Sew Inspired: A Refuge for Quilters, Sewers & Knitters from the Ottawa Valley and Arnprior!

admin — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 19:12:52 +0000

Visit us at 106 John St. N. in downtown Arnprior, or call us at 613-623-0500.

admin — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:13:38 +0000

All our staff are experienced professionals who are fully trained in assisting you – whether you need help in selecting fabrics or yarns for your next project or in finishing your current project, we are here to help. Fully-trained on all the sewing machines we sell, our staff ensures that you will experience true after-sales service.

Welcome to Sew Inspired!

admin — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:14:19 +0000

We truly are a refuge for sewers, quilters and knitters! Offering fabrics, notions, knitting yarns and supplies, sewing machines and instructional classes, we hope to be your destination of choice for all your sewing, quilting and knitting needs.

UFO Finishing with Penny

barb — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 18:11:26 +0000

Do you have a project underway (fabric cut and ready to sew) that you’re just not sure how to get going with? Maybe you’ve forgotten how to put on binding, or started a project a few years ago and can’t remember what you were supposed to be doing! If you’re stuck or just don’t know what to do next, Penny will show you how and get those projects finished. This is a fun-oriented open class format with no expectations and you can work at your own pace!

Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Date: Feb. 29, Mar. 14, Mar. 28

Level: Beginner

Conquering Circular Needles with Suzanne

barb — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:29:01 +0000

Come and learn to overcome your fear of circular needles! While knitting a stylish hat, you’ll learn all the benefits of these ergonomically friendly needles. You’ll see how they can be used to knit two sleeves on one needle, how to knit seamless garments and lots more!

Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Date: Feb. 16, Mar. 1, Mar. 15

Level: beginner knitting experience

Learn to Crochet with Suzanne

barb — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:15:12 +0000

This class is for the complete crochet novice or those wanting to hone up on crochet basics. You’ll learn about foundation chains, slip stitches, single-double-triple crochet stitches, decreasing and increasing stitches, crochet abbreviations and terminology, how to read a pattern and how to hold the hook and yarn. If time allows, the class can learn how to make the eternally popular granny squares with any leftover yarns from your personal stash.

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Date: Mar. 2, Mar. 23, Apr. 8

Level: Beginner

Machine Quilting – More Fills with Katrina

barb — Sat, 03 Dec 2011 20:43:40 +0000

Have you taken machine quilting classes but are still wanting to learn more fills and free-motion quilting patterns? If so this course is for you! We will explore even more fill designs that can be used in the background of your quilt blocks or enlarged to create an overall design. This course will expand on what we covered in the machine quilting series to add even more quilting effects to your repertoire so that you have more design options. We will cover Pebbling, various types of Echo (the variations on Echo are truly amazing), easy straight-line free-motion fills (they are easier than you think), and McTavishing and variations of each. You’ll love these new designs!

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Dates: Apr. 14

Level: must have taken intro to machine quilting

Bodacious Bag with Barb

barb — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 18:57:52 +0000

Quilted bags are all the rage right now, and this high-fashion offering designed by Carol Ingram of Sulky will give Vera Wang a run for her money! Featuring a stylish 3D folded flower, braided fabric handles and inside pockets, you’ll want to make a dozen more!

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Dates: Mar. 9, Mar. 23

Level: Beginner

Seasonal Table Runner with Nancy

barb — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:36:25 +0000

This stunning paper-pieced table runner is made with Judy Niemeyer’s pattern, which includes all the papers already. Made in your choice of fabrics (although of course it looks wonderful in batiks) it will be a wonderful addition to your home. Nancy will guide you through the pattern and in no time you won’t believe what you’ve created!

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Dates: Feb. 17, Mar. 2, Mar. 16

Level: basic paper piecing skills required

Hunter’s Star Runner with Nicole

barb — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 18:58:06 +0000

Have you seen the latest ruler? The Rapid Fire Hunter’s Star Ruler by Deb Tucker allows you to construct the pesky Hunter’s Star block without any of those nasty inset Y seams! Nicole will show you how to make a beautiful runner – it’s sure to be a ruler you’ll use again and again!

