Stitches...

2012-02-01T06:44:00.000-08:00

February Newsletter from Stitches...

Hello to our Stitches...friends,

February brings us lots of sales, specials, new projects, classes, fabrics and yarns. We are always trying to find what our friends need in the quilting, sewing, knit and crochet world so if there is something you need that we don't have at Stitches... just let us know and we'll do our darndest to get it.
February Sale in the Dog Pound
50 bolts at $4/yd, patterns ½ price, kits 25% off
Fat Quarters - $1.50

New fabrics at Stitches...:

Primitive Muslins

Ginny Beyer Color Palette Bolts

Minky Dot in Brown (also in pink, blue, green) great for a soft backing

Bridgeport by Jo Morton (arriving in Feb.)

New notions at Stitches...:

Creative Grids Rulers

Big Mama & Big Daddy

New yarns at Stitches… :

Crystal Palace - Sausolito, Mendocino, TuTu, Mochi

Brown Sheep - Beautiful (window pane), Fantasy Starter Kits

Diana – Silk and Merino(new colors)

Classes at Stitches :

Wednesday, February 8th, 6:30pm, Block of the Month - Signs of the Seasons with our

own "Fons & Porter" Julie and Sandy - come join us for 6 month of sewing fun

Thursday, February 9th, 3:30pm, Block of the Month - Sylvia's Bridal Sampler - with

Annette Ashbach. (You can still be a part of this awesome quilt experience)

Friday, February 24th, 1-5pm Sit 'n Sew (bring you project and sit with friends & sew in

our lower level.

Saturday, February 25th, 10am-4pm, Beginning Quilt Class (Bedscarf) with Ana

Blickenderfer. Make this bedrunner/scarf and learn tons of sewing/quilting

techniques. $12 + material

Saturday, March 17th, 10am-4pm, T-Shirt Quilt Class with Ana B (learn how to put

those T-Shirts into a quilt you can give as a gift or keep forever

Holly, Joy, and Sheilah

Stitches…715 Kelly Mall Charles City, IA 50616 charlescitystitches.blogspot.com
Email : charlescitystitches@gmaill.com 641-228-3383

2012-01-02T18:17:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year from your friends at Stitches...
January 2012 Newsletter

A new year and so many projects to start. Come join us for lots of fun and new ideasfor gifts and home decorating. We havefabrics and yarns to whet your appetite and patterns and ideas to put them touse. If there is something we don'thave let us know and we'll do our best to get it.
FYI :
Tuesdays you will seeSheila McClain at the counter. Sheilahis a long time quilter from Charles City and also works at ACE Hardware. Come in and get to know her and she'll helpyou with your needs.
Wednesdays you will find Joy Frank at the counter. Joy has taughtlots of Stitches... classes this year, including beginning quilting, Block ofthe Month, and more plus she is quite the knitter making, socks, cowls,scarves, and many other unique items. She can help you with either your yarn or fabric projects.
New Fabrics :
Ginny Beyer Palette Bolts of tone on tone prints
Susan Branch : Friends (For a darling child's quilt)
Minky Dots in several colors : great for quiltbacks 60" widthNew fleece prints for a new winter tie blanket
New Yarns :
Boutique Eclipse Yarn (wool, acrylic, nylon)
In beautiful colorsWindow yarn in 4 colors (to make those necklacesand other great items

Pom Pom Makers

Tu Tu Yarn (makes up into a great ruffled scarf)
Upcoming classes & events :·

Thursday, January 5th -4:30pm Double Wedding Ring class·
Wednesday, January 11th -5:30pm Tatting with Joyce·
Wednesday, January 11th -6:30pm Signs of the Seasons Block ofthe Month 1st session·
Thursday, January 12th -3:30pm Sylvia's Bridal Sampler Block of the Month 1st session·
Saturday, January 14th10am-5pm Mission Sewing (Hospital Gowns for Haiti, Guatemala, &Mexico -call for details)·
January 20-22 Cabin FeverWeekend - Quilt-A-Thon with Joy @ Stitches... see * below for details · Saturday, January 28th - Knittingwith Gigi at the Charles City Library (time TBA) books, yarn, needles, etc.available at Stitches...
Knitting Class Project for January will be SocksCome knit a pair with us. We will have a pattern, needles, and yarn ina kit or you can choose you own and special individual instruction will be available on Thursdays from 6-8pm or Fridays from 3-5pm; come and get your Christmas projects startedin January. Everyone loves a pair ofhand knit socks.

*Let’s have aQuilt-A-Thon on the weekend of January 20, 21 & 22 at Stitches.
Okay, ladies, let’s havesome fun for a whole weekend or any part thereof.
I found a great pattern for a scrappy quiltthat can be completed during the weekend.
We have a sample in the store. You use your scraps or fat quarters to complete this quilt.
You will need off-whites or beigetone-on-tone prints plus all of the leftovers or fat quarters you have stashedaway and waiting for something to be done. Of course, if you don’t have any, come on into Stitches and we can fix you up with your supplies.
We will start @ 5 pm onFriday, January 20 and sew as long as you want – midnight sounds good!
Saturday, January 21, we will start @ 9 am and once again, go as long as we want. If we don’t get finished on Saturday, we will do again on
Sunday starting @ 10 am and going to about 4 pm. It will cost you only $5.00 per session or $15.00 for the wholeweekend. Bring you own sewing equipment,including machine, mat, cutter and iron. An extension cord will be useful. We do have an ironing board but I would recommend you bring your ownpressing board – this is a ½ inch plywood, 18 x 24 inches with one piece ofbatting and one piece of muslin turned under to the back and stapled down. Let'shave some fun.
Joy& Holly

2011-11-18T09:44:00.000-08:00

November/December 2011 Newsletter from Stitches...

Hi to Friends of Stitches... with the holidays just around the corner we just wanted to update you on what's going on in the local fabric and yarn shop.

