The Sewing Basket

A Job Well Done

2012-02-15T19:37:00.000-08:00

Wherever we go, it's people that make the difference....

make you feel welcomed, make you feel happy, make you feel taken care of

and every once in a while you find one that does all that and then some

for so many customers at the Sewing Basket, that's what Kathie did and more, and so we while we are sad to see her go, we know you will all join us in wishing her the very best retirement can offer...

and miss you we shall!

We have always had a great team at The Sewing basket, and Kathie has been a big part of that team for many, many years.... she and Jan have a lifetime of memories of trade shows, store sales, quilt shows - you name it, they've been there, done that and seen just about everything come and go, and come again over the years

a wealth of knowledge and a wonderful spirit!

Thank you to everyone who came on Saturday to wish Kathie joy in her next adventures; we had a wonderful time visiting with all of you.

We've Got Bling!

2012-02-07T22:46:00.000-08:00

Our first class in making jewelery was just over a week ago and it was such a hit that we have added a second run of the Beginner Jewelery class, where you could learn to make this:

a gorgeous necklace using handcrafted designer beads, made by the instructor!

After just three hours, you could walk out of the store wearing one of these...

There are lots of colour choices, as well as several metal options to choose from

plus these stunning spiral shell-style beads!

If you would like to learn how to make one of these beautiful necklaces for yourself, the next class will be on Friday, March 9 from 9:30 to 12:30....

Call or come in to sign up today!

Notes from The Friday Demo

2012-01-31T21:14:00.000-08:00

February already!

It's hard to believe January is already over; the days are getting longer, the sun is getting warmer and it's now the season of hearts.

At the last Friday Demo, Jan showed a couple of heart projects she has been working on,

this beautiful runner is much easier than it looks!

If you missed the Demo you can still stop by and pick up a free pattern

and have a look at all our new red fabrics!

All these gorgeous red and black prints along with some new red and white ones - perfect for making something special....

and while you're at it, we also have a free pattern for these adorable pin cushions!

The pattern makes two, so you will have one for yourself, and one for your favourite quilting buddy.

Make sure you stop in soon!

Scarf Yarn & More....

2012-01-23T23:11:00.000-08:00

This was the view down the sidewalk on Saturday morning...

lots of shoveling to clear all that snow away!

But inside we have just the thing to keep you warm - a brand new shipment of yarns for those fabulous scarves that are all the rage!
We received some beautiful new ones and some old favourites so be sure to pop down and have a look.

We've also added some new pages to our blog, up at the top just below the header.
Be sure to check out the Technique Demos page which provides you with all the details for the upcoming Technique Demos that begin in February. You won't want to miss any!

Above are the samples from Jan's Coffee Break I class - you can read all about it on the Classes page.

And this is Coffee Break II - the perfect way to get a head start on Christmas and have beautiful handmade gifts for everyone on your list.

and still more from the Coffee Break series!

Above are the Raspberry Ripple Bag sample and the Easy Curves Runner and Placemats. If you love the look of the curves but are leery of curved piecing this class is for you. It's a simple technique that gives wonderful results.

So if you haven't stopped in for a while, come on down, check out the beautiful new scarf yarns and all the wonderful class samples - you won't be disappointed!

Welcome 2012!

2012-01-09T21:40:00.000-08:00

We're just over one week in to the new year and things are happening fast!

The Winter/Spring Class Schedule was mailed out just before New Year's and the response has been overwhelming - several classes are already full!

If you've never tried bargello before, this table runner and place mat set taught by Shirley is the perfect place to begin.

Perfect in fall colours, but you can customize the appliques and make this for your favourite season or holiday!

"Crazy Rays" is another class taught by Shirley. You simply must come in and see how stunning this is in person - the colours are brilliant!

We've had many requests for a class in curved piecing and here it is. Debbie will show you just how simple it is to cut and piece curves to make this stunning quilt.

The folded placemat class was a big hit on the fall Schedule so we're running it again.This is another sample you really must see in person - it's gorgeous, and yours will be too!

We're pleased to announce a new teacher on the roster. Carolyn Good creates beautiful beads, and designs jewellery that showcases them to perfection.We'll be carrying a full line of tools and materials along with Carolyn's designer beads and are kicking things off with two beginner classes.

The first class is a necklace and the second class features two styles of bracelets and earrings.

We've also added some new pages to the blog, up at the top, just under the header.

"Home" is the main blog, where you are right now.

"Class Schedule" will take you to a page that has our full class schedule (currently being updated)

"Technique Demos" will take you to page listing our new Friday Technique Demos. We've arranged for Sharon Adair to come and share some of her extensive knowledge of knitting and needlework techniques. They're going to be lots of fun and we guarantee you will learn a lot!

And for reading all the way to the end of this long post, here's a special thank you for our blog readers...

On Wednesday, Thursday and Friday only, when you make a qualifying purchase for the "Pick Your Discount Sale", tell us you read about the classes on the blog and we will give you an extra 5% over and above what you pick. That means you can save anywhere from 30 to 55%!

