Creative Sewing Machines' Brag Board

San Antonio Was Fun!

2011-08-01T11:06:00.000-04:00

Mom and I had a great time in San Antonio. We took classes, took in great information, got to see new products. It was nice to get home and get settled in last week, and to get used to not eating so much wonderful Texas food! We got to eat at the Tower of the Americas, a revolving restaurant.

This week I'm getting familiar with Quilt Motion! This afternoon I'm going to put this quilt on the frame:

Stay tuned. I figure the best way to learn to use it is to just put on a project and go with it. This was from our UFO stash in the basement!

Make sure you visit us this coming Friday for our All About Me Webinar. We're going to learn about machine embroidery on garments. There are lots of great tips on stabilizers and pattern placements.

Come visit!

I'm going to Texas with my Mom!!!!!

2011-07-15T12:09:00.002-04:00

So, I'm really excited about next week.

Wish me luck Saturday morning as I run my 9th half marathon out in Mortimer, NC. Where is that? Evidently you go to the end of the earth and take a left. Then I'm coming home to host my husband's 40th birthday celebration. After a fun evening, I should get a little shut eye and be on a plane early Sunday morning!

We're going a day early so we can take in the Riverwalk in San Antonio. We'll check out the Alamo, do some shopping and then prepare for a week's worth of learning at BERNINA University. I'll take classes on the BERNINA Quilt Motion Software, BERNINA sewing machines, and technical classes on how to keep them up to snuff.

Stay tuned next week as I post pictures of our happenings.

We're closing the store for a week, so we'll be closed from July 18th-July 23rd. We'll be here with our cowboy boots July 25th at 10:00AM.

www.creativesewing.com

Come see us tomorrow!!!

2011-06-24T14:56:00.000-04:00

It's that time again...time for the BERNINA 48 month financing opportunity. Come in this weekend to purchase that BERNINA sewing machine that you've been wanting, and receive no interest until July 2015. It's for purchases $4,000 or more, and there's a bit more fine print, but you can find that at www.berninausa.com. It's Saturday ONLY!!!!!! Can't wait to see you.

Cool thing is, if you are applying for a BERNINA card for the first time and you make a purchase over $1,000, you will receive a Bernette 46 sewing machine. It's a perfect traveling companion and is cute as a button!

How cute is that? We're opening at 10AM and it'll be a busy day!

Thought for the day

2011-05-25T14:44:00.000-04:00

I have a quote hung up on my office wall. It says, "Do what you can, when you can, as often as you can, while you can."

I try not to take things for granted and do my best to get the most out of life. My running partner had a terrible bike accident last Friday and has a lot of injuries to recover from. She was training for another half ironman triathlon. That's a 1.2 mile swim, a 56 mile bike ride, followed by a 13.1 mile run. For now she'll have to concentrate on doing the simple stuff again.

We need to remember to do the things that make us happy and fulfilled. For my friend it is athletics, for others it might be picking up a needle and thread. So many of our customers come in and tell me they can't see to thread a needle anymore and how hard that is because sewing is something they enjoy that brings happiness.

Oh, sure there are all sorts of handy tools and gadgets that help us along as we age, but my point is, if you love sewing, don't put it off. Do what makes you happy, enjoy the process. Make that baby blanket, or table runner, or whatever it is that gives you satisfaction. I think that living in the moment is important, and not to put off tomorrow for what can bring you joy today.

Just some food for thought.

Here are some cool items that Judy brought in for us to see. She's getting the most out of her sewing hobby. Won't you?

Pillow Techniques Class

2011-05-12T10:50:00.000-04:00

Our Pillow Techniques morning class is going on right now, and we're learning how to successfully paper piece, make a flanged edge and how to put in a lapped zipper. We're repeating our demonstration tonight at 5:30PM as well.

If you'd like to come sit and sew, sign up to do so on May 23rd at 5:30PM.

This is so cool!

2011-05-09T15:57:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday, Sereena. I'm glad you're enjoying your new BERNINA! That is one tasty looking cake!

A day early but...

2011-05-03T15:02:00.000-04:00

My son told me on the way to school that tomorrow is "May the Fourth Be with You". He's a pretty big Star Wars guy, so this made me laugh.

Last night we had our monthly software workshop and had a good crowd. It's a free class and a great opportunity to get more familiar with your software and ask questions. We meet the first Monday of the month at 5:30PM.

So two things going on...Jessica is reworking our store window for summer. She's put out a big beach umbrella, chairs, beach balls, etc. On that note we're expecting new Christmas fabric this week.

Lastly, I think I'll share a few more pictures:

Thoughts, musings and information....

2011-04-28T10:53:00.000-04:00

Our class schedule is now posted on our website: www.creativesewing.com

From there you can check out what we have to offer and sign up directly on the site. Lots of fun things going on, so come be a part of it.

For Mother's Day a few years ago Mom gave me a set of Feetures, all three volumes, and what a fantastic gift that was. I love being able to pull up pages of information on whatever foot that I'm trying out or learning how to use.

The books are on sale through the month of May for 20% off, which is a great incentive to add them to your sewing library!

