a common thread winter & spring 2012 newsletter

Classes & Events • Winter & Spring 2012

Inside:Blue Bird Bucks are Back!Learn from the Best: Barbara Shapel, Jean Wells, Rose Hughes & Joyce Cambron

Open HouseJanuary 13, 14 & 15

Blue Bird Bucks! • Show Off Parties$5 Classes • Free Barbara Shapel Trunk Show

New Block of the Month Clubs

Banish Winter Blahs!We recently took a poll on our Facebook page, asking: "What makes a sewing class exciting to you?" The first place answer was 'the opportunity to sew with friends or make new ones'! We heard you, and you'll see that classes with our Special Guest Instructors now have a Buddy Rate, a special price for signing up with a friend.

So bring a friend and enjoy these truly amazing instructors: Jean Wells, Joyce Cambron, Rose Hughes and Barbara Shapel. These names sparkle in the world of quilting, textile art and design: authoring books, innovating new techniques, teaching around the world and winning award after award. Find out more about their unique trunk shows, classes and workshops at right...and sign up with a friend to make it even more special!

New Block of the Month Clubs are beginning! Find out just how much fun you can have with a quilt block on pages 20 & 21!

If you've dreamed of longarm quilting, you'll love our Handi Quilter event in February, with expert Handi Quilter Educator Linda Matteotti. Learn the basics and so much more in this weekend of hands-on classes, offered at an inspiring value price! See page 16.

Blue Bird Bucks are back! $100 Blue Bird Bucks costs $80, and $50 Blue Bird Bucks is just $45, with a limit of $300 per person. These discounts are good on everything in the store, won't expire, and because they are registered with your

account you can never lose them. Buy your Blue Bird Bucks from December 17 through January 15.

As you walk in our front door, you'll notice a bin for the Oregon Food Bank. We've chosen to support the Oregon Food Bank throughout 2012, and we'll create opportunities for you to join us all year long. Your donations will go to the tables of hungry families in Oregon and Clark County, Washington...bring a can, take home inspiration!

As always, we are proud and grateful to have you as our customer, and work hard to earn your business every day!

Blue Bird Bucks are back! Bucks costs $80, and $50 Blue Bird Bucks is just $45, with a limit of $300 per person. These discounts are good on everything in the store, won't expire, and because they are registered with your

account you can never lose them.

Joyce CambronThe author of A New Spin on Curved Piecing shares her popular techniques and fresh designs in her trunk show, "My Hot Romance with Freezer Paper", and two wonderful classes.February 24, 25 & 26 • See page 11 for details

Barbara ShapelYou know Barbara's intricate, award-winning work from

Northwest Quilting Expo. Now get to know her during Open House, and in two exciting workshops!

Free Trunk Show: January 15 • see page 5Workshops: April 27, 28 & 29 • see page 24

Rose HughesNo more dreaming about a class with this renowned textile artist! Rose leads you to new awareness of color and textiles as an art form, and she shares secrets for an artists' guide to finding time to create! March 22-25 • See page 26

Jean WellsShe may live just over Santiam Pass, but Jean is much

more than "the girl next door"! Register early to learn what inspires this superstar of the quilting world in her

trunk show and workshop. March 9, 10 & 11 • see page 28

Linda Matteotti If you've dreamed of quilting your own quilts,

this weekend is for you! Linda Matteotti, expert Handi Quilter Educator, leads hands-on classes

for every level of interest and skill.February 10, 11 & 12 • See page 16

No more dreaming about a class with this renowned textile artist! Rose leads you to new awareness of color and textiles as an art form, and she shares secrets for an artists' guide to finding time to create! March 22-25 • See page 26

The author of A New Spin on Curved Piecing shares her popular techniques and fresh designs in her trunk show, Paper",February 24, 25 & 26 • See page 11 for details

FREE Trunk Show January 15!

A weekend of inspiration & savings!Refreshments • Class Sign-Ups • Inspiration

OpenHouse

$5 Friday ClassesRegister now for great value classes on Friday, January 13!

10:-10:45 am

584 Perfect Chain Piecing Tips with Linda Johansen

11:00-11:45 am

585 Barb Thomas: Sewing Machine Maintenance

1:00-1:45 pm

586 Erica Plank of Unseen Hands Embroidery

2:00-2:45 pm

587 Get To Know Brazilian Embroidery with Polly Bingham & Bonnie Fletcher

3:00-3:45 pm

664 Hemming Basics with Laura Dickson

4:00-4:45 pm

588 Introducing a new BERNINA Webinar series: All About Machine Embroidery! with Jan Raith

Friday, January 1310:00 am-1:00 pm

Helene Knott • Lone Robin Mystery • page 20Deb Cacciamani • Hearts Block of the Month • page 21

2:00-5:00 pm Deb Cacciamani • Hearts Block of the Month • page 21

Victoria Jones • Hand Appliqué by Machine • page 6

Saturday, January 1410:00 am-1:00 pm

Rose of Sharon and Stained Glass Block of the MonthShow Off Party • 10:30-12:30 pm

Katrina Hamer • Electric Quilt 7 • page 10

2:00-5:00 pmVictoria Jones • Paper Piecing • page 10

Sunday, January 151:00-4:00 pm

Bonnie Fletcher • Brazilian Embroidery • page 14Victoria Jones • Paper Piecing • page 10

Free Trunk Show withBarbara Shapel

Register now to reserve your seat for this special event!

Sunday, January 15 • 2:00-4:00 pm

1043 First Quilt, Last Quilt...And A Few In-Between!This informative lecture shows the beginning of Barbara's

quilting journey in 1993 with a sampler quilt; in showing it she recalls asking the audience to not look too closely at the

quilting, un-matched seams and binding...haven't we all?But Barbara has come a long way since then, with blue ribbon honors

from all over the quilting world. Enjoy her inspiring story and her amazing quilts! Register now to

reserve your seat...these will go fast!