Thank you for making 2011 such a great year. We're sure 2012 will be even better!

Happy New Year from Jan, Cheryl, Lucille, Vi and Jill

On the 12th Day of Christmas....

2011-12-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

So... we have come to the last day, the 12th Day of Christmas...

the last special offer....

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We have had a great time putting this sale event together for you and hope you have enjoyed our twelve days of savings!

and for the Grand Finale,

for today only

when you make a regular purchase of $5.00 or more, you may choose any one item at 50% off the regular price!

perhaps you would like a kit,

or a book,

or several meters of that perfect fabric

or a new ruler

your choice, 50% off!

(Saturday only)

Christmas prints are also still on sale for 40% off

And... this is your last day to enter the draw for Jan's Christmas Basket filled with lots of quilting goodies!
(Draw will take place Monday)

Eleven Days and Counting....

2011-12-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

On the 11th Day of Christmas....

we are offering you....

for all of you that like to make your Christmas presents,
for all of you that like to make Christmas quilts, or runners, or placemats...

all our Christmas prints at a whopping 40% off!

40% off - only a half yard minimum and that's it.... no other amounts to buy... just 40% off
get in early to get that special print that is perfect for you!

and of course, Fat Quarters are on sale for one more day... 10 fat quarters for $25.00!

One more day to go.... the last one is a big one....

On the 10th Day of Christmas

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

Here we are at Day 10... we've had specials on books and patterns and fabrics and buttons and yarns....

but we haven't had a special on fat quarters yet...

So today's the day!

fat quarters are on sale today and tomorrow only at

10 fat quarters for $25.00

(excluding pre-packaged bundles)

that works out to only $2.50 each!

and there are still a few Jelly Rolls left, but at Buy One Get One Free, they won't last long....

We're at Number Nine!

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

The Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery Sale is flying by and we're already at Day 9!

And the ninth day is a great day, especially if you like pre-cuts,

Jelly Rolls are Buy One Get One Free!!

Jelly Rolls are wonderful little treats that give you 40+ strips that are cut 2 1/2" wide x 44" long. They're perfect for strip quilting (there are loads of patterns and books that use Jelly Rolls)

and just so much fun to play with.

we have a wonderful selection to choose from, so come down and take a look!

and if that isn't enough.... Jan has also included the oriental prints in today's special.
The sale for them is the more you buy, the more you save, and if your total yardage exceed 4 meters you get a whopping 40% off. Ask for the full details when you come in...

and remember today is your last chance to get pre-cut batting on sale!!

On the Eighth Day of Christmas....

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

Eighth day already? Days in December just seem to fly by, but add in a Mystery Sale, and it will seem like the fun is over after it has barely begun...

But have we got something special for you today!

How about something that is
"so-specially-priced-it-never-goes-on-sale"

going on sale!!

Sounds pretty good huh?

Well, for today and tomorrow only, all pre-cut batting is on sale!

Pre-cut batting is already discounted, but now we are offering them for an additional 20% off the already discounted price!!

the sale is on all pre-cuts from 1m to 5m

this is the first time we have had a sale like this, and inventory won't last long, so make sure you come down and get yours today!

And remember to tell us you read it here in order to get the discount and enter the draw for Jan's fabulous Christmas Gift Basket!

Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery Sale - Day 7

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a special time for little ones and today's sale is just what you need to make something special for the little people in your life...

all baby and kids' prints are on sale!

and again, the more you buy, the more you can save!

1 - 2m - 25% off

2 - 3m - 30% off

3 - 4m - 35% off

4m and up - 40% off

(1/2 m minimum cut, cumulative yardage amounts)

we have some wonderful kids' fabrics in stock, including

Winnie the Pooh,

Dr. Seuss

Beatrix Potter

Mickey Mouse

and many more!

and of course, one more day to stock up on ribbons, trims, buttons and beads!

On the Sixth Day of Christmas....

2011-12-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

Today marks the half-way point of our Sale.... and today's special comes just in time to help you pretty things up for the holidays...

beads, buttons, ribbons and trims are all on sale, today and Monday..

a whopping 30% off!

beads for ornaments,

ribbons for packages or wreaths,

buttons for that beautiful sweater you just knitted

we have a wall full of pretty baubles to add bling to all your festive projects

and, one more day to stock up on sock and cotton yarns at 25% off!

On the Fifth Day of Christmas....

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

The days are flying by and we are already at the 5th Day of our Mystery Sale!

Today's special is for all you knitters out there...

sock and cotton yarns are on sale for 25% off!!

Just in time to knit up some of these for Christmas gift giving

And don't forget - you have one more day to take advantage of Day 4's special on kits....

kits are specially marked from 15% to 50% off.

If you don't have time to sew them up before Christmas, kits make fabulous gifts just as they are!

Come down and have a look!

Day Four!

2011-12-08T07:00:00.000-08:00

The days are flying by and it's now Day Four of our wonderful Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery Sale!

