Classes / Workshops
How to Register
You may register for classes at the shop or by phone with a credit card. Class reservations will only be accepted when accompanied by full payment - you are not considered registered for the class until the fee is paid. Class fees do not include supplies or materials for the class unless noted. A supply list will be issued with paid registration.
General Class Information
The classes in this schedule have been rated as to the minimum level of skill required. All classes assume that you have basic rotary cutting and piecing skills (even when the class level states "Beginner.") If you do not have these basic skills, please join us for our "Building Blocks" classes.
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Most classes require that you bring your sewing machine. Be sure that it is in good working order, and that you are familiar with its operation. Sweet Home Quilt Co. does not provide machines for classes.
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Most classes require basic sewing supplies (thread, scissors, rotary mat and cutter, seam ripper, etc.) See specific class supply lists for additional supplies needed.
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Some of our classes require you to purchase a book or pattern for class. Due to strict copyright laws we must require that each participant purchase the book or pattern. No copying or sharing, please!
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Most classes teach the assembly of a quilt top. Layering, basting and quilting are taught in separate classes.
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We are unable to accommodate children, guests, family members or pets in class.
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Please respect your classmates and turn your cell phone to vibrate during class. If you must make or take a call, please do so away from the classroom area.
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"Confident Beginner" skill level means that you have rotary cut and machine-pieced a quilt within the last six months. Please select your classes accordingly.
- While the shop itself is handicapped accessible, the classroom is on the second floor of the building, accessible only by stairs. If you need assistance getting your machine or equipment up the stairs, please ask and we will be happy to help you.
Cancellation Policy
- If you are unable to attend your class and provide 5 days advance notice, you may transfer to another class or receive a store credit or a refund. If you cancel with less than 5 days notice, please find a friend to take your place in the class as the class fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
- All classes have a minimum enrollment number. If it is not met and the class is cancelled, you may transfer, receive store credit or receive a refund of your class fee.
- Club fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Please Note:
Dates will not be listed with the class description if the class is not currently scheduled. Please check the Calendar for scheduled classes. Classes not appearing on the Calendar are not currently being offered.
" A Team" Applique Club
Do you have a passion for appliqué? Are you interested in working on projects, participating in show and tell, and sharing tips and encouragement with fellow appliqué enthusiasts? Then you need to join the "A Team!" This is not a class and there will be no designated instructor – this club is for individuals who enjoy appliqué and want to share time with others who enjoy the same. Optional group projects are planned for those who wish to participate, or you may work on your own hand or machine appliqué projects. Club members must have intermediate to advanced appliqué skills. No formal commitment is required – come as your schedule allows, but you must register in advance.
Club Fee: $5 per session attended
Club meets the second Friday of each month unless otherwise noted.
"Spoolin Around"
Learn the basics of paper-piecing by machine while making this cute 22" x 22" wall hanging. Paper-piecing foundations will be supplied. Some pre-class preparation is required.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Debbie Frey
(Supply Fee is $3)
Bargello Basics
Charts and Maps are used to make a Bargello quilt, and while it may sound complicated, organization is the key. Robin will discuss fabric selection for traditional and scrappy Bargellos, tips for organization, making a fabric "map", how to follow a Bargello chart, and the significance of pressing when making this quilt.
Class time will include a 2 hour lecture/discussion, and two construction classes (and probably a little "homework" in between!) Jelly Bargelly pattern by Black Cat Creations is required.
Skill Level: Intermediate Beginner
Students must be able to sew an accurate 1/4" seam, use a rotary cutter and rulers, and construct a simple machine pieced quilt.
Instructor: Robin Cook
Beginning Hand Applique
Learn the basic fundamentals of hand applique while making a simple floral applique block that can be finished into a pillow or small wallhanging. You will learn the importance of choosing the right needles and thread while learning the needle turn method of applique. Pattern required.
Skill Level: Beginner
Beginning Hand Embroidery
If Mama never taught you hand embroidery, this is the class for you. Learn basic hand embroidery stitches as you work on a cute stitchery project.