Upcoming events :
Signs of the Seasons : Block of the Month, starting January 11th (6:30pm) Julie DeBower and Sandy Hicks, instructors. Second Wednesday of the Month (6 months)

Sylvia's Bridal Sampler Block of the Month, starting January 12th (3:30pm) Annette Ashbach, instructor. Second Thursday of the Month (2 years)

New Fabrics at Stitches...
Cattails & Clover by Kansas Troubles (Moda)
New Batiks from Blank Quilting
Kits for Christmas Gifts : Aprons, Wallhangings, Tabletoppers, Quilts

New Yarns at Stitches...
New colors of Splash by Crystal Palace Yarns
New Sausolito & Mendocino (wonderful for scarves, hats & fingerless gloves)
New Mochi in Mini, Worsted, and Chunky
Great Pattern ideas for easy gifts for the Holidays.

Saturday Specials (Startin on Black Friday - Saturdays only after November 26th)
All Saphira, Vespera, & Jezebel Yarns by Southwest Yarn 1/2 price
All Sock Yarn $1 off regular price
10% off all kits (fabric and yarn)
All bolts in the Dog Pound at $4/yd (1 yd minimum)
All Wide Backing 20% off (limit of 5 yards)
All regular fleece 25% off
All batiks $7/yard ( 1 yard minimum)

Stitches... will be closed on December 24th & 25th & 31st.
Stitches... 715 Kelly Mall, Charles City, IA 50616 641-330-2308
charlescitystitches.blogspot.com charlescitystitches@gmail.com
visit us on Facebook @ Stitches fabric and yarn

New Look

2011-11-12T11:48:00.001-08:00

Welcome to Stitches blog re-vamped. More frequent posting to come. Thanks for stopping by and as always, come see me!

Best,

Holly

"Party Across North Iowa" Shop Hop

2011-05-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

May 5th, 6th, and 7th

"Party Across North Iowa" Shop Hop

Stitches... in Charles City "Tailgating"

Debbie's in Osage "Birthday Partying"

Saintly Stitches in St. Ansgar "Baby Showering"

Saintly Stitches in Mason City "Housewarming"

See us all and enjoy the specials:
Free pattern & fat quarter or charm pack with purchase
Door prizes

Refreshments

Stitches... own specials:

5% off all kits on Thursday

10% off all kits on Friday

20% off all kits on Saturday

All Christmas fabrics $5.00 per yard & fat quarters $1.50

1/2 price on all "projects of the month" kits

March Newsletter

2011-03-01T20:24:00.000-08:00

Greetings & Salutations from the staff at Stitches…

Spring may be just around the corner and we invite you to peruse our new fabrics, yarns, patterns, and ideas.

Fabric/Quilting/Sewing Department

March Project of the Month ($15/kit)

Shopping Bag made with Attitude Girl Fabric by Mary Engelbreit. Go Green with a darling Stitches... Shopping Bag.

Notion of the Month : Sewline Fabric Pencils (all colors of lead)

Special Promotion for the month : Green Fat Quarters $1.50 til St. Patty’s Day

New Notion : Bottom Line Thread by Superior (you’ll love it for your bobbins)

On-Going Promotion : Sale Bolts for $4, 5, & 6 (more bolts added each week)

New Fabric Collections : Hooty Hoot Flannel (Panel & coordinates), All Star Flannels, Sweet Divinity Polka Dots all by Riley Blake (So cute for babies & kids)

Spring Collection called Provence by Blank Quilting

And don’t forget Amy Butler “Soul Blossoms” (great for purses & aprons, too)

New & Upcoming Classes :

March 26^th 9am to 3pm : Inspiration Strip Piece Quilt Class (Joy Frank, inst.)
April 2^nd 9am to 3pm : Beginning Quilting
(learn the basics while making a quilt top)

April 9^th 9am to 3pm : Kool Kaleidescope with Carol Moellers

Regular Events at the Shop : BOM – Thurs, Mar. 10 @ 6:30pm led by Joy Frank

Special Upcoming Event : Chickfest April 2^nd - Demonstrations, Refreshments, Special Pricing, Entertainment - Visit all the participating retailers for fun and fresh ideas for spring.

Knitting/Crocheting/Yarn/Stitchery Department

Project of the Month : Crocheted Shamrock Pin or Magnet

New Yarns Collections : New colors in Bernat Softee Chunky and Baby Jacquard

Self striping -- Apple Blossom, Bluebell, Rosebud, Macaroon, Boys & Girls

Promotion of the month : Replenished Bargain Bin $2/skein

New & Upcoming Classes : CABLES? - Yes, you can! Make a sweater, scarf, vest, hat, even socks!! We can always start a sock class at any time if you’re interested. They’re addicting!!

Regular Events at the Shop : Friday afternoon knitting/crochet group meets 1-3pm at the table under the pergola, with master knitter Nancy Cole and other teachers to help learn and problem solve. Beverages and snacks are regularly served! Folks bring their own projects, or Nancy and the Stitches staff make suggestions and help you get started.

Learn to knit or crochet, or get help with your projects on Thursdays evening 6-8pm and/or Saturday afternoons 2-4pm. Call ahead if you need an appointment for special help, or just show up and join us at the table under the pergola for some good conversation while we stitch and sip. Come in and see our beautiful new Crystal Palace Yarns in great Spring colors.

Stitches... 715 Kelly Mall Charles City, IA 50616 charlescitystitches@gmail.com

www.charlescitystitches.blogspot.com 641-228-3383

'Tis the Season

2010-12-06T12:56:00.000-08:00

Christmas season is upon us & with it comes hectic days and busy nights. It is the season for appreciation of family and friends. If you want to make some special, unique gifts for your friends and family come in and see our kits, ideas, etc. and we can help make it happen. Stitches... has beautiful yarn and fabric to make your special gift.
Christmas gifts : Gift certificates, knit/crochet/quilt notions & accessories, stocking stuffers including cute bead & stitch ornament kits, cross stitch iron on designs & floss, very sharp embroidery/quilting scissors.
Boutique of store samples - when you are out of time & need a special gift...priced to sell/reasonably priced.