We're having so much fun with this and hope that you are too!

A reminder that today is the last day to save big on flannel fabrics - make sure you check out all the fabulous prints and colours....

For the Fourth Day of Christmas we are offering our kits at savings of 15% to 50% off!

We have lots and lots of beautiful kits that will help you create wonderful quilts,

wall-hangings, runners and placemats for yourself or for gifts.

Our kits feature quality fabrics and instructions for a stress-free quilting experience, so come in and take a look!

It's Day Three!

2011-12-07T07:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Day Three of our Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery Sale!

Today is your last chance to come in and take advantage of Day Two's special offer; check out our patterns at the special savings of 35%off!

And now, in addition to that amazing sale, for Day Three....

Jan's special is on flannel fabric!

The more you buy, the more you'll save...

Buy 1 to 2m - save 25%

Buy 2-3m - save 30%

Buy 3 - 4m - save 35%

Buy 4m and up - 40%

( 1/2 m minimum cut, but the yardage amounts are cumulative so you don't need to buy it from just one fabric to get these amazing savings!)

Head on down and check out our beautiful selection of warm and cozy flannel fabrics, just right for a winter's day!

Welcome to Day Two!

2011-12-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Day Two of our Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery Sale!

You still have today to take advantage of yesterday's special offer on books:

BUY ONE - GET ONE FREE!!

and now for today's special we have.....

35% off all in-store patterns!
(we reserve the right to limit or exclude certain products)

Yes, you read that right, 35% off, all day today and all day tomorrow...

We have quilt patterns

and bag patterns

and runner patterns

and many more!

So come in today and take advantage of these special savings.

And don't forget to enter the draw for Jan's fabulous Christmas gift basket!!

The First Day of our Christmas Sale

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the first day of our Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery Sale!

Today's special deal for all of our blog reader's is on books...

and what a deal it is!

Come in, browse our extensive book selections and....

BUY ONE - GET ONE FREE!!!!

We have dozens and dozens of books...

books on applique, books on colour, books on machine quilting....

strip-piecing, Christmas quilting books, scrap quilts

books on felting, and making cards,

books on skinny quilts and books on baby quilts

So come on in and check them out and remember... tell us you read about it on our blog and you can

Buy One, Get One Free!

(available Monday, December 5 and Tuesday, December 6 in store only!)

and don't forget when you buy your books to enter the draw for Jan's fabulous Christmas basket!

Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery Sale

2011-12-03T18:03:00.000-08:00

We're having a Sale!

The Twelve Days of Christmas Mystery Sale at the Sewing Basket starts Monday, Dec. 5!

Every day, starting Monday, Dec. 5, and continuing through Saturday December 17... Jan will have a new daily special and you can only find out about here on our store blog.

Each day's special will be available for the day it's posted, and the following day only, so you will have two days to come down and take advantage of each of the fabulous offers!
(the Special on Saturday, December 17 is so terrific, it will be available on that day only)

Make sure you check back each day to see what Jan has come up with; we're not advertising it in the store, nor will we tell you about it on the phone... just on the blog... and when you come in you just need to tell us...

"I read about it on the Twelve Days of Christmas blog"

and you'll get the sale price.

How fun and easy is that?
So add us to your favourites and come back here each morning after 7:00 to check out the daily special!

And... as an extra bonus, for every total purchase you make, you can enter into a draw for a beautiful Christmas basket filled with wonderful goodies to fuel your creativity.
The draw will be held December 19 so make sure you take advantage of our special deals and enter often!

Demo Fun - Napkins and Dresdens

2011-03-17T16:47:00.000-07:00

We had a great time at the last Free Friday Demo and hope all of you that were there did too!

We showed how to make an easy mitred napkin and as promised, here is a pictorial "How To".

For each napkin you will need:

one 18" square of fabric (this will be the border and back)

one 12" square for the centre

Mark the centre of all four sides of the 18" square with a marking pen or a pin as shown above and below

Do the same thing for all four sides of the 12" square - Best Press Spray Starch works well to get rid of any creases in your fabric (you definitely do not want any creases when you go to do the mitred corners!)

Place the squares of fabric right sides together, raw edges aligned, centre pins matching, and pin all along, leaving a two inch opening for turning. See below.

Begin sewing 1/4" from one end and stop sewing 1/4" from the other end, back stitching at each side of the opening. (Peach pins show the 1/4" start/stop and yellow are the opening - click on any picture to enlarge). Press all seams under border fabric.

Line up the raw edges of the opposite side, matching the centre pins and sew, again beginning and ending 1/4" from each end. Sew all the way across (no opening!). See below.

Match up the raw edges and centre pins for the third side and sew as you did above.

The photo below shows the third side pinned. Sew and repeat for the fourth side.

Pull sides of napkin out so there is an even border all around and each corner has a piece of excessive fabric that forms a kind of upright triangle (like the sail of a ship). Press as crease as shown below.