Skill Level: Beginner
Beginning Knitting
In this two session class you will learn the basic knit and purl stitches while making a simple dishcloth. Other simple patterns will be introduced for you to try on your own. This is a perfect class for mother/child or grandmother/grandchild - children must be 8 years old or older. Students must be prepared to complete between-class homework to keep up with the lessons.
Skill Level: Beginner
Supply Fee: $10
Beginning Machine Appliqué
Learn simple machine appliqué techniques. The class project will be an appliquéd tea towel. Perfect for those who have never tried machine appliqué. NOTE: Your machine must have a zigzag stitch or a buttonhole stitch option. Two session class.
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Pat Wys
Beyond The Basics
Skill Level: Confident Beginner (Students must have completed our Building Blocks series, or have basic quilting skills.)
Instructor: Pat Wys
Binding Basics
A good binding is the "finishing touch" on a quilt. This hands-on class teaches the proper techniques of both bias and straight-grain binding with mitered corners. Instructions will include fabric calculation, cutting, attaching binding to your quilt, and an invisible method of joining your beginning and end.We'll supply a practice piece for the class.
Skill level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Melisa Morrison
Building Blocks for Beginners
Learn about the basic tools and techniques needed to create your own quilted projects. In four sessions you will make a lap-size quilt project that starts with the most simple block construction and progresses each week building your quilting skills and confidence. The class will begin with a discussion of quilting tools, fabric selection, plus rotary cutting techniques and safety skills. Students will learn machine piecing, mastery of a quarter-inch seam, and the importance of squaring up your blocks. Once your blocks are pieced, you will learn the correct way to measure and attach borders and sashings so your quilts will lie flat! Binding techniques will also be covered, with opportunity to practice on a small sample. You will leave this class with a solid understanding of the quilt making process. Students must be prepared to complete between-class homework assignments to keep up with the lessons.
Four session class.
Skill Level: Absolute Beginner
Instructor: Pat Wys
Cell Phone Bag
This quick and easy Cell Phone Bag makes a terrific quick gift! Using pre-printed interfacing from Quilts Illustrated, this project is suitable for beginners.
Skill Level: Beginner
Charm Magic
Here's a fast, fun and easy project for all those 5" charms you've been collecting. This project looks much more difficult than it is - you'll get perfectly mitered seams without even realizing you're doing it! Makes a perfect baby quilt or just keep adding blocks to make it as large as you wish. Pattern required.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Melisa Morrison
Civil War Diary Club
Join Becky for a journey back in time, and make your own Civil War Diary Quilt. Class will meet the 4th Saturday of each month for six months, and will focus on new techniques while making four blocks per month from the Civil War Diary Quilt book. Students will also enjoy brief history lectures of the time period, along with periodic special projects. This is a great follow-up class to our basic Civil War Sampler Quilt class.
Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
Class Fee: $120 (six sessions - payable in two increments of $60 each)
Crazy Cats
If you're a fan of Buggy Barn's stack, slash and shuffle technique then you're going to want to make this cute wallhanging. Just 3 fat quarters plus sashing and borders are all you need. And NO seams or points to match! Make it in fun, funky colors or to match your own felines. Book required.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Melisa Morrison
Day & Night Quilt
Make this magical quilt using strip-piecing techniques to achieve a paper-pieced look! No smoke and mirrors - just a little hocus pocus with strips will lead you to discover the secret of Day and Night! Book required. Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Melisa Morrison
Easy Paper Piecing
Learn the basics of paper piecing by machine. You will learn how to copy patterns and learn tips to help make your piecing easier. Easy enough for a beginner, this small table runner / wall hanging can be completed in time for Valentine's Day. Book required.
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Becky Poisson
Skill Level: Beginner
Easy Striped Table Runner
The EASIEST project you will ever make! Five seams and the top is finished! No need for binding. The magic is in the 60 degree triangle ruler! Instructions for matching placemats included.
We have terrific new striped fabrics for special occasion runners - Celebrations, Football and Patriotic!
