Monday, April 26, 2010

April 26, 2010

I am finally getting around to teaching the fundamentals of quilting class that I talked about many moons ago.  Based on Harriet Hargrave’s book, Quilter’s Academy, Vol. 1—Freshman Year, this will be a comprehensive skill-building course.  I am offering this class to students of all skill levels, from “never quilted before” to “advanced sewers”.  I’ve found that many of you are self taught or haven’t taken classes in many years.
 
This series of 8-10 three hour sessions must be taken in order, without missing a class.  Knowing how difficult a commitment like this is to busy people, we will be starting several different sessions on different days of the week and at different times of the day so that if you miss a class you have another time to fit it into your schedule.  The 3 hour session will cost $15.00 and will be pay as you go.  Students must sign up and pay in advance of the class.  The first session will begin on Saturday, June 12 from 10-1 and also June 16 from 10-1.  For the first session all you need to bring to class is Harriet’s book, a notebook and pencil.  This is a course for machine sewing and you are required to have your own machine for the course.  Sign up now.
 
I’ve decided not to sell my personal sewing table set up from home.  It is just too perfect for me (Deke will just have to break down more walls to accommodate my quilting habit).  I am selling two of my Berninas, a 1260 and a 1530, used but never abused, with complete accessories.  Each machine is between $1250-$1600 with the additional feet and acrylic tables.  Email me for more detailed information.
 
My coloring book is taking off even without having it in my hands (May 1 is target date for delivery to me).  Thank you for your emails and orders.  Tell everyone about it!

Monday, April 19, 2010

April 19, 2010

I am bursting with pride.  The coloring book of quilts that I’ve been working on for 6 months has gone to the printer and will be available after May 1!  The book is called Quilts: Color by Number.   I designed the book, with 12 quilts, to show children that quilts look different when the same pattern is used with different colors.  Identical patterns are depicted on facing pages numbered differently.  There are blanks, which can and should be photocopied, so that the child can experiment with his/her own creativity.
 
Hopefully, the child will want to sew one or more of the quilts.  There will be a CD of all the patterns in the coloring book plus basic construction information.  Individual patterns and kits will also be available.  The pieces are large enough for little fingers to handle and patterns are simple so the child can satisfactorily complete the quilt (with your help).  I have made this collection of book, CD, and quilt kit “a la carte” to be cost friendly to you, my customer. 
 
My intention is to bring color and sewing to children.  I also see this as a means of bringing generations close together with a common thread—the joy of quilting.  We are accepting pre-orders now, scheduled shipping in early May, click here.  I urge you to join in the fun.  You can purchase several books with only one shipping charge.  Please tell your local quilt shops about this book which is available to them wholesale by ordering from Heartbeat Quilts or from their local distributor.  Several teachers have expressed an interest in having the books for their students, so please ask about teacher discounts!
 
You are the first to get this information!  The coloring book for adults is in the works already.  Thank you for your support.

Monday, April 12, 2010

April 12, 2010

Elly Sienkiewicz’s workshops this past weekend were fantastic as always.  Did you know that she only teaches once a month?  We have chosen the workshops for 2011 and have added 2 additional days to the schedule.  The “Clipper Ship” pattern class, center medallion (in Elly’s new book Beloved Baltimore Album from C&T due out October 2010) is in such demand across the country that we are offering it once again on Mon-Tues May 2-3, 2011.  Don’t miss this opportunity to sew with Elly at Heartbeat.  Plan ahead because these classes fill quickly.  Call with any questions.
 
My Thunderbird sold immediately (advertised here last week) to a customer’s husband who is as pleased as I am with his purchase.
 
By now you might have surmised that I am downsizing.  One item that you might have interest in purchasing is my sewing “set up” from my home.  Top quality, custom made for my specifications, it consists of 3 pieces of furniture, a 72” sewing desk, center opening with 3 drawers on each side, a left side 72” extension with 2 large top drawers and 2 large bottom cabinets, and a 72” counter height matching cutting table with 2 large drawers 2 bottom cabinets.  The set is light oak wood with malachite green Formica tops and matching knobs.  It is in mint condition.  I am sorry to part with it but it won’t fit in my new digs.  It is not inexpensive but worth every penny.  If you are interested, call or email me.  I will post pictures soon.
 
Remember that Mother’s Day is arriving soon. Heartbeat is closed, as always, on that day.  Ask you loved ones to purchase a Gift Certificate for you well in advance, we can accommodate orders on line with an e-Certificate or call in the order on our toll free line.  Phone orders can be filled for any dollar amount.
 Sunshine abounds on the Cape.  I planted pansies this weekend at the store and we want to see you here.  Don’t forget to contact Ricky Tims about the September 2-4, 2010 Quilt Seminar here in Hyannis.  rtqs@rickytims.com

Monday, April 5, 2010

April 5, 2010

This week is “Elly Sienkiewicz Week” at Heartbeat Quilts. Elly is teaching Thursday through Sunday. The good news for you is that we have a few openings (due to cancellations) in the Thursday, April 8 class. Join us for an unforgettable hand appliqué experience with Elly enhanced by a scrumptious lunch prepared byLiz and me.
Call today to register: (800) 393-8050


In addition, we are offering for the first time on line, some of Elly Sienkiewicz’s long out of print books. Prices vary according to condition of the book. All the books are in excellent condition (some brand new). If you order this week Elly will personally autograph the book for you. There aren’t many books so order today. Please call in your order so you can specify the price of the book you desire.

Also, we have some of Elly’s vintage fabrics in fat quarters and on the bolt. Call to order these as well since we want to give you personalized service.

Lots of new products are arriving daily. This past weekend Deke and I got out on the bike (Harley, of course). What a great ride we enjoyed! 
Please visit us on the Cape and enjoy the sunshine and fresh sea air!

PS I am selling my 2002 red Ford Thunderbird convertible, black/red interior, which has been babied by me since conception. The mileage is under 16,000, excellent condition, never driven in the winter, always garaged, complete with separate hard top (opera windows), carrier for hardtop storage with cover, and boot cover. Price: $19,999. Email me if you are interested Helen@heartbeatquilts.com.