Saturday, January 14Saturday, January 14

Bonnie Fletcher • Brazilian Embroidery • page 14

Quilting & Piecing405 Accidental Landscapes with Katherine SchraderThis simple landscape quilt is a fun way to get beyond a pattern and enjoy the freedom of cutting and piecing as you go, whether you have the beach, mountains, or rolling fields in mind! Saturday, February 4 • 1:00-5:00 pm Cost $40

438 Fusible Appliqué Workshop with Victoria JonesComplex-looking appliqué is fast and easy using fusible appliqué methods. You'll learn about the methods and materials that make this technique a favorite medium for quilters, textile artists and crafters of all levels!Sunday, April 11:00 pm-4:00 pm • Cost $30

Quilting & Piecing

Quilting & Piecing

Quilting

Accidental Landscapes

665 Still Life with Freezer Paper with Victoria JonesLet Victoria teach you to adjust your sewing machine to create stitches that no one will believe are machine sewn!

Express yourself with unique fabric choices as you create a classic still life with fruit as you enjoy learning fancy stiching, decorative threads and trapunto techniques with Victoria. Saturday, April 14 10:00am-4:00pmCost $50

300 Serger Party: Quilt As You Go

Quilt or Table Runner with Barb ThomasAre you looking for a fast and really fun project, perfect for building your serger sewing confidence? In this project the top, batting and backing are all stitched together at one time into a reversible quilt with all serger seams on the inside. Bring your own serger, or use one of ours! Sunday, April 22 • 4:30-7:30pmCost $30

Express yourself with unique fabric choices as you create a classic still life with fruit as you enjoy learning fancy stiching, decorative threads and trapunto techniques with Victoria. Saturday, April 14 10:00am-4:00pmCost $50

300 Serger Party: Quilt As You Go

Quilt or Table Runner

Still Life with Freezer Paper. right, and Fusible Appliqué

Workshop, below

474 Flower Pops Quilt with Katherine SchraderThis super-simple block is perfect for beginning quilters, and even experienced stitchers will learn a thing or two from Katherine! This design lends itself to many different quilt sizes and layouts, and she will help you plan yours including options for embroidery, appliqué and anything else you can dream of! Saturday, March 31 3:00-5:00 pm • Cost $25

661 Dimensional Flower Appliqué with Victoria JonesWith just simple folding and stitching you'll create gorgeous dimensional flowers to make your quilting and sewing projects blossom! The small format class project allows confident stitchers to take home a mini-quilt as well as skills to use in future projects!Friday, March 2 • 10:00am-4:00pmCost $50

page 7

Blue Bird Bucks are available from now through January 15. Purchase up to $300 in Blue Bird Bucks and save on everything in the store! •$100 Blue Bird Bucks costs $80•$50 Blue Bird Bucks costs $45

This super-simple block is perfect

Appliqué with Victoria JonesWith just simple folding and stitching you'll create gorgeous dimensional flowers to make your quilting and sewing

This design lends itself to many different quilt sizes and layouts, and she will help you plan yours including options for embroidery, appliqué and anything else you

3:00-5:00 pm • Cost $25

including options for embroidery,

Beginning in 2012, our store hours are changing!

Monday through Thursday 10:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday 10:00 am-5:00 pmSaturday 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Sunday noon-4:00 pm

Flower Pops Quilt, above, and Dimensional Flower Appliqué, below

404 Machine Quilting EssentialsThis orientation class covers basics including troubleshooting and managing stitches, thread, feet and needles. Practice straight line quilting and stitch-in-the-ditch techniques on a simple sampler made prior to class. Then move beyond basics: bring the same practice sample to Helene’s advanced Focus classes.Tuesday, February 21 • 1:00-5:00 pm

407 Focus on Drawn Line Patterns Experience all aspects of quilting along a drawn line both on fabric and using tracing paper as a sewing aid for complex patterns. Helene’s class workbook includes designs for class and future use. Tuesday, March 13 • 1:00-4:00 pm

Quilter’s Studio with Helene KnottHelene’s quilts are breathtaking up close and from across a room, due to her famously thoughtful approach and practiced techniques. Learn from this master technician with an artists’ heart! Helene’s popular methods are now split into five in-depth sessions to give you more resources and practice in class. Cost $30 each. Workbook fees payable to the instructor in class.

451 Focus on Freezer Paper Templates Freezer paper makes seemingly complex designs a snap to apply to your quilts and also can take the math out of border designs. Helene’s class workbook includes designs for class and future use. Tuesday, March 20 •1:00-4:00 pm

452 Focus on Needle-Dancing Explore the spontaneous joy of dancing with your needle in flights of improvisation as you learn all aspects of free-form quilting including stippling textures and template-free designs. Helene’s class workbook includes designs for class and future use.Tuesday, April 10 • 1:00-4:00 pm

453 Focus on Quilting DesignsThe world is full of pattern and texture that can be adapted for quilting designs that elevate your quilt beyond the boundaries of traditional quilting and make even a simple quilt exquisite. In this resource-building class you'll begin to assemble a library of designs that take you beyond quilting books. Tuesday, April 17• 1:00-4:00 pm

604 Beginning Piecing Skills with Victoria JonesLearn piecing basics, including rotary cutting skills and perfect 1/4”-seams in this one-day class. You'll piece four classic block designs: Split Rail Fence, Traditional and Alternate Nine-Patch, and Square Dance blocks. Thursday, February 2310:00 am-4:00 pm • $55

606 Intermediate Piecing Skills with Victoria JonesPerfect your basic skills, work with angles, and explore options to find your favorite methods as you piece Log Cabin, Friendship Star, and Flying Geese blocks. Thursday, March 110:00 am-4:00 pm •Cost $55

607 Advanced Piecing Skills with Victoria JonesOnce you have gained confidence with the basics, add skills and techniques for precision paper piecing, curved piecing, and freeform piecing to your repertoire. Thursday, March 2210:00 am-4:00 pm • Cost $55

401 Quiltmaking 101 with Linda JohansenGet a solid foundation for a lifetime of quilting enjoyment: efficiency, fast production methods, and accuracy in a fun and relaxed environment. Cut and sew blocks in class, extend your skills and your quilt with extra blocks as homework, and join them all together with sashing for a ready-to-quilt top. Fridays, March 30, April 6, 13, 20 & May 11 • 1:00-5:00 pm • Cost $120

Quiltmaking 101

What local businesses would you miss if they disappeared? Stop in, say hello, pick

up something that brings a smile. Your puchases keep us locals like

A Common Thread around!