Last Block of the Month Meeting - Wednesday night December 8th @ 6:30pm (Julie's yummy cheesecake will be served). Come show your quilt or your blocks, whatever you have done.

Patchwork Pals - Monday, December 6th, 6:30pm Potluck

Upcoming classes :
Thursday, January 13th 6:30pm First meeting of 2011 Block of the Month (sign up now) See our sample of the new quilt....it is awesome
Saturday, January 22nd 10am - 3pm Let It Snow (Buggy Barn) Ana Blickenderfer, Instr.
Saturday, January 29th X Block Quilt Class
February will bring a "Beginning Quilt Class" and "Canyon Dance Quilt Class"

Join us on Thursday nights around the fireplace for knit or crochet or quilting handwork.

Saturdays in December will bring "Make It and Take It gifts : knitted bell ornament, crocheted wreath pin/ornament, fabric yo-yo tree. Starting at 1pm.

New Fabrics - Sumatra Batiks & Christmas Fat Quarters & Metropolis (strip-it fabric)
Project of the Month - Christmas Garden Flag for $15.00
Other easy Christmas projects - Train Quilt for Boys
Yo Yo Christmas Tree
Charming Apron in Christmas fabrics
Great patterns & yarn for hats & scarves for boys, girls, moms and dads.
Don't forget our specials for December Saturdays -
50% off 1 bolt fabric (5 yd limit - no sale fabric)
Buy 2 patterns, get 1 free (of equal or lesser value)
Buy 2 books, get 1 free (of equal or lesser value)

Have a safe & happy holiday season.

Harvest Season

2010-11-06T10:22:00.000-07:00

Hello and welcome to the Holiday Season in Northeast Iowa

Fabric Lovers :

Holiday Open House is November 5th & 6th
In-store specials – 20% off kits(excluding projects of the month kits)
Bargain Bin Specials
Sale Fabrics $4, 5, 6 per yard
November project of the month : Charming Apron : Kit $15.00

Starting this Saturday and continuing on Saturdays in November and December
Stitches… is offering these great specials :
50% off 1 bolt fabric (5 yard limit – no sale fabric)
Buy 2 patterns get 1 free (of equal or lesser value)
Buy 2 books get 1 free (of equal or lesser value)

New fabrics include :
Metropolis by Marcus Brothers (includes a new strip-it bolt)
Sumatra Batiks
Tangled Threads
Barnyard II

New :
Carpenter’s Star Kits
1 Yard Bundles
Fat Quarter Bundles
Christmas Fabric $5 per yard

Yarn lovers :

New yarns from Crystal Palace including :

Chenille, Squiggle, Fling, Nubbles, Blippity, Mini Mochi
New colors in Brown Sheep Lamb’s Pride & Lanaloft
Beautiful Silk & Merino for hats, scarves, mittens, sweaters
This Friday starts Cheer Sweater class from 1-3pm
Don’t forget Thursday nights can be “learn to knit or crochet” 6-8pm

Fall is in the air...

2010-09-16T09:34:00.000-07:00

and it feels good to come inside and start some of those fabric and yarn projects that have been sitting quietly for a few months. There are new fabric lines and new yarns at Stitches… so if you need a new project stop by and see the possibilities.

Here are a few new:
Warm Woolen Mittens - winter flannels
Java Batiks – new looks for fall
Glow in the Dark Halloween Fabric
Inspiration Pinks & Purples – for Breast Cancer Awareness
Paisley Park – great teals
Fresh Mixes – brights that can bring a room alive!
New patterns for bags Happier Snappier & Bella Bag
New appliqué patterns
Christmas Patterns
New Sock Yarns
Bulky and Super Bulky Yarns
More Self Striping Jacquards for Baby
Project of the Month – Halloween Wallhanging

Block of the Month will be : Wednesdays @ 6:30pm Sept. 8th, Oct. 13th, Nov. 10th, Dec. 8th . We will be meeting in the lower level classroom and you are welcome to bring your project and work on it for an hour or two. There is one more pattern for sashing and borders and then it is finish time!

Knit together on Fridays 1-3pm Join us and join our project or bring your own project
~ September socks, October Christmas stocking, November winter cardigan.

Summer Update

2010-07-13T09:29:00.000-07:00

Activities & Merchandise

July Project of the Month ($15/kit)
Fruit Ladies Beach Bag (a real hoot)
Come in and get your kit, roll up
your beach towels and head for the
lake.

July 14th Block of the Month 6:30pm Patterns for the last 2 blocks. Yeah!

July 24th Quilt in a Day Class with Deb Steere 10am to 4pm Beginners welcome. Start with a charm pack of your choice, make it bigger or smaller. Quilt as you go. (34”x46”). Be sure to purchase fabric & supplies before day of class.

July 31st Bow Tucks Purse/Bag Class (small or large size)Ginny Young, instructor 10am to 3pm

August Project of the Month - Garden Flag (14”x20”) Sign up now for a kit available August 1st. Mini flag Holder included with kit.

Alphabet Zoo Quilt Kits available now. Awesome project for kids room
(50”x70”)

Don’t miss out on Paper Piecing Class on August 14th. We’ll be making the New York Beauty Block & choosing a block layout for a quilt.
Follow-up classes will be planned to complete the quilt.

New fabric collections :
For the cure - Magenta/Lavender Prints, Gray metallic mini-swirl print
Happy Haunters - Halloween print and panel
Christmas Fabrics for $5/yd
Flannels $6/yd
Other sale fabrics, too

Have a great summer!!
Holly & Lynn

Stitches...presents our Summer Newsletter

2010-06-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

Join us for some fun, inspiring classes for the summer. Learn to knit or crochet. Learn to create a project or gift. Learn new skills and create new art.

NEW AT STITCHES...project of the MONTH... A new & different, fun, easy gift-able project every month.
June Project is a Patriotic Wind Sock for $15.00 (kit includes fabric & instructions).

Knitters
GiGi's Knit Club (kids only) Thursdays from 12-2 p.m.
Kids 8 and older can join us to learn to knit & crochet. Learn a lifelong skill and make your friends or family members unique gifts.

Friday Afternoon Knitters 1-3 p.m.
Join us every Friday for project knitting or crocheting. June Projects: Lacy Cowl Neck warmer and/or Shawl. July Project: Summer Sweater. August Project: TBA

Quilters
June 9 @ 6:30 Block of the Month
June 26 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Pinwheels Table Topper (Julie and Sandy, Instructors)

July 10 Patchwork Pals Sew Dresses for Africa
July 14 Block of the Month
July 24 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Quilt in a Day (for beginners, too) Baby Quilt or Car Quilt (kits available) (Deb Steere, instructor)
July 31 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Bow Tucks Purse Class (Ginny Young, Instructor)

August 11 @ 6:30 p.m. Block of the Month
August 14 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Foundations & Paper Piecing Basics & Beyond (Lynn & Barb)
An exercise in paper piecing & subsequent plan for a quilt. Come & see samples by July 1 in shoppe. Bring a sack lunch, drinks provided.
August 21 QUILT SHOW & ART-A-FEST (all day)
August 28 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Grids & Grommets Bag Class (Ginny Young)

Sign up soon for a class of your choice at the shoppe or by phone 641.228.3383 or by e-mail: charlescitystitches@gmail.com. All classes will have a course description, supplies list and kits available.

The staff at Stitches...wishes you a great summer!

Reminder: SHOP HOP

2010-04-28T14:44:00.000-07:00

It's All About Spring Shop Hop
When :Thursday, April 29th 9 am - 8 pm
Friday, April 30th 9 am - 5 pm
Saturday, May 1st 9 am - 5 pm

Where :Stitches... - Charles City
Saintly Stitches - St. Ansgar, IA
Debbies Quilt Shop - Osage

What's special :
Free quilt pattern at each shop, stop at each shop to get the complete quilt top directions.
FREE fat quarter with purchase.
Sign up for the Basket of goodies at each shop
Fabric specials
Refreshments

APRIL newsletter from Stitches...

2010-04-02T08:48:00.000-07:00

Greetings from us after a very long winter. It looks as if Spring is here. Warm breezes seem very foreign, but we could get used to them quickly. Along with Sweater classes & kits plan to be a part of our Shop Hop “It’s All About Spring” April 29, 30, & May 1.
Remember we’re open every Thursday til 8pm to help you with your yarn & fabric projects.

New Fabrics & Yarns
New kits (Sweetie Pie, 5 yard kits, Mother Goose, Threadcatcher & Lunchbag kits)
Botany by Moda *still waiting but arriving soon
Looking Back by Moda (here now)
Kroy Sock Yarn – self striping
New Knitting & Crocheting Books
Knitting for your dog books

Don’t forget Gift Certificates for Birthdays & Easter

Upcoming Classes
Saturday, April 3 9am to 5pm Chickfest
Saturday, April 3 9am to noon Exploding Pineapples Class (still room)
Monday, April 5 6:30pm Patchwork Pals (Bethany Alliance Church)
Wednesday, April 14 6:30pm Block of the Month
Thursday, April 15 7pm Tatting with Joyce
Friday, April 16, 23, 30 1-4pm TopDown Sweater Class
April 29, 30, May 1 “It’s All About Spring” Shop Hop

March

2010-03-11T08:51:00.000-08:00

Another short, cold winter month behind us feels good. March blows in some new goods at Stitches… and some new classes. Call or stop in to take a look and sign up for a fun learning session.

New Fabrics & Yarns
Botany by Moda (the whole beautiful collection)
Bernat Chunky Acrylics in new bold colors
Kroy Sock Yarn – self striping
Debbie Macomber Knitting Books
Knitting for your dog books
Don’t forget Gift Certificates for Birthdays & Easter

Upcoming Classes
Monday, March 1 6:30pm Patchwork Pals (Bethany Alliance Church)
Thursday, March 4, 11, 18, 25 2-4pm Socks on double pointed needles (Diane Thomas)
Saturday, March 6 & 13 1:30 – 3:30pm Landscape Applique (Caroline Gabel)
Wednesday, March 10 6:30pm Block of the Month
Saturday, March 13 10am – 3pm Mom ‘n Me –Beginning Quilting (Deb Steere)
Saturday, April 3 9am – noon Exploding Pineapples (Deb Steere)
Saturday, April 3 Chickfest (all day) Demonstrations, sales, drawings

Stop in for a cup of tea and a friendly visit.
We’re here to help you enjoy your fabric and yarn.
Have you considered making a capelet for that cool Prom Day? Or Wedding Day?
We have easy patterns for knit or crochet!!

From the staff @ Stitches...stay warm & keep stitchin'

Stitches....news.

2010-02-02T09:45:00.000-08:00

Hello and happy winter! It looks like it will be a long one…perfect to knit, crochet, or sew, right? We have lots of project ideas for you so stop in anytime soon for a load of fun ideas. We have ongoing activities plus some new classes and products to pique your interest.
Ongoing:
Block of the Month -- 2nd Wednesday of each month Stars Around the Garden 6:30 pm
Thursday nights – knit and crochet around the fireplace 5 – 8 pm
New activities:
Tatting - 3rd Thursday of each month 7-8pm with Joyce Laffe
Knit together at 9th St Chautauqua – 4th Monday of the month 6:30 pm
Knit or Crochet Project Class – Thursdays 2-4pm & 6-8pm
February Schedule
Wednesday, Feb. 10 Block of the Month 6:30pm
Thursday Feb. 11&18 Rolled Brim Easy Crochet Hat with Lynn Mullen 2-4 or 6-8 pm
Thursday, Feb. 18 Tatting with Joyce Laffe 7-8 pm
Monday, Feb. 22 Knit Together at 9th St. Chautauqua with ? 6:30- ? pm
Upcoming Classes & Events:
Thursdays, Mar. 4, 11, & 18 Knit Self-striping Socks with Diane Thomas 2 – 4 pm
Saturday, Mar. 6 & 13 Landscape Applique Class with Caroline Gabel 1:30-3:30 pm
Saturday, Mar. 13th Mom ‘n’ Me – Beginning Quilting with ? 10am-3pm
Saturday, Apr. 3rd Chickfest—all day fun activities at the shop
Saturday, Apr. 3rd Pineapple Block Quilting Class with Deb Steere 10 am – 12 noon

