Paramount's Class Schedule! January ~ February ~ March 2010
 Let’s Learn to Quilt Want to learn to quilt? Don’t be overwhelmed. Nita will walk you through the process, step by step, as you make a lovely 18” x 58” table runner. In the first class, we will cover tips for fabric selection, safe rotary cutting, getting a perfect 1/4” seam, proper pressing, and block assembly. The second class will cover making the “quilt sandwich”, basic machine quilting, and finishing. There may be some homework between classes. If you’ve always wanted to try your hand at quilting, but didn’t know how to start, this is the class for you! Or if you tried it on your own with less than great success, this class will make you a very happy quilter. This is a 2-part class.
Date: Tuesdays, January 19 and February 2; 10 am - 4 pm
With this simple technique, the possibilities are endless. Color combinations, block size and block arrangement can really change the appearance of your quilt. During the workshop, we will build some blocks and experiment with various layouts. Our goal will be to complete 12 blocks which can be pieced into a lap/baby quilt top measuring approximately 39” x 50”. This is a workshop class. All skill levels are welcome. Students should be comfortable with sewing an accurate 1/4” seam, and be able to use a rotary cutter.
Nita’s Block of The month 2010 Nita’s 2010 Block of the Month classes start on January 14th. She will be calling everyone soon to get everything organized. If you haven’t heard from her yet, please give us a call. This is a Block of the Month group that Nita started in 1994. She chooses the fabrics for the year, then designs each of the blocks. She even cuts every piece of fabric so all you have to do is come and learn to quilt -- and have a great time. There may still be spaces available. Let us know if you’re interested.
 Build A Shelf: A Followup
For those who have taken the Build A Shelf Class, here is your opportunity to continue the project in a fun and supportive environment. Not only will you have time committed to working on your shelf, Margaret will be there to advise and encourage you.
Even if you’re not taking this class, you simply must come and see this amazing project!
Exploring Simple Crazy Quilt Techniques 
In this workshop, we will explore several techniques for making crazy quilt blocks. From the more traditional block pieced on a foundation, to stack and slice methods, there is something for everyone. A crazy quilt is a great way to use up scraps, “strings” and squares of fabric that are looking for a home. You will have samples of each style to take home for inspiration and you may finish enough blocks for a small quilt.
Basic Computer for Embroidery Machines 
This class is for the “new to embroidery” student (or those who need a refresher). It will cover the how-to’s of getting designs to the embroidery machine, saving designs on the computer, creating archives and folders, and purchasing and downloading designs. This is a beginning embroidery class. Each student will need a laptop computer to bring to class, plus the transfer software for their machine, if applicable.
Software Basics for Embroidery Machines
This class is for the “new to embroidery” student. I will cover the how-to’s of embroidery software and the features that will make your embroidery more successful. I will tailor the class to the brands used by the students, touching on the features of Janome Digitizer, Jr., and Digitizer MB, Bernina EditorPlus and DesignerPlus, and Pfaff File Manager and 4D software. You do not need to have prior embroidery software experience to take this class, but you will need to have basic computer skills like those listed in the Basic Computer for Embroidery Machines class (above). If you don’t have those skills, please sign up for that class. You will need to bring your laptop to class, plus the transfer software for your machine, if applicable. If you do not currently have embroidery software, this is a great class for you to attend so you can see what it does, how it can help you, and find out which software would serve you best.
If you do not already own a laptop computer, and you are considering purchasing embroidery software, please check with us about computer requirements. We can help you make the right choice.
Bernina Software Sampler 2010 
Here’s a great opportunity to learn some of the great features of the Bernina DesignerPlus and EditorPlus Embroidery Software directly from a “virtual” Bernina educator. Each monthly class will include a video lesson directly from Bernina, then some practice time on your own laptop, along with instruction, tips & tricks for completing a specialty project using the embroidery lesson. Even more fun: if you come one month and bring your completed embroidery project to the next month’s meeting, you’ll be entered into our drawing for a prize!
