Beginning Smocking
Learn the fundamentals of geometric English smocking  worked on pleated fabric.  After learning basic geometric smocking stitches, you will select a project to complete in class -- with homework, of course!  This class is for the novice or those who wish to refresh their smocking skills.
Three 2 1/2 hour sessions:  $80 includes book, practice piece & pleating for project
Supplies needed:  scissors
Instructor:   Staff

 

Bernina Designer+ Software Club
Join us on Saturday after Software Sampler to take your software "designer" skills to another level.  As a class, you pick the topics you want to delve into and learn.
Cost: $15 per session FREE if you attend Saturday Sampler!  You must sign up in advance!
Supplies:  Bernina Designer+ Software loaded on your laptop, and don't forget your dongle!
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

 

Bernina Embroidery Mastery Classes
In this class you will be introduced to machine embroidery on your new Bernina!
Cost:  Classes are FREE if you have purchased your machine from us.  Otherwise, classes are $50 per session. 
Kit Fee: $5 per class to cover fabrics & stabilizers. You must sign up in advance!
Two hour sessions:  see above  
Supplies:  Your machine and all accessories, guide book, mastery book printed, general sewing supplies, embroidery and bobbin thread
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

 

Bernina Saturday Software Sampler
Join us for this virtual training offered by Bernina Educators in the comfort of our store!  We will go through an online demo/training, then power up your laptop and do the exercise together as a class!  Everyone leaves with a CD of the projects & software class!
Cost: $15 per session You must sign up in advance!
Supplies:  Bernina Software, laptop, materials to print will be emailed to you in advance
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

 

Bernina Serger Mastery Classes
These classes will assure you of bonding with that scary thing you purchased called a serger! 
Classes are FREE if you have purchased your machine from us.  Otherwise, classes are $50 per session.  Kit cost for fabrics/stabilizers required will be $5 per class.
4-5 Two hour session:  see above   You must sign up in advance!
Supplies:  Your serger and all accessories, guide book, mastery book printed, 4-5 cones of serger thread, scissors
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

 

Bernina Sewing Mastery Classes
Now that you have your new machine, learn all about it's great potential in your sewing room!  Each session is 2 hours on Saturday 10am-12:00pm.  Classes are FREE if you have purchased your machine from us.  Otherwise, classes are $50 per session. 
Two hour sessions:  see above  You must sign up in advance!
Supplies:  Your machine and all accessories, guide book, mastery book printed, general sewing supplies
Instructor:  Staff

 

Bernina Serger Mastery Classes
These classes will assure you of bonding with that scary thing you purchased called a serger! 
Classes are FREE if you have purchased your machine from us.  Otherwise, classes are $50 per session.  Kit cost for fabrics/stabilizers required will be $5 per class.
4-5 Two hour session:  see above   You must sign up in advance!
Supplies:  Your serger and all accessories, guide book, mastery book printed, 4-5 cones of serger thread, scissors
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

 

Bernina Software Mastery Classes
In this series of classes you will be exposed to all the features of your exciting Bernina software!  Your Mastery workbook will be your on-going reference manual to help you remember all the things we learn (and forget) in class!   You must sign up in advance!
Three-Five 2 hour sessions:  Classes are FREE if you have purchased your machine from us.  Otherwise, classes are $50 per session.
Supplies:  Bernina software loaded on your laptop, software mastery tutorials/workbook.
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

Bishop Construction  (demo)
Bring your note taking material to this lecture/demo class that will prepare you to go home and make your first bishop dress. This class is great for the beginner or those who find their skills a little rusty. Learn all the little tips & tricks the patterns don't tell you! These dresses are beautiful and timeless.
One 2 hour session:  $30 includes handouts
Supplies:  Note-taking materials - you might want to bring your digital camera
Instructor:  Ruth Sparks
 

Canine Couture - Doggy Coat
In this class we will be making the most adorable one piece doggy coat with a collar. Your canine friends will be wagging their tails with pride!
It's an easy and fun project that goes together in no time. Once you make one, you won't be able to stop.

