Have you ever wondered what the perfect quilt retreat would be? We asked and you let us know. Here’s what over one thousand quilters had to say…
How long do you prefer a quilt retreat to be?
- 50% of quilters who responded felt 3 days was perfect for a quilting getaway
- 36% prefer 4 days or more
- Only 9% felt 2 days was enough time
At a quilt retreat, do you prefer to focus on a project or learn new techniques?
- BOTH!!! 63% of respondents want both
- 28% like to focus on a project
- Leaving only 9% preferring to learn a new technique
What type of project would you most enjoy making at a quilt retreat?
- Quilters love to make quilts! 64% of the quilters responding selected making quilts as their favorite project for retreat time
- 25% like to get artsy and make art quilts at retreats
- 12% prefer the idea of making a tote or bag
What size of group do you feel most comfortable in at a quilt retreat?
- 33% of quilters prefer to get away with 6-10 quilting buddies
- Nearly 33% adhere to the-more-the-merrier philosophy of quilt retreats preferring 16-20 attendees
- 29% find 11-15 friends are a good number for a retreat
- Only 5% find 3-5 participants to be perfect
What would you do at your ideal retreat?
If you are looking to plan the perfect quilt retreat, over 850 quilters shared their idea getaway with us. We’ve sorted the abundant list of ideas into handy categories and consolidated similar answers.
The bulk of the answers fit into this submission: Piece. Laugh. Eat. Quilt. Sleep. Repeat.
Technique Workshops
– Learning how to use different rulers for specific blocks
– Stippling
– Cathedral windows
– Advanced piecing techniques
– Foundation paper piecing
– English paper piecing
– Curved piecing
– Appliqué techniques
– Machine embroidery
– Art quilt techniques
– Free motion quilting
– Thread painting
– Improvisational quilting
– Color theory and fabric selection
– Traditional quilting techniques
– Curved rulers or angle quilts
– Trapunto and appliqué
– Quilt design and application
– Long-arm quilting
– Mosaic and appliqué
– Needle turn appliqué
– Landscape or collage quilting
– Mariner’s Compass
– New piecing techniques
– Artistic wall hangings
– Use of quilting templates and rulers
– Using specific quilt patterns or designs
Project-Based Retreats
– Completing UFOs (Unfinished Objects)
– Making a specific quilt pattern or design
– Mystery quilt projects
– Block exchanges
– Row by Row quilts
– Making mini quilts or blocks
– Working on charity quilts
– Making t-shirt quilts
– Making bags, totes, or accessories
– Creating wearable garments
– Making art quilts or wall hangings
– Making traditional or modern quilts
– Making quilted jackets
– Creating quilts with specific themes (patriotic, farmhouse, modern)
– Making quilts with unique techniques (double wedding ring, Lone Star, tumbling blocks, bargello)
– Completing quilts for personal use or as gifts
– Quilts using specific block designs (Log Cabin, Drunkard’s Path)
Skill Enhancement
– Learning to improve specific skills (quarter-inch seams, accurate cutting and piecing)
– Trying new techniques and skills
– Mastering different quilt edges and accents
– Gaining knowledge and exchanging ideas
– Improving hand quilting skills
– Improving machine quilting skills
– Perfecting the use of specific tools (rulers, templates)
– Exploring color value and theory
– Learning how to work with specific fabrics (batik, wool)
– Advanced quilting techniques
– Exploring different piecing methods
– Exploring new construction methods and block placement
Community and Social Retreats
– Building camaraderie with fellow quilters
– Bonding with others who share the hobby
– Networking and making new friends
– Socializing and sharing ideas
– Participating in group activities
– Playing quilting-related games
– Enjoying quality time with quilting friends
– Participating in Round Robin projects
– Trunk shows by well-known quilters
– Show and tell sessions to share progress and tips
Miscellaneous
– Dyeing and painting fabric techniques
– Quilt-related challenges
– Evening activities and relaxation (dancing, stretching, games)
– Sew-alongs and make-and-takes
– Exploring new products and tools
– Demonstrations and workshops
– Food and meal options
– Having dedicated sewing spaces and equipment
– On-site long-arm quilting services
– Retail therapy (visiting quilt shops)
– Quilting challenges with prizes
– Using technology like EQ8 (Electric Quilt)
– Learning specific software or design tools for quilting
Remember that the specific focus of your quilting retreat can vary depending on the preferences and skill levels of your participants. Mix and match elements from these categories to create a quilt retreat program that appeals to your group of quilters.
Incorporating the vibrant tapestry of AQS Quiltweek shows into your quilting retreat experience can elevate it to a whole new level of inspiration and creativity. Imagine spending your days immersed in the world of quilting, learning new techniques, and sharing your passion with fellow quilters. Then, head to the quilt show to explore stunning quilt exhibits, marvel at intricate designs, gather fresh ideas for your own projects, and even enjoy a little retail therapy!
Plan your next quilting retreat around an AQS Quiltweek show and let your creativity flourish in the company of fellow quilting aficionados. It’s the perfect recipe for an unforgettable quilting adventure!
What would be your ideal retreat? Let us know in the comments below.
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