Topics will be announced at class, or you can call a week ahead to find our what’s being taught.
Instructor: Diane Williams
 REdo, REuse, REcycle
Explore ways to re-do, re-use and re-cycle various items, finding new uses rather than discarding them. Old pair of jeans? Bring them along with some contrasting scraps of fabric to appliqué and turn them into a great bag. 100% Wool Sweater? Make mittens or a fantastic tote. T-Shirt? Sew it into a great laundry or grocery carrier. What else? Feel free to bring anything you want to REuse, and Celeste will help you find a way to give it new life. You are welcome to call her ahead of class to discuss ideas, etc.
Freddie Smithies, our Kids Sew teacher, really enjoys sharing her love of sewing with the next generations -- and the kids love learning from her. She has developed some very creative, fun classes to teach them basic sewing skills while they make an exciting project they’ll be proud to show their friends. Sewing is an excellent confidence builder, and a skill they will use the rest of their lives. Come to Paramount and take a look at these great class samples.
This is a cute polar fleece hat that will keep you warm. It’s SEW stylish and fun to make!
Pillow Case 
Let Freddie show you the wonderful, easy “hot dog” way to make a very special pillow case to dress up your room. Date: Tuesday, February 23; 3:30 pm - 6 pm Tuition: $23 Instructor: Freddie Smithies  Click for Supply List
4-Patch Pillows with Appliqué 
These bright and cheerful 4-patch pillows are a real WOW! and they’re fun to make. You’ll learn about quilting and appliqué while you make them.
A fantastic new book by Cindy Taylor Oates has given us some great new ways to learn more about sewing. While making these aprons, you’ll learn TONS of basic sewing techniques that you will use forever. Making one of these aprons is very much like making a dress (but easier). Beginning sewing skills are required. If you have taken one of Celeste’s beginning sewing classes in the past, you’ll really enjoy making these aprons and learning more.
Retro Apron: View B
Retro Apron: View C
This class will teach you how to hoop fabric and hard-to-hoop items, and teach you how stabilizer works and which stabilizer to use. Fabric samples and stabilizer samples will be provided for the class. This is a beginning embroidery class for ANYONE with an embroidery machine. You’ll come away with samples and knowledge that will make your embroidery easy and amazing.
“On The Farm” Quilt 
Michele has done it again with her “On The Farm” embroidery designs, and she’s turned them into a strip quilt that will delight anyone who loves farms, farm equipment, and farm animals. Come and take a look at this wonderful quilt (these photos don’t show the great details), and sign up to make your own farm in her 3-part class. The quilt measures approximately 38” x 45”. Note: you will need to do some of the embroideries at home to complete the quilt by the end of the third class. Instructor: Michele Mishler
Class 1: Plan the quilt, embroidery, etc.
Class 2: Complete the Embroideries:
Class 3: Assemble the Quilt
BSR Blast! Free-Motion Fun 
You are invited to join us for some fun with free-motion sewing using the Bernina Stitch Regulator (BSR). One of the challenges of free-motion work is trying to get a consistent stitch length as you move your fabric. The BSR is a foot that does that for you, so you can concentrate on making your project. Come and experiment with some great techniques including bobbin work, stippling, trapunto and more. Take home a cute project to keep. If you already own a Bernina with a BSR, you’re welcome to bring it. Or if you just want to give one a try, use one of our machines. See what all the excitement is about.
Instructor: Mickie Broy
- - What’s New at PARAMOUNT? - -
Louis Carney. It’s been a lot of years since we’ve been able to get Louis back to Paramount and we’re thrilled he’s returning. Louis started sewing at age 12 and is well known in the sewing industry for his talents. He will be teaching several classes on January 12 & 13, so stay tuned to the Paramount E-News for details!
All Machines When you purchase your Janome, Pfaff or Bernina at Paramount, you get FREE, one-on-one unlimited machine instruction/lessons. Please call to schedule your personal lessons at your convenience. Bernina Sewing Guide Classes This is a series of classes which take you through the main features and feet of your new Bernina (all models). This is one of the BEST ways to really learn to use your machine.