Eco-Friendly Tote Bag
Tired of accumulating all of those flimsy plastic bags when you go shopping? Stitch up a super-easy, environmentally friendly tote to carry all your essentials. This fun tote can be embellished in any number of ways.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Melisa Morrison
Falling Leaves Table Runner
Learn easy and fun dimensional curved piecing techniques while making this unique table runner featuring autumn leaves. Don’t be afraid of the curves – you’ll be amazed at how easy it is! Pattern required.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Fire Escape Quilt
From West Side Story to Rent, fire escapes have inspired many dramatic moments. Make this brand new design from Atkinson Designs with just 5 - 1 yard cuts of fabric and a contrast fabric for a 60" x 72" lap-size quilt. (You may also choose from twin (72" x 90") or queen (96" x 102") size options also.) Choose large, bright prints or subtle soothing tones like our shop model, and create your own 'dramatic moment!'
Save class time by pre-cutting your fabric - instructions with paid registration.
Hand Piecing
Learn the relaxing, age-old technique of hand piecing. No machines needed for this class. Make quilting a handy, portable and therapeutic hobby!
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Jo Beth Simons
Hand Quilting
Learn the "ins and outs" of hand quilting. Once you have learned about burying knots, traveling, quilt marking and the rocking stitch all you have left to do is practice!
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Jo Beth Simons
Happy Holidays Tree Skirt or Table Topper
Another brand new pattern from Atkinson Designs, use Terry's easy method to turn simple rectangles into stunning triangles for every season. Make a table topper for an impromptu dinner party or decorate for a special holiday - simply choose a size and get started! All sizes may be finished as a table topper or a tree skirt.
Small (20" x 23"), Medium (30" x 35") or Large (40" x 47")
Hunters Star
If you have always thought the Hunter's Star pattern was too difficult, this class is designed just for you! Using the Hunter's Star ruler, turn strips and squares into an easy, but complex-looking wallhanging. Choose your favorite fabric combo in 2, 3, or 4 colors (or go for a totally scrappy look!) Pattern included with purchase of Hunter's Star ruler with four different size options for future projects. Bring a sack lunch.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Instructor: Pat Wys
If The Hat Fits (aka The Witches Quilt!)
There is still plenty of time to make this adorable wall hanging of witches with 3-D legs. Using the fun, no stress “crazy” technique from the folks at Buggy Barn, this promises to be a really fun class! Fabric kits are available for purchase, or select your own fabrics. Pre-class preparation required. Book required. Bring a sack lunch.
Skill Level: Intermediate Beginner
Jiffy Tote
Another fast and easy tote bag with options for embellishment. Make it elegant with batiks or fun with novelty prints, and practice your machine quilting skills (or not!) Technique results in no raw seams and "magic" pockets inside! These are so “jiffy” to make, you’ll want to make a bunch! Pattern required (includes four sizes!)
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Jingle Bell Workshop
A couple of Santa’s Elves will join us in the shop on Saturday, Sept. 20, to get you started on quick Christmas gift ideas. During this all day workshop you will complete three quick and easy projects – perfect for Christmas gift-giving – plus loads of ideas for simple and effective packaging and gift wrapping ideas. The projects will include a Magic Stocking, Easy Table Runner, and a fusible appliqué & chenille tea towel. We’ll share tips and ideas and time-saving tricks to create merry moments – just like Old St. Nick! The workshop fee includes all project supplies plus lunch, and the Elves will serve Christmas cookies and goodies throughout the day, too! Registration is required no later than Sept. 10 to allow us time to prepare the project kits.
Leap of Faith
Feeling like "tradition" has become a bit tame and you're ready to break out and break all the rules? Let Peggy lead you down the "Blendable Path," creating a soft, "artsy" naturescape quilt, completely abstract using a traditional block you've loved for years - a simple nine-patch, easy to cut and easy to sew. Come share the day and be brave...you have nothing to lose but a little fabric, and we all have just a "little fabric!" Take a "Leap of Faith" and create a one-of-a-kind original! Easy for beginners, no accurate sewing or seams to match! An instinctual design that will have you totally engrossed in the process and PROUD of your accomplishments. Book required.