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Dates: Feb. 15, Feb. 29

Cost: includes ruler

Level: Beginner

Twisted Sixter with Katrina

barb — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 15:32:35 +0000

Join Katrina in learning how to create fabulous pinwheel projects with this new Twister tool that was just introduced at Quilt Market last fall. Twisters are new tools that have simplified an old technique with easy to follow instructions. The sky is the limit for projects that you can create with the Twister tool! It looks fabulous done in any size block – in this class we’ll make a table topper size so you can go on and make many other projects with the same technique!

Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm

Date: Feb. 25, Mar. 10

Book and template extra

Level: Beginner

Crazy Shortcut Quilts with Katrina

admin — Sat, 15 Oct 2011 11:39:08 +0000

In this class you will be making a “crazy” quilt with fat quarters instead of scraps! We’ll help you with fabric planning, coordinating the colors with your home decor and best of all you’ll be you will be using the decorative stitches on your sewing machine to do all of the quilting, in small and easily manageable sections. This class is for anyone from beginner to expert – but watch out because we change a few of the “traditional” quilt-making rules, making this a fun project that gives you a finished quilt in just hours!

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Dates: Feb. 11, Feb. 25, Mar. 10

Cost: Includes book, with additional patterns

Level: Beginner

Machine Quilting Basics with Katrina

admin — Sat, 08 Oct 2011 13:15:31 +0000

Learn the basics of machine quilting with Katrina! We will discuss the basics of needles, thread and batting so that you can avoid common pitfalls. Use your walking foot to quilt straight lines and even gentle curves. You will be amazed at what you can quilt using just your walking foot. Then switch to your free-motion or darning foot and learn the basics of free-motion quilting and discover how much fun quilting can be.

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Dates: Feb. 18, Mar. 3

Level: Beginner

Paper Piecing with Nancy

admin — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 13:16:06 +0000

Join us in this class of easy paper piecing techniques. Start with the basics and learn a new skill! Unlike other methods of paper-piecing, Nancy will show you a ripless method that saves tons of time! We’ll have some kits ready for you to practice on.

Time: 9:30 – 12:30 pm

Date: Feb. 3

Level: Beginner

Machine Appliqué with Barb

admin — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 13:14:26 +0000

We’ll learn about both finished and raw-edge appliqué techniques, play with various threads for embellishment and discover different ways of finishing your raw edges. Perfect for getting ready for that first McKenna Ryan project that you’ve always wanted to start!

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Date: Feb. 24

Level: Beginner

Knitting for Beginners with Suzanne

admin — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 11:44:50 +0000

Let Suzanne take the mystery out of knitting for you! You’ll learn the basic knitting stitches (knitting and purling), including how to cast on and cast off. You’ll be making a lovely hat on two needles – you can decide whether it’s a man’s, ladies or children’s hat. This class is designed for those with absolutely no knitting experience so don’t be afraid – we’ll have you on the road to knitting in no time!

Time: 9:30 – 12:30 pm

Dates: Feb. 7, Feb. 21, Mar. 6

Cost includes pattern

Level: Beginner

Fun’n Done with Nicole

barb — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 18:44:42 +0000

You can choose any one of the Fun’ n Done series of patterns to create your own quilt as you go masterpiece! The quilting is completed while you construct each block. Sew the blocks together, and you’re done! Now that’s fun!

Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Dates: Feb. 8, Feb. 22, Mar. 7

Level: Beginner

Goose Tracks by HoopSisters

barb — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 15:16:56 +0000

We’re really excited to have been selected as a HoopSisters partner and to be able to introduce Goose Tracks as our very first EmbroidaBlock! If you have an embroidery machine (any brand) this project will be a perfect introduction to what your machine can accomplish for you! All the blocks are totally pieced and embroidered in your hoop – all you need to do is pick your fabrics and put the blocks together!

