Special Events

AUGUST TOP STITCHERS

Don't miss August "Top Stitcher's" because we have a special guest. Due to popular demand Regina Hopley will be returning for another "Notions Commotion". She will dazzle you with rulers, tools, and gadgets, some of which you may already have and forgot how to use. Regina brings with her quilts and projects she has made using the tools she will show. The trunk show alone is not to be missed.

Date: Aug 14; 9:30 - 11:30

Class Fee: FREE

Instructor: Regina Hopley

DESIGNER’S GALLERY

Have you ever wondered why you need software? Have you tried to re-size a design and had it go badly? Tired of “bullet-proof designs? Than this is the class for you. See how Designers Gallery software allows you to change density, re-size up to 250 percent, edit designs and so much more. This class does not cover digitizing.

Date: Sun, Sep 26; 2-5

Class Fee: $30

Instructor:  Debi Kuennen-Baker

CRAFT & SEW SWAP MEET

The rummage sale we held this past Memorial day went so well and we had many request to do it again, so mark your calendar for Saturday October 9.  Start boxing up all those craft & sewing related items.  Actually, I sold a fair amount of non-sewing stuff, so as long as the majority of it is crafting & sewing related you will be okay. Spaces are generous.  Remember to bring: pop up tent if you have one, lots of water, chairs & table(s), hat, all of your pricing supplies and a cleaning rag, plenty of dollar bills and coinage, business cards.

Date: Sat, Oct 9; 8 - 3; Note: Sign up by October 1, 2010

$15 bring your own table -- $25 we provide 8' or 6' table

Especially for Kids

KIDS KORNER

This is for ages 10 & up.  And it’s all about having fun and CREATING!  These two hour classes will cover many types of crafts for the young adult.  We have felting, bangles, masks, rugs, we will make dolls, dream catchers, beginning sewing projects and if the time is right we will even make a special present for Mom and Dad!  Come join the fun.....but space is limited!

Dates: Mon, Aug 9 & 23; 2 – 4;

          Sep 13 & 27; Oct 4 & 18 & Nov 8 & 22, 3 - 5

Class Fee: $25 per session, includes supplies

Instructor: Mary Prantil

 

Sewing & Fun

BEGINNING ADULT SEWING – Part 1

This class is for the beginning sewist; it is a class designed for someone who knows nothing about sewing.  You will learn how to operate the sewing machine, how to interrupt a pattern and pattern envelope, what sewing supplies to use to be successful when sewing.  You will make a simple Decorator Pillow and start a simple apron during the class.

Dates: Sun, Aug 8, Aug 21, Sep 12; 1 – 4

Class Fee:  $50

Instructor: Jean Baxter

BEGINNING ADULT SEWING – Part 2

This is the second part of Beginning Adult Sewing.  Students need to have an understanding of how to operate the sewing machine and have made several simple sewing projects. The simple apron will be completed and then a more advanced project will be completed in this class, such as a simple skirt or a pair of pajama bottoms.

Dates: Sun, Oct 3, 17, Nov 7, 14; 1 - 4

Class Fee:  $50

Instructor: Jean Baxter

FLOWER LARIAT

For all you flower lovers, this is a fun felting class that will amaze you! Find your favorite flower and learn how to make a Lariat scarf to adorn the Goddess within!

Dates: Sat, Sep 18 & Tue, Nov 23; 10-3

Class fee: $75 per session

Instructor: Mary Prantil

FAIRYLAND – Basic Doll Making

You admire those little Sprites, here’s your opportunity to create your own! This is a fun class using Basic sewing skills. In this class we will be using many different tricks to create and embellish your personal fairy. Come join the fun and see who flies in!!

Dates: Sat. Sep 25; 10 - 3

Class Fee: $75 per session

Instructor: Mary Prantil

FLOWER POWER

Discover the joy of Fabric Sculpture with wool felt!  Delightfully easy to work with and requiring not much more than a sewing machine and a hot glue gun.  Let your passion for flowers guide you into creating a special bouquet for your home or a gift for a friend.....better yet bring her along!

Dates: Sat, Oct 2; 10 - 3

Class Fee: $75 per session

Instructor: Mary Prantil

NUNO FABRIC EXPLORATION

A combination of felt with fabric, we will explore the design possibilities and the unique effects obtained from different fabrics, wools and techniques.  This is an exploration class for those who want to know more about the process.  You will leave with a sample book ready to reference for your own creations!