Instructor: Peggy Barkle
Two session class.
Let's Twist!
Enjoy making continuous pinwheels using the "Twister" tool. It's fun, fast and easy with endless possibilities! Students will create a small project in class to learn the technique, and will explore a variety of patterns...from quilts to pillows to aprons and runners...that can be created with this technique. Twister Tool required; Optional book available.
Lilypads
Try this updated version of an album quilt. Perfect for large print fabrics. Choose your size from lap to queen. Uses simple strip piecing techniques. Book required. Two session class.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Becky Poisson
Machine Quilting
Back by popular demand! This class is great for those looking to learn or improve their machine quilting skills. The class will focus on the different basting methods available, quilting with a walking foot, and an emphasis on free motion quilting. You will leave with a library of designs to apply to many of your pieced quilt tops. Machine binding instructions are also included. Three session class.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Peggy Barkle
Mini Monthlies
Each month receive a kit to create an 11 x 23 quilt banner with a seasonal theme for the upcoming month. For example, in January you'll receive a kit for February's Be Mine Hearts. This is a 12-month series with a different quilt banner offered each month - join us for one or all. The cost of the kits is $24.99 per month, which includes the pattern, fabrics and speciality buttons to complete the project. The demo class is FREE when you buy a kit. Can't make the class? Call to reserve your kit.
Kit Cost: $24.99/mo. Demo Class: Free with purchase of kit
Instructor: Staff
Needle Punch
Create small works of art with embroidery floss or other speciality threads. Class will also cover pattern resources, tools, thread selection and finishing options.
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Staff
Needles Unplugged!
(Second Fridays unless otherwise noted.)
Do you have a passion for handwork and enjoy the company of others? If you have needlework that doesn't require a machine to be plugged in, come and join us every month for a little stitching time. All forms of handwork are encouraged - applique, hand piecing, hand quilting, binding a quilt, knitting, crochet - the key is getting a few hours of dedicated stitching time! I'll put the coffee pot on, bring a snack to share.
Fee: $5.00 per session attended; ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
No Fear Zippers
Do you avoid projects because of "Zipper Fear?" Fear no more! Zippers are easy, and we'll show you how with this cute little zipper pocket drawstring bag. Sewing machine with zipper foot required.
Fee includes fabric kit and zipper.
Instructor: Melisa Morrison
One Block Wonder
Use just one fabric, one shape, and easy sewing to create the artistic quilt of your dreams. The fabric does all the work for you!
This technique is all about texture, movement, sparkle and swirl! There are no fussy cuts and no Y-seams. Once all the blocks are made then you play with placement. If you enjoy making stack and whack quilts, this is even better! Best of all, you won't need to bring your sewing machine to class! This is a technique-based class, and you'll stitch your blocks at home between class sessions.
Since this is a fluid design, there is no pre-determined size of the finished quilt. Book required.
Perpetual Motion
Back by popular demand! Create this stunning wall quilt using a wonderful array of fabric colors, patterns and scales! Add to your paper piecing knowledge by learning how to measure fabric requirements and how to plan fabric placement within a paper piecing pattern. You will also acquire helpful tips and tricks for sewing curved seams accurately and stress-free! Pre-class preparation is required. Bring a sack lunch.
Skill Level: Intermediate - participants must have paper-piecing experience (not for beginners)
Instructor: Debbie Frey
Quilters Angel
Layered dimensional patchwork techniques create a unique wallhanging that is a perfect holiday decoration or gift. Finished project size is 18 ½” x 18 ½”. Pattern required.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Quilting Fundamentals
Learn the fundamentals of machine piecing and quilting in this two-session, 6-hour class while making a crib size quilt in your choice of three designs. This class covers rotary cutting basics, piecing essentials, simple quilting methods and easy binding techniques. Book required.
Rug Punch
Similar to the Needle Punch technique, but done with wool yarn to create larger projects. Kits available.
