Summer's rolling in, and at my house, that means patriotic decor from Memorial Day through Labor Day. I say: If you're going to hang flags, why not hang a quilt or two while you're at it?

Everyone in my family got a nickname from my Granddad when they were born. I was "the youngin'", my big brother was "the man", and my baby sister was "itty-bitty". When my son came along - just in time for fireworks on July 2nd - he was dubbed "the firecracker". This year that firecracker turns 50. How?? 

He's not big on cake (I know, suspicious), so I make homemade ice cream every birthday. No candles, just a whole lot of love - and some off-key singing.

Now back to business before I get misty: we just got in some brand new patriotic panels, and I've stitched together a couple of fresh runner kits that'll make your table pop! Whether you're quilting, crafting, or just hoarding fabric like a true red-white-and-blue enthusiast (no judgement!), we've got something that's sure to impress.

It doesn't take much to brighten your home - just a little fabric and a lot of heart. Come snag a few yards and let your summer spirit shine - because honestly, who doesn't want to be the star of their own home decor?

PATRIOTIC AND SOLIDS SALE ALERT

We’re kicking off the season with 25% off all things patriotic!
This includes patriotic: fabric on the bolt, kits, precuts and panels!

PLUS — we just received our final shipment of Colorworks Solids, and we’re celebrating with 20% off those too!

Sale runs Thursday, May 29 – Saturday, May 31

Don’t miss out on these red, white, and beautiful deals!

Note: 1/2 yard minimum for fabric on the bolt

JUST ONE MONTH UNTIL SHOP HOP

Mark your calendars — this exciting event is almost here!

Wednesday, June 18 – Saturday, June 21
10 AM – 5 PM each day

Make plans to visit all 8 participating shops and enjoy exclusive goodies along the way. This year, when you stop by each location, you’ll collect fabric strips and a pattern to create a fabulous Cutting Mat Carrier — roomy enough to hold mats or rulers up to 20" x 26". It’s the perfect companion for classes, sew days, and retreats!

For full details and shop locations, visit the official Shop Hop by the Bay website.

Let the countdown begin!

WHAT WE'VE BEEN POSTING

Here’s a quick recap of what we’ve been sharing on social media—just in case you missed it! 

And yes... even more goodies have arrived! But we figured we’d better hit “send” on this month’s newsletter before the month pulls a disappearing act.

Stay tuned for more!

CLASSES

Please visit our website's class policies page for more information. 
A REMINDER: Classes must be paid for in cash or check directly to the instructor.

WHEN VIEWING our online Class Schedule, whatever month/page you are on ONLY shows classes for THAT month (not ALL the classes available for the entire year).


View Class Schedule

QUILTING OPEN SEW

Got a quilting project you’d like to start or need some help with? Set aside some time to get the guidance you need! Aneda, with decades of quilting experience, will be here once a month (the 2nd Thursday). She’s skilled in piecing, appliqué, and machine paper piecing (not English Paper Piecing), and will be available to answer your questions and offer help to get you moving.

This is not a structured class — it’s more about providing assistance and getting you on track with your projects!

Dates: 2nd Thursday of the month 
Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Cost: $25
Skill Level: All
Instructor(s): Aneda 
Pre-class homework: N/A
Supplies: Vary according to your individual project

WOOL APPLIQUÉ OPEN SEW

Set aside some stitching time just for you! If you have a wool project you’d like to start or need a bit of direction, Beth will be here to help. This is an open sew session — not a structured class — but Beth will be available to answer questions and guide you along the way.

To sign up please CONTACT BETH DIRECTLY westcoastwool@gmail.com or 408-418-0247.

Dates: First Friday of the month
Time: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm 
Cost: $25
Skill Level: Intermediate
Instructor(s): Beth Upstill (West Coast Wool)
Pre-class homework: N/A
Supplies: Bring your own wool project and wool stitching supplies

FINISH-IT FRIDAY

You can sign up for one Finish-It-Friday per month, but if you’re hoping to join the next one, give us a call the week of to check if there’s space. We want to make sure everyone has a chance to come, and we don’t like having to bump anyone!