Local loves you more.

550 Paper Piecing Primer with Victoria JonesMaster sharpest points, smoothest curves and precision piecing with this clever technique in Victoria's popular class!Sunday, February 5 • 2:00-5:00pmCost $30

581 Mariner's Compass Stars Table Runner with Victoria JonesThis table runner fairly bursts with energy to beat dreary winter blahs! Victoria shares secrets for the eye-catching angled setting and tips for paper-pieced perfection.Friday, March 9 •10:00am-4:00pmCost $55

837 Judy Niemeyer’s Quiltworx Club with Cathie Boucher-SollmanBring in any of your favorite Judy Niemeyer’s Quiltworx projects — including the Glacier Star Block of the Month — for a productive afternoon of time-saving stitching tips and techniques with Cathie, a Certified Judy Niemeyer Instructor. All levels welcome! Sunday, January 29 or Sunday, March 181:00-4:00 pm • Cost $30

Mariner's Compass Stars Table Runner, above, and Paper Piecing Primer, right

580 Electric Quilt Clubwith Katrina HamerEnjoy all that Electric Quilt has to offer! Avid quilters and budding quilt designers alike will find this Club is a wonderful way to develop skills and personal design style with your own laptop and Electric Quilt software. Thursdays, January 26, February 23, March 29 & April 26 • 6:00-8:00 pmCost $30 each session

wonderful way to develop skills

Joyce CambronAre you ready to learn an amazing technique that will have you piecing perfect curves and creating

incredible new projects? Designer and teacher Joyce Cambron teaches you every trick in her terrific book, A New Spin on Curved Piecing.

1062 My Hot Romance with Freezer Paper Trunk Show with Joyce CambronFind out where Joyce's inspiration comes from in this fun & friendly trunk show, as you learn about her fresh look at classic designs and techniques. Seating is limited so register early!Saturday, February 25 from 6:00-8:00 pmCost: $10 per person, or $5 with your donation to the Oregon Food Bank

1061 Spinning Cartwheel with Joyce CambronReminiscent of the classic Dahlia pattern, Joyce's design swirls out from the center to create a beautiful wallhanging, or perhaps the beginning of an unforgettable bed quilt! Learn all the fine points from Joyce in her two-session workshop.Friday, February 24 • 6:00-8:00 pm and Saturday, February 25 10:00 am-4:00 pm • Cost $150, or $125 when you sign up with a friend!

1063 Dancing Squares with Joyce CambronThere's nothing 'square' about these squares, and nothing ordinary about this quilt! Explore your favorite color combinations and let Joyce's extraordinary methods, tips and tricks help you create your own quilt! Sunday, February 2610:00 am-4:00 pm • Cost $85, or $75 when you sign up with a friend!

SpecialGuest!

page 11

583 Stacked Curves with Victoria JonesVictoria's love of both curves and vibrant colors come together in this fun class, where a few simple secrets will have you cutting and sewing these beautiful quilts with ease. Choose from three of Karla Alexander's designs and get your curves on! Friday, February 3 • 10:00 am-4:00 pmCost $55

Stacked Curves quilts from top to bottom: Inferno, Windfall, and Run for Color

Mini-Landscape Wall Hangings

499 Mini-Landscape Wall Hangingswith Helene KnottLearn to use fabrics creatively to get marvelous special effects in these 10" x 12" designs. Choose from a variety of patterns, which go together quickly. A fun project for a beginner, and a confident student may make more than one in Helene's class! Friday, February 17 • 10:00 am-5:00 pmCost $60

A Common Thread will close

at 3:00 pm on December 31 & all day on January 1

to celebrate the New Year, and all day on January 2 for

inventory,and April 8 for Easter.

Stitched by Hand858 Beginning Hand Embroidery with Bonnie FletcherLearn the basics of decorative hand embroidery, an art form by itself or a wonderful addition to any sewing project. Learn the basic stitches you’ll need to get started with your own stitchery projects.Wednesday, February 15 • 6:00-9:00 pmSunday, April 1 • 1:00-4:00 pmCost $30

860 Hand Embroidery Skill-Building Groups with Bonnie FletcherWork on your own choice of projects.Registration required; $5 payable to instructor each session. Choose from three groups. First & Third Mondays of each month 10:00 am-noonSecond & Fourth Wednesdays of each month • 6:30-8:30 pmSecond Saturdays of each month 11:00 am-1:00 pm

Stitched by Hand

Beginning Hand Embroidery

420 Beginning Sashiko by Handwith Helene KnottLearn the traditional, elegant Japanese decorative hand-stitching known as Sashiko. Particularly stunning on quilts made with Asian fabrics, you'll see exciting ways to add this lovely technique to your own project. Thursday, February 210:00 am-noon • Cost $30

535 Hand Quilting Basics with Helene Knott There's something special about a hand-quilted heirloom! Learn the basics of threads, needles, batting, basting and how to achieve perfect, even stitches. Thursday, February 2 • 1:00-3:00 pmCost $30

