Welcome to New Subscribers

Thank you for subscribing to my newsletter.  This is the best place to find out about upcoming new classes and events held at the Cadet Training Centre.  You will also get information about local quilt exhibitions, shows and groups to inspire you.  If you know of something that you would like to have included in the next newsletter please email me the details for consideration.

Included in this issue: Covid Update, Making Contact, Bring and Buy Sale, Classroom Etiquette, Ring in the Changes, Class Focus and Anniversary Special ..

Covid update

At last restrictions are starting to be lifted.  It’s been a long haul but now we can look forward to start getting on with our lives in the way we want to, although I think it will take us a while to get used to being able to go out and freely socialise again.  We will of course be living with the spectre of Covid for the rest of our lives so I’m sure we will need to continue to adjust our behaviours accordingly as time progresses.  I will continue to monitor government advice and make any adjustments as necessary. 

Nevertheless, I’m pleased to be able to return classes to an almost pre-Covid status so Thank You to everyone for continuing to support the business over the past 18 months and by returning to class or booking new ones as we move slowly forward.  As you are no doubt aware, many smaller businesses have had to shut over the last year, so I’m really pleased to be able to keep going. 

Please ensure you are aware of the following steps before coming to your next class. 

For classes from 19th July 2021 this means that:   

The Galley and the Wardroom will remain out of bounds until at least the beginning of September when I hope to be able to reopen them again for our use.  In the meantime, breaks can be taken outside or on the deck area to allow for increased socialisation. 

I will continue with enhanced cleaning practices and using the services of an independent cleaning service before class.  This will help to protect us all against future viruses so first entry to the centre will continue to be set at 9.15am to allow for this. 

You should continue to bring all your own equipment including a small/travel iron and pressing mat.  (If you would like to make an Iron Travel Caddy to facilitate this please see below in Class Focus for more information). 

Making Contact 

Now that the class timetable has been re-established can I remind everyone that my working days are usually Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.  I aim to respond to queries within 48 hours, but this isn’t always possible – especially over the weekend – so please wait at least 48 hours before contacting me again.   

I ask everyone to make sure they understand what is required of them for homework before they leave class but occasionally issues arise where you would like more guidance.  In these cases, you should be aware that current class notes are usually kept at the centre so there may be an extended delay to my response. 

Generally speaking, in order for me to provide you with the best advice, the best ways to contact me are as follows: 

Classroom Etiquette – Students Code of Conduct 

Now that the first flush of excitement at being back in class is over and we are getting settled back into routine can I remind everyone to respect the needs of other class members and adhere to the following practices. 

Arriving late 

I ask everyone to arrive in good time for class to start at 9.30am with doors opening at 9.15am to allow settling in time.  However, I understand that there are times when a student needs to arrive late for class either due to traffic delays or for personal reasons.  Unfortunately, this can be very disruptive for others once class has started, especially when students try to unpack their belongings in class at the same time that I am talking to the group.   

To minimise disruption, you should leave all your things outside the classroom including coats etc.  Please just unpack and bring a pen, paper and any class reference book into the classroom and quietly take your place.  Any explanations and apologies needed can wait until I have finished the first section of the class.  Once the class is underway, I will then bring you up to speed on anything you’ve missed.  It is not appropriate for you to try and find out from other students as you will be encroaching on their class time. 

Mobile Phone calls 

I have always been happy for students to keep their mobile phones switched on as I know that it is sometimes inevitable that you need to take important calls.  However, out of courtesy to others, if your phone does ring then please either silence the call or take the call away from the classroom to protect your privacy and minimise interruption to the wider class.  If possible, please put your phone into vibrate mode during class hours (me too) as this is less intrusive than the various personalised message alerts and ringtones.   

Listening 

It is important not only to actively listen to instructions given in class, but also to be mindful that those with hearing difficulties may struggle if there are constant interruptions or people talking in the background.  When new material is being presented it is natural to want to clarify points, but this should be done in a suitable manner.  I always allow time for questions at the end of a presentation, and this is the proper time to ask for clarification. 

Sharing Knowledge 

I am aware that there have been occasions recently where class has been disrupted by students interrupting information giving sessions, offering “advice”, giving unsolicited opinions, or just generally trying to engage in social chit chat with other class members when they are working.   

It is important that all students have a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere in order to be able to simply enjoy their time in class or concentrate on new techniques and this is particularly true of the less experienced students.  Whilst there are occasions where it is beneficial for students to share experiences, this should be in appropriate circumstances and when requested.  It is important that the student receiving information is not confused by receiving differing advice to that given by Myself, Denise or Richard.  