Dates: Thu, Sep 2; Sat, Nov 20 10-2

Class Fee: $65 per session

Instructor: Mary Prantil

SETTING YOUR SERGER TO CHAIN STITCH AND COVER HEM

If your serger is a five thread serger or a four thread serger that will do chain stitch and cover hem and you don’t know how to convert the serger to accomplish these two stitches, then this class is for you!  You will learn how to convert your serger to do both cover hem and chain stitch and once this is accomplished, you will serge one or two simple projects to use these stitches.  If you are not sure is your machine has cover hem or chain stitch, call Howell’s with your make and model number of your machine and we will help you determine.

Date: Tue, Oct 5, 9:30 – 12:30

Class Fee:  $25

Instructor:  Jean Baxter

SERGER 101

Do you have a serger you are “afraid” to use or haven‘t used because you cannot thread it or bought from someone and had no lesson on how to use it?  Then this is the class for you!  You will become familiar with the parts of your serger, such as loopers, differential feed, stitch finger, etc; how to thread the serger and how to do simple serging.  When you complete this class you will be ready to try a simple project such as napkins, simple blouse, placemats, etc.

Day:  Wed, Nov 3;  9:30 – 1

Class Fee:  $30

Instructor:  Jean Baxter

PANTS FOR EVERY BODY

Tired of pants that don‘t fit your figure properly?  This is the class for you!! Have a pair of casual pants or trousers fit to your body, and then make the pants in class.  You will be very happy with the results and can use the pattern over and over again to make as many pants as you wish.  Already taken this class?  You can repeat it and make pants with welted pockets or cuffs or lined, etc.

Days:  Friday, Saturday & Sunday, Aug 27, 28 & 29; 9:30 – 4

Class Fee:  $65

Instructor:  Jean Baxter

SIMPLY JACKETS

Want to make a lined jacket with or without a collar?  This is your chance to make the jacket of your choice under the guidance of a certified instructor.  If you are an experienced sewist you might want to make welted pockets, bound buttonholes and of course line the jacket.  If you are less experienced, you will want to select a simpler pattern, no collar, machine made buttonholes, etc to make a successful jacket.

Date: Mon: Nov 1, 8, 15 & 29; 9:30 – 3:30

Class Fee: $65

Instructor: Jean Baxter

OPEN SEWING

This class affords you the opportunity to have five hours of uninterrupted sewing, on a project of your choosing, with help from a certified sewing instructor and enjoy the company of people who love to sew as well.

Day:  Sat, Aug 14, Sep 11, & Nov 13;  12:30 – 5:30  Note: No Open Sewing in Oct.

Class Fee:  $20 per session

Instructor: Jean Baxter

BLACK BELT SEWING

Imagine three days to sew with no interruptions, Black Belt Sewing gives you that chance.  Bring your latest projects to Howell‘s and set up your sewing machine and supplies and enjoy three days of sewing with others who like to sew as much as you do!  Space is limited and this is a popular event, so plan to sign up early for your spot in Black Belt Sewing.

Days:  Thu, Fri & Sat, Nov 4, 5 & 6;  9:30 – 4

Class Fee:  $25

Coordinator:  Jean Baxter

BEGINNING PIN WEAVE

Here’s a fabulous way to learn the basics of weaving without a loom.  In this class we will explore free form sculptural weaving using a variety of materials.  Here is the time to raid your stash of all those :special” tidbits that you just knew would come in handy some day!!  We’ll be making a small abstract woven piece and discuss in class how it could be used or displayed.

Dates: Sat, Aug 7 & Oct 9; 10 - 1

Class Fee: $50 per session

Instructor: Mary Prantil

ADVANCED PIN WEAVE

Let’s explore advanced weaving techniques to create more texture in your woven piece.  You will learn how to add beads, do Soumak wrapping and work with ribbons.  This is a class in color, texture and design.  Your end result can be a beautiful wall hanging, an insert for pillows, a purse or even clothing.

Dates: Sat, Sep 4 & Tue, Nov 9; 10 - 4:30

Class Fee: $75 per session

Instructor: Mary Prantil

SHOPPING PRETTY BAG

A bag that has a place for everything- six stretchy outside pockets and big inside pockets with compartments. Finish with a swivel for your keys, and you are ready to shop! Makes a great gift.

Date: Fri,Oct 22; 10 - 4

Class Fee: $45

Instructor: Pat Boynton

BEGINNING WOOL AND SPINNING

So you have your own fiber animals or maybe a spinning wheel that is a decoration in your home.  This is were you will learn to use them!  Learn the basics of turning raw wool into gorgeous yarn that you will use to knit, weave or crochet into an heirloom!

You will learn the basics of fiber and what to look for in raw material and what types of wool are available.  You will also learn how to clean and card the wool as well as blend colors.  You will learn what to look for in a spinning wheel, general maintenance and care.  Best of all you will be spinning wool and learning how to ply it into yarn.