Beginning Sashiko by Hand

947 Beginning Brazilian Embroidery with Polly Bingham & Bonnie FletcherBrazilian Embroidery uses unique threads that lift stitches up off the fabric for an elegant dimensional effect, bringing fantastic detail to beautiful floral designs. This class is a prerequisite for joining other classes or groups. $18 kit feeSundays, January 22, 29 & February 5or Mondays, January 16, 23 & 30or Sundays, March 4, 11 & 181:00-4:00 pm • Cost $45

944 Brazilian Embroidery Beyond Basics: Lavender Heart withPolly Bingham & Bonnie FletcherHand-dyed Australian trigger cloth is a joy to work with as you learn several floral designs and up-down cast-on methods. Some color choices are available in the kit. $40 kit feeMondays, March 5, 12 & 191:00-4:00 pm • Cost $45

945 Brazilian Embroidery Beyond Basics: Lotus Pillow with Polly Bingham & Bonnie FletcherMetallic threads outline and accent flowers filling the petals of a Lotus blossom, perfect for a pillow or framed display. $35 kit fee Mondays, February 13, 20 & 271:00-4:00 pm • Cost $45

Beginning Brazilian Embroidery, center; Lavender Heart, top right;

and Lotus Pillow, right

Our Friendly Class Policies• Check your class supply list well before class and assemble the materials required for your success. • If you must cancel a class, allow one week notice for full store credit. If we cancel, your class fee will be refunded.• Arrive on time and ready to learn with materials & supplies prepared for class. • Leave your work area clean, so the next student can enjoy class! • Turn off your cell phone; if you must take a call please step outside.• Children may only attend classes specified as Kid’s Camp or Kid’s Classes. • Please don’t talk while your instructor is teaching! • Many people are allergic to fragrance – please don’t wear perfume to class.

946 Brazilian Embroidery Beyond Basics: DK Bouquet with Polly Bingham & Bonnie FletcherA hand-stitched bouquet is made of detailed field flowers embellished with beads and colonial knot flowers. Choose from thread and fabric options for your kit in this delightful step beyond beginner levels. $35 kit fee Sundays, February 12, 19 & 261:00-4:00 pm • Cost $45

952 Brazilian Embroidery Mastery: English Rose & Hummingbirds with Polly Bingham & Bonnie FletcherLearn shading techniques, padding cast-ons, and two buttonhole techniques in this beautiful and popular advanced design. $35 kit fee Sundays, March 25, April 1, 15, 22 & 291:00-4:00 pm • Cost $65

953 Brazilian Embroidery Mastery: Showgirl Orchids with Polly Bingham & Bonnie FletcherLearn exotic stitches and how to use long needles in this showstopping fantastical floral. $43 kit fee Mondays, March 26, April 2, 9, 16, 23 & 301:00-4:00 pm • Cost $65

957 Brazilian Embroidery Skill-Building Groups Work on your own choice of projects. Registration required.First & Third Mondays of each month 10:00 am-noonSecond & Fourth Wednesdays of each month • 6:30-8:30 pmSecond Saturdays of each month 11:00 am-1:00 pmCost $5

DK Bouquet, top left; Showgirl Orchids, center; and

English Rose & Hummingbirds, above

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If you've dreamed of quilting your own quilts, this weekend is for you!

Join in this exciting weekend with Handi Quilter and get started quilting on your own! Linda Matteotti, expert Handi Quilter Educator, leads you on your quilting adventure with hands-on classes from the most basic questions all the way to advanced

techniques. This entire weekend of classes is only $100, and you'll receive a $60 store credit on your next purchase at A Common Thread!

techniques. This entire weekend of classes is only $100, and you'll receive a $60 store credit on your next purchase at A Common Thread!

Linda Matteotti's love of quilting and her expertise in computer software have come together to make her a popular and knowledgeable National Handi Quilter instructor.

1066 Longarm Quilting Basicswith Linda MatteottiLearn the most efficient method of loading your quilt on a longarm quilting machine. Learn to easily fine-tune tension settings for both top and bobbin threads, how to choose and use a variety of threads including those fancy decorative ones, and proper use of needles. Linda also shares tips on using side leaders and measuring and cutting batting. Bring all your questions to this hands-on longarm quilting class!Friday, February 10 • 10:00 am-1:00 pm

page 16

1067 Six Ways to Quiltwith Linda MatteottiThere is more than one way to quilt a quilt! Linda shows you five ways to quilt in addition to free-motion. Explore the use of groovy boards, pantographs, rulers, quilt marking and the amazing Pro-Stitcher, and you'll find that beautiful quilting is indeed at your fingertips!Saturday, February 11 10:00 am-5:00 pm

1068 Fabulous Feathers with Linda Matteotti There are dozens of ways to create feathers, but today you'll learn Linda's proven method that spells success for hundreds of students! As you become acquainted with many styles, you’ll find the one that works perfectly for you.Sunday, February 12 10:00am-1:00 pm

1069 Ruler Techniqueswith Linda MatteottiDiscover the possibilities of quilting using longarm ruler templates. Learn the techniques involved in controlling the ruler, then add new designs to your personal design sketchbook.Sunday, February 122:00-5:00 pm

Special Handi Quilter pricing & financing during

this weekend event!

page 17

Machine Embroidery

221 Machine Embroidery 101 with Katherine SchraderAre you new to the world of machine embroidery? No matter what make or model machine you have, this class will give you a jump start on learning to choose the right needles, threads and stabilizers for beautifully embroidered results the first time! Friday, February 3 • 6:30-8:30 pmor Saturday, March 31 • 10:00 am-noonCost $30

