We scheduled our byAnnie's Trunk Show to coincide with our Bag Maker's Retreat. So, it would only be appropriate to teach from Annie's wide selection of patterns, right?

The projects have been chosen for their ease of completion within the timeframe of the retreat. We also decided we wanted to have projects which would be useful to us bag makers and ones which haven't already been taught in our Creative Studio.

All of the materials and patterns for your classes are included. As a bonus, we have decided to fully prep everything in advance! Yep, no cutting, no fusing and no quilting. Our goal is to maximize your retreat time AND allow you to complete your projects (save for the final binding).

Will you ever want a class to be any different? LOL

We will have a limited number of BERNINA classroom machines available for attendees use. They will be reserved on a first come ~ first served basis. (If you are flying in for the retreat, don't delay in registering and inquiring about using a classroom machine.)

When bringing your sewing machine, it will need to be in good working order. Always bring your manual in case you need to troubleshoot any issues. We will always do our best to assist in any way we can.

Absolutely not! We are always amazed at how many people ask this question. While we are (obviously) huge fans, we do not ever require a student have a BERNINA ~ unless, of course, someone is registering for a BERNINA Mastery Class for new owners.

Bring what you have, what you love, and what you are comfortable sewing on. And hey, if you want to give a BERNINA a spin, we might "know a guy". LOL

If you are flying, the Sarasota-Bradenton airport (SRQ) is absolutely perfect and most convenient. The shop is located just 10 miles from the airport. Our second choice is Tampa International Airport (TPA). This airport is about a 75-minute drive to the shop.

Any project!

Open Sew with the Experts is a perfect time to bring any bag project you'd like to finish; however, if you want "you" time for working on a quilt, garment or a stuffed animal - by all means, bring it along. 

Karis and Mary are here to serve you! They will offer assistance, guidance, inspiration ... whatever you need to make your retreat an experience to remember!

If you have food requirements or sensitivities, please let us know and we will do our best to accommodate them for you.

We require the full amount at registration. If you require a payment to be split, please send us an e-mail with your request.

All fees are non-refundable though transferrable, only if there is a waiting list.