Join us in person for the first few sessions of this project if you’ve never appliqued or pieced in the hoop – once you learn the basic techniques you’re free to proceed on your own – and as usual we can mail out your monthly packages for a minimal cost as well!

Unlike other blocks of the month where everyone makes the same pattern in the same fabric, we’ve decided to let you pick your own – so our first session will be structured as a planning/buying meeting.

Your monthly fee for this 12 month program includes CD copies of the patterns, complete instruction files, and almost all of the fabric – we’ve left some small amounts for you to add in as you go.

Dates: Jan. 7, Feb. 4, Mar. 3, Apr. 14, May 4, June 2

Time: 9:00 a.m.

Learn To Quilt with Barb

barb — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 18:16:16 +0000

Have you always wanted to learn how to make a quilt top – we’ll take all the mystery out of it for you in this series of classes. You’ll learn all the basic techniques including rotary cutting and accurate piecing, and you’ll finish a beautiful quilt top. We’ll also give you tips on quilting your top yourself. This lovely lap quilt will teach you all that you need to go on to do your next project all on your own.

Please note that some sewing at home will be necessary to make sure we finish this project!

Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Date: Feb. 9, Feb. 16, Mar. 1, Mar. 22, Mar. 29, Apr. 5

Cost: includes pattern

Level: Beginner

Rag Quilt with Barb

admin — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 11:42:53 +0000

This rag quilt is a wonderful project to make as a gift (or for yourself!) and takes less time than more traditional quilts. You’ll learn many useful quilting techniques, including basic machine appliqué. We’ll completely finish a cozy lap-sized quilt in your choice of flannel, and we’ll also show you some options for changing the look of the standard pattern.

Please note that some sewing at home will be necessary to make sure we finish this project!

Time: 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm

Dates: Feb. 9, Feb. 16, Mar. 1, Mar. 22, Mar. 29, Apr. 5

Cost: Includes pattern

Level: Beginner

Pfaff Club with Dona

barb — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 19:52:31 +0000

I know, I know….you are now the proud owner of a Pfaff sewing or sewing/embroidery machine. You’ve promised yourself to try all the features, stitches, feet, etc. that come with your machine. Join this class once a month and we will take you through a variety of topics from the very basics to a more advanced level. Each class is designed to allow plenty of time for practising a new foot, feature or technique as well as time to ask questions, make note of helpful hints and explore topics you would like to know more about. You will go home with the knowledge and confidence to get the most out of your machine while meeting other quilter/sewers. A relaxed atmosphere is the order of the day…..there won’t be a test!!!!

Time: 9:30 – 12:00 pm

Dates: Jan. 31, Feb. 28, Mar. 27

Level: Beginner

4D/5D Embroidery Software with Dona

barb — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 18:49:45 +0000

OK. You have the embroidery machine (or are seriously thinking of getting it). You have 4D or 5D Embroidery Software (or are seriously thinking of getting it). You’re ready to get into your embroideries and you sit there looking at the machine (or brochure) and wonder “Where do I start?”. Learning the software basics is a great place to start. Once you master the basics you will get so much more out of your machine and you will get the versatility you are looking for. Bring your laptops and join us to really learn how to make the most of your investment!

Time: 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Dates: Jan. 30, Feb. 27, Mar. 26

Level: Beginner

Baltimore Hand Appliqué with Brenda

admin — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 11:43:35 +0000

If you’ve wanted to learn and master the techniques of traditional hand appliqué, this series of classes is for you. Once a month for 9 months we will be working on a 12 block sampler from Rosemary Makhan’s Rose Sampler Supreme. (Optionally you can make the full 20 block project by completing the balance of the blocks on your own). Truly a keepsake when completed. Learn to choose fabrics, prepare a block, appliqué and embellish.

Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Dates: Jan. 7, Feb. 4, Mar. 3, Mar. 24, Apr. 28, May. 19

Cost: Book extra

Level: Beginner

Scarf Workshop with Suzanne

barb — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 19:55:34 +0000

Join the Ruffle Revolution! This yarn made by Katia of Spain is still one of the most popular trends around. We have several different styles for you to choose from. Suzanne will show you how easy it is to create beautiful scarves for yourself and maybe even for some gifts too!

Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Dates: Feb. 11

Level: Beginner

Intermediate Knitting/ Refresher with Suzanne

barb — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 13:53:18 +0000

Has it been a while since you’ve picked up that knitting project? Afraid you’ve forgotten everything you once knew? Join Suzanne to refresh your skills – techniques like increasing and decreasing, sleeve construction, picking up stitches and professional seaming. Maybe you have another specific issue you’d like help with? No problem – bring it along and she’ll help you through it!

Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Dates: Feb. 8, Feb. 22, Mar. 7

Level: Some knitting experience

Ginger Rose by Bee Creative Studios

barb — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 17:45:39 +0000

Ginger Rose is an 8 month program featuring a lovely mix of floral and graphic design prints, all in beautiful late summer and autumn colors. The fabric, quilt and patterns are all designed by Nancy Murty of Bee Creative Studio for Andover Fabrics. Along with the main pattern you also get bonus patterns each month to allow you to create other projects – table toppers, lap quilts and runners.

We’ve modified the designer’s original sample by reversing the black and gold outer border and it’s a very striking quilt, but our photos just don’t do it justice so you’ll have to see the sample!

Spaces will be limited and the program will be starting in March 2012 so sign up early to guarantee your spot! Of course we are happy to mail your kit to you each month (for a minimal fee) if you’re not local – just let us know.

Dates: Mar. 3, Apr. 9, May 4, June 2, June 30, Jul. 27, Aug. 24, Sept. 28

ambition 1.0

barb — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 17:30:15 +0000

The difference is in the details.

Experience the new PFAFF® ambition™ 1.0 and feel the difference that makes these sewing machines truly special.

Spacious

The extra large space as compared to top competitor machines in this price range and the longest free-arm make sewing any size project effortless.

Bright

The perfectly illuminated sewing area and the large high-resolution screen will optimize your work process.

Precise

The original IDT™ system guarantees absolutely even fabric feed from top and bottom.

Machine Quilting Feathers with Katrina

admin — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 13:11:38 +0000

Have you ever looked at machine quilted feathers and thought – that looks way too hard and I could never do it?? This is the class for you! Come and let Katrina show you just how easy spectacular feathers are to quilt! We will explore different feathers from the basic machine-quilted feather to more ornate and whimsical feathers. Spectacular feathers are broken down into easy steps to achieve terrific results!

Time: 9:30 am – 12:30 pm

Date: Mar. 31

Level: Intermediate (or Machine Quilting I)

Fourth Annual Be Inspired Spring Retreat

admin — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 11:21:25 +0000

Did you miss our retreat last year? Don’t worry – it’s back by popular demand! We will be staying again at the Nav Canada Centre in Cornwall, a beautiful facility with walking trails, pools, and too many other amenities to mention. We will have some classes for you to take, or you can bring your own projects to work on – it’s all up to you! We have five nights booked, but if you can’t join us until Thursday or Friday that’s ok, but we do need to have a three night minimum stay.

All it takes is a $100 deposit to guarantee your spot. Full payment will be due by March 15th, 2012. Registration forms are available at the store or email us and we’ll send one to you.

Date: Wednesday to Monday – April 18th to April 23rd, 2012
Cost: $144.00 per person per night single occupancy, or $130.00 per person per night in the junior suite (double occupancy). Includes three meals and two coffee breaks/day (dinner only on your day of arrival and breakfast only on day of departure), all taxes, gratuities and special bbq.

Machine Quilting Block by Block with Katrina

admin — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 13:12:23 +0000

In this class we will explore simple yet extremely effective ways to quilt your quilt top one block at a time! You will be surprised at how often you will use these essential quilting techniques. We’ll cover such techniques as continuous curve, wavy grid, clam shell, zig-zag clam shell and more – once you’ve learned these techniques you’ll wonder how you quilted without them!