PLEASE CLICK HERE AND SEE SOME OF MY CLASSES THAT ARE NOT UNDER MY STUDENT PORTAL ABOVE. I’D LOVE TO TEACH FOR YOUR GUILD, SHOW OR PERSONAL RETREAT. BOY, DO I LOVE RETREATS!!! DID YOU KNOW THAT I WILL TEACH FOR JUST A HANDFUL OF STUDENTS AND INDIVIDUALIZE CLASSES TO FIT YOUR PREFERENCES. HAVE QUILTS, WILL TRAVEL! OR GET A GROUP TOGETHER AND TRAVEL TO MY HOMETOWN OF DESTIN, FLORIDA, ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACH COMMUNITIES IN THE WORLD, AND I WILL BE WAITING HERE TO WORK WITH YOUR FRIENDSHIP GROUP. SOUND LIKE FUN??? JUST ASK FOR DETAILS. COME ON DOWN!
HONORING ELLY SIENKIEWICZ - 2015 Slideshow Presentation
CONGRATULATIONS to ELLY SIENKIEWICZ FOR INDUCTION TO THE QUILTERS HALL OF FAME, 2023
Join me for the new AQS SEAM QUILT RETREAT in Paducah, KY Oct 7-112, 2025; a four day retreat, exclusive to AQS members only!
Join me in Paducah, KY (Quilt City, USA) for the first-ever AQS Seam Quilt Retreat!
AQS Member exclusive event
Registration opens for Lifetime Members on October 29, 2024
Registration opens for all AQS Members on November 5, 2024
Session 2 Instructors
October 7–12, 2025
Kathy Dunigan
Garden of Friendship Appliqué Wallhanging
Session Description:
Immerse yourself in the art of hand and machine appliqué as you make Kathy Dunigan’s inspiring "Garden of Friendship" quilt! Drawing from her love of Baltimore Album-style quilts and a fresh modern twist, Kathy will guide you through her signature prepared edge appliqué technique. You'll explore creative embellishments and embroidery to bring your quilt to life. With Kathy’s joyful teaching style and innovative methods, including the unique “Broderie Perse-lique,” you’ll create a quilt that’s a true testament to friendship and creativity.
Highlights:
Learn simple and effective hand and machine applique techniques
Ensure a clean finish to your appliqué using a special foundation technique
Perfect your machine stitching
Explore hand applique with templates
Experiment with Ultrasuede wired and unwired silk ribbon, and various flosses and threads
Discover Kathy's innovative "Broderie Perse-lique" method
Project Description:
Inspired by the love of quilting and her admiration for her mother and her best friend, Kathy’s "Garden of Friendship" quilt is a celebration of warmth, laughter, and cherished memories. This stunning album-style quilt combines rich, warm tones and intricate embellishments to represent the joy of lifelong friendships. Featuring large florals, chintz, and reproduction prints reminiscent of Baltimore Album quilts, you’ll have the opportunity to choose fabrics that speak to your heart—whether you prefer subtle, antique hues or bold, vibrant colors. With techniques including beading, embroidery, and wired/unwired silk ribbons, your quilt will become a beautiful reflection of your personal style and creativity.
Quilt Retreat Package includes:
Hotel Accommodations at the Holiday Inn Downtown Paducah
– 5 Nights (Tuesday night -Sunday morning)
– Breakfast Buffet (Wednesday–Sunday)Tuesday Evening - Kicks off at 5 pm with the Welcome Event
– An Evening at The National Quilt Museum for a Private Viewing and Pre-Dinner Reception4 Full-Day Sessions with one of our World-Class Instructors in Convention Center Classrooms
– 24 Students per Instructor
– Wednesday–Saturday Workshops: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. (1 hour lunch break)Catered Lunch at the Convention Center
– Menu selection to be available 30 days prior to the event.Thursday Evening - Thursday Night in Fabric Paradise: An Evening at Hancock’s of Paducah
– Join us for a thrilling evening at Hancock’s of Paducah, a quilter's paradise!
– Hancock’s will offer special deals exclusively for AQS Members and if needed can help handle the shipping of your purchases.
– Need transportation? AQS will provide a complimentary shuttle service, for those without an automobile, between the hotel and Hancock’s. Seating will be limited.
– Reserve your shuttle seat during registration.Saturday Evening - Farewell Mixer and Reception
Sewing Machine Rental - Available for an additional charge or you can bring your own
Refund & Cancellation Policy
We understand that plans can change, and we want to make sure you’re aware of our refund policy for the retreat. If you need to cancel your registration:
Cancellations made before February 28, 2025, will receive a refund of any amount paid more than the amount of the initial deposit. The initial 25% deposit is non-refundable.
Cancellations made between March 1, 2025, and June 30, 2025, will receive a 50% refund of the total cost of the retreat. If only 50% is paid at this time, it is non-refundable.
Cancellations made on or after July 1, 2025, are non-refundable.
If you need to cancel your reservation, for any reason, after July 1, 2025, you will not receive a partial refund unless a replacement can be found. Please notify us as soon as possible so that we can try to fill your space from the waiting list.
AQS Seam Quilt Retreat FAQ
Q: Can I attend an AQS Seam Quilt Retreat if I’m not an AQS member?
