~ Saturday mornings at 11:00 am ~
Sessions are open to anyone
with any type of machine who wants to learn new techniques!

$5.00 fee includes a CD with all of the instructions.
Please call ahead to register.
January 19
The Basics: Digitizing
Create a class notebook to take notes in style for the 2013 Sampler year. Digitize a fun and simple design.

February 16
The Basics: In the Hoop Techniques
Digitize designs for needle punching and couching. Create beautiful modern designs.

March 16
Get Organized: "Layers" Tub
Combine techniques and layer them to create custom fabric for this wonderfully HUGE tub! A showpiece in the home or office.

April 20
Get Organized: "Guild a Box"
Work with a variety of embroidery techniques to
embellish a set of freestanding boxes.

May 18
Ready for Summer: "Pack the Laptop"
Create a beautiful Jacobean Applique floral motif for a quilted laptop keeper.
ALL ABOUT ME: 
BERNINA VIRTUAL EMBROIDERY CLUB

Fridays: 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Karen Donnelly  Fee: $5 per session
Karen will have samples ready and machines set up for participants to try the techniques used in the projects presented each month. A sample will be on display in the shop ahead of time so you will have an idea of what the offerings will be each month.
SOCKS – SOCKS – SOCKS
2012 Knitting Challenge

The sock challenge was fun and we collected $32.  Judi added to that and sent our local SPCA a check for $50.  We had seven participants and lovely socks to look at.  Thanks to all who participated and voted.
 
I am planning another knitting Challenge which will be announced in the next newsletter.  Please consider entering that one.
MONDAY KNITTERS
The first Monday of the month (unless otherwise noted):
January 7, February 4, March NO MEETING, April 1 and May 6
10:00 am - 12:30 pm   -and-   6:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Monday knitters are going strong.  Everyone works on their own projects and receives help when needed.  We share ideas, projects, stories, and generally have a good time.  The fee for these meetings has always been non-perishable food for the local food pantries.  These are delivered to four local pantries.  We have donated many products over the past few years.  Members also knit hats for babies, children, and adults, which we donate to several places in Central New York. 
Free patterns are available for these hats.

THE NEW BERNINA 7 SERIES
Our new Bernina 7 machines are arriving at Patchwork Plus and selling fast. 
Stop in to try one and add your name to the list of new Bernina 7 owners!

Sew Longer and Faster With Fewer Interruptions
With the launch of the 7 Series, BERNINA presents a world’s first…the BERNINA 9 Hook (B 9 Hook).  The new heart of the BERNINA machine features a novel, centrally-placed driver, which allows the B 9 Hook to run steady and quiet. The B 9 Hook sews high-precision stitches up to 9 mm in width with speeds up to a 1,000 stitches per minute. And the bobbin has 80 percent more thread capacity than standard bobbins, allowing you to sew longer without interruption. Finally, the B 9 Hook is made of high-quality materials that allow the thread to run smoothly with consistent tension.

Each 7 Series machine is equipped with a color touch screen, the integrated BERNINA Dual Feed and an extended freearm area with 10 inches of space to the right of the needle.

BERNINA 710 The B 710 features 680 sewing stitch patterns, including 200 decorative stitches, and comes standard with five presser feet. The B 710 is also compatible with the BERNINA Stitch Regulator (BSR).

BERNINA 750 QE The B 750 QE is specially accessorized for the quilter. The B 750 QE includes a total of 837 sewing stitch patterns, and is equipped with over 30 quilt stitches, eight presser feet and 70 embroidery designs. It comes standard with the BSR.

BERNINA 780 E The BERNINA 780 E offers top quality embroidery and comes standard with the BSR and an assortment of nine presser feet.  It includes a total of 1,306 sewing stitch patterns and is also capable of 360-degree, multi-directional sewing. Additionally, over 130 high quality embroidery designs are built into the B 780 E along with elegant fonts for personalizing your projects. You can even quickly upload your own embroidery designs onto the machine using the convenient USB port.

YARN TASTING WITH CASCADE YARNS
 
The October Yarn Tasting was an enjoyable evening for 34 knitters.  Our Cascade Rep. and one of the Company owners were the presenters.  Everyone got to try the yarns and we were shown many lovely samples.  Another gathering of this type may be held in the future.