Santa’s Workshops Here are the projects for this term (subject to occasional change):
Woven Heart Baskets
 Roll Brim Hat Mom always said, “Keep you head warm”. It’s easy with this great, cute pattern from The Green Pepper. Let Mickie show you how easy it is to sew with polar fleece. This is an adult multi-size pattern with design options. Date: Friday, February 26; 2 pm - 5 pm Tuition: $5 plus $7 pattern Instructor: Mickie Broy Click for Supply List
Neck Warmer Ever have sore neck muscles? This fast, easy, handy neck warmer will relax and soothe them in a jiffy. Date: Friday, March 26; 2 pm - 5 pm Tuition: $5 Instructor: Mickie Broy Click for Supply List
Hoopsisters Embroidablock 2009 
The unique look of EmbroidaBlock combines piecing with embroidery to produce a look of elegance and add interest to your quilts. The Block of the Month program is designed to give both the novice and master quilter a method of quilting that uses little or no math, requires minimal cutting, is innovative, fun and results in every block sewn to perfection. This is a 10-month project. Come and see the stunning quilts that Diane & Mickie have made, and you’ll want to join in, too.
Hoopsisters Embroidablock 2010
Here’s a preview of the EmbroidaBlock for 2010. It’s called “TNT”: “Textures and New Techniques”. The 10-month program consists of designs for 36 blocks using quilt-as-you-go “in the hoop” methods
This is a hand appliqué class devoted to using a specific and unique appliqué method taught by Glenda. This appliqué method DOES NOT use freezer paper, glue, templates, hemostats, or overlays -- hence the name "No Mess, No Fuss Appliqué". This method is highly portable and able to fit into a baggie in your purse. Please see the “APPLIQUE 2009/2010” projects on Glenda’s website. (Note: There is no www in the site address): http://web.me.com/glyncor/SEWING/ NOTE: New enrollment is closed on Groups A & B.
- - What’s New at Paramount? - -
Donate a Blanket or Quilt to Project Linus 
You might win a $599 sewing machine! Paramount is a drop off point for blankets and quilts you would like to donate to Project Linus. For each blanket or quilt you donate, your name will be entered into a drawing for the sewing machine. At 5:00 on February 27, 2010 we will draw the name of one lucky winner. Learn more about Project Linus: www.ProjectLinus.org Thank You!
Fiesta Vases begins in February using No Mess, No Fuss Appliqué. This is a repeat of a previous class and is the instructor’s favorite project. This is a wonderful project that takes students from beginning to advanced appliqué. The February class is a combination color class, planning session, & shopping trip. The first of 6 appliqué blocks begins in March. All levels welcome.
FMQ 1 - “Focus On Free-Motion Quilting”
This is a beginning free-motion machine class where you will learn to master your sewing machine as you “teach” it to follow your lead. Free-motion quilting is absolutely wonderful for finishing quilts or decorating wearable art, plus this class can be considered an introduction to one of the methods used in thread painting. Stitches and ideas for using this method are endless, so let your imagination go. Although no FMQ skills are required, intermediate machine skills are suggested.
We look forward to sewing with you soon!
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Paramount is now a dealer for the amazing AccuQuilt GO! fabric cutting system. If you’ve struggled with trying to cut accurate quilt blocks -- or you just want to save a LOT of time -- come give it a try. We L-O-V-E it!
I know... we just finished Christmas, but this is the perfect time to get a head start on 2010. If you have ever uttered these words, “Next year I’m going to start making my Christmas presents early so I’m not so stressed out in December!”... then you’re gonna love coming to Santa’s Workshops! Each month we will offer a fun sewing project for you to make (using our machines or yours). Mickie’s students have nicknamed this class Mickie’s SEWcial because they have such a great time sewing and laughing. Come join the fun!
1st Group:
