Wednesday, April 24, 2013


Great News!



Bernie and I went to Maple Ridge yesterday to check out the Loon Lake Research and Education Centre for upcoming retreats and they actually had a date available before the fall.  We were offered May 28th - 31st at the Walter C. Koerner Centre which is a beautiful facility.  It sleeps up to 40 guests sharing or 16 guests in private accommodation.  Each beautiful room has its own bathroom and shower as well as high speed internet connection.  The meeting room is spacious and well lit with a fantastic view of the lake and surrounding mountains.  It's very inspiring.  Your senses will be spoiled with enticing aromas blended with fresh mountain air.  Food allergies and vegetarian meals can be easily accommodated. People that have attended have raved about the food, the accommodation and the surroundings.  As a special offer they have allowed us to check in at 9:00am on the first day as opposed to the usual 3:00pm check in time.  I will be available to help you with your projects and Bernie will be available to help you with your sewing machines.  Once a day we will be offering an information session regarding tension, needles, threads, etc.  These are fun, informative and optional.  We invite you to join us for three full days and three nights of camaraderie, laughter, beautiful vistas, fantastic food, sharing and learning. 

Visit Loon Lake Research and Education Centre at www.loonlake.ubc.ca 

Retreat dates and times:
Tuesday, May 28th starting at 9:00am - Friday, May 31st check-out
at 11:00am.   If desired we can continue to sew until at least 1:00pm on Friday.    
$595.00 + tax shared occupancy
$695.00 + tax private occupancy
Meals, accommodation, inspiration and all the help you need are included.

Because the event is rapidly approaching the Loon Lake administration has allowed us a week to  commit to a minimum number of guests...So...RSVP... ASAP...LOL

We look forward to sharing this special event with you.  For detailed information please contact Shelley at (604)506-0241 or email littleoakpattern@gmail.com

Following are some pictures of the beautiful scenery and accommodations.

Loon Lake...
This lakeside wilderness setting only one hour east of Vancouver BC. - believe it!
 
Koerner Centre
A one-stop location for meetings and retreats.
Koerner Centre Loon Lake   
 
 
 
 
 
We hope to see your smiling face at our very first Loon Lake Retreat.
 
Happy Stitches,
Shelley and Bernie
 
 
 

Sunday, April 14, 2013

Nesting

Spring has arrived at the Wet Coast.  The sun felt warm on my face as I walked around The Cabin searching for signs of spring.

Our bushes and trees are starting to show signs of life.

 
















I love to see a spider web covered with morning dew.


















This little fella came along for the ride.













This is just one of the frogs that sings us to sleep at night.  













Our pond will soon be full of tadpoles.  













I couldn't resist snapping a photo of this little one.















Best of all...this year we have a robin nesting very close to The Cabin.  I think she selected the most beautiful site to build her nest.















If you look closely at the center of the photo below you can see her nesting.  We'll have babies soon.  I'll keep you posted...













Today I'm working on bear paw blocks for my Bear Hugs quilt while listening to an audio book called The Help by Kathryn Stockett. 

What's under your presser foot today? 

Happy Spring,
Shelley

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Happy Spring!

The bushes, trees and bulbs are beginning to show signs of life here in our neck of the woods.  




A little catch up...

Our grandson Dylan turned One year old! 


I bought a new Bernina 750 Quilters Edition! 
I love my new machine.  I am so impressed with the technology.  The Bernina 9 hook is pure genius.  The bobbins hold more thread than any other machine I've ever owned.  

I have been working on several different projects from piecing tiny little squares like my Bear Hugs blocks...3" finished with 1/2" sashing strips...

to designing and finishing my Notion Nest which included many different techniques like sewing beads on by machine, working with vinyl, machine applique and binding.  No matter the technique, the thickness of fabric, batting or vinyl my 750 handled all with ease. 

In the fall/winter 2012 TopStitchers Club we created "Notion Nest".  

I finished hand stitching the binding yesterday.  I began by placing a small drop of Roxanne's Glue in the seam allowance.  Then I held the binding in position with the small red clamps until the glue dried.  I removed the clamps and hand stitched all the way around, mitering the corners as I went along.  Roxanne's glue, thimble and needle made hand stitching such a pleasure. 
(No, I don't own any shares...LOL)




I wanted to add beads to the outside of my Notion Nest and decided to stitch clear beads, with the hole up, on top of the printed pins on the background fabric.  The color of the pin heads reflect inside the beads making the printed pins look like colorful glass-head pins.  I love the results.