Carefully pull that triangle free from the back fabric and sew along the crease, ensuring you do not sew beyond the 1/4" connection of the two side seams. See below.

Clip seam and press open. Repeat for all four corners.

Turn napkin right side out through opening you left on first side, press. Stitch with either a straight stitch or a decorative stitch, just to the right of the centre fabric, along the edge, all around the napkin. This will close up the opening as well as stabilize it for laundering.

Bon Appetit!

The other thing we showed was the 18 degree wedge ruler. The Dresden Plate design below was made with 6 1/2" wedges cut from scraps of Christmas fabrics. Once it is appliqued to the background fabric a circle is appliqued over the centre hole.

The ruler is clearly marked and comes with an instruction booklet with lots of ideas and how tos.

The photo below shows (from left to right) a cut wedge, a wedge that has been folded, sewn and trimmed and finally a wedge that has then been turned and pressed.

The ruler makes it easy to create Dresden Plates of many sizes that would be ideal for table centres, table runners and tree decorations not to mention pretty quilt blocks.

We have several in stock - just ask at the counter for yours!

Tissue Case Tutorial

2011-02-28T19:03:00.000-08:00

At last Friday's Demo Jill promised to post a tutorial on making these cute little tissue cases and here it is...

you need: one rectangle plain fabric 4" x 8" and one rectangle print fabric 3" x 8"

6 1/2" x 8" fabric for lining

one button and one piece of co-ordinating ribbon, 10" long

pin fabrics together along 8" edges and sew with 1/4" seam allowance; press seam to one side

lay right side up on mat, lining up seam with markings on mat

using grid lines on mat, lay ribbon in place, centering over the seam

pin in place - if you wish to add a decorative button, place the last pin about 2" from edge of fabric - sew down each side of the ribbon using matching sewing thread

slide button on to ribbon and pin ribbon end in place

if you don't wish to add a button, sew right to the end

pin front piece and lining right sides together and leave a two inch opening for turning

(refer to green pins in photo above - opening should be on a long edge

sew all around, back stitching at beginning and end, and ensuring the opening is left unstitched - clip all four corners

turn right side out, pressing thoroughly - (don't bother to stitch the opening closed as it will be taken care when the sides are sewn)

lay on mat, right side up and button at the bottom

fold bottom edge up 2" and pin in place

fold top edge down 2" (the edges will overlap slightly) and pin in place

sew side seams with 1/8" seam allowance and very carefully, trim corners slightly

turn right side out and carefully push out corners; press

these are a great way to use up scraps of fabric and ribbons and make wonderful stocking stuffers or little gifts for friends...

Enjoy!

-adapted from Rachel E. Dowd's design in Pretty Little Cozies

More Hidden Wells

2011-02-16T16:48:00.001-08:00

Two Demos ago we showed the Hidden Wells pattern, and at last week's Demo one of our customer's brought in her version.

A lovely rendition by Marj, using beautiful aquas and mauve.

Marj said she had enough leftovers for an extra block so she made a pillow cover - this design really lends itself to square shapes and it looks fabulous!

And here's a picture of the entire runner.

Hidden Wells is a beautiful, graphic pattern that lends itself to any style of fabric and the more you use the better it gets.

Thanks Marj!

Demo Fun

2011-02-09T18:56:00.000-08:00

Hello All!

The past two Friday Demos at the shop have featured the Hidden Wells pattern so we thought we'd post a picture of what Jill made for those who weren't able to make it.

This is a fabulous design that looks complicated but is really very simple; it's strip-pieced and goes together in a snap.

We have a free handout available if you want to give it a try and ...

if you make one and email us a picture we'll post here on the blog.

The next free Friday Demo is February 11 - two days away...

Hope to see you there!

2011-01-18T13:59:00.000-08:00

Hi Everyone
First of all ---Thanks so much to all that took part in our great PICK YOUR DISCOUNT SALE. Wow were we ever busy. We needed that as we have to take stock the end of January.

We are having a BLOCK CHALLEGE. Yes we haven't had one for awhile and they are so much FUN. All you have to do is Buy a packet of Fabric for $5.00, register and make one or two
12 1/2" blocks and have them in the store by Feb. 25. You could win the blocks and 3 meters of Fabric to finish the Quilt. ( Plus the left over fabrics.)
We usually have enough blocks for at least two Quilts.

The other great event I would like to tell you about is our UFO THERAPY CLUB.
We are cleaning up and clearing out and thought maybe we could help you do the same.
We suggest you go through all your unfinished projects and sort them into one's you still like and one's you have no intension of finishing. Don't feel guilty about those WHAT WAS I THINKING OF PROJECT. Pull them out, pattern and all and package them up and donate them to one of the groups that make donation quilts.
In Salmon Arm you can bring them into the store either for the Baby Quilts, The Safe House donation quilts or the Chemo Quilts. We'll disperse them for you.
Next just pick up a Registration Form from The Sewing Basket and enter as many projects as you like. Each entry costs $1.00, and you will have to write a brief description of each one.
You must register by Feb. 28 and you have until Sept 30th to finish your projects. Anything unfinished qualifies as long as it is at least 1 1/2 years old (or older)
For every finished project you bring in you get an entry for all the prizes.