One 3 hour session:  $30.00
Supplies: Canine Couture book by Linda Gillum $14.98 (pattern included) - Available at Elegant Stitches; fabric for project; sewing machine & general sewing supplies
Instructor: Lori College


Cathedral Windows Tea Towel  
Elegant white-on-white linen tea towel incorporating cathedral lace openings on the bottom, gimp work and machine embroidery.
Pre-requisite: Heirloom Techniques or prior heirloom experience. Good working knowledge of your machine. Embroidery machine capabilities are suggested but not required.
One 5 hour classes: $75 Kit Cost: $14
Supplies:  Sewing machine/accessories, general sewing supplies, white heirloom thread
Instructor: Renee Spell, Certified Martha Pullen instructor
 

Cell Phone Bag    
Unique sewing and folding techniques make this cell phone bag fun and easy to complete. You can may 3 bags lickety-split! Make one and you'll be hooked. This bag accommodates most cell phones, i-phones, blackberries, m-3 players and digital cameras. Its unique pockets make it perfect for those evenings when all you need is your phone, credit card and an ID. Great gift for everyone you know!
One 2 hour classes: $20  Required Pattern: Quiltsmart Cell Phone Bag Kit (includes interfacing for 3 bags)
Supplies:  Your machine & general sewing supplies, fabric/thread, Velcro
Instructor: Lori College
 

Charm Pack Tote Bag   
Easy & Elegant - This bag is fun and unique. Make a fast easy bag using charms (5x5) squares. After one bag, you'll be hooked. Makes a great Holiday gift.
One 3 hour classes: $30 pattern included
Supplies:  Sewing machine & basic sewing supplies, charm pack, 3/4 yd fabric for lining, 2/3 yd Decor Bond, thread
Instructor: Lori College
 

Collars, Cuffs, Piping & Plackets: 
Learn the tips & tricks to make perfect collars & cuffs every time!
One 2 hour session:  $30
Supplies:  Note taking materials
Instructor:  Renee Spell
 

Cubed: Hip To Be Square Serger Quilt!  
Join us for this QUICK new technique for a patchwork quilt by serger. Once you get the hang of this, why not use those scraps from
Scrap Therapy to complete more quilts.....
One 3 hour Class:  $30
Supplies: 64 5" Squares (2 Charm Packs work Great), Serger with 4 cones of neutral thread, scissors, General Sewing/Quilting Supplies
Instructor: Marti Tolbert
 

Dish Towel Jacket
Turn those wonderful dish towels into "wearable art".  This jacket was featured in Sew Beautiful #90 and now you can be part of the class that creates one!  Pre-requisite:  Accomplished seamstress with good working knowledge of your machine & accessories.
Three 4  hour sessions:  $80 includes pattern and kit
Supplies:  Available upon registration
Instructor:  Renee Spell

Easy Serger Projects 
Now that you have that serger, what can you do? A whole list of garments and quilts as well.  Different easy projects each session
One 3 hour session:   $30
Supplies:  Serger in good working order. Fabric and serger Thread to match
Instructor: Marti Tolbert

Finishing Your Quilt
This class will be dedicated to finishing those quilt projects that are stacked in your UFO (Unfinished Object) pile! Learn about sandwiching, basting, quilting and binding. Let's sandwich it all together and get those projects completed for holiday gift giving!
One 3 hour session:  $30
Supplies: Finished quilt top
Sewing machine in good working order with a walking foot
Basic sewing kit including rotary cutter, ruler/mat and safety pins for basting
Batting for your project
Instructor: Pat Tharp
 

Heirloom Techniques by Machine
A three hour class designed for the novice or beginner heirloom sewing enthusiast.  Beginning French sewing techniques will be covered to include roll & whip,
lace joining, working with entredeux and creating beautiful pintucks!
One 3 hour session:  $50 plus $20 kit fee
Supplies:  List available upon registration
Instructor:  Renee Spell - Martha Pullen Licensed Heirloom & Serger Instructor

 