Our first session of our Groovy Girls Club was yesterday and we had a good time. We got to have lunch and see a demonstration on the Cash and Carry Bag. Sue showed us a neat way of putting in a zipper that finishes it off nicely. Several ladies are going to come back and sew it out in our FREE SEW session. Just register for a spot on May 10th or 24th to come sew whatever you like with help from us.

Don't forget to come get your Block of the Month, and when you come, bring the completed block with you.

We have a lovely collection of yellows and blues from Moda called Summer Breeze:

We had a full set of jelly rolls and fat quarter packs and we're paring it down bit by bit, so come in soon to get your hands on this happy, lively fabric.

Come see us!

Groovy Girls Club and Stand and Stow Bag

2011-04-19T16:06:00.000-04:00

We're excited to start off our Groovy Girls Club on Wednesday, April 27th at 12:00. Each monthly meeting has a fun and exciting theme such as Bag Ladies - or Mom and Me - or how about Groovy Gifts? You can stock your gift closet with projects that are as fun to make as they are to give.The club will run for 6 months on the fourth Wednesday of each month.

Make your lunch hour count!

$10.00 tuition per session includes handouts, a prize and lunch! Call 786.7074 to register.

Stand and Stow Bag
Saturday, April 30th at 10:00AM, store opens at 9:30AM

This simple sack stands up when you pack it and then it folds and stows away. Exclusively available at Groovy Girl Club shops! Small size makes a great lunch bag, medium size is about the size of a grocery bag, and a 9" x 13" pan fits perfectly in the large bag. In class you will make the large size and you are going to love it. It's big enough to carry almost anything!

$25 tuition includes pattern, Stand and Stow Bag by Atkinson Designs. Only available at Groovy Girls Quilt Shops! Call 786.7074 to register and we'll send you a supply list.

Standing...

Stowing...

Just a few pictures to enjoy

2011-04-19T15:53:00.000-04:00

Just to let you know! Come in for details!

2011-04-12T13:05:00.002-04:00

Kaye England

2011-03-23T14:06:00.000-04:00

Kaye England comes to visit us in Mt. Airy, NC, bringing a wealth of information for us! Her vivacious personality and infectious laughter left us with wanting more.

We packed a full house! We're so glad so many people came to hear and be a part of such a wonderful event.

One of Kaye's many creations she brought for us to see.

Kaye concentrates on "technique, not talent". We appreciate her technique tips but we can all see she's overflowing in the talent department.

Kaye reminded us that years from now our families will always be happy with color selections that we make, whether we fret over them or not!

This was one of my favorite quilts that she showed, although I'm not sure if I could do it in the afternoon that Kaye completed the top in!

We had a wonderful evening!

www.creativesewing.com

The WOW factor...

2011-02-04T10:53:00.000-05:00

Come experience the beauty and elegance of the new Limited Edition BERNINA 830.

More Wild!Flowers

2011-02-02T11:02:00.000-05:00

We're really looking forward to Saturday's class. The More Wild!Flowers quilt is by Smith Street Designs and we've been hard at work getting everything ready for it.

Kathleen Connor created this beautiful appliqued quilt. We had the pleasure of meeting her when she traveled from Michigan to take one of our software seminars.

Here are all the embroidered blocks and some of the pieced ones.

This is what we're going to start with on Saturday.

This is our bi-monthly embroidered block class. We're full to capacity now, but are looking into opening up a second class. Let us know if you are interested.

http://www.creativesewing.com/

I got mine done...

2011-02-01T12:47:00.000-05:00

I used Moda's new collection Sunkissed. The top took about an hour to make.

And the King Tut thread was perfect for quilting!

One more thing. I have to mention the very best seam ripper in the world. If you don't have one, that means you don't have a BERNINA, because they pack one with every machine. Of course, I have three at home. Not that I really need them that much, right?

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Sharon came to visit!

2011-01-29T12:16:00.001-05:00

Sharon Rhudy is one of our favorite people and we love it when she travels to see us! Today she brought two quilts that she's working on as well as information on a cool 10 minute block. I haven't made it, but it looks like fun, and she shared the directions that she used watching Suzanne McNeil on this youtube video:

So, here's my challenge. If you make a 10 minute block and bring it in, we'll give you a 10% off coupon to use anywhere in the store!

Here's what she brought in for us to see today:

Please visit http://www.creativesewing.com/

Peggy brings in her works of art

2011-01-19T14:16:00.001-05:00

Peggy has kept her BERNINA 830 hard at work, and brought in these beautiful quilts that she made. We want share them with you.

Liberated Hunter's Star

This is Peggy's I Spy Quilt, made with fabrics from friends. She quilted flowers in each of the blocks.

Pictures of pretties

2011-01-18T12:24:00.001-05:00

Barbara's Christmas Tree Pillow Wrap

Susan's Cute Purse

And the inside of the bag

Betty's Beautiful Black and White Quilt

http://www.creativesewing.com/

What a weather week!