SERGER/OVERLOCK REFRESHER CLASS
Saturday, February 16   1:00 – 4:00 pm
Michele Ball    Fee: $25

Do you just use your serger to overcast edges because you are not comfortable changing stitches?  Is your serger gathering dust because you don’t want to even think about threading/re-threading it?  Or, do you just want a refresher? If so, this class is for you.   We will review threading for the different stitches and discuss stitch applications.  As part of the class you will receive a Martha Pullen designed handout showing serger stitches. The handout has spaces for you to attach your stitched samples so that it can be used as a serger notebook reference after the class.   Bring your serger (3, 4, 5 or more thread, any brand), the accessories kit that came with it, and your instruction manual.  You will also need new needles (size 90), different colors of thread (3, 4, 5 or more), and scissors. 

This is a refresher class, not a new owner’s class.  This is not the class for you if you have owned your serger since new and have never taken a new owner’s class, or if you acquired your serger used and do not know how to use it.  If you fall into this category, one-on-one instruction can be arranged with Patchwork Plus.

You will use your renewed skills to complete a surprise mini project.  A kit fee of $10 is payable to the instructor.  The kit contains workbook fabric samples and fabric for the mini project.

SERGER OVERLAY NIGHTGOWN
Saturday, April 27  10:00 – 4:00 pm (bring your lunch)
Michele Ball     Fee: $35

This lace trimmed Martha Pullen designed heirloom nightgown features a delicate silk ribbon and lace decorated yoke overlay and pintucks on batiste.   The nightgown is constructed using your serger in sizes Small – 3XL, and will be a lovely gift to yourself or a special person.   While the sample is peach, it can also be made in white or ivory.  Please let the instructor know which color you choose. 

Students should be comfortable with their serger or have taken the Serger/Overlock Refresher Class.

The kit, which includes the fabric, laces, Swiss embroidered trim and silk ribbon necessary to complete the project is $45, payable to the instructor.

“Floriani… the name that means beautiful embroidery”
Save the date for a Floriani event at Patchwork Plus. 
If you want to learn how to remove the frustration from the embroidery process,
you won’t want to miss this event.
May 9 – 10,  2013We carry a wide selection of Floriani stabilizers and threads.

BASIC BINDING
Sunday, April 7   12:30 - 2:30 pm
Sue Ellen Romanowski  Fee: $18
French double-fold is the most common binding.  Come learn how to do it tidily every time.  Class will include perfectly mitered corners and a smooth closure. 

A kit fee of $8, payable at time of class, includes a small 'quiltlet' and binding fabric that you can take home and keep for reference.

HATS - HATS - HATS
 
Our knitters have been busy knitting hats for charitable organizations for a few years and we need to replenish our supply - the need is great.  Any hand knit hats for all ages are accepted.  We have been donating to Crouse Irving, the Samaritan Center in Syracuse and also the VA hospital.  You can use any pattern and any yarn.  We do have several free patterns available at the store.

CRAZY…OR IMPROVISATIONAL…PATCHWORK
Sunday, January 27  12:30 - 2:30 pm
Sue Ellen Romanowski  Fee: $20
This form of patchwork is fun “improvisational” piecing.  Bring scraps and we will randomly piece them together to produce…fabric!  This technique is not to be confused with the traditional 'crazy quilting' with fancy fabrics and plenty of threadwork and beading.

LOG CABIN
Sunday, April 14   12:30 - 2:30 pm 
Sue Ellen Romanowski  Fee: $20
Log cabin is an all-time favorite quilt block.  We will use the Creative Grid Ruler and have fun playing with color.  This classic pattern is great for any quilted project: baby quilt, table runner, cuddle/lap quilt or king sized bed quilt.
Judie…Judi…Judy

Judie Rothermel is celebrating her 25th Anniversary as a noted fabric designer and quilter this year with a special quilt contest.  Running from January 2013 through July 2013 with only a few simple rules, entries must measure between 40” to 80” on each side and feature only fabrics from her current 25th Anniversary Collection and past lines – as long as it’s “Just Judie”.