Date: Mon, Aug 2; 10 - 1

Class Fee: $50

Instructor: Mary Prantil

ADVANCED SPINNING CLASS

OK, now you have the basics!  You can spin and ply.....but what about all the other fiber out there?  In this class we will try out a wider variety of fiber.....Angora goat, cashmere, Buffalo, Yak, Camel, silk, soy, Alpaca, rabbit!!!  We get a taste of it all.  Wool has a mind of its own and tells you how thick or thin it wants to be spun.  Learn the different weights of yarn and how they are best used.

Date: Mon, Aug 23; 10 - 1

Class Fee: $50

Instructor: Mary Prantil

THE CHAMELEON HANDBAG © by Perky Brouillette

Imagine…a handbag that can change to any occasion. Dress it up…Dress it down within minutes and your keys, checkbook and essentials stay in your handbag at all times.

Place the new Slip Cover onto the bag, button it up and out you go. The slip cover is washable. Plus there are built in slots inside the bag to put your essentials in.  Place the double straps on your shoulder or pull on one strap and now it will fit over your head and onto the other shoulder to leave your hands free.

All of this: Durable, Washable and Changeable like a Chameleon.

For Intermediate Sewers – Please have materials cut out before class.   Bring sack lunch to class.

Date: Sat, Oct 16; 10 – 4:30

Class Fee: $35

Kit Fee: $15

Instructor: Perky Brouillette

HEIRLOOM BOWTIE QUILT

An adorable, quick baby quilt done entirely on your serger with a little hand sewing at the end.  We will also spend some time practicing serger techniques not used with this project.  You should "be one with your serger" at the end of the day!

Date: Sat, Aug 21; 10 - 4

Class Fee: $45

 Kit Fee: $23 payable to instructor

Instructor: Gin Kremen

BEGINNING HEIRLOOM PILLOW

A compact, lovely project in batiste and French cotton laces that uses many traditional heirloom techniques.  We will also put together a technique packet that can be used for reference later on, including lace shaping.  No end to what you can create after this class.

Date: Fri, Aug 20; 10 - 4

Class Fee: $45

Kit Fee: $35 payable to instructor

Instructor: Gin Kremen

 

Embroidery & Quilting Software

TNT QUILT * EMBROIDRABLOCK OF THE MONTH

TNT-Textures and New Techniques – Embroidered quilt of the month is the second quilt of this type at Howell’s.  Make a block each month in class, then complete three additional blocks at home.  This quilt will include trapunto, candlewicking and stippling as well as some traditional piecing of parts of the quilt.  All the techniques are completed on an embroidery machine; we have the design for all brands of machines.

#1 – Wed, Aug 11, Sep 8. Pct 13 & Nov 10; 9 – 12:30

#2 – Thu, Aug 19, Oct 21 & Nov 18; 9:30 – 12:30

#3 & 4 – Thu, Aug 26, Sep 23, Oct 29 & Nov 18; 9:30 – 12:30 & 1 - 3

Class Fee:  $15 per session

Instructor: Jean Baxter

BLACK BELT DIGITIZING

This is a whole day to bring your laptop and work on projects you have been wanting to digitize and need a long span of time to concentrate on your design.  You can work on any project you want to complete with the help of other members in the Digitizing group.

Day: Thu, Sep 9 & Nov 11;  9:30 – 3:00

Class Fee:  $10 per session

Coordinator:  Jean Baxter

Quilting

LONG ARM QUILTING

This information packed seminar is designed to show you how to fearlessly approach finishing your quilt using a long arm machine.  Join the growing trend towards finishing your own quilts without basting or struggling with pushing a quilt through the opening on your home machine.  The focus will be on basic shapes that all designs come from and how to incorporate them into beautiful free motion designing.  You will learn about needles, threads & tensions and tools that will almost eliminate the need for marking.  This class certifies you to rent the HQ 16 in Howell’s for $10 an hour with no minimum time.  Class fee includes a set of leaders ($65).  Supplies for class: Pencil & paper.   Snack & Water (optional).  When renting the HQ 16 remember to bring your own scissors, pins & bobbins.  We will supply the oil and needles.

Dates: Fri, Aug 6; 1 – 4; Mon, Sep 27; 10-1; Sun, Oct 24; 1 – 4; Wed, Nov 10; 2-5

Class Fee: $95 per session

Instructor: MaryLynn Matthews

Clubs

TOP STITCHERS

Once a month this FREE demonstration does it‘s best to stimulate your interest in learning all you can about your computerized sewing machine.  New ideas, products, designs and projects will be shared for the group’s enjoyment.  Questions are answered, mysteries are solved and problems are trouble shot while learning from the attendees as well as the instructor. Meets the 2nd Sat. of the month.