2011-01-13T19:21:00.001-05:00

We got about two inches of snow this week in Mt. Airy, NC. The kids have been out of school for four days, but they are going tomorrow! Even more exciting, they are going on Saturday as well. Yes, Saturday school. I think that happened once to me while I was growing up.

Since the kids are in school on Saturday, we figure you ought to be as well, too! Join us for our new BERNINA embroidery class on Saturday at 10:30. Bring your BERNINA sewing machine, embroidery unit, a few colors of pastel thread and a hand towel to embroider on. We'll go over the machine, stabilizers, threads, needles and how to use your machine. It'll be a lot of fun and you'll want to get home and keep going!

Give us a call at 336 786 7074 to let us know you're coming!

Timmesa

www.creativesewing.com

Pillow Techniques Class

2011-01-10T17:16:00.001-05:00

Come join us for our monthly pillow techniques class on Thursday, January 13th at 10:30AM and 5:30PM. We'll be demonstrating the use of Thangles to create this pieced heart quilt block, as well as adding piping. Look forward to seeing you!

Your block of the month quilt kits are available as well.

www.creativesewing.com

Website under construction

2011-01-10T13:10:00.002-05:00

Hello all...

We're undergoing some technical changes to our main website and as a result our email addresses are having a few growing pains as well. So if you need to get in touch with us, please use sueshrader@embarqmail.com or creativesewingprojects@gmail.com for the next little bit. Hopefully we'll get it straightened out soon. Of course, you can call us as well at 333.786.7074. You can register for classes at http://www.creativesewing.com/

Looking forward to seeing you at our pillow techniques class on Thursday at 10:30 and 5:30. We're doing a pieced heart using the Thangles that we'll be using for the Block of the Month, so you'll get to see them in action.

Timmesa
http://www.creativesewing.com/

Buck a Block Program!

2011-01-06T11:39:00.002-05:00

Block of the Month Quilt 2011: available January 13, 2011.

Creative Sewing Machine's "Buck a Block" Thangles Program.

The finished quilt of 24 blocks, sashing and border is 67 x 94".

Class #9279 $1.00 a month

We have a fun new program where you can get a block kit for only $1 for 2 block centers.

It's easy to participate.On your first visit in January, sign up in the store and purchase a pack of Thangles for $5.00.

The Thangles will be used to make ALL the blocks. You will also receive your first block kit for $1.

Each block kit consists of two strips of precut fabric and the directions for making that month's blocks. Your block kit will also have a different Thangles lesson each month.

You will learn how to use Thangles to make quarter squares, tulip squares and flying geese. You will also learn how to use Thangles with any quilting pattern. The size of the block is 6". (It's the block inside the star block in the picture.

Every month for 12 months, you return to Creative Sewing Machines to pick up your new kit.

You can return anytime during the month. If you miss a month, you can still get the kit, but
the price will be $5.00 instead of $1.00.

We have selected the fabrics for you and have finishing kits available to turn each block into a finished 12" square, sashing, borders and binding. Finishing kits are limited so make sure to purchase this kit early while the fabric is still available. In addition, you can get started on the finishing steps right away. Each of this year's blocks is the center of a star. It is much easier to do this star setting as you construct your blocks.

Please register so that you can begin your quilt in January. You can pick up your blocks between January 15 and February 14. The February Blocks will be available February 15-March 14, etc.

www.creativesewing.com

More and more pictures!

2011-01-04T11:30:00.000-05:00

How cute is this?

Linda's black and white creation!

Brenda created this gorgeous quilt.

Gwen made a dozen tree skirts for Christmas presents this year.

What you guys have been up to the last couple of months!

2011-01-04T11:23:00.001-05:00

I think a picture extravaganza is neccessary!

Rena Bishop created these with her BERNINA 200

Martha Allen's Star Quilt

Betty Riddle

I'm pretty sure these were Betty's as well, let me know if I got it wrong. Aren't they beautiful?

Faye's 94 year old mother created this quilt, and the Surry Quilt Guild was kind enough to quilt it for her.

Her address is Lillian Hiatt, Rm. 214, Ridgecrest Retirement Center, 1000 Ridgecrest Lane, Mt. Airy, if anyone wants to congratulate her on it. You would make her day!

Didja think I forgot about you?

2011-01-04T11:04:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year!

Remember that Birthday Blooms quilt that we raffled off in which so many of you donated to? Well, combining the quilt and other donations, I raised over $2900 for Autism Speaks when I ran the New York City Marathon on November 7th. Thanks so much for all of your support while I trained and got to run the race. Here's a very tired picture of myself and my medal after I crossed the finish line.

Now, onward! We have so many fun things to show off and so much in store for you!

Best in Show

2010-10-20T10:25:00.000-04:00

Take a moment to marvel at the beauty of this quilt by Margaret Layman.

Wait, there's more!

2010-10-19T16:51:00.000-04:00

Martha Allen brought in lots of projects that placed at the fair! Congratulations!

More show and tells!

2010-10-18T12:49:00.000-04:00

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Super Saturday!!!

2010-10-16T10:18:00.001-04:00

It's Super Saturday, you know, the day in October that we have great financing opportunities on machines with either 18 months or 36 months equal payments, no interest. So now is the time to get that BERNINA that you've been wishing for!