Socialising 

Many of my students live alone, have specific health needs, or have caring responsibilities.  These students therefore welcome not only the solace, but also the social interaction and companionship they receive by coming to class.  This means that all students should be courteous and tolerant towards others needs and abilities so that everyone can learn at their own pace and enjoy their time in class.  I will of course ensure that there is plenty of time in the tea/coffee breaks and at lunch time for general social engagement as appropriate. 

As adults, I expect everyone to be aware of their behaviours in the classroom setting and make every effort not to disturb others unnecessarily.  I look to the more experienced students to keep this in mind when part of a mixed ability class and to support me by ensuring that newer students, in particular, have the calm space they need.   

There’s no need to bring the kitchen sink!   

Imagine if I always brought all of my class notes – just in case I needed something - I'd need a large lorry!  To avoid this, I check my diary for the week ahead and pack the things I will need for the classes in that week.  This helps me to focus on what is needed and also helps me to collect together any items I’ve been using at home.  It’s not fool proof of course but better than bringing a lorry load each day!

So, maybe it’s time for all of you to give a bit of thought to the amount you bring and to help you here is a short guide: 

1. Sewing machine with feet, power lead, foot pedal, spare bobbins, needles and instruction book 
2. Rotary cutter and a spare blade, cutting mat (18’’ x 24’’ is big enough), long ruler and a square ruler if you have one 
3. Two pairs of scissors – a small pair for snipping threads and a larger pair for cutting bigger pieces of fabric 
4. A needle case filled with different sized needles, a thimble, and a needle threader if you have one and a fabric marker if liked 
5. A small selection of threads including a piecing thread such as Presencia or Aurifil 
6. A notebook, pen, pencil, and highlighter  
7. A small selection of spare fabric for sampling or for when you change your mind 
8. Course requirements, including templates or equipment, as specified 
9. Relevant handouts and course reference books 
10. Most important of all – Lunch and a drink if staying all day! 

Layers are best 

Obviously, there are no rules for what you should wear to class however, the temperature in the classrooms can be quite variable from day to day as the weather is an unpredictable beast and the building can be slow to react.  Mondays are especially tricky as the building will generally not have been used over the weekend. 

Whilst I do the best I can to ensure we have a comfortable sewing space by arriving early and firing up the heating or opening all the doors and windows there are times when it just takes too long to adjust due to the construction materials of the building.  

Why shouldn’t I leave my machine in the car overnight? 

Apart from the obvious worry of having it stolen - it’s tempting to get everything packed up the night before class and put it in the boot of the car ready for a quick getaway in the morning.  However, it’s not a good idea to leave your machine in the car overnight – especially if it is not garaged and the weather is either very hot or very cold and damp. 

This is because when you bring the machine in to the centre, atmospheric condensation can form on the outside and inside of your machine.  It can take as long as an hour for the machine to come to room temperature and be safe to use, wasting valuable class time.  This is especially true for electronic/ computerised machines. 

Far better to leave it in the house until you are ready to leave and put your car keys with it or maybe pop a post-it note on the door to remind you not to forget it! 

Take it Easy in the Autumn

There are times when it’s good to take a slower pace and these three handicraft disciplines provide the perfect opportunity to do so.  Ideal for taking on holidays and especially nice to do in the colder months when you can curl up in front of the TV with a nice hot drink and stitch contentedly away.   

All levels of experience are welcome as you can learn the basics as a beginner or improve your existing skills as you work on your own project in pleasant company.   

Right and Left-handed people are accommodated and there is an existing cohort of students working across all of these areas who would love to welcome you to the group.  Starting on 8th October you can join for either a Full day or a Half-day to suit your lifestyle and because it is an ongoing class you can choose to join at any time.

 It's all about stitching a project by hand and taking the time to pause and reflect on what you're sewing and enjoy the moment. 

Make an embroidery sampler, a cross stitch picture or a more intricate project and find help and inspiration along the way. Beginners start with a simple running stitch and then embark on a journey through chain, Herringbone and Tete de Beouf stitches, as well as the ever popular, Cross Stitch and Blackwork.  

Beginners will learn the fundamental basics of crochet including, how to read a pattern, make chain, double, treble and slip stitches and make a traditional Granny Square.  Improvers can work on their own project secure in the knowledge that I will be on hand to give advice on yarn choices, new stitches and of course share some handy tips. 