Lecture / demo: FREE
Instructor: Staff
Sew What If Its Monday
Here’s a great way to beat those Monday morning blahs. Drop the kids at school and meet us at Sweet Home for a couple of hours of sewing. Bring the project of your choice and your sewing machine (or your hand-work) and start your week off on a creative foot. This is not a class and no formal instruction is offered, but there is always someone to help if you have questions. We’ll have the coffee on!
Ongoing Mondays: 10AM-12Noon
Sew What Monday will NOT meet May 25th, 2009 - Shop is closed for the holiday.
$5 per session attended. Advanced registration is required.
Smart Bag
Make a cute tote in just two easy steps – fuse and trim, then sew and turn – using pre-printed fusible interfacing panels. These totes make perfect lunch bags, small diaper bags, or library book bags for the kiddies!
Skill Level: Beginner
Sock Knitting
Students will learn how to make a pair of socks using double point needles. Don’t let turning heels or decreases stop you! Learn the basic anatomy of sock construction. Students must have knitting experience - this is not a beginner level class. Students must be prepared to complete between-class homework to keep up with the lessons. Book required.
Four session class.
Skill Level: Intermediate
Table Talk - Ribbon Candy
These beginner-friendly table runner projects will have your changing your decor constantly! Join us for one or all three project sessions. Select your own fabrics or choose one of our kits. Book required.
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Staff
Table Talk - Taco Salad
These beginner-friendly table runner projects will have your changing your decor constantly! Join us for one or all three project sessions. Select your own fabrics or choose one of our kits. Book required.
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Staff
Table Talk - Toast Points
These beginner-friendly table runner projects will have your changing your decor constantly! Join us for one or all three project sessions. Select your own fabrics or choose one of our kits. Book required.
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Staff
TGIF Sit n Stitch
(First Friday of each month unless otherwise noted)
Come join us for a late night experience that has many a husband wondering how quilting can be this much fun! Find help with techniques, inspiration, color selection or just camaraderie while enjoying a few hours of uninterrupted quilting time with friends. Bring a snack to share, we'll provide the drinks.
Limited to 12 people.
Class Fee: $5 per session attended; ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!
Tulip Bells Table Runner
Learn easy and fun dimensional curved piecing techniques while making this unique table runner featuring spring tulips. Don't be afraid of the curves - you'll be amazed at how easy it is! Pattern required.
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Jo Beth Simons
Turning 20 - Any Version
Choose any of the 5 versions of this classic pattern, select 20 fat quarters, and make an easy lap quilt! This class is being offered at no charge when all your fabric, backing, binding and batting is purchased here at Sweet Home Quilt Co. This is a perfect second project for the beginning quilter or for the seasoned quilter who needs a quick and easy design for a graduation, shower, wedding gift, etc. (Note: No telephone registrations will be accepted for this free class. All supplies must be purchased at the time of registration.)
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor: Melisa Morrison
Two by Fours Table Runner
Another quick and easy project, perfect for the gift giving season. Designed for charm squares, choose from our wide selection or cut your own. A kit is available featuring Figgy Pudding by Moda, while supplies last.
Waffle Time Table Topper
Another favorite from Atkinson Designs, the Waffle Time table topper (18" x 18") is the perfect quick and easy gift idea. Choose a focus fabric with a contrasting coordinate, and two borders to make this cute table topper. Instructions also included for matching table runner. Perfect for the holidays or any day!
Kits are available for Christmas topper and table runner, or select your own fabrics.
Whig Rose
Enhance your machine applique skills in this class while making this traditional-style 42 1/2" square wallhanging. Pat will teach you machine applique tips and tricks beyond the basics, and plenty of hands-on sewing time will provide lots of opportunity to practice your new skills. Book required.
Skill Level: Intermediate - students must have basic machine applique skills and be ready to move to the next level of difficulty.
Yo-Yo Hearts and Flowers Make It/Take It
Yo-Yo's are all the rage, and they are easier and faster than ever to make using the latest tools. We'll focus on Heart and Flower shapes just in time for Valentine's Day and Springtime projects! This class is being offered at no charge with the purchase of Clover Heart and Flower Yo-Yo Makers.
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor: Melisa Morrison