In the midst of that, today we are having a class on this beautiful quilt.

And when we had our pillow techinques class on Thursday, we had a lot of show and tells. Here are a few:

Pillow Techniques Class

2010-10-14T11:28:00.001-04:00

We had a great informative class on pillow techniques this morning. This year long series will meet the second Thursday of each month and feature many different presser feet and techniques. This month we demonstrated piping, pintucks, trapunto, and free motion quilting with the BERNINA Stitch Regulator. We talked about the best way to use metallic threads, and then finished off with corded scallops on the edge of the pillow. Everyone had a great time and learned so much! The classes are at 10:30AM and 5:30PM and we hope you'll join us tonight and each month after this one!

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Ann's Purse and Wallet

2010-10-11T15:52:00.000-04:00

Ann Gorley brought in her beautiful purses and wallet sets she created.

They are lovely!

Serger Class was a lot of fun

2010-10-07T10:47:00.000-04:00

We had a lot of fun creating projects during our three week serger class. We made pillowcases, napkins, placemats and Christmas stockings. We learned how to do basic serger sewing, rolled hems, use decorative threads, learned how to adjust the tensions, and decorative flatlock stitches on the stockings.

Congratulations, Margaret!

2010-10-04T14:57:00.000-04:00

Margaret Layman's beautiful handiwork was on display at the Floyd County Quilt Show over the weekend and came home with a few new accessories!

Here's a reminder of what she's teaching for us this fall:

Needle Turned Applique by Machine 1 session $25.00

Saturday, Oct. 23 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM Class # 8909

This wonderful appliqué is a turned edge technique that uses freezer paper templates. It gives the look of true hand work without ever making a stitch by hand. Your machine blind hem is used to give a hand picked look to the needlework. You will create a piece to add borders to and hang or use this as a springboard to create more blocks for a bigger wall quilt. Instructor: Margaret Layman.

and

Free Motion Quilting 1 session $25.00

Sat. 11/13 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM Class #8910

Margaret Layman has mastered using her sewing machine to do beautiful quilting with not only stippling but outline quilting and template quilting as well. Many of you have admired her work and she would like to share her techniques with you so you too can put the perfect “icing” on the cake when it comes to machine quilting. Even with the wonderful BSR on the Bernina machines you might need a confidence builder and this is the class to attend. A supply list will be provided. Instructor: Margaret.

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Friday gems...

2010-10-01T15:47:00.001-04:00

Christine brought more jewelry in for us to see. She does such a lovely job working with these tiny beads!

Judy brought in this beautiful quilt. She produces so many pretty things that it inspires me to get more done!

Joan made this from the Gift Boxes pattern. It's such a great way to use a pretty jelly roll!

http://www.creativesewing.com/

How funny is this?

2010-09-22T13:16:00.000-04:00

I'm shamelessly stealing this picture from another blog, but it's pretty funny. Now, what to wear with it?

Kudos to Jean Devito! Check out her handiwork!

2010-09-21T16:17:00.001-04:00

Jean hasn't had her BERNINA 640 for very long, but I told her that after all these projects, she'd best bring it in for me to give it a good cleaning! She's worked so hard to make quilts for her family members and we're so glad we got to see them.

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Happy Friday!

2010-09-17T16:54:00.001-04:00

First of all, we're having a HUGE sale right now. Savings in the store from 15% to 60% off. Come celebrate Fall with us!

Tomorrow, Saturday, September 18th, we're having a Back to School/Back to Sewing Seminar. We'll watch an information packed presentation from BERNINA, then have some neat table top demonstrations to show off new techniques. You'll have the opportunity to try them yourself and learn something new!

We have special financing available during this event as well. So if you're thinking of a new BERNINA, then this is the time to come try one out, and if you have one already, gain some knowledge!

We also have some beautiful projects to show off!

Rena embroidered this gorgeous oriental fan and brought it by for us to see! It's beautiful!

Linda's choice of colors are perfect for this lovely table runner.

Judy digitized this beautiful pumpkin applique and made this stunning banner.

Aurie made this table topper by simply seeing another one and making the pattern herself. So pretty.

Lovely job, Jody! What a pretty quilt!

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Fall Class Schedule

2010-09-08T12:54:00.000-04:00

CREATIVE SEWING MACHINES, INC.

FALL 2010 SEWING CLASS SCHEDULE

_________________________________________________

We hope you will be able to join us for one, several, or all the classes this fall. Please pre-register for classes either by stopping by the shop, phoning 336 786 7074 or emailing: sue@creativesewing.com. When you register please give us the name of the class, date and time, and the class #. A supply list will be provided for all classes.

_________________________________________________

BERNINA Overlock Basics 3 sessions $30.00 Class# 8917

3 classes with 3 simple projects to use with your BERNINA serger/overlock. Emphasis will be on making sure you can thread your overlock with ease. You’ll also learn how to approach using specialty threads. Supplies are in addition to class tuition.

