Hello Friends. Overlooking the few snowstorms that we have had lately, spring is in the air. Easter is around the corner, and if you’re like me, you’re already starting to think about sunny days on the dock and checking Pinterest for new summer salad recipes. I for one am ready to say goodbye to winter and look forward to outside chores like raking and playing in the dirt.

April is the month of out and about quilting workshops for me. It is evident that we're starting to see the light at the end of the pandemic tunnel, with quilters thinking about getting back to some good old-fashioned in-person workshops. I don't know about you, but I miss the sound of the sewing machines humming, the smell of fresh fabric, and the taste of baking during our mid-morning break.

I leave tomorrow, March 31st, for a much awaited in person get together with a few of my buddies. I will be away for a week, and I am ready for some me retreat time. I have packed 5 projects! Oh, you laugh, but how many do you pack when you go away on a quilting retreat.

I will be back just intime for Easter, and a weekend of unpacking. Only to repack in preparation of my next out and about to Chatham Kent. April 18, & 19, I will be spending time with the quilters of the Erie Shores Quilters Guild. Dazzling them with a trunk show featuring quilts using the Studio 180 innovative piecing tools and techniques. The next day is the workshop. Here the quilters will be making my pattern “Colour my Quilt”. They will get an in depth look at some of the specialty tool by Studio 180 Design and a unique approach to piecing and squaring up your units to create stunning, intricate designs with ease. No more struggling with wonky seams or uneven blocks - with Studio 180 piecing, you'll be amazed at how quickly and easily you can create truly impressive quilts. If you are in the area, the workshop is open to non-guild members. For more information or to register give Lydia Miljan a shout by email: lydiamiljan@gmail.com

I return home on Thursday, only to unpack to repack and off to Thessalon. The quilters in the Algoma region will be joining me for a fun filled day of adventure as we dive into the world of “all things flying geese.” Saturday April 22, has us making Flying geese by 4 using the Wing Clipper tool, and non-mirror image Flying Geese. There are two projects to choose from: Flying Geese Fun and Atlantic Flyway. If you have a Wing Clipper tool by Studio 180 Designs and it is sitting in a drawer somewhere, it's time to dust it off and join us. Also, that day, we will tackle the precision piecing technique of making Migrating Geese. Class will continue Sunday as we become more confident with these new techniques. All this is hosted by The Creative Basket. If you would like to join in the fun call: The Creative Basket (705)842-2018

This all sound overwhelming but it’s just fabulous. Coming together, sharing our stories and our skills, and creating something beautiful and meaningful together. I can't wait to see your smiling faces, hear your laughter and your stories, and marvel at the stunning quilts you'll create using the amazing Studio 180 piecing technique. Quilting may have been on pause for a while, but now it's time to get back to doing what we love best - creating beauty, warmth, and love, one stitch at a time.
The excitement doesn’t end there. My daughter and family will be arriving from England at the beginning of May for three weeks. That’s right friends, granddaughters are coming. What is most exciting is this will be the first time I will have both girls and their families in the house for food, fun and YaYa cuddles. (That’s my grandma name!)

It seems everyone has been busy quilting, as you have kindly sent along photos of your new creations. I have had the pleasure of long arm quilting some of the completed Fair Isle Block of the Month quilts. This one by Lorraine Cwethko. Stunning!

Mary Bowmeester put on her creative hat and after taking the Wedge Star class (way back before the pandemic) turned the table topper into a full size quilt. Outstanding!

This beauty is pieced by my good friend Daintry Chitaroni. Scrappy is her way and she did not disappoint.

Daintry Chitaroni - All those little pieces!

Monique Welton sent along this picture of Colour my Quilt. I love to see the quilts on a bed, beautiful!

The Loft has seen a few groups brave the roads and weather over the winter. I remembered to take photos of these quilters visiting from Espanola. Their machines were busy buzzing for days and all the finished quilts tell the tale.

I am so excited to get back to in-person workshops. For me, I imagine a room filled with fabric, threads, and sewing machines. The hum of the machines blend with the chatter of the quilters, as they share stories and tips. There's a sense of community, of belonging, that's hard to describe. It's a space where everyone is welcome, regardless of their skill level or background.

Thank you for dropping by. Until next time, stay safe, and change your needle on your machine.