Full day    9.30am to 3.30pm    £52.00 per month

Morning    9.30am to 12.00pm    £32.00 per month

Afternoon    1.00pm to 3.30pm    £32.00 per month

Ref 273/2021
Starting Friday 8th October 2021 

Ring in the Changes for the New Year

Lovely and bright to cheer up those grey winter months this quilt contains many elements including a special quick curve ruler, curved piecing, circular applique and even some stitchery.   Perfect for using some of those lovely odds and ends from your stash or maybe you’ll want splash out on some lovely new fabrics?  Why not add your favourite fabric range to your Christmas wish list and leave it where Santa can see!! 

Book now to reserve your place and select your preferred joining bundle and all with no joining fee to pay until 1st September 2021.  I only mentioned it in passing to a class last week and places are already being filled! 

Class Focus 

Make a stunning quilt from one fabric and one block!

Do you remember Bring and Buy Sales? 

Blue Peter's iconic Bring and Buy sales began in the 1970s and have been used to fundraise for various charities since then!  

A bring-and-buy sale is an informal sale to raise money for a charity or other organization. People who come to the sale bring things to be sold and buy things that other people have brought. 

This summer we are holding our very own Bring and Buy from 22nd July 2021 to 27th August 2021 in memory of Tricia Thompson (1964-2020) a keen quilter and stash builder. Tricia, whom some of you may have known, was Jayne's cousin and fellow patchworker. Sadly she passed away in November 2020 after a long battle with Breast Cancer.

Anyone can come to class between those dates and either bring or buy (or both) and all proceeds will be donated to Cancer Research.  We have a small stash ready and waiting for the first ones through the door!  Patterns, kits, fabric …….. 

The rules are simple: 

Bring a maximum of 5 saleable items relating to Patchwork, Quilting or Embroidery (but not books or magazines) and donate a minimum of £1 for each item you bring 

Buy as many items as you like and donate a minimum of £1 for each item you buy 

Anniversary Virtual Exhibition

The virtual exhibition gallery this time has a focus on courses using the fabulous Marti Michel Perfect Patchwork templates and patterns – American Beauty, Four Patch Chain, Jamestown, Hidden Stars, Romance Continues 

Click below to see all of the wonderful projects.

Show and Tell

Wholewheat Treacle Scones

Fiona is out to tempt us again with this longstanding favourite of hers. 

Prep time 15 minutes. Cooking time 8-10 mins. Makes 14 

You can use plain or milk cooking chocolate or your favourite bar.  I used Galaxy! (Increase the amount if you want more coverage than just a drizzle

Method

Pre-heat the oven to 220C/200 fan/Gas mark 7/425F then: 

1. Put the flour in a mixing bowl. Add the butter and rub in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar and baking powder. 

2. Stir the bicarbonate of sugar into the yoghurt then add to the flour mixture with the treacle. Gradually mix in enough of the beaten egg to form a soft but not sticky dough. Knead lightly then roll out on a lightly floured surface until 2cm (3/4 ins) thick.  

3. Working quickly cut out 5.5cm (2 and ¼ ins) circles using a plain biscuit cutter.  Knead and combine the leftover trimmings and continue stamping out into circles until all the mixture has been used. Transfer all the circles to a greased baking tray. Sprinkle the tops of the circles with a little extra flour or leave plain if desired. 

4. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until well risen and browned. Transfer the scones to a wire tray to cool then serve warm or cold, split and topped with jam and cream or creme fraiche. They are best eaten on the day they are made. (Not usually a problem as they are delicious!) 

For date and walnut scones: 

Follow the basic recipe above but stir 100g ready chopped dried dates and 40g chopped walnut pieces into the scone mix just after adding the treacle. Then continue the recipe as above. 

(Recipe from 200 Cakes and Bakes, Hamlyn All Colour Cookbook) 

Things to make you smile!

Terms and Conditions

When signing up for a course or class it's important to know what to expect from me and the facilities that you will be using. You may be wondering...

What happens if I can't attend a class?

Can I change the date of the class that I am booked on?

What happens if the centre is closed due to bad weather?

All of these questions and more are answered in my Terms and Conditions which can be found here

pasturesnewquilting.com/terms-conditions

Before printing, think about the environment.
The content of this message may be confidential, legally privileged and protected by law. Unauthorised use, copying or disclosure of any of it may be unlawful. If you are not the intended recipient please notify the sender and remove it from your system. While attachments to this e-mail are checked for viruses, we do not accept any liability for any damage sustained by viruses.