Class 1: Tues. 9/14 @ 5:30 PM Pillow Cases and Log Cabin Block

Class 2: Tues. 9/21 @ 5:30 PM Napkins with the Rolled Hem and Placemats with Decorative Thread Edges.

Class 3: Tues. 9/28@ 5:30 PM Crazy Patch Christmas Stocking

Customer Appreciation Presentation: Back to School/Back to Sewing No Charge

Saturday, September 18 @ 10:30 AM Class # 8894

OR

Monday, September 20 @ 5:30 PM Class # 8895

Join us for a great sewing/quilting project that will get you back in the mood for fall sewing. This will feature a great quilting project with lots of fresh embellishment ideas. Demonstrations of each technique will get your creative juices flowing.

Appliqued Christmas Pineapple Quilt 2 sessions $25.00

Wed, 9/29 and 10/6 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM Class # 8896

The first class will focus on how to use your machine embroidery unit to make beautiful appliqued quilt blocks. A class requirement will be the Dakota Collectibles Christmas Applique Collection. It has loads of beautiful appliqued Christmas Designs. The second class will focus on making the beautiful pineapple quilt block. The quilt is on display at the shop.

BERNINA V6 Software Class: Digitizing 1 session Mastery Class

Friday, 9/24 @ 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM Class # 8898

Get a better understanding of your software by learning the ins and outs of creating your own designs from graphics, drawings, or pictures. Free if you purchased your V6 software from Creative Sewing Machines.

Begin to Quilt 4 sessions $120.00

Wed. 10/13,10/20, 10/27 and Nov. 3 10:30 AM Class # 8899

OR

Wed. 10/13,10/20, 10/27 and Nov. 3 @ 5:30 PM Class # 8900

The "Rail Fence" class is designed to cover all aspects of quilting, from selecting fabrics and tools to piecing, quilting and binding a completed wall-hanging size quilt. If you're already an experienced quilter, tell your non-quilting friends about these great beginning classes, send them to Creative Sewing Machines, and we'll introduce them to the exciting world of quilt-making!

The class fee of $120 includes fabric for quilt top, borders, binding, backing and batting.

Quilting tools are in addition to class fee.

October is the time to SewPink ™! 1 day workshop $25.00

For All BERNINA and “Wanna Be” BERNINA owners

Friday, October 1 10:30 AM Class # 8901

For BERNINA 830 Owners or “Wanna Be” 830 owners

Saturday, October 2 10:30 AM Class # 8902

Join Creative Sewing Machines and BERNINA in the Fight Against Breast Cancer!

Come for this class support the cause while you sew or embroider your exclusive SewPink ™ project. If you don’t own a BERNINA we encourage you to join us and sew on a BERNINA. Request to use a BERNINA when you register for class. Class fee of $25.00 includes class fabrics.

Mary Lou Nall joins us again for 2 fun filled days of demonstrations

Presser Foot Class I—Mary Lou Nall 1 session $35.00

Monday, October 11 @ 2:00 PM Class # 8903

See www.creativesewing.com for more information

Presser Foot Class II—Mary Lou Nall 1 session $35.00

Monday, October 11 @ 6:30 PM Class # 8904

See www.creativesewing.com for more information

Class on Double Needles! How many ways can you use them?—Mary LouNall

1 session $35.00

Tuesday, October 12 @ 2:00 PM Class # 8905

See www.creativesewing.com for more information

Heirloom Sewing the Easy Way—Mary Lou Nall 1 session $35.00

Tuesday, October 12 @ 6:30 PM Class # 8906

See www.creativesewing.com for more information

Special Note: Take all 4 of Mary Lou Nall’s Classes for a total of $120.00. Class# 8918

Creative Techniques Samplers—Pillow Wraps—The Object is a Learning Experience for All!

Meets the 2nd Thursday of each month @ 10:30 AM and 5:30 PM

First Session is Thursday, October 14.

See and try a new technique every month…we will demonstrate a different technique each month for a year that you will turn into a wrap for your pillow. If you don’t want a pillow wrap, you can make the project into a quilt block. Bring the month’s finished project to the next meeting and earn a fun door prize.

Some of the topics that we will cover include but are not limited to: Basic pillow construction, piping, Trapunto, Decorative free form couching, Stained Glass with skinny bias, Applique in its many forms, Quilting, Embroidery with style, Paper Piecing, Crazy Patch, Free Motion quilting, Decorative Stitching, and Heirloom. The possibilities are limitless. The class is free but the knowledge you’ll gain will be so beneficial.

Do you want come back and make it here? Then join us the following Tuesday for a sit and sew session at 10:30AM or 5:30PM (with the exception of October, we’ll sew on 10/19). Bring your sewing machine and sew the project with our help. $10.00 tuition. 10:30 AM: Class #8914 5:30PM: Class #8915

Fat Quarter Hunter Star Quilt—A Fat Quarter Delight! 1 session $25.00

Saturday, October 16 10:30 AM Class # 8907

Take 14 fat quarters, cut and reassemble to create a lovely Hunter Star pattern. This quilt is so beautiful and will be one you’ll treasure. Finished quilt size is 63” x 70”.

