Cedar Shore Resort in Chamberlain, SD saw a LOT of sewing “animals” this past weekend in the “Sewing Safari” themed room which looked like a peaceful Serengeti. The jungle sounds, the hum-m-m of freshly oiled and serviced sewing machines and chatter of friends, were heard night and day at Heirloom Creations 4th Annual sewing retreat. It kicked off on Friday morning as sewers and quilters became engrossed in the first project on their agenda. I could tell already we had a very dedicated group with projects to complete this year. Of course things always loosen up after the satisfaction of having the first project checked off the list.
Then things really cut loose at the “Jungle Fever” Dessert & Game Night on Friday night! Boy, the stripes and leopard prints showed up as many changed into comfortable attire for the late night sewing ahead.
About once an hour throughout the days, someone would hold up a finished project (my favorite part)! Pictures were taken and everyone would take a quick break to admire the handy work and color selection. Then the sewing machines would start humming again!
I always offer a set of mini workshops throughout the three day weekend. On the first day, I had everyone bring a zipper and a 1/4 yard of fabric to make one of Cleo’s famous quick “Ditty Bags”. These expandable pouches are great to fill up with anything that may need to be contained.
I also offered free embroidery monogramming for each person to personalize their retreat tote’s front pocket. With a Velcro pocket, it was easy to remove, embroider, and reattach!
On day two, they were shown how to make 3D pinwheel blocks and instructions on how to use one of my favorite rulers, the Lazy Girls the “Flying Geese x 4” ruler. I was hoping everyone would make a few pinwheel blocks to put in a quilt for Project Linus. With the help of Stephanie Foster, she started putting the finished blocks together! Go Stephanie!
On the final day, retreat goers were given the opportunity to participate in a Fiber Exchange. Each person brought a novelty yarn which we cut it into 3 yard lengths, wrapped them on cute mannequin cards, and swapped with others. This is a great way to get a variety of fibers for embellishments without having to purchase an entire skein! Watch for future pictures and sewing tip on this event.
Thanks again for another great weekend together! And major kudos for all the finished projects! Bring them with you to Sewtopia Club in February!
Want to join all of us next year?
Tentative dates are January 29 – 31, 2010 at Cedar Shore Resort in Chamberlain, SD.
2010 Theme: A “Royal” Sewing Retreat – crowns and tiaras required…
Fabric tiara patterns can be found at Details by Diane.
Countdown: 119 Days