PLUS – the quilt shop sponsoring the most entries receives a visit from Judie Rothermel!  Celebrating her 25th year as owner of Patchwork Plus, Judi West would love to sponsor your quilts.  Judi and the two other Judy’s at the shop would like to invite everyone to join us in creating a quilt entry.  On your next trip to Patchwork Plus, visit our Judie Rothermel section with all her fabrics (including backgrounds) grouped and labeled for you.

Every entry counts – especially yours!
SIMPLY SUNDAYS

The weather and our location out in the country play such a big part when scheduling our winter classes so we’re trying something new for our winter session – Simply Sundays.  These will be quick, easy, one day classes suitable for those beginners who can’t wait till winter is over to get started.  And equally perfect for experienced quilters who want a speedy project for themselves or for a quick gift.

Check out our listing of Sunday classes and techniques below and look for the details in this newsletter next to the tulip.

BASIC BINDING – come learn how to finish your quilt with a binding that has perfectly mitered corners and a nice smooth closure.

BEGINNER’S TABLE RUNNER – learn an often-used basic block – the Half Square Triangle – as you create this charming 12” X 15” table runner.

CRAZY QUILTING – no seams to match in this fun technique, which takes your scraps and turns them into an eye-catching patchwork of fabric. 

“FLIRTY” SKIRT – new teacher, Stacey Goldyn, offers this introductory sewing and serger class for beginner sewers.  You will learn how to read a pattern, measure, cut and sew.

LOG CABIN – the log cabin block is an all-time favorite quilt block.  Learn how to make this block using the Creative Grid Ruler.

“PICK ME UP” PANTS – another introductory sewing and serger class for beginner sewers.

SIMPLE BABY QUILT – a beginner’s class that features easy to follow step-by-step instructions to make a cuddly baby quilt.

THREAD PAINTING 101 – here is your chance to learn the basics of “thread painting”.
FROM THE BEGINNING               
Wednesdays:  April 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15 & June 12
12:30 - 3:30 pm  -OR-  6:00 – 9:00 pm
Judy Sheridan    Fee:  $95

Thinking of starting a new hobby? Always wanted to begin quilting? Self-taught but nervous? This is the perfect place to start ~ a beginner’s class that starts “from the beginning” covering all the basics (selecting fabric, rotary cutting, machine piecing, hand appliqué, hand quilting and finishing: binding & sleeves) in an easy to learn format paced for success with step-by-step directions that lead the novice along the way to a finished four block wall hanging over six classes.  Sewing machine required from week four.

LOOK FOR THE TULIP!
SIMPLE BABY QUILT       
Sunday, March 24   12:30 – 3:30 pm
Judy Sheridan              Fee: $35 
This cuddly baby quilt with its graphic design is sure to please with simple piecing and borders that quickly turn fabric into a present!  This beginner’s class features step by step directions easy to follow. Sewing machine required.  Beginner Friendly!   
BEGINNER’S TABLE RUNNER   
Sunday, February 24  12:30 - 3:30 pm
Judy Sheridan   Fee: $35
Learn a basic block used over and over in quilting – the Half Square Triangle – as you create this charming 12” x 15” table runner. This beginner’s class is sure to please with step by step directions full of tips to improve your sewing/quilting skills. Sewing machine required. Fat Quarter and Beginner Friendly!

BEGINNERS AND BASICS
SERGER CLASSES
KNITTING, CROCHET AND WOOL WORK

INTRO TO SEW & SERGE:  “FLIRTY” SKIRT
Wednesday, Feb. 27 -OR- Saturday, March 9 
1:30 – 4:00 pm
Stacey Anne Goldyn   Fee: $25

Create a cute and stylish skirt for yourself or someone else. In this introductory class, you will learn how to construct a skirt from scratch. You’ll be provided with a pattern, from which you’ll learn to cut, measure, assemble and sew your chosen fabric into a fashionable finished product.  If you are sewing a skirt for someone else, please be sure to bring their waist and waist-knee measurements.

INTRO TO SEW & SERGE:  “PICK ME UP” PANTS
Sunday, February 10  1:00 – 3:00 pm
Stacey Anne Goldyn  Fee: $25

Create some fashionable pants that will make you stand out in a crowd! In this introductory class, you’ll learn how to construct a pair of pants from scratch. You’ll be provided with a pattern, from which you’ll cut, measure, assemble and sew fabric into a stylish finished product. If you are sewing pants for someone else, please be sure to bring their waist and waist-ankle measurements.