Tee Shirt Quilt 1 session $25.00

Friday, October 22 10:30 AM Class # 8908

Make a special memory quilt using a Tee Shirt collection. Learn how to handle the knit fabrics, how to cut the T shirts for the best advantage, how to properly back the knits, and join with sashing. A sit and sew class.

Needle Turned Applique by Machine 1 session $25.00

Saturday, Oct. 23 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM Class # 8909

This wonderful appliqué is a turned edge technique that uses freezer paper templates. It gives the look of true hand work without ever making a stitch by hand. Your machine blind hem is used to give a hand picked look to the needlework. You will create a piece to add borders to and hang or use this as a springboard to create more blocks for a bigger wall quilt. Instructor: Margaret Layman.

Applique with the Embroidery Machine Block of the Month.

6 sessions $90.00 Class#8920

Tues. 10/26, Thurs. 11/18, Tues. 1/18, Tues. 2/15, Tues. 3/15, Tues. 4/19 @ 5:30 PM

Use your Embroidery Machine to embroider beautiful wildflower appliques and set them into a stunning quilt or set each block into another project. The classes will be sit and sew. Each class will feature a different floral design, the setting for the design, and a demo of the pieced block. A wonderful way to use and enjoy embroidery. $90.00 tuition. Pattern and CD: $45.00. You’ll choose your own fabrics.

V6 Software 3 day Seminar 3 days $300.00

October 28, 29, and 30 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM Class # 8616

Details are on the web @ www.creativesewing.com

Free Motion Quilting 1 session $25.00

Sat. 11/13 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM Class #8910

Margaret Layman has mastered using her sewing machine to do beautiful quilting with not only stippling but outline quilting and template quilting as well. Many of you have admired her work and she would like to share her techniques with you so you too can put the perfect “icing” on the cake when it comes to machine quilting. Even with the wonderful BSR on the Bernina machines you might need a confidence builder and this is the class to attend. A supply list will be provided. Instructor: Margaret.

Christmas Tree Delight: A Christmas Quilt 1 session $25.00

Sat. 11/20 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM Class #8911

The dimensional Christmas trees in this patterns and enhanced with courthouse blocks and make a stunning quilt that will become a favorite part of your holiday traditions.

Gift Class: Lily Pocket Purse 1 session $10.00

Tues. 11/30 5:30 PM Class #8913

It’s a flirty and fun purse that’s full of great pockets for organization. And it’s a Lazy Girl pattern so it’s possible to actually get it made before Christmas. Devote an evening to the sewing here and you should almost be finished when you go home. A supply list will be given upon registration.

Quick as a Wink Christmas Table Runner 1 session $40.00(kit included)

Sat. 12/4 10:30 AM—3:00 PM Class #8911

A pieced Christmas Tree theme for this table runner is easy and very festive.

Gift Class: A Gift for the next Holiday 1 session $40.00(kit included)

Sat, 12/11 10:30 AM—3:00 PM Class #8921

It’s the gift that keeps giving. Sew this Valentine’s Table runner in a quick one session class and give to the friend who will have to use as soon as Christmas is over. Wouldn’t you love a gift that prepares you for the next holiday? Or, make it for yourself!

Gorgeous!

2010-08-31T14:08:00.000-04:00

Look what a beautiful wall quilt Barbara Conner created. The appliques, to the pinwheels, to the fantastic work stippling with her BSR make this a treasure. We're so glad you shared with us!

More pretties!

2010-08-27T10:12:00.001-04:00

Not too much commentary today, just wanted to show off these lovely projects! Thanks to Judy, Donna and Alice for sharing with us! Don't have much time to type, we have a full house getting ready to take an all day software class!

From the Archives...a mystery quilt class we had a while back....

2010-07-17T14:08:00.000-04:00

These ladies came in with the embroidery finished and fabric cut to size. We added clues throughout the day and this is what they went home with that afternoon! What a great time we had and they all turned out so pretty.

Several Pretty Pieces

2010-07-14T11:38:00.000-04:00

We had a lot of fun making our circle quilts a few weeks ago, and Judy Brummel made hers into a pretty tablecloth for an oak table at home. She said it fits perfectly. Judy used the circular embroidery attachment to create the decorative stitches in the center of the project, and the ruffler to add the pretty ruffle onto the edge. Nice work!

Peggy Agee made these beautiful quilts, the purple one has a stunning effect with the transition of light and dark colors. The next one is Peggy's year long Birthday Blooms Quilt that she made here in class. I love the purple on the border. Remember we're raffling off the one I made and tickets are available at the shop, so come grab a chance on it! Nice Job, Peggy.

www.creativesewing.com

Elaine's Fish Purse!

2010-07-13T17:06:00.000-04:00

It's hard to see all the detail that Elaine put into this adorable fishy bag, but all of the added touches turned this into a showpiece. Her use of trims, decorative stitches, applique and piecing all came together in such a "wow" fashion that it's truly a work of art! Thanks for letting us share!

www.creativesewing.com

Beautiful creations...

2010-07-08T15:09:00.001-04:00

Christine makes beautiful items with her BERNINA, but her interests do not lie within sewing alone. Check out this neat hand knitted monkey! How fun!

