On Pins and Needles

Before I tell you all about my most recent retreat, I’d like to remind all my readers in SE Wisconsin that the Mukwonago Crazy Quilters show is taking place this weekend and will be open until 3pm today (3-24), with loads of quilts and vendors.

It’s taking place at Parkview Middle School in Mukwonago.

I had the great privilege to be one of the judges at this year’s show and the quilts were delightful. When judging was over I was pleased to present my Judge’s Recognition award to Fly By.

It was made by Linda Forster, and quilted by Joline Palatino. Aviation has been an important part of our life, so the planes made me smile. Then I got closer and the quilting made my decision easy.

Great job ladies!

After the judging I was able to hang the ThreadBender’s Progressions Challenge as a special exhibit. They all looked great hanging together.

I hope some of you get a chance to see the show.

And now – on with this week’s post:

Last week I was blessed to go on yet another wonderful retreat. My friend Kathy invited a bunch of friends to gather together in Lake Geneva, WI. I didn’t know most of the quilters who were there, but am grateful to now call them friends. The On Pins and Needles Castle Retreat is in Lake Geneva, but not on the lake 😊. It’s a lovely older home that has been transformed into a great place for quilters and crafters.

Liz took a selfie of the group in the sewing room.

And everyone got a lot of sewing done (along with eating, talking and laughing!).

Delicious food was made by our chefs du jour each night.

Here are just a few of the projects:

Kathy’s chicks – only one more row to go!

Becky’s Christmas tumblers:

One of Brenda’s Quilts of Valor:

And her daughter Liz made a great “shadow” quilt (I’ll be doing a class on adding shadows to quilts in Paducah next month!)

Kathy K’s diamond stars crib quilt:

And Sandy completed a bright and colorful top:

I decided to use up more of my scraps in my favorite string pieced block (while Quiltina and my Murder Mystery Blocks hung around):

On the morning of our last day we decided to make a road trip to a quilt shop in Delavan, WI.

It was lovely and had loads of samples and fabric to drool over. Then, in the afternoon, I offered to do a short class on drafting compasses. I think it went over well.

As I was packing up Geri gave me this sweet little wrist purse she’d made. Isn’t it delightful? Thanks Geri!

A wonderful time was had by all. I’m so blessed to be able to hang out with talented quilters!

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And one more thing:

Kristi just let me know that there is still one room left on her trip to the Festival of Quilts in Birmingham, England. So… if you were thinking about joining us click here for all the information, and contact Kristi before it’s too late.