NEW!231 All About ME with Jan RaithThis exciting new webinar-style series with BERNINA educators is hosted by Jan. See a project created, review techniques and receive a CD with complete instructions. Return the next month with your completed project and your session is free! January 19: Make It Snappy! covers techniques for embroidering on screening, netting or tulle February 16: Don't Sweat It!: new products and tips for fabulous fleece embroideryMarch 15: Simple Home: versatile home decor projects include a ruffled pillow and wallhanging April 19: Holding It Together: learn the basics of quilting in the embroidery hoop including thread & needle choices10:30 am-12:00 pm or 6:30-8:00 pmCost $15 each session includes $5 CD

Private Bernina Software Consultation with Jan RaithWould you like individual tutoring for a special embroidery project or technique? Book a session with Jan to get the most out of your Bernina embroidery software.By appointment only • $45 per hour

Machine Embroidery 101

page 18

Register now to stitch out this beautiful Hearts Block of the Month

quilt with Deb Cacciamani and your

embroidery machine!Kits availableSee page 21

Garments & Fashion301 Serger Party: Knit-Fabric Turtleneck with Barb Thomas Make a turtleneck for adults or children using Barb's favorite Kwik Sew pattern. Use your own serger or borrow one of ours as you learn to stabilize shoulder seams and work with knits the easy way!Sunday, January 22 • 4:30-7:30pmCost $30

582 Valentine Pajamas with Laura DicksonMake a great Valentine gift for yourself or someone you love! You'll learn easy methods for attaching cuffs and waist bands, and learn to use sergers as well as sewing machines.Tuesday, January 3110:00 am-4:00 pmCost $40

208 Embroidery Tech Workshopwith Jan Raith This workshop series offers hands-on, in-depth exploration of a range of software products available to enhance machine embroidery no matter your skill level. January 12: Bernina Embroidery Software: creating machine embroidery appliquéFebruary 9: Bernina Embroidery Software: ArtCanvas & Free Hand DrawingMarch 8: Bernina Embroidery Software: lettering refresherApril 12: Cutwork Tool10:30 am-12:30 pm or 6:30-8:30 pmCost $25 each

209 Software Sampler with Julie GlennCreative ideas become artfully embroidered reality with these exclusive BERNINA webinars. See a project created, review techniques, and receive a CD with complete instructions. Return the next month with your completed project and your session is free! First Saturdays: January 7, February 4, March 3 & April 711:30 am-12:30 pm • Cost $15 each

Blue Bird Bucks are available from now through January 15. Purchase up to $300 in Blue Bird Bucks and save on everything in the store!•$100 Blue Bird Bucks costs $80•$50 Blue Bird Bucks costs $45

someone you love! You'll learn easy methods for attaching cuffs and waist bands, and learn to use sergers as well as sewing machines.Tuesday, January 3110:00 am-4:00 pm

Blue Bird Bucks are available

someone you love! You'll someone you love! You'll learn easy methods for attaching cuffs and waist

use sergers as well as

Tuesday, January 3110:00 am-4:00 pm

are available

Block of the Month

NEW!203 Rhapsody Block of the Monthwith Lois Keck & Katherine SchraderThis intricate quilt is so much easier than it looks, and it's a lot more fun with Katherine and Lois leading the way! Enjoy sharing your blocks with other students as you learn terrific methods for piecing you'll be proud to show off. As with all our classes at A Common Thread, choose your own favorite colorway; Lois and Katherine are happy to help!Fridays, January 20, February 17, March 16 & April 20 • 6:30-7:30 pmor Saturdays, January 21, February 18, March 17 & April 21 • 9:00-10:00 amCost $5 registration plus $5 first session; following sessions are FREE with completed blocks!

NEW!436 Lone Robin MysteryBlock of the Monthwith Helene KnottWith a little bit of mystery and her well-deserved reputation as a master quilter, craftswoman and designer, Helene Knott leads you technique-by-technique on a journey to a quilt that is uniquely yours! With each session your quilt will expand by adding rows, borders, blocks or cornerstones as you choose how to apply that month's featured technique. Saturdays, January 21, February 18 & March 17 • 10:30 am-1:00 pmCost $35 per session

Block of the Month

Lone Robin Mystery Block of the Month

Rhapsody Block of the Month

With a little bit of mystery and her well-deserved reputation as a master quilter, craftswoman and designer, Helene Knott leads you technique-by-technique on a journey to a quilt that is uniquely yours! With each session your quilt will expand by adding rows, borders, blocks or cornerstones as you choose how to apply that month's featured technique. Saturdays, January 21, February 18 & March 17 • 10:30 am-1:00 pmCost $35 per session

Rhapsody Block of the Month

Lone Robin Mystery Block of the Month

NEW!424 Hearts Block of the Month with Deb CacciamaniBring your embroidery machine and enjoy stitching out this stunning quilt designed by Sarah Vedeler, filled with intricate textural detail. Deb is new to the Northwest, and arrived with her motto: "There's more to life than a straight stitch!" No matter how you interpret that, you're sure to have fun in this series as you learn or improve your machine appliqué and software skills! Choose your favorite color palette, or work with designer fabric & thread kits; reserve yours when you sign up. This series meets for six months on third Tuesdays of each month. Tuesdays, January 24, February 21, March 20 & April 17 • 6:00-9:00 pmCost $35 per session

831 Judy Niemeyer Glacier Star Technique of the Month Quiltwith Cathie Boucher-Sollman

This group continues creating gorgeous quilts, each bursting with personality. See page 10 for more instruction and sewing time in the Judy Niemeyer Quiltworx

Club with Cathie. Register each month to receive your patterns!Thursdays, January 5, February 2, March 1 & April 5 • 6:00-9:00 pm Cost $35 per session, includes patterns and Quiltworx Club class admission

Join Julie Glenn & Victoria Jones!