Below are some pictures of my finished Notion Nest and pin cushion.

I love purple.  I decided to put all the purple notions I could find into my Notion Nest.  On Thursday at Peace Arch Quilters I am attending a hand piecing class with Dianne Senra who will be teaching us the "gentle art" of hand piecingI'm all packed are ready to go.

The Notion Nest Pattern will soon be available for purchase.  If you are interested please email me at littleoakpattern@gmail.com


Free pattern!  
I designed this embellished tote to carry my iPad and accessories inYou can find the pattern and complete instructions in the Web bonuses section under the American Quilter magazine tab at www.americanquilter.com
Happy Stitches,
Shelley 










Spring Classes and Retreats at The Cabin

Day classes from 10:30am-4:30pm include cinnamon buns, coffee, tea, juice and lunch.  In most of our classes you will have the benefit of two instructors one to help you with the project or technique and the other to help with your sewing machine.  This provides for more one on one attention and ensures the class flows smoothly.  Our goal is to provide you with knowledge and teach you how to get the best result from your sewing machine.  For your comfort, space for retreats is limited to six people and space for classes is limited to eight people.

Day Retreats
We have lots of space in the classroom and studio for cutting, pressing, basting and more.  There is a table set up for rotary cutting including two large mats 23” x 35”.  There are also several smaller mats, 45mm rotary cutters and rulers of various sizes available for you to use.  We have one large and two small pressing stations set up with irons.  We have food here in the morning including cinnamon buns, fruit, coffee and tea.  For lunch we have soup and/or sandwiches and snacks.  For dinner Bernie will fix us something special.  You are welcome to bring soft drinks or any other food or drink you would like.  Please remember to bring your sewing machine, cord, foot control and presser feet.  If you are working on a special project you will need to bring any needles, thread, basic sewing supplies, fabrics, etc., necessary to complete your project.  If you forget something I’m sure I will have it here in the studio, in a pinch Wineberry Fabrics is only 15 minutes away.  We would love to see what you are working on and any finished projects you would like to share with us.


$90.00
9:00am – 9:00pm
Saturday, March 9 or 23
Saturday, April 13
Tuesday, April 16
Saturday, May 11
Wednesday, May 22
Saturday, June 8


Please note:  If your focus is on embroidery we have sturdy tables that will support your machine.  We have a solid base of knowledge regarding sewing machines, embroidery modules, software, stabilizers, threads and designs.  Join us for a fun day of creativity. 

Group Retreats:  If you have a group that would like to get together for a retreat at The Cabin give us a call and book a day. 


1.  Mastering Bernina Embroidery Machine and Module  
    with Mariann Thompson
In this series of hands on classes you will learn a variety of basic embroidery techniques and skills as well as master the embroidery functions on your Embroidery Sewing Machine and Module with confidence.  I warn you in advance...Machine Embroidery can be addictive!  There are endless creative possibilities!  We look forward to getting you started on your journey to mastering machine embroidery! 
This is just the beginning...In a relaxed and fun class environment with patient skilled teachers to assist you throughout the class, you will master the following machine embroidery skills with confidence:
      · The relationship of hoops, stabilizers, needles and threads
      · Master a variety of the Embroidery Function Buttons on your machine  
        ie, arrange, rotate, rescale, mirror, duplicate, etc.
      · Insert a motif, prepare fabric, hoop fabric and stitch the design
      · How to insert text
      · Embroider lace
      · Embroider an appliqué design
      · Saving and deleting designs on your embroidery machine
      · Embroidery Design Management
      · Inspiration on what’s next in our “Creative” Machine Embroidery journey.
Come join us and the creative world of machine embroidery
$100.00
$10.00 kit fee for each class includes fabric, stabilizers and class handouts
10:30am – 2:30pm
Coffee and tea provided.  Please bring a sack lunch.
4 Classes: Wednesday, April 3rd, May 8th, June 5th and July 3rd.
Sewing machine and embroidery module.  Supply list.