Sign up now by stopping in @ Stitches… or calling 641-228-3383 or email charlescitystitches@gmail.com
Stay warm, Holly & Lynn

New at Stitches :
Sumatra Batiks Self-striping sock yarn
Coffee Break collection Novelty Yarns by Dark Horse
Mother Goose Collection Tribeca Fabrics
Also new at Stitches…
Bargain bin and bolts at sale prices

Happy 2010 to all our friends from Stitches...

2010-01-08T13:10:00.000-08:00

With the arrival of the deep freeze weather, what better time to knit, crochet or sew!?!
Come visit us for an idea, a new yarn or a new bundle of fabrics to keep those fingers busy. If you are looking for a fun social project consider “Block of the Month” or “knitting around the fireplace” on Thursday evenings. We have many ready-made gifts in our Boutique if you just can’t seem to find the right gift in you own stash or boutique.
In January on Thursday afternoons from 2-4pm Stitches… is featuring a class on a Surprise Baby Sweater taught by Margo Rottinghaus. It starts on the 7th. Sign up now.
Block of the Month is a great way to make your first quilt or your 50th quilt. Last year we had participants of all skill levels and had a great time. This year’s quilt is called “Stars Around the Garden” and we’ll be making 2 blocks per month for 7 months, then a month for appliqué and a month for sashing and borders. Come in for a look at the fabrics and sign up for the first class on January 13th.
New fabric lines include a coffee line, Mother Goose, Civil War Homefront, and flannels called Two in the Bush.
Watch for our bargain bin – coming soon and special sale on Christmas fabrics.

November

2009-11-10T07:27:00.000-08:00

Happy and Gorgeous Autumn to you all! Hasn’t it been beautiful lately – temperatures, colorful leaves, sunshine squeezed in?! Gave us all a chance to clean up the gardens and plant some bulbs for Spring. Farmers are happier too. Should we dare wish for a few more days of Indian Summer?! We may pay for it sooner than we think!

There’s exciting news and lots going on in November:o Thursday night knitting & crochet around the fireplace 6-8 p.m.
o Class: Knitted/Felted Slippers–Nov. 5th & 19th, 6–8 p.m. with Joy & Vicki.
o Citywide Holiday Open House: Nov. 6th and 7th – Make it and take it—Pumpkin Potholder/oven mitt –kit $4—make a reservation and bring your machine.
o Next BOM ’09 meets Wed. Nov. 11 at 6:30 p.m. for sashing and borders

New Products have arrived in time for Holiday gift-making and décor:
o New Christmas flannels—red, green, gold, white (rag quilts & throws)
o Holiday panels: Grandma’s Gingerbread—wallhanging/table topper, stockings, gift tags, potholder & recipe—cute, fun, easy, quick!
o Great Collection of Holiday Patterns –Wall hangings, tree skirts, throws, table toppers & runners
o Holiday Kits: Thimbleberries Feathered Star—placemats and tablerunner; Thimbleberries Grandmother’s Garden—baby quilt, tabletopper
o Go Green with Yarn: Soy, Jade, Cotton, Wool—colors galore, great prices & selection
o Yarn Kits: Knitted/felted Christmas Stocking with pattern (U can do it!)

Seasonal Special: “Tiny Tots” fabric collection holiday priced at $4/yd. for gifts—anything red & green with yellow & blue accents: pajamas, pillowcases, stuffed toys, baby quilts & kits, valances & bed skirts.

Sign up Now for 2010 Block of the Month: “Stars Around the Garden” –a beautiful queensize quilt featuring pieced stars, borders & center ground, with appliquéd floral center medallion & corners, available in both classic darks and mid neutral/lights, in many size variations & combinations. Personal fabric choices from several collections ensures unique beauty. (Or you can supply your own fabric) Stop in to see the photo!
Coming first week of December: Stitches presents—“Gift Boutique” of handmade store samples & choice gifts reasonably priced for holiday giving.
“When time or talent prevent the making, shop at Stitches’ Gift Boutique
for a gift worth taking!”

Stop in anytime for a cup of tea or cider, some conversation, or quiet time to complete your holiday projects. You can reserve sewing space in our classroom with a phone call! Hope to see you soon! Holly Connor at Stitches 715 Kelly Mall, Charles City 330-2308. Regular hours Friday & Saturday after Thanksgiving 11am – 5pm for holiday shopping.

2009-10-26T07:11:00.000-07:00

October 2009 Newsletter

Here is just a quick update for October. We are trying to be as "green" as we can be at Stitches... If you have an email address but are still getting a newsletter through the mail please help us by sending an email to charlescitystitches@gmail.com and we will send the newsletter by email to save paper and postage. Thanks. If you lose the newsletter during the month you can also see it on our blog.
We are participating in the Scarecrow contest through the Chamber of Commerce. Come have a look at our display "Sew Spooky". We have lots of new fabrics and patterns and yarns. Come in for a cup of coffee, tea or cider anytime for a look, see. This is an exciting time to get your Christmas gifts underway. We now have all of our Stitching things together in our "Stitchery". These include counted cross stitch, floss, embroidery, Aida cloth, beading kits, iron-on transfers, etc. Coming in November will be our "Boutique" which will feature handmade gifts for sale.