Rose of Sharon & Stained Glass

Block of the MonthShow Off Party!Bring your blocks, your quilt top or your finished quilt to celebrate with your classmates and enjoy

refreshments and fun!Saturday, January 1410:30 am-12:30 pm

Hearts Block of the Month

Social Sewing205 Night Owl Stitching Social If you do your best work late at night, you’ll enjoy stitching your own projects during this friendly session. A staff member is available for basic troubleshooting as you work on your own sewing, serger or machine embroidery project. Bring a friend or make new ones and share the fun! Seating is limited so register early!Fridays: January 13, February 10 & April 13Saturdays: January 28, March 31 & April 215:00-11:00 pm • Cost $10 each

200 Wednesday Stitching SocialEnjoy our version of an old-fashioned stitching bee as you bring your own project to sew in the company of other stitchers. You’ll enjoy our comfortable classroom! An experienced staff member is available for basic troubleshooting. Register early to reserve your seat!Every Wednesday • 2:00-6:00 pmCost $10 each

Social Sewing

Just For Fun!891 Strip Poker for Fun & Fabricwith Julie GlennLet Julie deal you in for a night of fun, and with just a little luck you'll be taking home the fabrics for your next quilt! Admission to the game is a total of 32 different 2½" x 20" strips to bet with. The rules: only bring fabrics you'd be happy to go home with, cut the pieces precisely, and keep all your clothes on. Are you in? Saturday, January 21 • 5:00-7:00 pm January's theme is Casino Royale; bring 2½" strips in black, white & redSaturday, February 18 • 5:00-7:00 pm February's theme is Icebreaker; bring 2½" strips in shades of blue & white Cost: FREE

Just For Fun!

page 22

Every Wednesday • 2:00-6:00 pmCost $10 each

NeighborhoodStitchingWe're dedicated to supporting the local creative community, and host meetings for several local groups sharing skills and friendship. American Sewing Guild www.asg.orgMachine Embroidery of Oregon & Washington www.sewmeow.orgProject Linus www.projectlinus.org

Artistic Textiles490 Journal Quilts Clubwith Helene KnottCreate personal, page-sized Journal Quilts as Helene mentors you in exploring creativity and a multitude of artistic sewing techniques. Over time these quilts reflect artistic development and growth. Confident beginners may join this informal series at any time. First Tuesdays: January 3, February 7, March 6 & April 36:00-9:00 pm • Cost $30 each

Journal Quilts ClubJournal Quilts Club

Artistic Textiles

Early Bird Club!

2TWO

Is More Fun Than

ONE!The most popular answer to our Facebook poll asking what you

like most about classes was 'the opportunity to sew with friends or make new ones'!

We heard you! Classes with our Special Guest Instructors have a Buddy Rate, a special price for signing up with one or more friends. Just sign up together, save some

money, and enjoy a very special class even more!

Special Guests • RefreshmentsHands-On Projects

Sew-N-Tell • Demonstrations Discounts!

Bring A Friend • Make New Ones!

Early Bird Club with Julie Glenn First Saturdays of each month

9:30-11:00 am January 7,February4, March 3 & April 7

FREE • FREE • FREE

SpecialGuest!

Free Trunk Show!1043 First Quilt, Last Quilt...And A Few In-BetweenIn this fun and informative lecture Barbara shows where she began her quilting journey in 1993 with a sampler quilt where she asked the audience to not look closely at the hand quilting, corners and binding. She's come a long way since then, with her signature intricate two-sided art quilts and an impressive resume of awards. Whether you aspire to Barbara's level of detail, or simply enjoy marveling at beautiful quilts, you will find something special in this event! Sunday, January 15 • 2:00-4:00 pmRegistration required 1044 Currents Workshop

with Barbara ShapelReminiscent of an ocean wave, this contemporary fiber art piece came to Barbara in a dream. No matter the palette you choose for your own interpretation, this award-winning quilt is a showstopper. You'll learn Barbara's method for freezer paper machine appliqué, a simple way to acheive complex-looking designs. This one-day workshop wraps up with a discussion of quilting options to make the piece even more dynamic, and ideas for the reverse side of the quilt.Friday, April 27 • 10:00 am-5:00 pm Cost $95, or $80 when

you sign up with a friend!

Barbara Shapel

A few examples of Barbara's amazing two-sided quilts.

Kid’s Camps & ClassesA Common Thread’s Kids Camps & Classes are open to students from any school district, and offered through the Lake Oswego School District Community School. This trimester we’re offering classes for beginning stitchers ages 8 and up featuring fun sewing experiences that result in confidence and creativity as well as great gifts and useful items. Find complete information and registration for these classes, held at A Common Thread, on their web site: www.losdcommunityschool.com

Kids Learn to Sew: PillowcasesAges 8 and older will learn sewing basics as they create a pillowcase for sleepovers, a super gift, or their very own bed; all materials included.Friday, February 24 • 10:00 am-1:00 pm

Kids Learn to Sew: ApronKids ages 8 and older will learn to sew a classic apron, with a gathered skirt and comfy tie at the waist. All materials included. Friday, February 24• 2:00 pm-5:00 pm

Kid's Spring Break Quilt CampCombine three fabrics and learn how to use a sewing machine in this fun class. You’ll create a unique snuggly quilt for sleepovers or your very own bed. All materials are included. Monday-Friday, March 26-3010:00 am-1:00 pm

1045 Thread Duets Workshopwith Barbara ShapelUnleash your creative spirit and design an original fiber art piece without a pattern. By learning more about the Divine Phi proportion, design elements, and successful color relationships, you will create a one-of-a-kind art quilt with the quilting an integrated part of the design. Barbara shows you her easy freezer paper appliqué method to construct your quilt, and how to perfectly align front and back as she does in her award-winning quilts.Saturday & Sunday, April 28 & 2910-00 am-4:00 pm • Cost $165, or $150 when you sign up with a friend!