Heirloom Dress by Machine
Now that you have learned all the basic machine heirloom stitches and techniques what's next?  There is no better way to show off your new found talents than to create an heirloom child's dress.  This garment is all white, with lace, beading, ribbon, lace shaping and a little hand embroidery. You will  be guided step by step as you build this precious dress from start to finish. Four 3 hour class sessions with a little homework in between completes your "first" heirloom creation whether for your hope chest or the darling who is waiting in the wings to model! Join us for a few Friday nights this summer as we build upon the basics of heirloom machine work and create a vision of beauty for generations to come.  Students should have prior Heirloom Techniques by Machine class or experience.........no beginning instruction in this class
Four 3 hour sessions:  $75 plus $130 kit fee (includes fabric, laces and pattern)
Supplies:  List available upon registration
Instructor:  Renee Spell - Martha Pullen Licensed Heirloom & Serger Instructor
 

Heirloom Techniques by Serger  
Heirloom sewing from an entirely new perspective! A hands on class where you will learn how to use the serger to produce elegant exquisite heirloom stitching . Serger pintucks and gathering both lace and fabric will be an absolute breeze when you take your serger to the next level............that is the one just above finishing off all your seam allowances!! This is a Martha Pullen Exclusive class!
One 3 hour class:  $50 Plus Kit fee: $12 -- does not include 3 spools of serger thread required for class.
Supplies:  List available upon registration
Instructor: Renee Spell - Martha Pullen Licensed Heirloom & Serger Instructor
 

Heirloom Pintucks & Lace Bonnet (Hands-on)
Simply delightful for a baby, this simple to construct bonnet is made of batiste, lace & entredeaux. Incorporating beginning techniques of heirloom sewing, you will know more than the basics when you complete this lovely heirloom.  Pre-requisite:  Heirloom Techniques by Machine or prior heirloom sewing experience.
One 3 hour session:  $50 plus $25 kit fee
Supplies:  List available upon registration
Instructor:  Renee Spell - Martha Pullen Licensed Heirloom & Serger Instructor

Heirloom Serger Blouse        
From jeans to dinner suits, this is a top you can wear with anything. A center panel is composed of embroidered and eyelet insertions. Decorative serger pintucks border the center
panel. Wide embroidered edging finishes the sleeve edges below a band of the eyelet insertion. The neck edge is finished with a mock piping technique using the serger rolled
hem and a fabric binding. The back neck closes with a button and loop. Pre-requisite: Heirloom Serger Techniques
One 6 hour session: $155 includes Kit and Pattern
Supplies:  List available upon registration
Instructor:  Renee Spell - Martha Pullen Licensed Heirloom & Serger Instructor


Heirloom Serger Pajamas        
A Dainty camisole in soft blue satin batiste, embellished with satin ribbon, lace insertions & pintucks.  The heirloom pants make a beautiful companion with ribbon and lace to match.  Completed entirely with easy serger techniques this ensemble will be an exquisite addition to your wardrobe or trousseau for a new bride!

Pre-requisite:  Heirloom Sewing by Serger
Two 3 hour session:  $100 plus $120 Kit which includes fabric & laces
Supplies:  Available upon Registration
Instructor:  Renee Spell - Martha Pullen Licensed Heirloom & Serger Instructor

 

Hooplique - Applique in the Hoop Lecture/Demo Class
This technique is hot, hot, hot - so you can give gifts that are cool, cool, cool! We'll talk about raw edge appliqué, and you will go home bursting at the seams
to appliqué everything in sight. We will overcome your fears and show you the tools and techniques you need to be a professional at Hooplique!
Hip, Hip, Hooplique!  This is a demo class, but some lucky student will go home with an appliquéd prize! Your registration is your entry to win!
One 2 hour Class: $25
Instructors: Brenda Eppele and Lori College
 

Jazz Up Your Sew Easy Jumper
This class uses Martha Pullen's Appliqué Jumper, but with an exciting new twist. This class is designed for those who have previously taken our Sew Easy Jumper Class
or those with basic garment sewing skills. We will learn new techniques for modifying the pattern, adding ruffles and taking your creativity to a new level.  You will leave
with a finished top and the instructions and inspiration you need to finish the pants at home. If you have a ruffler attachment you should bring it or a gathering foot.
One 3 hour Class: $30
Supplies: Basic Sewing Kit, Sewing Machine in Good Working Order and knowledge of how to use it. Martha Pullen Appliqué Book,
Jackie Clark Britches & Bloomers Pattern. Fabric & Thread for your size project.
Instructor: Brenda Eppele

