th, 2010

     September special--All in-stock feet and accessories 25% off

     Club Member Special--Stabilizers 25% off during September, 2010

     Labor Day Special--Fabric kits and special cuts such as jelly rolls, fat quarters, charm packs--25% off Sept 3-11, 2010