By Maggie Colpus, justhands-on.tv Event Co-ordinator.
It was another packed weekend at the end of November for our latest justhands-on.tv retreat at the Langstone Quays Resort, Hayling Island, Hants. We were joined by a train driver, a psychiatrist, a training manager, a retired prison officer, three sisters and 20+ other ladies who came from as far afield as Nottingham, Somerset, Worcester, Staffordshire It was all for a weekend of sewing fun with our tutors Paula Doyle and Jennie Rayment.
Paula’s class brought along their stash to make some wonderful quilts. There were many ideas on offer including a Greek key, Itsy Bits & Wonky Strips, and the Big Triangle. All Paula’s ladies accomplished at least one quilt top with some even completing a second!
Jennie class featured the Blazing Star (or Lone Star). The class buzzed along so well they even managed to complete further sections and made jazzy borders.
We were also joined by a couple of ladies who wanted a weekend away with other quilters and some quilting help, so they brought their own projects to finish.
Whichever class they were in, the students loved the abundance of tips that these amazing tutors gave them.
Of course, everyone had the opportunity to sew until supper on Saturday with some returning for another session late into the evening. If anyone chanced by the Winchester Suite early Sunday morning, they would see quite a few ladies at their sewing machines even before breakfast.
When they weren’t busy we had ladies dipping in and out for spa treatment, a swim in the pool, relaxing in the hot tub, or just chilling in the lounge over a coffee or a wine or two. There was also lots of laughter and sharing of ideas and equipment.
We were very well looked after with regular top-ups of tea, coffee and mid-morning and afternoon snacks, as well as very good buffet lunches and dinner.
One of the lovely comments we received from the students this weekend was “thank you so much for yet another wonderful retreat. I’ve come away with so many new tips and techniques, as well as more quilting friends. One day, the young recipient of my Greek Key crib quilt may find out that it was co-designed with the one and only Paula Doyle!”
Click on the pictures below from Paula, Jennie and our own Valerie Nesbitt
Why not come and join us and escape for the weekend at one of our upcoming retreats – you’ll find full details here.