Please don’t just show up — let us save you a spot!

Dates: 3rd and 4th (or sometimes 5th when the month has them) Friday of the month
Time: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Cost: $5
Skill Level: N/A
Instructor(s): None
Pre-class homework: N/A
Supplies: Whatever you'd like to sew on.

CHATSWORTH

Join Sheila for a year-long adventure in quilting! Each month, you’ll follow along as Sheila guides you through the construction of a new block (or two!).

You'll do all the sewing at home, but each month, Sheila will walk you through the upcoming blocks and provide helpful tips on how to make them. Then, bring your completed block(s) to the next session for a fun show-and-tell with fellow quilters!

Looking for some extra sewing time? Consider joining our Finish-It-Friday monthly events for a little additional motivation.

Let’s block out some time to quilt! 

Dates: Third Saturday of the month Starting April 2025
Time: 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Cost: $60 FLAT FEE FOR THE YEAR
Skill Level: Intermediate
Instructor(s): Sheila
Pre-class homework: N/A
Supplies: (Book) Chatsworth, (Optional) ruler or papers

SIMPLY CINDY

Join us for Simply Cindy, a fun, hands-on class where you'll create a small project each month! Every session, Cindy will pick something new and simple to make, so there's always something fresh to look forward to.

Class Details:

• When: 4th Wednesday of each month (unless otherwise noted)

• What to Bring: Your sewing machine & supplies. Plus, if you’re a snack enthusiast, bring your favorite treat (no scheduled lunch break).

Pricing Options:

• $35 (includes kit)

• $20 (bring your own materials, but don’t forget to purchase the pattern!)

Ready to get your hands busy? Reserve your spot and let’s create something fun together!

Dates: April 28
Time: 10:30 am - 2:30 pm
Cost: $35 with kit; $20 without kit
Skill Level: Confident beginner
Instructor(s): Cindy
Pre-class homework: None
Supplies: Vary with each project

• • Basic Quilting Supplies include:
    • Sewing machine in good working order AND you must be familiar with it - which means you should be able to thread it, wind a bobbin and use a straight stitch. Instructors cannot take time away from other students to troubleshoot your machine.
    • 1/4" foot
    • Scissors (trimming threads)
    • Seam ripper (just in case)
    • Rotary cutter (45mm is standard)
    • Small to medium cutting mat and ruler(s) (we have a large mat and a couple rulers to share)
    • Thread(s) to match your project
  • Class Policies: Please read our Class Polices for additional information

MACHINE BASICS, LEARN TO SEW AND BEYOND, SEW FOR LOVE

Dates: Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15
Time: Sew for Love all day; any classes choose between 9am-12; 12:30-3:30pm, 4-7pm or 7-10pm
Cost: $60
Skill Level: Beginner
Instructor(s): Michelle Zeiler
Pre-class homework: 
Supplies: Please see Michelle's list below
Class Policies: Please read our Class Polices for additional information

MACHINE BASICS (ages 8+) 

Ready to get comfortable with your sewing machine? Michelle will guide you through all the essentials — from threading, needles, and tension, to bobbins and stitch counts.

Whether you're new to sewing or just need a refresher, this class covers everything you need to know to confidently use your machine.

Bring your own machine or rent one from Michelle!

Let’s get those machines humming!

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LEARN TO SEW AND BEYOND (ages 8+) 

Want to take your sewing skills to the next level? Michelle’s got you covered! Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your techniques, Michelle offers instruction for all levels — from beginners to intermediate students.

Each student works at their own pace, tackling projects that match their skill level. Choose from a variety of fun projects like:

• Lap Quilt (All ages)

• 15" Square Patch Quilt (Ages 12+)

• Pajama Pants (Ages 12+)

• Drawstring Tote Bag

• Pillow Case

• Reversible Apron

Come join the fun, learn new skills, and leave with something you made yourself!