HANDWORK

HAND QUILTING SHARON’S WAY 
Saturday, March 23   10:00 – 4:30 pm
Sharon Stroud    Fee: $45
Whether you've just finished your first quilt top and are ready to learn to quilt, or simply want to improve your quilting stitch, come learn this unique way to quilt without poking your underneath fingers and without a hoop or frame.  (It is not stab stitch.)  Basting, marking methods, echo quilting, thread and batting are covered as well as the quilting stitch.  Class fee includes a prebasted quilt sandwich.  

Welcome To New Teacher
Stacey Ann Goldyn
Stacey Anne Goldyn has been crafting and sewing since age 5, having learned her skills from a long line of seamstresses in her family.  She enjoys using new technologies to create old-fashioned garments and accessories, and has a penchant for unusual color and pattern combinations that hearken back to vintage eras.  Her creative philosophy includes knowledge-sharing through arts and handicrafts, and the resurrection of group-oriented learning and storytelling circles. Stacey takes a great deal of pleasure sharing her knowledge of old and new sewing techniques and feels best when she has demystified the process for new and seasoned sewers.

MACHINE TECHNIQUES

BEST FRIEND PORTRAIT
Saturdays: Feb 9 and 23   11:00 – 4:00 pm
Debbie Butler Miller   Fee:  $75

For those who saw the finished portraits from Debbie’s class last fall and wished you had signed up, Debbie has agreed to teach it again in February.  Capture your best friend forever in fabric!  It’s the only quilt where a stray pet hair is a good thing.  In this 2 session class with a custom pattern made for you by Debbie, your best friend will come to life through Debbie’s applique and free motion thread painting technique. In Session 1 you’ll piece your portrait, and in Session 2 thread painting will add dimension and shading.

Photos of your furry friend must be submitted by February 2, allowing time for Debbie to create your pattern.  Machine capable of free motion is required for second class.

THREAD PAINTING 101
Sunday, March 3   12:00 – 3:00 pm
Debbie Butler-Miller  Fee: $25
Remember when you were a kid and you opened a brand new box of crayons?  Thread painting is as easy and inspiring as that.  Spend the afternoon with Debbie coloring with thread!  Let your imagination go and color outside the lines!  You will be amazed how easy it is and how excited you will be to experiment with it even on the most traditional of works.  Who says kids are the only ones to have fun?

Debbie will supply “practice sandwiches” with designs.  After explanation and demonstration of her thread painting technique, you will practice, practice, practice!  Machine capable of free motion is needed.

CARE AND FEEDING OF YOUR FEATHERWEIGHT
Saturday, January 26   10:30 – 2:00 pm
Sharon Stroud    Fee:  $25
If you missed it before, Sharon is back with this essential class for all Featherweight owners. You will go home knowing how to clean and oil your machine, where to lubricate, how to do simple repairs and more. This is for the old black Singer Featherweight machine only.
Tea, Anyone?

Our Spring Shop Hop is going to be a tea lover’s delight! 

At Patchwork Plus we will serve you in style to a very proper “High Tea.”  We’ll have a blend of teas… can’t have high tea without Earl Grey… scones, biscuits, and other sweet treats.  All served on our best china, of course!

Save the dates:
Friday, April 5 – Sunday, April 14
Spring Shop Hop
Quilt Camp
May 7 - 9, 2013

Overlooking beautiful Skaneateles Lake at the
Stella Maris Retreat House in the village of Skaneateles,
Patchwork Plus is sponsoring our 7th Annual Quilt Camp.

We spend time relaxing with friends and quilting to our hearts content. Where else can you quilt without any interruptions, have delicious home cooked meals, laugh with friends and walk the lovely grounds of Stella Maris?

We have SO MUCH FUN. Come join us. There will be demos, games and more. Registration begins on Thursday, January 10.  Call or stop by the shop to register. Half payment will be required at the time of sign-up. Space is limited, so sign up early.
Students receive a 10% discount on all class supplies.

Patchwork Plus Classes:  Please contact us for class info at info@patchworkplusquiltshop.com for a copy of our
newsletter listing all classes; or to schedule one for your group of four or more.