It’s always exciting when we look ahead to the next session of classes because there are so many things we want to share!

As most of you know, we are on “baby watch” for Jeanne’s first grandchild, Hayden.  He’s due in May, and Jeanne is beside herself waiting for his arrival.  Just ask her how many projects she’s already made for him!

Jeanne has several classes you’ll want to be sure and take this summer.  The first one is a variation of the popular Children’s Corner pattern, Mary De that we named Mary “V”.  Jeanne is using a quilting technique called French braid to add a distinct “V” to the bodice of this back-wrapped dress.  In July, Jeanne will teach another Children’s Corner favorite, Mallory.

As always, we couldn’t do a session without purse classes!  Our waiting list on the Market Bag was long enough to fill three classes.  So we’ve added four!  Check out the dates and make your reservations early.  Jeanne has modified this popular bag to make it into an adorable diaper bag.  Come see the sample, and you’ll want to make both.  We’re doing reruns on two other popular bags—the Beach Bag and the Bucket Bag.  Our new laminated fabrics add a new dimension to these wonderful summer carry-alls!

 We are excited to have some of our favorite teachers back for classes this summer.  Merl Johnson will be teaching tatting in May.  This is a true lost art and you will be sorry if you miss a chance to learn from the master!  Julie Kopecek, who is well-known among our customers for her beautiful handwork, will be teaching picture smocking and shadow embroidery.  She will also be teaching our advanced girls in Summer Sewing Camp.

Many of you have admired the little girls’ hair bows we have for sale in the shop.  Those are the handiwork of Karen Gabel, mother of five!  Karen will be teaching her hair bow class with a twist!  She will show you how to add bows to your favorite pair of flip flops.  This class is sure to fill up fast, so get your reservation in soon!  Linda Vaughn, teacher of all things cute, will be back with her Beach Bag class.  We may even add a surprise class to her schedule before the summer is over!

 To fill in the gaps while Jeanne is out, I’ll be teaching the Flower Pocket classes and the Stars ‘n Stripes Lucy.  These outfits just say summer fun! 

Don’t forget our summer Fashion Show.  It will be Saturday, July 26^th, at First Baptist Church in Smyrna.  What a thrill it is for us to show off the beautiful clothes our customers have made.  Be sure to sign up for this fun event!  We will be previewing several of the fall classes and also showing off garments by one of our favorite designers, Michie’ Mooney.

You know we could not have a session of classes without a quilt.  Jeanne’s love of retro fabrics really comes alive in the beautiful quilt she has made with fabrics depicting antique toys.  You’ll want to come by the shop and see her beautiful sample.

We enjoyed celebrating our third anniversary with you, our wonderful customers.  As you know, it takes a “village” to run Stitcher’s Playhouse, and we couldn’t do it without the support of our friends and families!  We love you all!

Ann & Jeanne