Kathy, this one's for you!

I just spent two glorious days at Cabin Fever Quilt Shoppe in Auburn taking a Shadowbox quilt pattern class. Kathy Sanchez - quilter and instructor extraordinaire - taught the class. Unlike the Japanese Puzzle class which I felt was beyond my skill level (I don't think it is now, BTW), this class was perfect for me. The best part was that the class size was small, so the personal attention from Kathy was ideal. She is such a patient, supportive, and excellent instructor that it is always a pleasure to be in her presence and learn from her. 

At one point, two other women (I think one or both may be Cabin Fever instructors) came into the classroom, sat down and chatted. Kathy apologized later for the noise and said, "It's like 'Cheers' for quilters." I realized this was the perfect description of Cabin Fever, which is one of the things that adds to its charm.

The store has become a haven of sorts for me. Each time I go, I come away with a feeling of peace and of being restored. The added benefit of taking a class from Kathy is that you also learn so much and create a wonderful piece; in this case, a Shadowbox quilt that is beautiful. I used all batik fabrics and they came together very well. I will definitely make more of this pattern because it is contemporary, stylish, and has so many options.

I also got to pick up my finished Japanese Puzzle quilt. All I can say is "Wow!" Kathy did an extraordinary job of adding the flying geese and borders. Shari Bahr did the quilting, which is exquisite. I couldn't be happier. All I have to do is bind it and add a sleeve for hanging. Dear Husband really likes it, which of course makes me very happy!

Next class: Introduction to Machine Quilting taught by Jill Schumacher at Cabin Fever. Then, I get to take another class from Kathy at the end of June. Can't wait.

Will post pictures of the Japanese Puzzle and Shadowbox quilts when they are completed.

Onward we go to more adventures in quilting.