Upcoming classes :
Oct 8th Beginning Tatting 7-9pm (Joyce Laffe)
Oct 14th Block of the Month 6:30pm
Oct 15th Beginning Tatting 7-9pm
Oct 17th Triple Express Quilt 10am-3pm (Deb Steere)
Oct 24th Card Tricks All Around Wallhanging 12-3pm (Ginny Young)
Nov 6th Turkey Applique 12-3pm (Ana Blickenderfer)
November (TBA) Knitting Felted Slippers (Joy & Vicky)
Christmas Stocking Class postponed (can be rescheduled)

We also have kits for Carpenter's Star, Ivy Trellis, Hopscotch, Turning 20, Halloween wallhanging, Yo-yo pumpkins, Christmas Stockings and more.

Come join the fun and make a memorable gift for you friends and family. Kits for all classes are available.

Stitches... 641-228-3383 or 641-330-2308

September Newsletter

2009-09-12T14:42:00.000-07:00

Greetings to my Fiber Friends :
This is coming to you a bit late in the month due to my own medical mishap. A new knee is in place as of the 28th of August. I'm on the mend and hope to be good as new or better than before very soon. Thanks to my staff and dedicated friends business has gone on as usual and I hope to be back to part time very soon.

In the shoppe this fall there are many new fibers ((fabrics and yarns). Come in and check us out. In the fabric area we have some Wild Bunch Fabrics by RJR, Pandemonia, Gallery in Red by Marcus and a few others and more arriving weekly. In the yarn department there are some new Lion Brand Wools, Baby Bamboos in awesome new colors and lots of new patterns and books.

October 1st will be our one year anniversary and what a rewarding experience it has been for us at Stitches... Thank you all for your support, encouragement and patience during our first year. Watch for our anniversary specials and help us celebrate into our second year in business the weekend of October 1,2, & 3.

Classes at Stitches...
September 19th Brrrr! Wallhanging 10am-3pm (Deb Steere, Instructor)
September 26th Curves & Corners Tablerunner 12-3pm (Ginny Young, Instructor)
October Beginning Tatting Thurs. 8th 7-9pm, & 15th 7-9pm (Joyce Laffe,instr)
October 3rd If the Hat Fits Wallhanging>Buggy Barn 12-3pm (Ana Blckndrfr,instr)
October 17th Triple Expresso Quilt - Shake,Rattle,Roll 10am-3pm (Deb Steere,instr)
November Christmas Stocking Saturdays 2-4pm (Joy Frank,Vickie Schroeder,instr)
November 6th Turkey Applicque Wallhanging 12-3pm (Ana Blckndrfr,instr)
December Felted Slippers Saturdays 2-4pm (Joy Frank,VickieSchroeder,in
TBA Crocheted Table Topper (taught by Sue Ayers)
Reminder : Beginning Knit & Crochet taught one on one on Thursdays 6:30-8pm

Keep Stitchin'

Summer Newsletter from Stitches...

2009-07-15T11:14:00.000-07:00

Quilters :
> With summer in full bloom, finally, outdoor activities are also in full bloom
but we're cool and busy at Stitches...even in the summertime. Stop in any time
for a cool drink and a relaxing stay "under the pergola:.
> From June 24 - July 3 we will have in-store demos of Flag Making. Using scraps,
make a quick, fusible crazy quilt flag - bring your red, white, blue and gold
scraps, buy a flag marked template for $1 and make your flag on the spot. Sew
or no-sew is up to you. Be ready for July 4th.
> Saturday, June 27th "Grids & Grommets Purse" class 10am to 3pm and we still
have room for you.
> July 30th will bring another class to make a table runner and placemats with
the 60 degree angle ruler. Special techniques for working with border fabrics
to creat easy, beautiful 6 sided placemats. Easy & quick.
> August 22nd will be a class on an easy, ruffled neckroll pillow. Lear easy,
techniques for ruffling, making tow-color ruffles, non-zip closure.
> August will also bring Linda Kamm to Charles City and she will give a workshop
that you won't want to miss called "Storm at Sea". Date is Wednesday, August
26th from 10am to 3pm. Lunch provided. Cost is $10. You will need a set of the
"Storm at Sea" Trimplates (available at Stitches...).
> Stop in and see all the new kits available for all sizes of quilts, wallhang-
ings, tablerunners, etc.
Schedule :
June 24 - July 3 Flag Week (Make It & Take It)
June 27 - Grids & Grommets (10am-3pm) Lunch provided.
July 8 - Block of the Month 6:30pm
July 30 - 60 Degree Angle Tablerunner & Placemats (12-2pm & 6-8pm)
August 12 - Block of the Month 6:30pm
August 22 - Ruffled Neckroll Pillow (10am-2pm)
August 26 - Storm at Sea Tabletopper 10am-3pm)

Knitters & Crocheters :
When it is too hot to work outside or your home just seems too confining come in to
Stitches... for a cool place to sit and knit or crochet. We have some new yarns and some great patterns and ideas for Christmas gifts. It is never too early to think about Christmas. Again, starting in the fall, we will be having monthly classes on Saturday afternoons, eg. Christmas stocking, socks on 2 circular needles, the Magic Loop, baby sweaters. Let us know what you would like to take for a class.

Happy crafting,
Holly

2009-05-04T07:59:00.000-07:00

Greetings :
May is my favorite month so look for grins and giggles at Stitches... this month. We started the month with a Mini Shop Hop and had great response from quilters in the area. Thanks to all who participated. Stitches... will continue with some great offers throughout the month. New yarns, new threads, new kits, new classes, etc. Thanks, also, to all who participated in the "April is for Aprons" and brought in an apron or two. If you didn't get your free fat quarter for participating make sure you get one when you pick up your apron. The winner for the apron contest was Arlene Hollar. Congratulations, Arlene.
Upcoming at Stitches...
May 11th 6:30pm Block of the Month
May 16th 10am - 3pm Jelly Bean Quilt Class
May 28th 6 - 8pm Small Grommet Purse Class (Maple Island Pattern)
June 4th 6 - 8pm Preparing your Quilt for Quilting
June 11th 6 - 8pm Binding and finishing your Quilt
Knitters & Crocheters
With weather improving our Saturday afternoon project attendance has slowed but we are still getting together from 2 - 4pm every Saturday to knit or crochet. Please join us when you can. We'll resume organized classes again in the fall. We're always in front of the fireplace on Thursday evenings, too 6:30 - 8pm. Come see our new sample projects.
Happy Stitching!!
Hours : Mon - Sat 11 to 5pm Thurs til 8pm Open Friday "Party in the Park" til 9pm
charlescitystitches@gmail.com 641-228-3383 or 641-330-2308

April is Aprons

2009-04-01T09:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends of Stitches,

I’m hoping by the time you read this winter will be gone! It has been such a long winter. April brings thoughts of Spring; cleaning the garage, starting plants for the garden, uncovering emerging tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths and coloring eggs for Easter, making spring quilts & aprons, spring ponchos & shells.