SUPPLIES YOU’LL NEED FOR ANY OF MICHELLE'S CLASSES

• Package of long pins (yellow preferred but pearl ok too)
• fabric marking chalk or pen in both light and dark
• GOOD fabric scissors
• hand needles assorted
• metal sewing gauge 6"
• tape measure
• seam ripper
• pin cushion (like Grabbit)
• thread basic polyester or cotton
• sewing machine with empty bobbin, foot pedal and pressure foot OR you can rent a machine

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SEW FOR LOVE ? Join our volunteer sewing program, started by Michelle back in 2000, and help make a difference! Sew for Love supports local charities with handmade items like quilts, hats, cubie chairs, pet beds, and tote bags. Whether you're sewing, stuffing chairs, or just lending a hand, your help is always appreciated.

No supplies? No problem! Everything you need to volunteer is provided. Just bring your hands and heart, and we'll do the rest.

Let’s stitch some love together! 

ICE CREAM SEWCIAL

Celebrate National Ice Cream Month with Cindy!

We're throwing a deliciously fun event, and you're invited! Come for the ice cream and stay for the FREE fun (yes, you read that right)! We’ve got some non-caloric entertainment lined up, so no guilt here. 

Space is limited, so please call ahead to reserve your spot! Don’t just show up — we wouldn’t want you to miss out!

Want to get creative after you’ve indulged? Book a seat for some sewing! It’s only $5 to sew afterwards, since you’re already in the area.

Don't miss the fun! See you there! 

Dates: Wednesday, July 9
Time: 10:30 am - 12:30 pm
Cost: FREE

SIMPLE QUILTING

Join us for this TWO-DAY class where you'll learn how to:
- Layer and sandwich your quilt
- Quilt it using a simple stitch-in-the-ditch method

To make sure everyone can finish, please bring a quilt top no larger than 60" x 60" (lap size).

Note: This class does not cover binding.

Dates: Friday, July 11 AND Saturday, July 12
Time: Fri 11:00 am - 5:00 pm; Sat 10:30 am - 2:00 pm
Cost: $80
Skill Level: Confident Beginner
Instructor(s): Aneda and Joanna
Pre-class homework: 
Supplies: 

• A finished quilt top no bigger than 60" x 60" (about a lap size)
• Backing sewn together, needs to finish 4" BIGGER than you quilt top
• Elmer's Washable School Glue (4 ounce size is fine)
• Walking foot
• Basic Quilting Supplies include:
  • Sewing machine in good working order AND you must be familiar with it (thread it, wind a bobbin and use a straight stitch.) The instructors cannot take time away from other students to troubleshoot your machine.
  • Scissors (trimming threads)
  • Seam ripper (just in case)
  • Thread(s) to match your project
• Class Policies: Please read our Class Polices for additional information

BOOK OUR CLASSROOM

Need a place to sew or meet up with your stitching friends?

During our regular shop hours (M-F 10-5, Sat 10-3), and when it's not in use, you can rent our room.

We have TWO different options:

• $5/person gets you a seat in the room
• $50/day gets you (your group) the room exclusively 

What we have:

• Chairs for up to 10 people
• Dedicated cutting and ironing stations
• A few standard rulers to share

You bring your own supplies/sewing machine. You can bring lunch or visit one of the town's restaurants.

A Friendly Reminder…

Booking our classroom for $5 covers the use of the space, not staff time. While we’re always happy to answer a question or two, we’re unable to provide impromptu personalized quilt lessons.

For more detailed assistance, please consider signing up for Aneda's monthly  QUILTING/OPEN SEW session.

Thank you for understanding!

Thank you for supporting Family Threads Quilt Shop!
We’re celebrating our 15th year in business, and we couldn’t have made it this far without you. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you soon!