Kid’s & Classes

SpecialGuest!

1080 The Organized Quilter Lecture with Rose HughesFind and take the time to make that quilt!We all live crazy-busy lives, but we also want to have dream time to pull that quilt design out of our heads, and time to make that dream into a stunning and beautiful reality! Rose shares the multitude of ways she has found to carve out creative time. Let's get our life clocks set onto quilt time! Thursday, March 22 • 6:00-8:00 pmCost: $10 per person, or $5 with your donation to the Oregon Food Bank

1082 Dream Landscape Workshop with Rose Hughes

Ever see a beautiful scene that you know would make an amazing quilt? In this workshop you will create your own dream landscape with Rose's Fast-Pieced Appliqué techniques, embellishments, and using machine piecing and appliqué in combination to simplify complicated curves

and circles. You will take home a unique piece capturing the spirit of your original landscape photo, and the skills and techniques to apply in future projects.Saturday & Sunday, March 24 & 2510:00 am-5:00 pm • Cost $165, or $150 when you sign up with a friend!

Rose HughesA California girl and an artist at heart, Rose began

avidly working with textiles in the early 1990's and had begun to lecture, teach and exhibit her work. Her inspiration is drawn from the landscapes around her, and ravens often make their way into her work as a symbol of layers of life that often go unnoticed.

Dream Landscape Workshop

1081 Color Magic Workshopwith Rose HughesDrop that needle and open your eyes as Rose leads you on a visual journey to add color confidence to your fabric creations. In this no-sew class you will explore color and how to use it intuitively and effectively in your own art as you cut, paste, paint, dip and dabble. Capture all that inspiration in a personalized Color Magic Journal to inspire your next color discovery tour. Rose's workshop trains your eyes to see in a new way, and is guaranteed to enable you to see a more color-full world than you ever saw before!Friday,March 23 • 10:00 am-5:00 pm Cost $95, or $80 when you sign up with a friend!

Save! Plan to save every month on these valuable services and inspiring sewing accessories.

FebruarySave 25% on BERNINA Double Cording Feet #59 or #60

JanuarySave 25% on BERNINA Pintuck Feet #30, #31, #32, #33 or #46

MarchSave 25% on BERNINA Gathering Foot #16

AprilSave $20 on a full sewing machine service, or save $10 on a full vacuum cleaner service!

Gathering Foot

BERNINAPintuck Feet #30, #31,

BERNINA

Color Magic Workshop

Jean WellsWe are so proud to welcome author,

educator, artist and businesswoman Jean Wells, who truly has shaped the way we look at quilts today. Recently inducted into the Quilter's Hall of Fame, Jean has been the recipient of numerous awards for contributions to the retail and quilting worlds, and a tireless supporter of her local community of Sisters, Oregon.

1056 Sticks and Stones: Pattern & Color in Quilt Design Lecture with Jean WellsDiscover a world of color and pattern that you might not be aware of. See how Jean uses natures' inspirations and the world around her as she pulls ideas from photographs to develop her beautiful abstract quilts.Friday, March 9 • 6:00-8:00 pmCost: $10 per person, or $5 with your donation to the Oregon Food Bank

1055 Intuitive Color Workshop with Jean WellsExplore quilt design in a more intuitive way! In this class you'll cut without rulers, creating gentle curves and nice design lines as you choose the type of project you'll create: one design to use for a small wall hanging or pillow; four similar images set in a four-patch setting for a wall quilt; or larger blocks with no repeated elements. Follow Jean's lead and use solids with the interjection of two or three prints, or all solids to focus on color relationships and value. A $3 kit fee is payable to instructor in the class. Saturday, March 10 • 10:00 am-5:00 pm and Sunday March 11 • 10:00 am-3:00 pmCost $165, or $150 when you sign up with a friend!

SpecialGuest!

Start Sewing!445 Learn To Sew with Katherine SchraderWhether you have never sewn before or want to refresh your skills, we have the perfect basics class for you! Complete a project in each class as you build your skills. Bring your own sewing machine in good working order, or borrow one of our classroom models. Kit fee $25Mondays, January 23, 30 & February 6 or Mondays, March 5, 12 & 1910:00 am-noon • Cost $30

708 European Tablecloth & Napkins with Victoria JonesLearn to create perfect mitered corners as you sew a simple tablecloth and matching napkins. This project is a perfect way to add a seasonal or holiday accent to your home.Sunday, March 4 • 1:00-4:00 pmCost $30

Start Sewing!

Sewing Classes from Portland Community CollegeWe offer classes through Portland Community College. Find complete information and registration on their web site at www.pcc.edu. Bring your own machine in good working order, or use one of ours!

Suddenly You're Sewing!Start with sewing machine basics, and build skills as you learn to read patterns and explore the tools and techniques that make sewing fun. Make a new project each week! Required kit includes basic tools, patterns and supplies for class.Wednesdays, January 11, 18, 25 & February 110:00 am-noon or 6:45-8:45 pm Beyond Beginning SewingLearn more sewing skills and professional detailing as you create one simple garment and one home décor project. Prerequisite: Suddenly You’re Sewing. Required $25 kit; sewing machines are available for class use. Wednesdays, February 8, 15, 22 & 2910:00 am-noon or 6:45-8:45 pm

Garment Sewing BasicsThis class introduces you to the fundamentals of garment construction. Learn to read and work with commercial patterns as you sew a simple garment. Prerequisite: Suddenly You’re Sewing. Required kit includes tools and book.Wednesdays, February 29, March 7, 14 & 21 • 6:45-8:45 pm

and matching napkins. This project is a perfect way to add a seasonal

with Victoria JonesLearn to create perfect mitered

Beginning in 2012, our store hours are changing!

