Wow! What an absolutely gorgeous day outside. The sun is out, the birds are singing, and there’s barely a cloud in the sky – finally! I was reluctant to believe that this warm, dry, and stable weather is actually here to stay, but after a quick look at my weather app over lunch, I think it’s safe to say that we can finally put the long Johns and heavy sweaters away for a while… But not all of them of course! Anyone from WI will tell you that no matter how hot it gets during the day, always bring a sweatshirt and long pants along if you’re going to be outdoors at night. It’s amazing how fast things can cool down once the sun is gone and the dew falls – even if it was 85º that day!

The pleasant weather outside not only makes me excited for some summer fun, but also for all the new projects and events we have coming up this year. I hope you’ve had a chance to take a look through our “2023 Events Calendar and have found an event or five to sign up for that fits your busy schedule. If you haven’t had the opportunity to check it out and plan to visit Primitive Gatherings or The Gathering this year, I highly recommend taking a look at what’s available ahead of time which you can do by clicking the link below!As you can see, we have a wide variety of retreats, classes, workshops, and clubs available, including events geared for beginners, intermediate, and seasoned quilters alike. You can choose between a super casual Sit & Stitch style event, a club that focuses on a specific medium or genre, a project-specific class, or multi-day retreat! Even if you’re someone who really wants to learn but has never sewn a stitch – don’t worry – we have a class for that! Or maybe you’re someone who’s practically an expert and you’re looking for an upper level class with a challenge… We have it all!

Speaking of learning to quilt, if you or someone you know has always wanted to learn but has never taken the plunge, now’s your chance! I’m excited to share that our very own super talented and award winning quilter Cheri Sweeney will be instructing a two-part class just for newbies at The Gathering later this month!

If you’ve ever taken a class with Cheri you already know she’s just about the nicest, most patient teacher out there. Her classes are fun and relaxing with a friendly atmosphere where stitchers of all levels are welcome. She takes her time and patiently explains everything you need to know about how to get started with one of the best creative mediums on the planet. Take it from me! Cheri is a skilled teacher who I admire, and anyone who learns to quilt from this master is one lucky student.

Now for the fine details! This evening class will take place over the course of two days – May 16th and 23rd, 2023 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at The Gathering. The class project will be “Lucky Stars,” a simple star pattern quilt by Atkinson Designs, which can be purchased by clicking HERE.

Cheri will be teaching a gorgeous alternative of the original “Lucky Stars,” shown on the class flier above. For fabrics she will be using “Midnight in the Garden“ by Sweetfire Road, but you can choose whatever you want. If you’d like to see what “Midnight in the Garden“ looks like you can take a look by clicking HERE.

The class fee for this fun event is only $50.00 plus supplies, which you can get right here at Primitive Gatherings. Ready to sign up? Reserving your seat is getting easier all time as our new systems continue to fall into place. You can either call The Gathering at 920.778.8031, email thegathering@primitivegatherings.us, or use our online reservation service by clicking HERE.

Alright stitchers, that’s it for now! Remember to meet me back here online tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. CST for another fun-filled episode of STITCH with Lisa Bongean as I take you through a LIVE virtual tour of The Gathering. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to stay there, this is your show! Set your reminder now so you don’t miss it. Then, immediately after we will be back at it with CommentSold at approximately 2:15 p.m. CST. Until then take care and have a great night!