Vintage Rouge Block of the Month

Vintage Rouge will be our next block of the month running June – November 2012. Finished size: 78″ x 78″

Block of the month quilts are meant to challenge quilters to try something new. Each month, for six months, you'll receive fabrics and Vicki Bellino's directions for a section of the quilt with piecing, applique, English paper piecing and embroidery techniques.  Call today to reserve your kits - we will be announcing class times and dates very soon.  Becky Madasz will be teaching this exciting class.  Class attendance is not required to purchase the kits. 

This classic red and green quilt was designed by Vicki Bellino of Bloom Creek Quilts using Vintage Rouge by Marcus Fabrics.

Once again we will have a LIMITED amount of kits. When they are gone, they are gone. If you are interested in participating in this block of the month, please contact us today at 727-461-4171 or email us at countryquilts@tampabay.rr.com.

FREE Wool Demonstration!

Wool is the newest trend in needlework.  Join us Saturday, June 2, 9:00 to 12:00, for a FREE lecture with the option of a hands-on “Make It – Take It” project given by Marsha Hicks from  Checker Distributors.  Marsha is going to demonstrate the use of wool in needlework and wool appliqué.  If you wish to participate in this hands-on learning project, there will be a minor kit fee of $7.50.  Included in the kit is all the wool required to complete the pincushion as well as the needle, Perle Cotton, and crushed English Walnut Shells for stuffing.  You will leave Country Quilts and Bears with the above pictured pin cushion ready to use.  Come and join in the fun!!!  Please call the shop to reserve your seat, as space is limited.

Plan A Family Picnic!

Your whole family will enjoy this fun Watermelon Quilt that can double as the perfect picnic blanket!  Ants included.  The Watermelon Quilt was made from a pattern that we found in the 108 - page book, Simplify by Camille Roskelley.  This book is included with the kit for $69.00 and the kit makes up into a 56" X 65" quilt.

Don't forget that wedding season is just around the corner and this would be a perfect gift for the bride and groom.  Come by the shop today and see our sample!     

Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms from all of us at Country Quilts and Bears.

Shop Challenge!!!

OK, all of you talented ladies - it's time again for our shop challenge.  After a short hiatus we've decided to hop back in and see what the incredibly talented quilters who hang out at our shop create for the competition.  We've chosen four exciting new Bali fabrics to stir your imagination.  Using the Balis we've chosen for the challenge, you may use a published pattern or create your very own design to complete your entry.  The kit consists of four half yard cuts of beautiful Hoffman Balis and can be purchased for $19.95.  We can't wait to see what you create.  The fabrics are shown below: 

Country Quilts and Bears Challenge Rules

1.  Must use some of the four challenge fabrics.

2.  Can include up to four more fabrics.

3.  Please create smaller items.  No large quilts.

4.  Must have personal quilting either hand or machine.  No professional longarm quilting.

5.  Embellishments allowed.

6.  Your entry must be returned to Country Quilts by October 1, 2012.

7.  Entries will be on display so customers can vote for their favorite during the month of October.

8.  Winners will be announced and prizes awarded the 1st week of November.

1st Place:    $75.00 Gift Certificate

2nd Place:  $50.00 Gift Certificate

3rd Place:  $25.00 Gift Certificate