S T I T C H I N  TALK  . . .   written by Joanne Banko 

Hello Sewing Friends! I don’t know about you but I’m looking forward to a new season and I have plans to stitch lots of pretty things for Spring. How about you? Maybe you need a class to get you inspired. This class schedule is jam packed with something for everyone. So, it’s time to REVE up your sewing machine and come to class!

If it’s a new sewing machine you’re looking for, you need to check out our NEVER BEEN BETTER SALE. We have a complete Sewing System available at an irresistible price. Plus, we have many more models SALE priced NOW! It’s the perfect time to put away the winter doldrums and sew your way into Springtime! And please remember to check our website on a regular basis for class updates, special sales, and sewing news you can use! Until next time, Happy Sewing from ALKO Sewing Center!

SERGER BASICS- This is THE class for new serger owners or those who have not used their machine to it's full potential. You’ll fill a notebook with sample pieces to use for future reference. Gain confidence and experience with hands on guidance. Class includes proper threading order, perfecting tension adjustments, successful seams and seam finishes, plus tools and tricks of the trade. When you’re finished, YOU will be the master of your machine.  Interested in finding out what a serger is all about? Use one of ours during this class and you'll see why sergers are the ultimate way to make all your sewing projects look professional!  Helpful instruction sheets included.

Wednesday June 8,22, & 29, 6:00-9:00 FEE $60.

GIGA HOOP Embroidered Decorator Pillow – This is a HANDS ON class designed to get you into GIGAHOOP embroidery on your Janome machine. See what makes this hoop so special. You will learn exactly how to use your GIGAHOOP as you put together this beautiful Designer Style pillow. Step by step instructions showing you how to design and stitch really big designs. Come and see the sample, then sign up for an afternoon of fun!

Thursday May 19, 12:30-3:30 FEE $30.

INTRODUCTION TO PE DESIGN Software Part One – This Demonstration style class will take you all the way from scanning to stitching out embroidery designs. You will learn the ins and outs of this full-featured software made by Brother for all Brother embroidery machines.

Monday June 27, 6-8 FEE $20.

FREE MOTION Quilt Sampler - This is the “How To” of machine quilting. Stippling, Meandering, Free motion quilting, whatever you want to learn, this class is for you. Make a series of samples using a multitude of techniques. Hands on experience with the guidance of our expert, Mary Kochevar.

Monday April 4 & 18, 5:30-8:00. FEE $45.

QUILT IN-A-DAY SNOWBALL PATTERN - This is another in our series of “YOU CAN DO IT QUILTS”. Perfect for BEGINNERS! Don’t let the name fool you, this versatile design is simply beautiful. Make a spectacular quilt that is fun to piece together when you learn time saving patchwork techniques. Mary will guide you through each step from start to finish. Spend a wonderful day, quilting your cares away!

Note: You will work on a lap size quilt during this class but you will receive instructions in your supply list for making this quilt in a larger size.

Friday May 6, 10:30-5:30 FEE $45.   Workshop class – Bring a brown bag lunch!

Appliquéd Christmas Quilt – Many of you have admired the spectacular quilt on display in our classroom. Now you have the chance to make one of your very own. We have designed this class so you can start now and finish up just in time for the holiday season. The first three sessions will take place the third Monday of the month with the first class beginning in May. We will likely follow the same general schedule throughout the coming months. Take this HANDS ON CLASS and you will master the art of decorative appliqué along with classic and creative quilting techniques. Sign up for as many sessions as you choose. If you attend each and every class you will finish with an heirloom you can admire for many years to come.

Classes held Monday May 16, June 20, and July 18, 6-8.      FEE $15 for each class session.

Are you ready to START SEWING? These Classes are for Beginners and for those who want ongoing sewing lessons with hands on help. If you are totally new to sewing this is the place to begin. You will need basic knowledge of the sewing machine in order to sign up for these classes. Not comfortable with a sewing machine? We would be happy to give you a complimentary machine operation lesson before you take your sewing class. Please call us for an appointment.  You can also arrange to rent a machine from us for a small fee.

Sewing Basics 101.  Complete two fun projects during this class. Make a stylish tote bag and an apron you can use for barbeque season and beyond. Learn how to like a pro! This class will guide you through the fundamentals of sewing. You will learn to read a pattern, cut, sew, and press for professional results. Complete this project and you will have the confidence you need to sew something else. Supply list available when you register.

The instructor will contact you with details about the project and necessary supplies.

Tuesday April 5 & 12 6-8:30 CLASS FEE $45.

Sewing Basics  101 will be repeated on Tuesday May 24 & 31.

Basic Sewing Session #2 - Make a project of your own choosing with the approval of the instructor. Sewing Basics 101 is a prerequisite if you have no previous sewing experience. Tuesday April 26, May 3 & May 10. 6-8:30. CLASS FEE $65.

Basic Sewing  Session #2 will be repeated on June 14, 21, & 28.

Please note: Fredda is also available to teach sewing lessons “by request”. Please let us know what your particular needs are and we will try to arrange a class for you. Contact the store for details.

Classes must be PAID IN FULL by cash or check when registering. Fees will be refunded only if instructor cancels class. Supplies are not included in class fees and may require additional time for ordering. List will be given upon registration. Present your supply list for a 10% discount on items purchased for classes. Sign up early to avoid disappointment.