Quilters:
We hope you’ll think about making a new Apron for Spring because at Stitches… April is Aprons. We’re having an apron contest so if you have one that you have made bring it in to display for the month and a chance to win a prize. If you bring one in you take a fat quarter, if win the contest you win a prize. There will be new apron patterns arriving all month and, of course, we have lots of great apron fabric!!

Upcoming events :
April 4th : Chucktown Chickfest 10am to 4pm (demonstrations, refreshments, prizes)
April 18th : Grids & Grommets Purse
April 30th : First Day of Blooming Baskets Shop Hop (Debbie’s in Osage, Saintly Stitches in St. Ansgar & Stitches… in Charles City)(continuing May 1st & 2nd)

Knitters & Crocheters :
What a month we have had with the Saturdays Beginning Crochet Class and all they have learned. Lynn has had some great success with her beginners and they are moving on to projects.
Saturdays in April will begin on April 11th, delayed because of Chucktown Chickfest. We will be doing a poncho or shrug either in knit or crochet. Come and take a look at our samples and chose your yarn.
Thursday nights continue around the fireplace. We’re waiting for the warm nights when we can open the door and turn off the fire.
Tuesday afternoons with Mary will return on April 7th. She has recovered from her fall and is ready for some socializing at Stitches… Come in and say hi again. Bring your questions or problems and between Mary, Holly and Lynn we should be able to solve.

Happy Stitching!!!

2009-03-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

Updating again. Due to the unpredictability of the weather in March we have decided to hold the Grids and Grommets Purse Class in April instead. That will be Saturday April 18th at 10am. We're also in the midst of planning a Shop Hop. We will be participating with Saintly Stitches in St. Ansgar and Debbie's in Osage. To be held Thursday, Friday and Saturday, April 30 and May 1st and 2nd. Put those dates on your calendar for Fun, Food and Fats!

March Happenings

2009-03-06T13:19:00.000-08:00

Greetings Knitters and Quilters,
Another nasty winter month has come and gone; we’re one month closer to spring and spring-time activities. At Stitches… we’ve enjoyed a busy winter but we, too, are anxious for warmth and sunshine! March can fool us; one day warm, next day blizzard, so watch out! I was born in a blizzard in March- better than a blizzard in April. Stitches… is looking forward to participating in the “Chucktown Chickfest”
April 4th and 5th. There will be demonstrations, prizes, food and fun. Plan to come in for a visit that weekend.

Quilters:
Just to let you know, Stitches… does have some new fabrics. A collection called Timeless Grace by Thimbleberries RJR and some great new Batiks. The very popular purse classes will continue. Specifically, Grids and Grommets, March 21st. Sign up now for a spot in that class.

Also, a quilt class - Carpenter’s Star will be held on March 28th. This a very basic class with a great looking quilt top. Kits will be available. Come in and see the sample and sign up.
Lunch is provided in both of those classes.

We’re still planning to have the “Duvet in a Day” class when we get a good number of participants. (a duvet is a cover for a quilt – do you have a down comforter that needs a cover?)

Knitters & Crocheters:
Under the pergola : Beginning crochet on Saturdays in March.
Please join us from 2-4pm if you want to learn to crochet. The first Saturday will be
“the stitches” and the following Saturdays will be easy projects.
We will continue knitting around the fireplace on Saturdays, too. Finish your socks and mittens or start a new project (a felted purse?).

To all friends of Stitches…
Thank you to all who have supported us and given us encouragement through our beginning months. We at Stitches… are learning what our clients need and want. Hopefully, we’re providing a service and supplies to our area to make your lives easier and more enjoyable. We hope it is a win/win for all.

Come in any time and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee or a soda and some conversation.

2009-01-25T16:58:00.000-08:00

Hi Friends,

Lots of busy times at Stitches... these days. Saturday was a class for purse makers and they revelled in the Grids & Grommets Bag; so awesome and such a different look. Ginny Young led 10 enthusiasts through the directions and instructions to a new purse.

Last Wednesday was our first session of Block of the Month and 25 quilters came out on a much warmer evening than the original night of -25 degrees. We were wise to postpone. The quilt is called "Everything's Coming Up Roses". This is a great way to start the year.

The knitters have been busy, too. The sock class is progressing nicely and you are welcome to join any time because someone is alway starting a new sock. We are all at different stages of sock making after 15 minutes. Some of the class members have started on the second pair and some are still making the first sock. It really isn't as difficult as I first thought it would be. If you have not been in lately, stop in and see our cupcake wallhangings, pictured above (kits available) and the duvet will be on display this week for the first time. This is a class offering at the end of the month. On February 14th, Stitches... is offering a beginning quilting class taught by Deb Steere. It is a small quilt that can be expanded from a wall hanging size if desired and has 3 different blocks. The class participants will have a completed quilt top ready for quilting at the end of the day. Class will be from 10am to 3pm.

2009-01-16T15:49:00.000-08:00

Hey Stitches... Friends,
Can you believe I have time to blog again this week. I am going to try to make time to update every few days so Stitches... stays current. The sock class is in full swing for Satudays in January. We'll be working on the heel this Saturday and maybe turning the heel, too. They're starting to take shape.
Coming up soon :
Saturday January 24th 10am Grids & Grommets Purse class (sign up now by phone or
email)
Duvet in a Day Class will be announced soon. Just couldn't get ready in January.
February will be KNIT MITTENS! at 2pm on Saturdays.
February will also bring a beginning quilting class. Watch for the announcement soon.
That's it for now. Have a good weekend.