#1 A GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR THE AMOUNT OF ALL THE ENTRIES
#2 A GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR $100 from The Sewing Basket
#3 TO #10 MYSTERY GIFTS (that means Jan just hasn't decided yet)

Are you having Fun Yet? Well join in some of our events or join in some of the classes .
We're always having a great time in the store.

Cheryl is busy opening lots of NEW FABRIC and yes it's still at the same old prices.
Drop in and see all these wonderful fabrics.

See you all soon.

2010-09-02T16:34:00.001-07:00

Fall is just around the corner and we are gearing up for it. Our Class List is out and on our website. There are some very exciting new classes. Check them out. Most samples are up in the store too.

Are you thinking about the new JANOME HORIZON?? Now is your chance to try it out - on Thursday Sept. 9, Darren from Janome will be here conducting a "Test Drive". You can actually have a hands on demo. This is an amazing machine. Call to book your spot. Space is limited.

Don't forget about our OPEN HOUSE & SIGN UP on Saturday Sept. 11. If you sign up for 2 or more classes on or before that date you will get 10% off most registrations.

Breezy Summer Fabrics and a New Bag!

2010-06-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

So many new things have come in to the store in the past couple of weeks!

Art to Heart towels are here in several styles and colours - they are perfect for making gift bags, pot holders, aprons and oven mitts. (They are also perfect for drying dishes!)

Almost every book by Nancy Halvorsen features at least one project with these towels and at $3.99 each they are flying out of the store...

Mini quilt from the book Garden Song, a towel and some of the wire hangers we have in stock.

More towels, a rack of Art to Heart fabric and several books...

Click on the picture above to see the stunning colours in this new collection by Jason Yenter from In the Beginning...

Charm Packs and Jelly Rolls of Fig Tree's "Fresh Cottons" line and the latest 30's line called "1933". Below you can see some of the yardage we received of "Fresh Cottons" - it's as fresh as a summer breeze!

And below is a display of fabric packs and patterns for all those who love those charming 30's fabrics!

And here's Jan with her latest bag design! It features one of those gorgeous oriental fabrics and the main bag is constructed of mesh, combining beauty and practicality.The kit will be available in the store this week and you must see this bag to appreciate how stunning it is!

This is a terrific bag for all your shopping needs from groceries to fabric and would even make a fantastic beach bag.

Summer may have finally arrived here in the Shuswap but don't forget to come in and say hello - we have lots of fabulous things to show you!

New and News!

2010-05-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Lots in store for you today! (pardon the pun by the way)

The Anniversary Sale continues through to May 31st with the following Specials:

Charm Squares, Jelly Rolls and Layer Cakes

Buy ONE, get ONE FREE

Patterns

25% off

Cotton Prints/Florals/Plaids/Tone-on-Tones

30% off 1/2 metre or more

35% off if you FINISH the bolt

Fat Quarter Frenzy

Cotton Print Fat Quarters - 10 for $25.00

Batik Fat Quarters - 8 for $25.00

Brand new coffee-themed fabrics including an apron panel! (And yes, it's on sale too!)

Wonderfil thread in a rainbow of colours, specially priced!

All patterns are 25% off!

If you haven't any flowers in your garden come check out our latest range of bright, sunny flower prints and colourful co-ordinates!

And of course we've saved the best for last...

Janome's brand new sewing machine!

Kathie and Lucille spent Friday in Kelowna at a Janome seminar learning all the tips and tricks this machine has going for it and we are so excited to hear all about it from them. And Jan has some ideas about how you can hear all about it too. We'll be announcing the details just as soon as the plans are finalized - you won't want to miss it!

Sale, Sale, Sale!

2010-05-07T18:33:00.000-07:00

If you were at our last Demo, you will remember we were over run by fairies...

But before I continue with my fairy tale I have important business to attend to...

Jill here again. I think I promised this post for last Friday and I am late, late, late - but then what's a Friday between friends? Especially when I have such a great announcement....

The 27th Anniversary Sale has begun!

And - for the next week - Flannels, Batiks and Christmas prints are on sale! And for more than 25% off! (You'll just have to come in and see for yourself what discount Jan has come up with but I can guarantee you won't be disappointed)

And if that isn't enough, books are on for "Buy One and Get Another at Half Price".

And that isn't all - and this is unheard of (at least as long as I have been there) Kits are on sale for 20% off. Now that is a steal of a deal! Never mind the savings on fabric, what about the savings on your time? We have put together some fabulous kits and you can be assured of a lovely quilt that is a joy to put together. Perfect for when you want that special handmade gift but don't have a lot of time...