 

Kinder Clothes - An Elegant Stitches Exclusive Series!
This is an exclusive series of stand-alone classes. Take one, take them all! We will be offering various Kinder Clothes Classes each month. We will focus on completing easy children's clothing patterns and going home with a finished project in a single session. Each class will build skills and confidence. We will create fun and useful outfits for your special little ones.
One 3 hour Class:  $30 + Cost of Materials to Complete the project (This will vary with each project)
Supplies: You must have a basic knowledge of machine sewing and how to work and thread your machine. Please come into the shop ahead of time to purchase required supplies and materials. There is not time built into the class for fabric selection. In some cases, you will have to pre-wash and press your fabrics prior to class. Basic Sewing Kit Required: Pattern Tracing Paper, Scissors, Pins, Pin Cushion, Seam Ripper, Seam Gauge, Tape Measure, Fabric Marking Pen
Instructor: Brenda Eppele
 

 

Learning Curves Quilt
In this advanced beginner/intermediate class you will learn curved piecing with NO PINNING! Once you have learned the basic process, you can create lots of interesting designs.
Three 2 ½ hour sessions:  $60
Supplies: Fabric requirements available upon registration, sewing machine and general quilting/sewing supplies
Instructor: Pat Tharp
 

Loose Ends Quilt
Have fun with this fluffy, comfy, cozy patchwork quilt.  A great beginner quilt. Loose ends just keep getting "fluffier" with each washing!
Two 2 1/2 hour session: $60.00 includes handouts & instructions
Supplies: Sewing machine/supplies, rotary cutter, mat, ruler.  Fabric for project.  (flannel is preferred!)
Instructor: Marti Tolbert

 

Lucy Jumper
Children's Corner Lucy Jumper is a staple no little girl's wardrobe should be without! This easy to construct jumper will help the confident beginner build new sewing skills and finish an adorable garment! We will cover pattern tracing, fabric choices, cutting, and turning your project. We will place and stitch button holes or snaps.  You must have a working knowledge of your machine and how to thread it. If you want buttons, you must bring your button-hole attachment and know how to work it. You should purchase your fabric and lining ahead of time so they can be pre-washed and pressed prior to class. (This will help avoid unwanted shrinkage after you complete your beautiful project)
One 3 hour session: $30 + supplies listed below.
Supplies:  Children's Corner Lucy Jumper, fabric and lining for the size you have selected, buttons or snaps.Basic sewing kit: Pattern Tracing Paper, Scissors, Seam Ripper, Seam Gauge, Measuring Tape, Pins, Pin Cushion, Fabric Marking Pen
Instructor: Lori College

Machine Appliqué Techniques:
During this hands-on course you will discover the many techniques involved in surface appliqué. Special tips on stabilizers, types of thread, & stitching different shapes
One 3 hour session:  $45 includes kit & handouts
Supplies:  Sewing Machine, guide book and accessories, open toe embroidery foot
Scissors and general sewing supplies
Instructor:  Renee Spell

Picture Smocking
Create those precious little pictures on garments with the technique of stacking cables.
Knowledge of basic smocking stitches required.
Two 2 hour sessions: $40 + $10 kit which includes Plate, Floss, Needles, Pre-Pleated Inset
Supplies needed: Scissors
Instructor: Staff

 

Pillowcase Challenge:  Make a Pillowcase, Make a Difference
BERNINA knows Quilting Changes Everything. That’s why they have partnered with American Patchwork & Quilting® to sponsor the One Million Pillowcase Challenge. In 2010, join the challenge Make a Pillowcase, Make a Difference. Every pillowcase can help someone in your community. A pillowcase can provide comfort for a cancer patient, hope for a foster child, encouragement for a battered woman, or beauty for a nursing home resident.  The One Million Pillowcase Challenge is a year-long national challenge to create and donate one million pillowcases to local charities.
Tuesday afternoons 2-4 pm
Supplies needed:
Bring your own stash to sew on our machines and sergers. OR buy the fabric you wish to use and we will give you a 10% discount.


