Craft Focus - Feb/Mar 2020 (Issue 77)

102 MIX & Craft Focus advertising manager Tracy Voice attended a quilting retreat hosted by justhands-on.tv recently. Here’s how she got on patch Late last year, I was lucky enough to be invited to a two-day quilting weekend, organised by justhands-on.tv. Taking place at Langstone Quays Resort, a stunning seaside hotel nestled in picturesque Chichester Harbour, the event consisted of two packed days of craft, offering a fun and educational way to spend the weekend. Expert tutors Valerie Nesbitt, Angela Madden and Julia Gahagan were on hand to guide participants through two projects each day. As a quilting novice, I needed a little help getting started, but once on track, I found the experience hugely enjoyable. The makes on day one included a Christmas card and place mat, while on day two, the course was a little more challenging, focusing on stencils. It was fascinating to learn about quilting in more detail. BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDINGS Langstone Quays is an attractive four-star property with comfortable rooms, delicious food and plenty of parking. Taking place in the hotel’s conference room, the retreat was relaxed and engaging, with buffet- style refreshments, meals and plenty of opportunities to chat and share a laugh with other students. Each participant is asked to bring their own sewing machine and a selection of fabric. There’s also a pop-up shop at the event, offering a chance to purchase crafting supplies and goodies. If you’re looking for an opportunity to develop your skills, this is a lovely experience. The tutors’ knowledge is second to none and each was incredibly patient – there’s always someone on hand to help. It’s no surprise that the weekend is highly recommended, and I’m delighted with my new-found knowledge of this popular craft. FUTURE EVENTS The next quilting weekend takes place on 29 th February and 1st March at Langston Quays. Attendees will have the chance to spend a day with Valerie working with feature fabrics in order to create a beautiful postcard quilt using co- ordinating or contrasting colours. Day two will be spent with Jennie Rayment, who will help students change the pattern of a traditional patchwork block by removing and repositioning part of the design to make a completely new creation. There’s a full programme of events planned for the rest of 2020, including a weekend with Janet Clare at Denham Grove Hotel in Buckinghamshire. Participants will create a fun and lively appliqué quilt designed around Janet’s latest fabric collection. The process will start with jelly rolls and log cabin-inspired