2.  Bernina 710, 750 and 780
 






  




We have created a class to help you learn your wonderful new 700 series sewing machine.  The class will be in two parts.  First, Bernie will teach you about the technical, practical and special features.  The second part of the class will focus on putting your new knowledge to practical use. You will learn about your new presser feet, temporary altered stitch memory and when to use the dual feed.  Techniques include finding a perfectly scant ¼” seam, using beautiful 9mm decorative stitch combinations, embellishing, and much more while creating a Mini Tote bag. 
$30.00
Pre-cut Mini Tote Kit: $15.00 includes pattern, fabric and embellishments.
10:30am – 3:30pm
Monday, March 18, 25 or April 15
Sewing machine.  Supply list.

3.  Little Zippered Bag
This little zippered bag has batting and vinyl as a stabilizer so the bag retains its shape and can be wiped clean inside with a damp cloth.  This great little bag is wonderful for sewing accessories, make-up, small knitting projects and more.  Techniques featured on this project include working with vinyl, decorative, straight stitch machine quilting, easy zipper insertion and precision top-stitching.  This is a perfect project for the beginner sewer and for those who would like to improve on techniques.  If you would like a kit I will send you a photo of fabrics you can choose from. 
Kits are $15.00
$50.00 includes lunch, and pattern
10:30am – 4:30pm
Monday, May 13
Sewing Machine.  Supply list.  

4.  Autumn Splendour 

 
While creating this lovely bag in beautiful spring fabrics and embellishments you will learn precision piecing, couching, corded pin-tucking, stitching with decorative threads, sewing beads on by machine, how to create an easy welt zippered pocket and much more.  This project will be pre-cut and kitted for your convenience so all the class time will be spent learning new techniques. 
$125.00 includes lunch, kit and pattern.                                               
10:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday, March 26 and April 23 or
Saturday, June 1 and 15
Sewing machine.  Supply list.  

5.  Tablet and Accessories Tote
 
Desire a safe and pretty fashion to tote your Tablet and accessories?  While learning how to couch, pin-tuck, create an easy welt zippered pocket, sew beads on by machine and more you will create this pretty Tablet and accessories tote.  This project will be pre-cut and kitted for your convenience so all the class time will be spent learning new techniques. 
$125.00 includes lunch, kit and pattern
10:30am – 4:30pm
Wednesday, June 19 and 26
Sewing machine.  Supply list.

 
6.  Friendship Bear Hugs Quilt
I love friends, the precision of foundation paper piecing and scrap quilts.  So I brought them all together in this Friendship Bear Hugs Quilt.  This is a great class to learn the art of precision foundation paper piecing and how to coordinate your scraps through understanding the relationship of various colors and fabric designs.  Bring your scraps, exchange fabrics, piece some perfect little Bear Paw blocks and have fun. 
$45.00 includes pattern, coffee, tea and snacks
10:30am – 2:30pm
Tuesday, May 7 and 28
Sewing machine.  Supply list.
 
7.  Machine Quilting Fun-Damentals
All sewing machines and skill levels welcome.  Quilting your quilt can be a bit scary.  If you have said to yourself “I’m afraid I’ll ruin it” this class is for you.  In a relaxed environment we will teach you how to create the best straight stitch possible on your sewing machine and help you gain a better understanding of the black art of tension.  You will learn about your walking foot and stitching in the ditch.   From there you will learn how easy it is to mark your quilt for hanging diamonds, cross-hatching and more, without leaving unsightly marking lines behind.   You will also learn how to audition quilting lines on your quilt before marking.  We will discuss thread, needle, fabric and batting combinations and show you why the right combination will give you success with your quilting.  
$45.00 includes lunch
10:30am – 4:30pm
Wednesday, May 29th
Sewing machine.  Supply list.

8.  Dear Jane 
This quilt created by Jane A. Stickle “In War Time 1863” is so beautiful and complex it is hard to imagine that it was made during the Civil war.  It contains a diversity of blocks featuring many different techniques from hand piecing and appliqué to machine piecing and foundation paper piecing.  History and tradition surround this masterpiece.  Come along and discover some of the oldest and newest quilt making techniques of today while creating your very own history and beautiful work of art.  If you have already started your Dear Jane quilt join us in our journey for hints, tips and inspiration.
$85.00 includes coffee, tea and snacks
10:30am – 2:30pm
Thursday, April, 25th, May 23rd, June 27th and July 25th

9.  Serger Savvy
If you’re tired of looking at your serger just sitting in the box or gathering dust on your sewing table join us for an informative 6 hour serger class.  Everything from trouble shooting to techniques.
$55.00 includes fabric kit and lunch
10:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday, April 8th
Serger.  Supply list.


Sewing Machine Service
A little TLC goes a long way...

Now is a great time to get your sewing machine serviced.  Bernie offers in-home sewing machine service in some areas.  If you would like to have your sewing machine serviced please call Bernie at (604)505-9287 or email berniefixessewingmachines@gmail.com.


TopStitchers Club 2013  
This is the front of our Duffle Style Bag ready for embellishing.  In the next class we will be adding decorative threads, cords and beads. 
We have some seats available for TopStitchers Club 2013.  In the first four months of our Club we are creating a fun Duffle Style Bag that can be used at the beach or for your sewing and knitting projects.  Techniques include easy machine appliqué, working with decorative threads, couching, beading by machine, easy zipper insertion, mini piping, ruffles and much more.  If you would like to register please give me a call at (604)506-0241.

TopStitchers meet at the following locations: 
Vancouver, St. Helen’s Hall the 2nd Tuesday of the month
11:00am – 1:00pm, 3:00pm – 5:00pm, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
North Vancouver, Creative Edge the 2nd Thursday of the month
11:00am – 1:00pm, 3:00pm – 5:00pm, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Surrey, Wineberry Fabrics the 2nd Friday of the month
11:00am – 1:00pm, 3:00pm – 5:00pm, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
South Surrey, The Cabin the 3rd Wednesday of the month
11:00am – 1:00pm, 3:00pm – 5:00pm, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
South Surrey, The Cabin the 3rd Saturday of the month
9:00am – 11:00am, 1:00pm – 3:00pm
$175.00 includes kits and patterns

We have seats for TopStitchers available at the following locations:
St. Helen’s Hall:  Evening from 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Creative Edge:  Afternoon from 3:00pm – 5:00pm
Wineberry Fabrics: Afternoon from 3:00pm – 5:00pm and Evening 
from 6:30pm – 8:30pm
The Cabin, 3rd Wednesday:  Evening from 6:30pm – 8:30pm
The Cabin, 3rd Saturday:  Afternoon from 1:00pm – 3:00pm

Please note:  If you would like to join us for TopStitchers Club don’t worry about missing the first class I will prepare your front panel for you. 

Registration: 
The Cabin doors are open and ready for you ½ hour before retreats/classes begin.  If you have a special table/chair you would like to reserve please let me know.  If you would like to register for any of our Day Retreats or Classes please email me at littleoakpattern@gmail.com or call me at (604)506-0241.   
I look forward to hearing from you.

Happy Stitches,
Shelley and Bernie


Directions to The Cabin:
The easiest way to find us is to drive along 176th as if you are heading for the border.  Turn left onto 20th.  Cross over 184th and continue down the hill.  Turn right at Willow Acres Equestrian Centre – you will see the sign – there is a chain link fence – please slow down to 5k/h as there are children, horses and other small creatures about – continue straight down the hill, past the barn and down the last little unpaved hill.  You will see two VW’s in the parking lot.  We will be watching for you.

Please Note:
1.  If you are unable to attend a retreat or class that you have registered for please give me a call or email me 10 days prior the start of the class.  I will be happy to issue you a credit toward or transfer you to another class.  If I have less than 10 days notice, class notes and kits will be here for you. 
2.  A supply list for retreats and classes will be sent to you upon registration.  Please check the supply list for homework and preparation prior to class. 
3.  As some people are allergic to perfume we would kindly ask you to avoid wearing any to The Cabin.  Thank you in advance.


Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Retreat Updates and Fall Classes at The Cabin

Wow.  Summer sure has a way of flying by. We have enjoyed many classes and retreats here at The Cabin.
   
This is Lynne at a retreat working on an embroidery for one of her very special grandchildren.  Lucky Tor.
Here's Sue working on an embroidery design.  She's making a pretty pillow for her home.
This is Pat working her quilt...it's on the design wall just over her shoulder.  She was able to get quite a lot done in a day.  Way to go Pat.
Laura is having fun working on a beautiful machine applique quilt.  Very intricate work.  Check out those maple leaves by the window.  All cut out by hand.  Beautiful.

Barbara finished her fish wall hanging.  The picture above shows a very happy Barbara.  The photo below shows how intricate the quilting on this project is. 


Barbara has been very prolific at the retreats.  She has finished a lot of quilts.  I love this quilt top.  It's going to be quilted by the very talented Lauren Tolhurst. 
This is a very happy Tricia.  Her and Barbara were table mates...I can't believe how much was accomplished at that table. 
Jo-Ann, right, Linda, left, and Barbara with her back to the camera working hard on the quilt up on the design wall.  Jo-Ann was sewing together very tiny pieces to create her block, just look at that focus.  Linda was working on the cutest bags for her and her buddies...
The stitchery is done by hand and so adorable.  The original design only had two best friends so she added the third herself.  Great work Linda.
I have posted photos of Bernie's signature Caesar Salad in the past...yummmm
But...I have never posted a picture of a fresh cooked Dungeness Crab.  Woweeee...  Bernie "Kicked it up a Notch" at this retreat.  For lunch he made us "That's the best burger I've ever  had..." according to one of the ladies at the retreat.  For supper Bernie headed up to The Crab Shop  in North Vancouver and brought home fresh Dungeness Crab for all of us.  "That was the best meal of my summer" was called out to Bernie.  We had a wonderful day and evening.
 See that temporarily abandoned plate of crab and Caesar salad guess who that belonged to?
Linda enjoyed every morsel of her crab.  I think it was a big hit.  I know I loved mine...
Bernie teaching Serger Savvy.  Look at the intensity...I prepared lunch that day...I know that the ladies enjoyed it as they were starving by the time I got everything prepared.  I'm a quilter...need I say more?

For Show and Tell...This beautiful stitchery was created by Linda.  Just stunning.  I love it.


I have posted the new class list below.  I hope we get to see you and your smiling face here at The Cabin this Fall. 

Update Fall 2012

Welcome to our neck of the woods.
We have scheduled fall classes and retreats.  Day classes from 10:30am - 4:30pm include cinnamon buns, coffee, tea, juice and lunch.  In most of our classes you will have the benefit of two instructors, one to help you with the project or technique and the other to help with your sewing machine.  This provides for more one on one attention and ensures the class flows smoothly.  Our goal is to provide you with knowledge and teach you how to get the best result out of your sewing machine.  For your comfort space for Day classes is limited to eight people and Day retreats are limited to six people.

Please note:  If you have registered for a class and don’t see the date listed on the new schedule it means that class has filled.

Day Retreats - New Dates
We have lots of space in the classroom and studio for cutting, pressing, basting and more.  There is a table set up for rotary cutting including two large mats 23” x 35”.  There are also several smaller mats, 45mm rotary cutters and rulers of various sizes available for you to use.  We have one large and two small pressing stations set up with irons.  We have food here in the morning including cinnamon buns, fruit, coffee and tea.  For lunch we will have sandwiches and snacks.  For dinner Bernie will fix us something special.  You are welcome to bring soft drinks or any other food or drink you would like.  Please remember to bring your sewing machine, cord, foot control and presser feet.  If you are working on a special project you will need to bring any needles, thread, basic sewing supplies, fabrics, etc., necessary to complete your project.  If you forget something I’m sure I will have it here in the studio, in a pinch Wineberry Fabrics is only 15 minutes away.  We would love to see what you are working on and any finished projects you would like to share with us. 

$90.00                                                  
9:00am – 9:00pm
Wednesday, August 22nd or 29th
Tuesday, September 18th
Saturday, October 13th or 27th
Saturday, November 10th
Saturday, December 8th
The Cabin awaits...
 
Please note:  If your focus is on embroidery we have sturdy tables that will support your machine.  We have a solid base of knowledge regarding sewing machines, embroidery modules, software, stabilizers, threads and designs.  Join us for a fun day of creativity. 

Group Retreats:  If you have a group that would like to get together for a retreat at The Cabin give us a call and book a day. 
 
Sewing Machine Service

A little TLC goes a long way...


Now is a great time to get your sewing machine serviced so it is ready for the sewing season.  Bernie offers in-home sewing machine service in some areas.  If you would like to have your sewing machine serviced please call Bernie at (604)505-9287 or email berniefixessewingmachines@gmail.com.

The KeyStone Series:  We have added new classes for the fall.

1.  KeyStone:  Build a Better Relationship with YOUR Sewing Machine
Is the honeymoon over or do you just want to get to know your machine better?  This is the perfect class for you.  You will learn how to solve the “tension” problems between you and your sewing machine and how to understand what your machine is trying to communicate to you when it is not giving you the results you expect.  Start a new relationship on the right “foot”.  In a fun filled class rekindle the romance with your machine and be able to walk hand in hand through your sewing projects. 
$60.00 includes kit and lunch
10:30am – 4:30pm
Wednesday, October 3rd
Sewing machine, Supply list

2.  KeyStone:  It’s All About the Stitch – New Date
In this class you will sew with a variety of threads, needles and fabrics in order to gain a thorough understanding of their characteristics.   Learn how the combination of needle and thread can make the difference on any fabric.  We will discuss your sewing machines’ personality and shine a light on the black art of tension, all in a fun and informative way.  This is a great class for beginner to advanced sewers.  Any brand of sewing machine is welcome.  In order to standardize, a kit with thread, needles and fabrics will be provided.
$60.00 includes kit and lunch
10:30am – 4:30pm
Saturday, September 1st
Tuesday, October 2nd
Sewing machine.  Supply list

3.  KeyStone:  Free-motion Fun-Damentals
In a relaxed atmosphere learn the fundamentals of free-motion quilting including which free-motion foot works best for your sewing machine.  We will give you hints and tips to help you understand your sewing machine and its tension.   We will discuss thread, needle, fabric and batting combinations that work well together for quilting success.  In addition you will learn some tricks of the trade and how to properly handle the quilt while guiding the fabric under the needle.  Join us and build both your confidence and your skills. 
$45.00 includes lunch
10:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday, October 23rd
Sewing machine.  Supply list

4.  KeyStone:  Rotary Cutting and Machine Piecing Tutorial
Learn the basics of accurate rotary cutting, machine piecing and proper pressing in this class designed for the beginner quilter and the intermediate quilter who would like to enhance skills.  We will begin with cutting, piecing and pressing strips of fabric to find that perfect ¼” seam on your sewing machine.  Later we will explore cutting squares, triangles and rectangles.  You will learn how to strip piece, press, sub-cut and sew together straight of grain squares and bias squares accurately.   This class is a must when it comes to mastering accurate cutting, pressing and piecing techniques.
$45.00 includes lunch
10:30am – 4:30pm 
 Saturday, September 15th                                                             
Sewing machine.  Supply list.  Rotary cutting equipment.

5.  KeyStone:  Machine Appliqué
Machine appliqué can be used on a quilt top, for home decor or for jazzing up clothing.  Learn how to select the right fusible web for the pattern, what thread, needle and stitch to use for machine appliqué.   Learn about an overlay, how to prepare the background and appliqué fabric, how to trace the shapes onto fusible web, how to arrange and fuse the shapes onto the background fabric, how to stitch around the shapes and much more.  A kit and pattern will be provided.
$55.00 includes lunch and kit
10:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday, November 27th
Sewing machine.  Supply list.

6.  KeyStone:  Serger Savvy
If you’re tired of looking at your serger just sitting in the box or gathering dust on your sewing table join us for an informative 6 hour serger class.  Everything from trouble shooting to techniques.
$55.00 includes fabric kit and lunch
10:30am – 4:30pm
Monday, August 20th
Tuesday, November 20th
Serger.  Supply list.
 
7.  KeyStone:  Machine Quilting Fun-Damentals
Quilting your quilt can be a bit scary.  If you have said to yourself “I’m afraid I’ll ruin it” this class is for you.  In a relaxed environment we will teach you how to create the best straight stitch possible on your sewing machine and help you gain a better understanding of the black art of tension.  You will learn about your walking foot and stitching in the ditch.   From there you will learn how easy it is to mark your quilt for hanging diamonds, cross-hatching and more, without leaving unsightly marking lines behind.   You will also learn how to audition quilting lines on your quilt before marking.  We will discuss thread, needle, fabric and batting combinations and show you why the right combination will give you success with your quilting.  
$45.00 includes lunch
10:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday, November 6th
Sewing machine.  Supply list.