And for those of you who think you can't fit a stitch more of fabric on your shelves, you don't have to miss out on the deal of the week... thread is on sale "Buy One, Get One Free". (And let me just say from personal experience, you can always fit more fabric on your shelf.)

And now to other important business...

We have a special gift for all those who brought in their completed fairy project - a matching fairy heart!

We really appreciate it when you play along with us and wanted to give a special, keepsake "thank-you", so when you come in to pick up your fairy project don't forget to pick up your heart as well.

And for those who missed out, - as Jan and Lucille would say, "You must remember, you never know what we'll come up with next ."

So please, keep in touch and don't be a stranger - there is always something happening at the Sewing Basket!

Fairy Quilts

2010-04-23T18:54:00.000-07:00

What a Friday Demo we had today!

At the last Demo Jill threw out the idea for a mini Fairy Challenge - and look what we got back!

Lucille's - mini quilt

Marj's - mini quilt

Jill's - Fairy- oops- Flower Press

Margaret's - mini quilt

Mary's - mini quilt

Debbie's - mini quilt

Sharon's - Gardener's Diary

Everyone agreed to let us keep them at the store for a while for all to see and they are now happily residing in the window, peering out at the world. And they are so, so charming - you just have to come and see them. Rumour has it there may even be a few more to come...

We are so appreciative of the participation we received and a very big and special thank you to all of the ladies that took part. There will be a gift for all the participants from Jill for joining in her fun (addiction, really, if the truth be known) so check back here next Friday for details.

The regularly scheduled Demos are finished for now but we may surprise you with one or two over the course of the summer - you never know what Jan has up her sleeve, or in her head, so please stay tuned.

And don't forget about the 27th Anniversary Celebration throughout May. We'll be posting all about on here and the website and as usual there will be a surprise or two for our blog Followers.

Thank you so much for support and kind words over the Demo season - we work hard to make it fun for you!

Sneak-A-Peek

2010-04-20T13:33:00.001-07:00

At the last demo, ten people took on the Fairy Challenge - pay $1.00, choose a fairy block and come back in two weeks with your creation. Ten people! I must say we weren't expecting such a great response, considering it was such an impromptu challenge. And, I have heard of two people at least that have theirs finished! (I am not one of them either...)

But here's a sneak peek of something I am doing with a fairy I cut out of an all-over fairy print we have at the store. She is the Queen of the Meadow Fairy and her domain is where the wet grasses grow.

There is a lovely little poem about her which might be found in here someday...

And then of course, I am still working on my fairy panel!

And finishing many other things: two wall hangings, three table runners, two pincushions, one Dresden wreath, plus the above two...

How many do you think I will actually have done for Friday?

Leave your guess and we'll see who knows me best!

As Promised

2010-04-08T18:55:00.000-07:00

As promised here are some pictures to give a few clues about what you might see during our sojourn in England.

Remember, this is the land of gardens...

And the home of large floral chintz combined with plaid...

and fairies...

Flower Fairies and Woodland Fairies and Christmas Fairies

And so much more!

Leave a comment about what comes to your mind when you think of what you might look for if you were on a quilting holiday in England.

We'll do the usual draw at the Demo but if you have signed up as a Follower of the Sewing Basket blog you will get an extra entry and our Demo Special will have an extra boost for Followers as well.

So come join the fun!

Jolly Old England

2010-04-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post this morning and I'll be back tonight with pictures to tempt you with.

For tomorrow's demo we are off to England, a country full of quilting inspiration. From their beautiful gardens to their imaginative story tellers they have provided us with endless design ideas.

We'll have all sorts of interesting ideas and new twists on old favourites, plus the usual Special Deal for attendees. And this week, a special bonus but you must sign up as a Follower of our blog for that. Tomorrow at noon we'll be making a list - checking it twice - oops! Too early in the year for that!!!

But get signed up and check back later tonight or early tomorrow for more.

And see you Friday!

The Travel Demo

2010-03-24T09:37:00.001-07:00

The right answer to "Where's the Demo?" was France and congratulations to Sharon for guessing right! Her prize was a lovely handcrafted flower pin that can be worn as a brooch or pinned on to just about anything.

We also had one metre lengths of beautiful wired ribbon in a rainbow of colours for the other "guessers" to thank them for participating.

Below is a picture of a toile print and that is the subject of the first question for this week's Demo give-away: "What is the proper name for toile fabric from France?"

Leave the answer in a comment and we'll pick a random winner from all the right answers - and of course, you must attend the Demo to receive a prize!

Below is another picture with a different toile and just the corner of a Layer Cake featuring a line of reproduction French fabrics. Leave the name of that fabric line in your comment for another chance to win a prize at Friday's Demo.

We have so many "French" quilting items in the store we are going to stay in France for this week's Demo as well.

So make sure you come in and take a look at all the lovely patterns and fabrics that speak "Ooh la la" in any language!

Demo Fun

2010-03-08T15:44:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendar and save the date!

Friday, March 12 is our next Demo and do we have some fun planned for you....