Christine's jewelry is always fun to see, and she goes to a beading conference every June. We always look forward to seeing what she'll come home with and this year she did not disappoint. All the pieces are lovely. It's even more fun to accessorize when you've made the items yourself!

A couple more...

2010-06-23T11:11:00.001-04:00

Love the VT pillow, Judy. Of course, since it's my alma mater, I'm a little partial...

Trudy shows us off her sweet summer frocks that were made for Molly and Will. They will be stylin' on the Fourth of July! Beautiful!

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Inspiring young creative minds

2010-06-23T11:03:00.001-04:00

We were lucky enough to host a sewing class for a brownie troop this week, and I have to say what a great time we all had. These five girls made a cool placemat to take home, complete with their name embroidered on the front (I scribbled that part out with photoshop). We had a great time showing them how to use a sewing machine for the first time while their moms taught the girls how to sew a button on by hand. At the end of the evening we showed off a bit and demonstrated how easy it is to sew on a button with the #18 foot and a BERNINA, but these are lessons that are valuable for a lifetime. All proceeds from the evening benefited Austism Speaks, so it was a positive experience for us all!

The picture doesn't do it justice

2010-06-18T16:47:00.000-04:00

Aurie Ammerman made this beautiful needle turned applique quilt for her brand new granddaughter, who is a very lucky little girl. Aurie's attention to detail is quite compelling and I really wish I had taken a close up of one of the blocks. But as you can see, it's really something else. I appreciate Aurie bringing it in for us to see.

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Curved Strip Piecing Class

2010-06-14T14:52:00.001-04:00

Saturday's gathering of folks had a great time learning the curved strip piecing technique. It was fun to see what each person was able to create.

I wish I had a picture of the section Jennifer created by fussy cutting out two lawn chairs from a panel she had. It was precious and really showed off the creative side of her artwork.

Mary used a combination of batiks to create a beautiful effect.

Alice loves bright colors, so she chose a lot of fun pieces that were fun to put together.

http://www.creativesewing.com/

Rail Fences make a great impact!

2010-06-03T10:51:00.007-04:00

It's fun to do a quick project, and even more fun when you know it's going to someone who will be completely surprised by it. I enjoyed making this lap quilt for a friend whose daughter is going to UNC-W on a softball scholarship. I love this school's colors and think they make a striking combination. It was easy to cut out using the June Taylor Strip Cutter, so that part was done in 15 minutes. (We have them in stock at the shop).

I usually keep the 440 on the quilt frame, but I decided that for the sake of time, I would put the 820 up and see how much time I could cut out by using it. I quilted this lap quilt in two hours, thirty-five minutes, which included a chocolate cake break and a phone call to my husband to pick up my youngest child and a pizza on his way home so I could get it done. Didn't it turn out well?

As always, check out our main website at http://www.creativesewing.com/

Three for today

2010-05-28T14:36:00.004-04:00

Judy Brummel might have been a little surprised when I asked her to let me hang up her pocketbook for me to snap a shot of it, but I'm pretty sure I left everything inside where it needed to be! Isn't it pretty? The handles are soft and the grommets add a lot of character.

Gwen Ashburn (with the pink, green and yellow quilt) and Dorene Foster (with the blue and yellow) both made these log cabins with class and style. Beautiful.

As always, check out our main website at http://www.creativesewing.com

Who-o-o has some advice?

2010-05-26T11:33:00.003-04:00

Good morning! I wanted to share this cute little purse that I made out of this owl fabric we have in the store. I made this from a pattern book called "Fast and Furious". Love the book as I've made a baby quilt from it and an easy quilt as you go table runner from it. However, this particular purse pattern made me furious fast...I think I took out every seam that I put in. But it's done, and it's on display, so come check out the fabric and tell me what you would have done differently.

My ha ha funny moment is to do with this picture. I have this great tube of lip gloss that I usually have in my pocket...and then there is this great tube of Bernina oil for the 8 series machines in which I was using this morning... a case of mistaken identity ensued that had nothing to do with me oiling a sewing machine with lip gloss. However, use your imagination as to the opposite and now you'll understand why I've changed to colored lip gloss now. I'm just sayin...

As always, check out our main website at www.creativesewing.com

Gorgeous Batik Quilt

2010-05-25T14:21:00.004-04:00

We have a fantastic quilt to display today from our customer, Gay Moore. Here's part of her email that she sent to us, "I am attaching a picture of a quilt that I recently pieced and quilted on my BERNINA 820 that I purchased from you last fall. The quilt uses Bali Pops 2.5 inch strips. The pattern came from Brenda Hennings 'Strip Therapy 3' book. I love my 820. The extended arm is great for me to machine quilt all my projects. I love the dual feed, the lighting and the larger bobbin thread capacity. Actually, I love all the features."

We're so glad, Gay! It's really lovely and we're tickled the 820 has made sewing a dream for you!