2009-01-15T09:22:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a winter. Are we going to survive this blast of Arctic air? Sorry to have to postpone the Block of the Month session but it was just too dangerous. And lots of our
participants live in the country. We'll plan on next Wednesday at 6:30pm. That's the 21st. Again, if you cannot make a session you can stop in any time and get instructions and fabric or it can be mailed to you.

The sock class is off and running and we're excited about doing the flap and turning the heel. If you are already ahead of the class and doing those things or even on the next sock, come anyway and enjoy the sunshine, fireplace, and commeraderie.

Just to let you know ----- it's mittens in February. That's Saturday afternoons from 2-4 pm.

If you don't want to make mittens for yourself or your own family or friends there are always school children without mittens. What a great contribution to make.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-05T18:02:00.001-08:00

Quilters…
Join us for a fun filled year of sewing and socializing. We have lots of activities and new fabrics and notions monthly. New fabric collection: Feedsack (from the 30s).

Classes & Clubs :
January 10th: Grommet Purse Class, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call now to sign up

January 14th: 1st session of Block of the Month, 6:30 p.m.

January 17th: Duvet in a Day Class, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Knitters…
Under the Pergola with Mary Green: Tuesdays 1:30 to 5 p.m.

Around the Fireplace: Thursdays 6:30 to 8 p.m. Bring your projects or learn to knit or crochet

Saturday afternoons: 2 to 4 p.m. Starting Jan 10th, Sock class 4 Saturdays

Let us know if there is something you would like to have for a class. We're always open to suggestions.

2008-11-10T07:15:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends of Stitches...

The Holiday Open House which was also my Grand Opening was a great success even though the weather has turned and snow, sleet, and rain were a part of our weekend, too. Oh, well, that will get us in the mood for Christmas and motivate us to get some Christmas gift projects going. If you are sick of giving those plastic gifts from China come into the shop and look around at all the hand made, special projects that can thrill your family and friends. They're fun to make, inexpensive and much more meaningful.

New activities at the shop include:

Thursday night open sewing downstairs in our sewing room.

Thursday night knitting around the fireplace (beginners or bring your projects & knit)

No need to register, just come and enjoy!

Refreshments available.

Saturday, November 15th 10am Christmas Tree Skirt Class (must sign up ahead of time)

Saturday November 22nd 10am Christmas Placemats & Tablerunner (sign up ahead of time)

Saturday November 22nd 1pm Beginning Quilting (sign up ahead of time)

Saturday November 29th 10am Bow Tie Purse (sign up ahead of time)

(If you cannot come into the shop to sign up you may email @ charlescitystitches@gmail.com

or call me on the phone 641-228-3383

Hope you will enjoy the season. Making hand made gifts makes it so much more meaningful.

2008-11-02T16:15:00.000-08:00

Another week is under my belt and I am pleased to say I'm having the time of my life. I have even created some things myself. We're getting ready to have some classes in November. Here's what we have scheduled so far :

November 15th 10am Christmas Tree Skirt (Buggy Barn) taught by Ana Blickenderfer.
Pattern in the book "Stir Crazy". Let Ana know if you need the book.

November 22nd 10am Christmas Table Runner & Placemats taught by Lynn Mullen.

November 22nd 1pm Beginning Quilting (4 panels to chose from) taught by Becky Lindaman

Each class will last around 2 1/2 to 3 hours. You need to bring your own sewing maching, scissors, thread, etc. Materials will be available in a kit when you sign up at Stitches...
To sign up you can either call 641-228-2308 or email me at charlescitystitches@gmail.com or
come into Stitches...

Our daughters were home last weekend to celebrate a birthday of our youngest and to check out their mother's new business. We had a great time. It's great to see our offspring become good citizens of society. We're proud of each of them.

2008-10-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

Hello Stitching Friends,
I've survived 3 weeks and have had a blast doing it. I love my customers and enjoy the comeraderie that comes with the business of knitting, crocheting, sewing, quilting, etc. I'm ready to start planning classes for my new (and old) friends. Knitting socks, hats, mittens, etc. and making gifts for the holidays with yarn. Also making gifts and decorations for the holidays out of the beautiful fabric. Fun, fun, fun. Hope everyone has a great week. Fall is definitely in the air. A beautiful time of the year.

OPEN & READY FOR BUSINESS!

2008-10-12T06:51:00.000-07:00

I've been open for a week and have worked out some kinks. Things are going great! Please feel free to stop by to see the yummy colors of yarn and multiple collections of fabric. We also have needles, thread, patterns, and comfy place to knit. The coffee pot is always on!

Almost ready!

2008-09-24T20:38:00.000-07:00

Fabrics of all colors, shapes and sizes. Collections like Vineyard, Tiny Tots, Snowflakes Welcome, Mocha Meringue, Bonnie Blue Basics, Woolies Flannels, Paisley Party and more.

Lots of yummy colors yarn and tons of patterns. Knitting in front of the fireplace this winter will feel so good.

The pergola is built... The shelves are all painted...

Awesome fireplace to sit, knit or relax while shopping.
Almost ready for business!

Finish stocking the shelves!

Don't you love it!

The new sign is Perfect! Love it...Love it!

Holly says "Come on in...sneak a peak we are almost open for business."

Business Card

2008-08-17T14:45:00.001-07:00

Business cards are printed and ready to go...Opening Date hopefully September 15th!

Tour of interior of building

2008-08-17T14:21:00.001-07:00

17 Cabinets to hold fabric the restroom and kitchen are framed in.

Thank you!

2008-08-17T12:55:00.000-07:00

I could not have done this project with out my husband ...Thank you Terry!

My New Business!

2008-08-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

This is the building that I bought and am remodeling for my business