Date: Sat, Aug 14, Sep 11, & Nov 13;  9:30 - 11:30  Note: No Top Stitchers in Oct.

Class Fee: FREE

Facilitator: Jean Baxter

LACE-MAKER‘S MEETING

Come for the whole time or during your Lunch Hour.  Bring your sack lunch with you and have fun.

Torchon, Honiton, Bedfordshire, Bucks Point, Milanese, Russian Type & Hungarian, Guipure, Flanders and  Binche are types of bobbin laces made all over the world.  Let’s not forget there are tatting, knitting, crocheting, battenburg and needle laces also being made.  If you have a love of fibers and hand crafts then come join this group of beginning and experienced lacemakers.  Lace-Makers meets the 4th Wednesday of the month.

Date: Wed, Aug 25, Sep 22, Oct 27;  9:30 - 1:00   Note: No Lace-Makers in Nov.

Facilitators: Donna Van Wagenen   916-344-5536

ASG - Neighborhood Group Meeting

The American Sewing Guild is a national non-profit organization dedicated to people who believe sewing is a rewarding and creative activity.  Auburn ASG meets the 2nd Friday of the month.

Dates: Fri, Aug 13, Sep 10, Oct 8 & Nov 12; 10:00 - 12:00

Neighborhood Chairperson: Bonnie Treadway

(530) 823-1801

FREE MOTION FRIDAY

Once a month we will explore and practice a new "Free Motion Quilting" technique or style. You will bring your machine and at least three 18" X 22" (fat quarters) sandwiched with batting to practice on. We will practice, practice, practice under the tutelage of an experienced quilter who will coach you through the pitfalls, hangups, and ergonomics of successful free motion quilting.

Free Motion Friday meets the 2nd Friday of the month. Why not plan to stay and work on a project at Howell's at the moon.

Dates: Fri, Aug 13, Sep 10, Oct 8 & Nov 12; 1 - 3

Class Fee: $20 per session

Instructor: MaryLynn Matthews

SERGER CLUB

Once a month we meet to learn about new techniques, threads, and products that enhance the use of an overlock machine.  Utility and creative use of the serger is often underestimated, so don’t be left in the dark, let‘s take the mystery out of this fantastic machine.  Serger Club meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month.

Date: Wed, Aug 18, Oct 20 & Nov 17 ; 10 – 12  Note: no Serger Club in Sep.

Class Fee: FREE

Facilitator: Jean Baxter

DIGITIZER’S + 3 & 4D‘ers CLUB

This open forum group gets together on the third Wednesday of each month to share and discuss embroidery digitizing.  Bring your laptop and ideas and let’s make some excitement over embroidery possibilities.  Digitizers meets the 3rd Wednesday of the month.

Dates: Wed, Aug 18, Sep 15, Oct 20 & Nov 17; 1 - 3

Class Fee: FREE

Facilitator: Jean Baxter

HOWELL‘S AT THE MOON

On the second Friday of each month we will get together to quilt or sew and howl at the moon. Howell’s will provide the food.  Work on your own project or try the alternative project offered below. Teens and older welcome.  Sign up ahead of time so we know how many to prepare for.  Howell‘s meets the 2nd Friday of the month.

Please bring all materials & equipment needed.  Machine, scissors, pins, etc. Forgotten items available for sale.

Dates:  Fri, Aug 13, Sep 10, Oct 8 & Nov 12; 2:00 - 8:30ish

Class Fee:  $15 per session - covers cost of dinner

Instructor:  Howell’s Staff

QUILT CLUB/Stay & Play

Each month we will present a new quilting or piecing technique to encourage you to expand your knowledge base.  Bring a show and tell and maybe share a tidbit of something you have learned. Then stay after the presentation and take an opportunity to practice what you've learned with materials and machines provided for you! How about trying something new and  intimidating with no commitment?

Quilt Club meets the 2nd Monday the month.

Dates: Mon, Aug 9, Sep 13, Oct 11 & Nov 8; 10-12:30

Class Fee: FREE

Instructor: MaryLynn Matthews

EMBROIDERY CLUB - Adventures In Embroidery 

And so the adventure begins……join us as we embark on a new and exciting journey into the world of machine embroidery. You will have fun and make friends as you learn new and innovative techniques. Learn to use your machine to it’s full potential. Adventures in Embroidery will stretch your creativity.

Dates: Mon, Aug 16, Sep 20; Oct 18; & Nov 15; 10 – 1 & 5 - 8

Class Fee: $20 per session

Instructor:  Debi Kuennen-Baker