Little Zippered Bag
Get a head start on your Christmas gifts this year.  This is a great little bag for sewing accessories, make-up, small knitting projects and more.  Techniques featured on this project are free-motion and/or decorative, straight stitch machine quilting, easy zipper insertion and precision top-stitching.  This is a perfect project for the beginner sewer and for those who would like to improve on techniques.
$50.00 includes lunch, and pattern
10:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday, September 4th
Wednesday, October 24th
Wednesday, November 14th
Sewing machine.  Supply list.

iPad Tote
Desire a safe and pretty fashion to tote your iPad and accessories?  While learning how to couch, pin-tuck, create an easy welt zippered pocket, sew beads on by machine and more you will create this pretty iPad, iPod, iTouch/iPhone and accessories tote.  This project will be pre-cut and kitted for your convenience so all the class time will be spent learning new techniques.  A perfect Christmas gift for you or for those you love.
$125.00 includes lunch, kit and pattern
10:30am – 4:30pm
Wednesday, December 5th and 12th
Sewing machine.  Supply list.

Autumn Splendour
Due to the popularity of Autumn Splendour we have added a few more classes for the Fall.  Techniques you learn while creating this lovely bag include precision piecing, couching, corded pin-tucking, stitching with decorative threads, sewing beads on by machine, how to create an easy welt zippered pocket and much more.  This project will be pre-cut and kitted for your convenience so all the class time will be spent learning new techniques.  
$125.00 includes lunch, kit and pattern.                                               
10:30am – 4:30pm
Saturday, October 6th and 20th
Tuesday, October 16th and 30th
Saturday, November 3rd and 17th
Sewing machine.  Supply list.

Snowflake Pincushion and Thread Catcher
Snowflake is a wonderful companion for your sewing area.  She’s not just a charming little Snowflake, she is very useful.  With a head full of crushed glass and mittens and earmuffs made of wool she provides the greatest of care for your pins and needles.  She also helps to keep your sewing area tidy, simply remove her hat from her head and she will hold it open for you to catch stray threads and fabric bits while you sew.  This is a fun project for all ages and stages of sewers.  Snowflake makes a wonderful Christmas gift.  If you have a non sewer on your list Snowflake is happy to sit on a mantle with her hat full of candy.  Join us during this festive season and create a delightful little Snowflake of your very own.
$60.00 includes lunch, *kit and pattern
10:30am – 4:30pm
Wednesday, November 28th
Tuesday, December 4th
Saturday, December 15th
*Kit includes crushed glass, eyes and nose along with all the fabrics.  You will only need to bring thread to match the fabrics. 
Sewing machine.  Supply list.

Under the Stars
These adorable little snowmen are enjoying a glimpse of winter stars while snuggled under a brightly coloured, scrappy quilt made up of simple squares and friendship stars.  This is a lovable Winter project featuring easy machine appliqué and precision piecing.  
$90.00 includes lunch and pattern
10:30am – 4:30pm
Monday, October 29th and November 26th
Sewing machine.  Supply list.
  

TopStitchers Club 2012 resumes in September.  If you are interested in joining TopStitchers Club for 2013 please let me know and I’ll add your name to our list.  If you would like to know more about our TopStitchers Club and locations please email me or give me a call.  We hope you can join us in 2013. 
  

Registration:  
The Cabin doors are open and ready for you ½ hour before retreats/classes begin.  If you have a special table/chair you would like to reserve please let me know.  If you would like to register for any of our Day Retreats or Classes please email me at littleoakpattern@gmail.com or call me at (604)506-0241.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Happy Stitches,
Shelley and Bernie

Directions to The Cabin:
The easiest way to find us is to drive along 176th as if you are heading for the border.  Turn left onto 20th.  Cross over 184th and continue down the hill.  Turn right at Willow Acres Equestrian Centre – you will see the sign – there is a chain link fence – please slow down to 5k/h as there are children, horses and other small creatures about – continue straight down the hill, past the barn and down the last little unpaved hill.  You will see two VW’s in the parking lot.  We will be watching for you.

Please Note:
1.  If you are unable to attend a retreat or class that you have registered for please give me a call or email me 10 days prior the start of the class.  I will be happy to issue you a credit towards or transfer you to another class.  If I have less than 10 days notice, class notes and kits will be here for you. 
2.  A supply list for retreats and classes will be sent to you upon registration.  Please check the supply list for homework and preparation prior to class. 
3.  As some people are allergic to perfume we would kindly ask you to avoid wearing any to The Cabin.  Thank you in advance.