People all over the world are quilting and we thought we would take you on a little discovery tour. We picked a country and have found an array of patterns, fabrics and notions to share with you!

We'll be "travelling the world" over the next few Demos and would love for you to join us. There will be some fabulous give-aways and idea sheets to share, plus specials just for attending - you don't want to miss the fun!

And to start things off - see if you can guess where we're going first. Leave a comment with your guess and we'll do a draw at the Demo from all the correct answers.

So good luck and see you Friday March 12 at 1:30!

Ciao, A Bientot, G'Day, Adios, Arrivederci, Jolly Good!

2010-02-08T15:49:00.000-08:00

Quilt Retreat

We have our bi-annual Quilt Retreat coming soon and there are still a few spaces open.
It is Thurs. - Sun. April 8-11 at Gardom Lake Bible Camp. It's a great opportunity to get some projects done. No meals to prepare, no housework, no phone interuptions!! Wow what a lot you can accomplish. Friendship & sharing is the theme. If you'd like to join us - please call asap. (250) 832-3937. The cost is $175 + gst.

2010-02-08T12:04:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Carol Bold - the winner of the Janome Sewing Machine. We hope you enjoy your machine Carol.

Our Open House & Show & Tell was a wonderful success. We couldn't believe how many people came. It was standing room only!! Thank you all for your support.

The Show & Tell was great. We have some very talented quilters in our midst. Your projects were beautiful. Thank you all for sharing.

With all this mild weather it's time to think about spring. We have new fabrics arriving daily. Also a huge new order of wool has come in for all you knitters. The colours are beautiful.

We've also received lots of wool roving for needlepunch.

So drop in and see all the new things.

2010-01-12T11:31:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year!

Now that the holidays are over we are raring to go with our

New Class Schedule.

If you haven't received one in the mail - drop in & pick one up or view the list on our website. There are lots of new exciting classes - something for everyone!

Our Pick Your Discount Sale continues to Sat. Jan. 16 -

don't miss out this great opportunity to get some good deals.

Also on Sat. Jan. 16 we are having our

OPEN HOUSE & SHOW & TELL.

There will be lots of draws -

if the Janome Machine lucky number isn't claimed by then

we will also draw for that. Also for the rest of the week -

you can enter again for the draws with a purchase over $25.

Wish Lists

2009-12-04T19:16:00.001-08:00

What's on your wish list?

Are you wishing you could whip up a beautiful little wall hanging like the one below? Jan made this charming "sampler" wall hanging using die cuts from our brand new die-cutter. Die cuts are perfectly cut fabric shapes and we have stockings, mittens, stars, trees, snowflakes, and light bulbs. Although they make getting ready for Christmas easy as pie, there is one other item we have in stock that can make it even easier ... scroll down....

This is what we're talking about!

This is just the thing you need to get the job done.

Or, wouldn't it be just the thing sitting under your Christmas Tree?

We already have customers that have entrusted us with their "Wish List" so we can point loved ones in the right direction for the perfect gift. If the truth be told our husbands, sons and daughters don't always know what would be exactly the right gift for their resident quilter but they do know how much we all appreciate a gift that truly allows us to keep giving. So come on in, take a look around and let us know if there is anything that would be the perfect thing on your Wish List!

Happenings at the Shop!

2009-11-04T20:59:00.000-08:00

Jan, Kathie and Lucille are quilting away the hours at the Sewing Basket's Semi-Annual Retreat at Gardom Lake and Cheryl and Jill are holding down the fort at the shop. And they have been busy, busy, busy.

Five boxes of freight arrived just today and we now have a selection of Christmas buttons that is just too cute! Snowmen, snowflakes, candy canes galore, plus beautiful hearts and Old-World style buttons that will add just the perfect touch to those holiday projects. And, yarn.....

After a busy afternoon of unpacking, we have filled the shelves again - in fact, we were so busy in the yarn department today Cheryl had to keep stepping out to make room for the customers. It seems people are knitting more than ever and the word has got out that we have the best selection of yarn in Salmon Arm!

And here's a picture of our new yarn kits. Everything you need is in the kit - needles, pattern, yarn and buttons or zippers and zipper pulls - no need to go searching for those special finishing touches as they are already all put together in an easy-pack tote.

The classroom is empty tomorrow and we have a number of people who intend to come for an hour or two or three to finish up projects from previous classes. We love having you stop by to show us what you have been doing, or making use of the classroom when it is free. It is a wonderful space and we are happy to share it with you when it is free. And, it is always entertaining!

So be sure to come in, and "sit a spell"!

Win A Prize!

2009-09-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

Today is the first Friday Demo of the Fall Season and we have so much to share with you about what is new in the store! This year we have added a lot of Hallowe'en fabrics to our fall lineup. It seems Hallowe'en gets bigger and bigger every year so check out what we have!

We keep adding to our collection of bag-making supplies and are now stocking large grommets - perfect for a lot of the new bag patterns we are getting in.