Pillowcase Jumper
Make this adorable jumper in just one class.  A great construction class for a beginner with a little previous sewing experience. Loaner machines are available
One 3 hour session:  $30
Supplies:  Shoulder Tie Topper pattern, Fabric for dress, sewing machine/guide book/accessories; general sewing supplies
Instructor:  Brenda Eppele


Reversible Serger Jacket
Patchwork pockets add pizzazz to this otherwise plain jacket, but there is a surprise - the jacket is reversible so you can get double the reward for half the effort! Variations on four favorite quilt blocks - rail fence, log cabin, nine-patch, and Seminole work - are used to make the four pockets, all pieced by serger. Construction is made easy with basic serger techniques. Roll- back sleeves bring a little of the reverse color to the front, accenting the colors in the pockets.
Pre-requisite: Heirloom Sewing by Serger
Two 5 hour sessions: $65 + kit
Supplies: Available upon Registration
Instructor: Renee Spell

Runaround Bag    
Install the easiest zipper ever! This stylish bag is fun and fast to make! You will be addicted.
One 3 hour classes: $30  Required Pattern: Runaround Bag by Lazy Girl
Supplies:  Your machine & general sewing supplies, f2 fat quarters. zipper/thread, batting
Instructor: Lori College
 

SAGA
Join our local chapter of Smocking Arts Guild of America - Elegant Stitchers of Cary - for the education & preservation of the art of smocking and related needle work.  Participate in our "wee care gown" community service project as well as other education programs. 
Cost:  $30 National Dues and $10 local chapter dues

 Sew Easy Jumper
Make this adorable jumper in just one class.  A great construction class for a beginner with a little previous sewing experience. Loaner machines are available
One 3 hour session:  $30
Supplies:  Martha Pullen Appliqué book, Fabric for jumper, sewing machine/guide book/accessories; general sewing supplies
Instructor:  Brenda Eppele

Sewing Machine 101
Did you inherit grandma's old machine? Bring any brand of machine to this class. We will cover all the basic functions, basic stitches, filling bobbins, changing needles, attaching presser feet & simple maintenance like machine cleaning & oiling for your brand. Leave this class prepared to take on the world and your machine! Remember all makes and models are welcome!
One 1 1/2 hour session:  $30
Supplies: Your sewing machine, all accessories including presser feet, power cord, owner's manual, sewing machine needles & thread.
Basic sewing supplies including scissors, seam ripper and pins
Note taking materials and a digital camera might be helpful
Instructor: Marion Ward

Six Hour Serger Quilt
Yes, you can make this quilt in just six hours - maybe a little longer for your first one but you will love to use this quilt pattern to make those last minute gifts.
Use our serger to evaluate how much you will use a serger and you will realize all the great things they can do or bring your own to complete the "bonding process".
Two 3 hour sessions:  $50
Supplies: List available upon registration
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

Smock Til U Drop
Have you ever yearned for a block of time where you could just sit & smock or sew without the interruption of hubby and family?  Okay, here's the legitimate night out you've been searching for.  Bring your current project & join us for an evening of stitching.
Cost:  $10

 

Smocking In the Hoop
Life in the fast lane! Enjoy this lecture/demo to learn how to create hand-look smocking using your embroidery machine! With careful preparation, your smocking in the hoop will be fabulous with results in half the time!
One 2 hour session:  $20
Supplies:  Note-taking materials!
Instructor: Brenda Eppele

 

Sweatshirt Jacket
Turn that sweatshirt into a lovely jacket with a little binding & fun embroidery or appliqué.  In this class we will do only the binding - the rest you can embellish at home
One 3 hour session:  $30
Supplies:  Sweat shirt, coordinating fabric for binding, thread to match, snaps for front closure, rotary cutter, mat & ruler, sewing machine & general sewing supplies.
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

 