A: AQS Seam Quilt Retreats are exclusive events designed just for our AQS Members. Not a member yet? Join AQS today to unlock your spot at these special retreats and become part of a community that celebrates quilting and shared creative experiences!
Q: What happens if my first-choice instructor is sold out at the AQS Seam Quilt Retreat?
A: No worries! If your first-choice instructor is sold out, you can still register with your second-choice and join the waitlist for your preferred instructor. If a spot opens up, you’ll be the first to know!
Q: What special perks do Lifetime Members get when registering for AQS Seam Quilt Retreats?
A: As a valued Lifetime Member, you receive exclusive early access to register for AQS Seam Quilt Retreats! Since these events often sell out quickly, this perk gives you the chance to secure your spot before regular member registration opens. Plus, if you’re booking a double occupancy room, we’ll hold your reservation for 7 days so your AQS Member roommate can join you.
Q: Can I sign up for a single room at the AQS Seam Quilt Retreat, or do I need a roommate?
A: A limited number of single rooms are available, but most quilters will need to sign up with a roommate. Both you and your roommate must be AQS Members and will need to register within 48 hours of each other to secure your shared room. Be sure to arrange your roommate in advance, as we won’t be managing the pairings.
Q: Can I bring a guest with me to the AQS Seam Quilt Retreat, and what are the additional costs?
A: Yes! Your guest is welcome to join you at the retreat and can even participate in our special Welcome and Farewell Events. Please note, guests will be subject to additional charges: $35 for the Welcome Event, $20 for the Farewell Event, and $75 for breakfast. Since you won’t have a roommate to share costs, single-room rates will also apply.
Q: Can I rent a sewing machine at the AQS Seam Quilt Retreat, and how do I reserve one?
A: Absolutely! High-quality sewing machines are available for rent at just $99 for the week, including two empty bobbins to get you started. Please note that rented machines must stay in the classrooms, and friendly on-site support will be available to assist you. Be sure to reserve your machine when you register, and no later than 60 days before the event.
Q: Can I work on my own projects during the AQS Seam Quilt Retreat?
A: To help you get the most out of your retreat experience, we ask that you focus on the project specially designed by your instructor. This is a great opportunity to learn new techniques and complete a beautiful piece by the end of the retreat! While we love seeing your other works in progress, we kindly request that you reserve this time for the featured project.
Q: When will I receive the supply list and instructions for the AQS Seam Quilt Retreat?
A: You’ll receive everything you need soon! Supply lists, kit details, and pre-cutting instructions will be available on February 15, 2025. Keep an eye on your inbox so you can be all set for your Seam retreat adventure!
Q: How do I pay for the AQS Seam Quilt Retreat?
A: Our payment plan makes it easy! You’ll reserve your spot with a 25% deposit, followed by a second payment of 25%, and a final payment of 50% before the retreat. This schedule lets you plan your budget without the stress of paying all at once.
Payment Schedule:
25% Deposit: Due at the time of Registration
25% Payment: Due by March 1, 2025
50% Final Payment: Due by July 1, 2025
Please note that retreat pricing does not include supplies, session kits (if available), or dinner. While breakfast and lunch are included, attendees will be responsible for their evening meals.
Q: What is the refund policy for the AQS Seam Quilt Retreat?
A: We’re excited to have you join us! We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel your registration:
Before February 28, 2025: Cancellations receive a refund of any payments beyond the initial 25% deposit. This deposit is non-refundable unless:
○ You provide a replacement for the same session, instructor, and room type, who can reimburse you directly. Written notification of this replacement is required.
○ If ALL the sessions are sold out at the time of your cancellation, AQS will attempt to find a replacement if you cannot provide a replacement. If an AQS replacement is found, you will receive a refund for half of your 25%deposit. If a replacement is not found for the retreat a refund will not be issued. All refunds are made after the retreat.Between March 1, 2025, and June 30, 2025: Cancellations receive a 50%refund of the retreat’s total cost. If only 50% has been paid, it is non-refundable unless:
○ You provide a replacement for the same session, instructor, and room type, who can reimburse you directly. Written notification is required.
○ If ALL the sessions are sold out at the time of your cancellation, AQS will attempt to find a replacement if you cannot provide a replacement. If an AQS replacement is found, you will receive a refund for half of your 50%payment. If a replacement is not found for the retreat a refund will not be issued. All refunds are made after the retreat.On or after July 1, 2025: Payments are non-refundable unless:
○ You provide a replacement for the same session, instructor, and room type, who can reimburse you directly. Written notification is required.
○ If ALL the sessions are sold out at the time of your cancellation, AQS will attempt to find a replacement if you cannot provide a replacement. If an AQS replacement is found, you will receive a refund for half of your full payment. If a replacement is not found for the retreat a refund will not be issued. All refunds are made after the retreat.
All refunds are processed after the retreat concludes.
Q: Will there be shuttle service for the exclusive shopping spree at Hancock’s of Paducah?
A: Yes! Join us for a two-hour shopping spree at Hancock’s of Paducah, where you can explore stunning fabrics and quilting treasures. Complimentary shuttle service will be available for those needing transportation on Thursday night from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Be sure to reserve your shuttle seat during registration to secure your spot!
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