For today's Demo we are offering up a prize! To get your name entered you must write down a type of yarn we blogged about in a previous post. Come to the Demo and when you get here, find that yarn in the store and write down the price of it. Add your name and enter it in to the draw for a fabulous prize. It's our first blog give-away so it's a special one!

See you soon!

Keeping You In Stitches!

2009-09-18T14:32:00.000-07:00

Wow! Our Mystery Sale was a super success! Thanks to all of you that came and enjoyed some fantastic sales and specials; staff members and customers alike had a wonderful day.

We have again had truckloads of new arrivals and we are busy finding space to fit it all in! That's not always the easiest thing to do either. Lots of new Amy Butler patterns and fabrics have arrived; for those of you not familiar with Amy Butler Designs you must come and see these!

Our yarn section is also expanding very quickly with many new shades and varieties for Fall. One of the new yarns is Tweed Montage, a wool/acrylic blend by Kertzer and is perfect for sweaters.

The monster balls of Marble Chunky have literally disappeared on us TWICE and the new colours are "STUNNING". Tarryn showed us an afghan she is crocheting with it and WOW - Jill is also knitting a sweater using it and she says she can't put it down. The amazing thing about this yarn is that it is variegated and every row is a "surprise".

The countdown is officially on to the first Demo of the season. Next Friday at 1:30 is the time to mark on your calendar so you can come down and see what we have in store for you!

Gotta run now - there are even more boxes to be opened. It's like Christmas every day here!

Some Exciting News!

2009-09-11T16:50:00.000-07:00

Jan is back from her holidays with lots of new ideas and some exciting news! She attended the Canada Summer Games in PEI with her grandaughter Chelsea who was competing in the Swimming Events and came home with a Gold a Silver and a Bronze medal! Wow!!!

In the store, we have just received new colours of existing lines of yarn plus some new varieties so if you're a knitter come in and check them out. And if you're not a knitter, we can help you with that too - just check our Fall Schedule posted on the website for knitting classes.

The mystery of the Mystery Sale has been solved! The signs are made, the balloons are up, the Gift Basket is full of wonderful treats any quilter would love and we have 50 door prizes ready to go! We also have amazing specials for you to check out and one even involves a penny!

We have had many people tell us the line up of Fall Classes is the best ever, so come down, check out the class samples and see what we have in store for you!

Fall Classes!

2009-09-01T12:15:00.000-07:00

Hi there - this is Jill!

We are playing with photography today so here is a picture of Shirley's sample for her upcoming New York Beauty class. It's a stunning rendition of this popular pattern - next time you are in the shop you will have to check it out!

We have lots of the samples on display, but there are still a few more to come so check back often as we will be posting more pictures over the next few days and weeks.

We are so excited to be able to offer such a full roster of classes for this fall and many of them are filling fast!

2009-08-25T10:47:00.000-07:00

Good Morning everyone - this is Kathie today.
This is a new experience - my very first Blog. Jill tells us it is very easy.
Just wanted to let you know that our class list is out. If you haven't received one in the mail you can view it on our website or drop in and pick one up. There's some really exciting classes.

Also New Fabrics are arriving daily - it's just like Christmas opening the parcels. How can fabrics get more beautiful every year! The store is FULL! It's time to get on with those Christmas projects.

For you Knitters - we also received a huge shipment of new yarns. They are gorgeous - almost makes me want to knit!

Hope you've all had a good summer (despite the smoke). See you soon.

Getting There!

2009-08-23T08:29:00.000-07:00

Hi this is Jill posting away on a Sunday! I have been busy with our Blog Designer Lauren Nelson getting all these graphics done and now I am trying to load them up. I must say, and I think you'll agree it's looking pretty darn good!

Once this "construction" part is finished we will get some fun happening here so please check back often!

What Fun!

2009-08-19T19:22:00.000-07:00

So - we are going to try out a new toy! We are in the process of updating the website and thought it might be easier, (and more fun!) to have a blog for the store as well. That way we can tell you more often what is new and what we are up to in the shop. We need feedback though so please leave a comment when you visit and tell us what you think and any suggestions you have - we want this blog to be as much fun for you as it is for us!

There are six of us that work in the store: Jan, Kathie, Cheryl, Lucille, Jill and Vi so the plan is we can all take turns updating the blog. Should be easy enough!?! So to start with, we'll tell you a bit about who we are and what we do.... Jan owns the store and has the most ideas! She designs a lot of our patterns and is always thinking up something new to do - never a dull moment!

Kathie does the ordering of notions and books and patterns etc. and between her and Jan they keep the store in stock with all the wonderful things you need or want. (The rest of us make lots of suggestions too!)

Cheryl looks after the yarn and needlework and the book-keeping, Lucille is tasked with co-ordinating the class schedule and Jill and Vi help out with whatever needs to be done. (though they have been known to rearrange things in the store a bit when they are working together!). Really though, we all chip in and help with whatever needs to be done and I think you would agree it's a pretty good team!

So, stay tuned and we'll have some fun!