Winter Retreat 2026
Join us for an extended weekend of sewing inspired by MQG’s 2026 theme, Use the Fabric – working with all fabric: new, stash, scrap, reclaimed, whatever best supports your creative vision. This retreat offers permission to cut, experiment, and make without saving fabric for “someday.”
Time & Location
Jan 23, 2026, 4:00 PM – Jan 25, 2026, 4:00 PM
CPI in Philomath, 6990 W Hills Rd, Philomath, OR 97370, USA
About the event
Use the Fabric: Permission to Cut
Extended sewing time for CMQG members
Schedule
Friday–Sunday, January 23–25, 2026
Friday: 4:00–8:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am–8:00 pm
Sunday: 10:00 am–4:00 pm
Lunch provided Saturday & Sunday.
About the theme
MQG’s 2026 theme, Use the Fabric, celebrates creative freedom – not limiting yourself to what’s on hand, but intentionally choosing fabric that supports your ideas. That might mean new fabric, cherished stash pieces, scraps, reclaimed textiles, or a mix of everything.
This retreat invites you to release the pressure to save fabric for the perfect moment and instead give yourself permission to cut, explore, and create.
Come work on UFOs, start something new, or finally use the fabric you’ve been waiting to feel ready for — surrounded by encouragement, community, and plenty of sewing time. There’s no required project and no expectations beyond showing up and sewing in a way that feels good to you.
For those interested, Susan will be available to help members get started on the Modern Burgoyne Surrounded Block of the Month introduced at our January meeting.
How much does it cost?
There is no charge for this retreat! But we welcome donations!
This is a Members Only event – a special perk of membership! But membership isn’t expensive. If you’ve been thinking of joining, now is a good time!
Registration & Donation
Members-only event
Limited to 24 participants
Suggested donation: $5 - 15 per day (optional)
Donations help cover beverages, supplies, and prizes
Bringing food may be considered your donation if you wish
Members can RSVP with the button at the bottom of this page. If you sign up but cannot attend, please let us know so we can offer your spot to someone on the waiting list.
What’s Provided
Coffee & tea throughout the weekend
Lunch on Saturday and Sunday
Green Girl dishes/cutlery/napkins
Spacious sewing tables and shared outlets
Ironing boards & raised cutting tables
Relaxed, welcoming environment
Want to Help?
Members will have opportunities to:
Help with Friday morning setup
Bring soup, bread, or dessert to share
Sign-up links for setup and food will be shared separately.
Virtual Sew Day
Virtual Sew Day held alongside our Winter Retreat and open to all members on Zoom. Drop in to sew, connect, and work on any project you choose. Optional help with the Modern Burgoyne Surrounded BOM will be available. Zoom link in the Members Area.
Before You Come
Download and print the Sew Day Checklist to help you pack for the retreat.