Monday through Thursday 10:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday 10:00 am-5:00 pmSaturday 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Sunday noon-4:00 pm

hen you purchase a sewing machine or serger from A Common Thread, we provide you with a series of New Owner Classes designed to get you enjoying all it's exciting features. These classes are available to you for free if you take them within six months of purchasing your machine.

Owners who take classes within six months have a much greater level of satisfaction and truly enjoy their investment. Another bonus to attend: you'll receive a 20% discount on any machine accessories on the day of class!

If you have purchased a machine from another dealer within a 100-mile radius or would like to take our classes we are happy to provide an adoption program to provide you with classes and warranty work.

W

New Owner Classes101 Guide Class #1: Getting Started With Your New Sewing MachineSunday, January 8 • 10:00 am-noonMonday, January 9 • 6:15-8:15 pmMonday, January 16 • 6:15-8:15 pmMonday, February 6 • 2:00-4:00 pmMonday, February 20 • 6:15-8:15 pm

Sunday, March 4 • 10:00 am-noonMonday, March 12 • 2:00-4:00 pmSunday, April 1 • 10:00 am-noonMonday, April 2 • 2:00-4:00 pm

102 Guide Class #2: Understanding Sewing Machine Memory Functions and FontsSunday, January 15 • 10:00 am-noonMonday, January 23 • 6:15-8:15 pmMonday, February 13 • 2:00-4:00 pmMonday, February 27 • 6:15-8:15 pm

Sunday, March 18 • 10:00 am-noonMonday, March 19 • 2:00-4:00 pmMonday, April 9 • 2:00-4:00 pmSunday, April 15 • 10:00 am-noon

103 Guide Class #3: BERNINA Stitch RegulatorSunday, January 22 • 10:00 am-noonMonday, January 30 • 6:15-8:15 pmMonday, February 20 • 2:00-4:00 pmMonday, March 5 • 6:15-8:15 pm

Monday, March 26 • 2:00-4:00 pmMonday, April 16 • 2:00-4:00 pmSunday, April 22 • 10:00 am-noon

104 Guide Class #4: BERNINA Artista and 8-Series FunctionsMonday, February 6 • 6:15-8:15 pmMonday, February 27 • 2:00-4:00 pm

Monday, March 12 • 6:15-8:15 pmMonday, April 23 • 2:00-4:00 pm

106 Guide Class #6: BERNINA Artista and 8-Series EmbroideryIf you have a new embroidery machine, we recommend taking 221 Machine Embroidery 101 prior to your New Owner Classes. Monday, February 13 • 6:15-9:15 pmMonday, March 5 • 2:00-5:00 pm

Monday, March 19 • 6:15-9:15 pmMonday, April 30 • 2:00-5:00 pm

Serger Guide Classes131 Sunday, January 29 • 10:00 am-1:00 pm or Monday, April 16 • 6:15-9:15 pm132 Sunday, February 5 • 10:00 am-1:00 pm or Monday, April 23 • 6:15-9:15 pm133 Sunday, February 19 • 10:00 am-1:00 pm or Monday, April 30 • 6:15-9:15 pm

Software Guide Classes128 Monday, March 26 • 6:15-8:15 pm 129 Monday, April 2 • 6:15-8:15 pm130 Monday, April 9 • 6:15-8:15 pm

888 Advanced BERNINA 8 Series Guide Class Thursday, April 5 or Sunday, April 22 • 10:00 am-4:00 pm

1010 Handi Quilter Training Don't miss our Handi Quilter Event February 10-12! See page 16 for details!Learn to layer your quilt, attach leaders, and threading and operating the Handi Quilter. Classes are limited to four students so you’ll receive the training to enjoy the Handi Quilter independently. This class is required before time can be reserved.Third Wednesdays: January 18, February 15, March 21 or April 186:15-9:15 pm • Cost: $45

page 31

BERNINA Special Event!Be inspired by a BERNINA Educator with all the latest and greatest BERNINA has to offer! This is a great way to get to know BERNINA, or simply enjoy an exciting session of sewing & quilting!

Quilt Motion CommotionThursday, January 26 • 10:00 am-1:00 pm or 2:00-5:00 pmLearn how the Quilt Motion system completes your quilt projects precisely as you dreamed! Attendance is by invitation only; ask a sales associate for more information.

Celebrate 8Friday, January 27 • 10:00 am-1:00 pm or 2:00-5:00 pmStop in to see the amazing BERNINA 8 Series in action, and fall in love with the gold standard of sewing, quilting, embroidery. Attendance is by invitation only.

BERNINA Sewing CelebrationSaturday, January 28 • 10:00 am-1:00 pmEveryone is invited to a world of creative possibilities and custom opportunites! See how the latest accessories, new techniques, gizmos and gadgets will turn your sewing vision into beautiful reality!

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Table of Contents

You’ll easily find us just west of Interstate 5 off the Carman Drive exit #291 at the corner of SW Sequoia Parkway & Redwood Lane.

Monday through Thursday 10:00 am-6:00 pm • Friday 10:00 am-5:00 pmSaturday 10:00 am-5:00 pm • Sunday noon-4:00 pm

Artistic Textiles: page 23 Blue Bird Values: page 2 Block of the Month: page 20 Garments & Fashion: page 19 Handi Quilter Event: page 16 Machine Embroidery: page 18 New Owner Classes: page 30Quilting & Piecing: page 6

Start Sewing: page 29Stitched By Hand: page 13 Social Sewing: page 22 Special Guests! Barbara Shapel: page 5, 24 Joyce Cambron: page 11 Jean Wells: page 28 Rose Hughes: page 26

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Open House Friday, Saturday & Sunday

January 13, 14 & 15See pages 4 and 5 for all the inspiring details!

a common thread winter & spring 2012 newsletter

Documents

blue bird bucks costs

facebook page

new techniques

wonderful classes

free trunk

new spin

new ones

weekend of handson classes