Triangles 101 Quilt
This class is for advanced beginners. Expand your quilting skills with this clever pattern. After helping you with your fabric selections, we will review cutting techniques, strip piecing, pressing and four patch assembly. You' learn new techniques in assembling block units. During the last class, we will discuss adding borders to your quilt including making variations to those borders that make your quilt special. This class does not include a segment on assembling a quilt sandwich, quilting or binding your quilt. Loaner machines are available.
Four  2 1/2 hour sessions:  $80 includes pattern
Supplies:  Fabric requirement available upon registration
Sewing Machine in good working order with 1/4" foot. (Bernina 57 or 37 foot)
General sewing supplies including neutral color sewing thread, pins and scissors
45 mm rotary cutter with sharp blade, cutting mat, 6"x12" and 6"x24" rulers
Instructor: Pat Tharp



T-Shirt Quilt
Use those favorite t-shirts and create a memory quilt! You will be designing your own unique quilt and actually figure all the yardage amounts as we go!
Four 2 hour sessions:  $80 
Supplies:  Sewing machine/supplies, rotary cutter, mat, ruler, t-shirts!  Stabilizer and fabric will be determined based on number of t-shirts!
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

 

Turtle, Turtle Quilt
Join us for this quick and easy to do wall hanging of fun turtles in luscious batiks! You will finish your quilt top
and the quilting & finishing will be demonstrated at the last class.
Three 2 1/2 hour sessions:  $60
Supplies:  Kit: $60 includes pattern, fabric for quilt, backing and binding, and batting
Instructor: Teresa Rhodes
 

Two Hour Tulip Bag
Make this fun, fast, simple but adorable bag. We will explore options for different uses as well. This bag can be a purse, an Easter Basket, a knitting basket, or a Halloween Bag.
One 3 hour Class:  $30
Supplies: Sewing machine in good working order, Pattern, fabric and thread for pattern
Instructor: Lori College
 

Virtual Bernina Club
We are in a high tech world of virtual education and training! Join us every month as a Bernina educator presents a class over the internet! Demonstrations and techniques abound AND you take home a CD chock full of information after each class.
Cost: $15 per session
Instructor:  Marti Tolbert

YES Club - Young Elegant Stitchers Club
Each month on a Friday evening from 6-9pm Young Elegant Stitchers will meet to create a new project. These projects are designed to excite and inspire the young sewing enthusiast. We will reinforce basic sewing skills, pattern reading skills, and sewing fundamentals. Shhh parents, kilds will also be getting instruction following skills and math skills too! New members welcome! Ages 9 & Up. Sewing machines will be provided. You must bring your own scissors, pins, and marking pen. Projects vary with each session.  Not just for girls!!
Class Fee: $30  + Kit cost will vary with the project
Supplies: General sewing supplies (Basic sewing kit available for purchase)
Instructor: Staff

 

What's All the Hoopla
Ever wonder how to hoop that towel you've been wanting to monogram? How about which stabilizer to use for linen? This demo class will answer all those questions and more! Come to class prepared to take notes and have all those questions answered. We will have several machines set up and projects ready for hooping to show you how to master all your hooping fears. Your next machine embroidery will be Hoop, Hoop, Hooray instead of "run the other way"! Come and join us and see what all the Hoopla's about!
One 3 hour session:  $25
Supplies Needed: Note taking materials
Instructors: Brenda Eppele and Lori College


 

Why Click This - Bernina Software Class
In this class you will learn lots of exciting new ways to navigate within Bernina Software. This class will help you use all of the amazing
capabilities of your Bernina Software. Your projects can soar to new creative levels. Each month we will cover tips and techniques that will allow
you to show your software - "Who's the Boss!"  This class is open to those who do not have our software, but would like to learn more. The fee will be waived for those attending as an informational
session to make the decision to purchase.
One 1 1/2 hour session:  $15
Supplies Needed: Your laptop, power cord, software loaded and working and your dongle.
Instructor: Laurie Torres

 

Windows for Embroidery Software
If you are not comfortable navigating your computer's operating system, this class is a a must to prepare you for your Bernina embroidery software classes. Your will learn how to create folders for your embroidery designs, organize your embroidery designs, become more comfortable with Windows icons, download designs from the internet - and much more! (If you have not installed your new embroidery software, we will do so in class.)
One 2 1/2 hour class: $30.
Supplies: Your laptop and embroidery software with dongle (security device)
Instructor: Marti Tolbert