Food and Foolishness Class

2010-05-24T13:13:00.003-04:00

We had such a great time on Saturday. We started the day off with our block of the month class which incorporated applique. The month's block involves different shaped hearts, so a lot of people used the handy accuquilt GO cutter to cut their shapes before they left. Then at lunchtime our next class began, starting with a box lunch and a mystery project that turned out to be this fun apron. I wish we could have gotten a picture of everyone that came, but look how proud everyone is with their cool finished project!

Garden Beauty Time!

2010-05-21T14:42:00.007-04:00

Look how pretty the Garden Beauty quilt turned out!

This is a six month block of the month class that we are starting on June 17 @ 5:30 PM. It'll run every 3rd Thursday through November. Cost is $150 and includes the fabrics for the top and the book.

It's gonna be fun! Wanna Come? For each class that you come to sew you'll get a $5 store credit.

You can register by calling the store at 336 786 7074, visiting our regular website at http://www.creativesewing.com or sending an email to creativesewingprojects@gmail.com.

Quilt Raffle for Autism Speaks

2010-05-20T10:31:00.008-04:00

Well, this is my blog, so that means I get to show off my own projects, right? Take a look at my beautiful Birthday Blooms quilt that was made in a block of the month class. In January 09 we started with the trellis blocks, getting that part completed and out of the way. Starting in February we did a flower a month for a whole year, finishing out with the pink carnation block in January 2010.

We had a great group of ladies that took this class, as we labored over the red rose block in June so much that I think all of us would be suited to never receive them again. Others were more fun as we got very used to making half square triangles in several different ways. Then there were the months that I made us all paper piecing patterns so we could get through some of the more confusing angles.

The best part was that when I sat down to put my quilt together, I realized I had sold my border fabric and had less than what I needed. That's when I got to remake all my trellis blocks again!

Lucky for me, I was able to convince Amy Askins of Lowgap to quilt it, and I'm very pleased with her work and how she brought out the best in it. I was going to give it a try on my own but was ready to call it done!

Reason being, I am raffling off this labor of love to benefit Autism Speaks, an organization dedicated to promoting the early intervention, research and a cure for Autism. It's a serious developmental disability and I'm excited to be able to put forth donations towards this organization. I will be running the NYC Marathon this November under Autism Speaks so all proceeds from this raffle will go to this cause. If you're interested in a raffle ticket, let me know, they are $3 each or 2 for $5. So that means a book of ten will set you back $25, but it's for a great cause. The quilt is on display at the store.

2010-05-19T17:07:00.009-04:00

I have a lot of catching up to do! Here is a speckling or sampling of a bunch of projects that we've been able to enjoy.

Sandy Woodard created this appliqued children's quilt using the embroidery on her 830.

Beautiful Judy! Those flying geese really finish it off!

This is a beautiful batik quilt made by Sharon Rhudy.

Karen Springthorpe is relatively new at quilting, yet she obviously has an enormous amount of talent.

Isn't this elephant quilt precious?

Gwen Ashburn used the cute Moda high heel panel to create this one.

Faye Seal made this Merry Go Round quilt out of fat quarters instead of the jelly rolls and it turned out beautifully.

And then she made this Christmas pineapple quilt.

Alice Brooks took our crazy curves class and made this floral beauty.

The pineapple quilt class was a big hit, and Leanne Mantero shows us hers. Nice job!

Very pretty, Susan!

Sharon shows us another beautiful creation.

http://www.creativesewing.com

New projects/new friends!

2010-03-19T20:58:00.012-04:00

Lots of projects to show off today and a promise to myself to do this more often! This picture above was taken at one of our BERNINA Mastery Classes. Lots of different machines in the class, but we make sure that everyone knows how to use and take care of their new babies. We have been enjoying seeing the fun projects our customers are making with them.

This appliqued quilt was made by Helen Crane. A new quilter, she did a wonderful job of putting this together. It's certainly something to be very proud of.

Lesley's husband suprised her with a new BERNINA for Christmas, and we've really enjoyed getting to know her as she comes for all her mastery classes. New at the sport as well, she created this one of a kind purse that is darling. The handles really give it a professional touch.

Peggy enjoyed her Mastery class on decorative stitching, and put her 830 to use by whipping up this little romper with her new skills. How cute is that?

We also got to see this braid quilt top that Peggy made for her husband. What a lucky guy!

http://www.creativesewing.com/

A blanket, a table runner and a wall hanging

2010-01-28T20:29:00.008-05:00

Marie Harris is one of our favorite friends at Creative Sewing Machines, and she brought in this pretty table runner this afternoon. We had a class on this a while back, learning how to do buttonhole applique work. She did a great job on this project, stippling in between the fruit using her BERNINA Stitch Regulator and enjoying the ease of use of the #20 foot to do her applique work. Isn't it great to get something completed?

This blanket was made by Joy Snow, and she actually wove this using what seemed to me to be a pretty complicated technique, but the way she put it, it wasn't all that difficult. I have a hard time believing that and can really appreciate her talents!

Also, this week, Barbara Conner brought by this hand needle turn applique project that took her a year to finish. She said she was always needing something in her hands while she watches tv, and this is what goes to show a good multitasking job she can do!

as always, check out our main website at http://www.creativesewing.com/