‘In Stitches’ Newsletter September / October 2025

Date Created: Sep 15 2025 9:55AM

So, the summer holidays are over, the children are back at school, and this is when we begin to plan. It is time to get cosily ready for the Autumn and embrace the dawn of a season full of colour with more time to relax in your home, and an ideal time to decide on your next crafting projects.

Obviously, Christmas projects will be on the agenda, but maybe not yet; there are so many other things to tempt us. One thing is definite: there is absolutely no reason to be bored!

We are awaiting delivery of two new yarns from King Cole,due the first week in September. The first is Homespun Prism Aran, Timeless Colour with a Luxe Twist. Launched after the success of Homespun Prism DK, this soft, richly tonal yarn will be equally popular. Aran weight with a blend of 22.5% Fine Merino Superwash, 22.5% Alpaca, 30% Acrylic, 22.5% Polyamide, 2.5% Viscose, it is washable at 30 degrees and will knit up to your favourite Aran patterns or have a look through the new ones. Available in eight stunning colourways, with neps that add instant dimension to every stitch – perfect for those who love colour with character.

The second yarn is a chunky Mohair blend, Flair. Flair Chunky is the newest star in the King Cole collection. A softly brushed blend of 15% mohair, 13% wool, 57% acrylic and 15% polyester. Inspired by the grace and glamour of ballroom dance, each shade is named after an iconic routine, from Foxtrot to Argentine Tango. This stylish yarn boasts beautiful drape and wearable warmth, with an accompanying pattern collection that sways between junior garments, bold accessories, and elegant women’s pieces. Again, washable at 30 degrees, there are eight new colours and eight new patterns, it knits up to your Chunky weight patterns, and as the yarn is so light, the yardage on each ball is huge, making each garment inexpensive to knit. So, which shade do you think has been named the Vienesse Waltz?

BLOCK OF THE MONTHCandlewick Embroidery & Patchwork. This launches in September, however, you can join in at any time as we are offering it as a postal project for you to work on at home. Hand embroidery with beautiful Valdini threads, quality 100% cotton. Perfect for beginners, full instructions for the embroidery stitches will be posted to you with the patterns once a month. If you are tempted, please ask for more details. It’s a perfect project for the Autumn.

EXCITING NEWS! We are thrilled to announce the launch of three new machines from Pfaff, which we displayed at the Festival of Quilts exhibition in August and they have been so well received. At the time, the models were all pre-production, however this did not stop the orders being placed. There are two sewing machines and one sewing & embroidery machine, which are now on their way and should be in the shop during the first week in September.

For those who want it all, the Pfaff® Creative Expression™ 750sewing and embroidery machine adds powerful embroidery capabilities, large embroidery area, hoop scanning and ActivStitch™ Technology. Additionally, there is CREATIVATE Connectivity, The Original IDT™ System Large Embroidery Area Large Color Capacitive Touch Screen Adjustable Laser Sewing Guidance Patented ActivStitch™ Technology STITCH CREATOR™ Built in Help Centre Presser Foot Recognition (AI) Plus so much more

The PFAFF® quilt expression™ 725 sewing machine, tailored for quilters who demand exactness, space, and control. With CREATIVATE™ Connectivity* The Original IDT™ System 730 Stitches including six Sewing Fonts Large Color Capacitive Touch Screen Large Sewing Space
Adjustable Laser Sewing Guidance
Presser Foot Recognition (AI)
STITCH CREATOR™
Exclusive PFAFF® Stitch Techniques
Plus so much more

The PFAFF® expression™ 715 sewing machine is where perfection begins – with smart features, cutting-edge engineering, and signature IDT™ technology that delivers flawless, consistent results.

The Original IDT™ System

CREATIVATE™ Connectivity*, Large Sewing Space, Built-in Help Center, Large Color Capacitive Touch Screen, Automatic Needle Threader, Exclusive PFAFF Stitch Techniques, Bright Work Light.

The above descriptions do not even scratch the surface. Pfaff has taken features from the very top-end machines and added them to the new models where appropriate. These machines combine the latest technology with incredible stitch quality, reliability, and intuitive touch screens, making stitch and technique selection as easy as possible. Call in to see the new models; you will be impressed. Each model carries a Five-Year Warranty, and you also receive a complimentary day's tuition* to help you get the most from your purchase. * Two days for the Creative Expression 750.

From Robert Kaufmans Library of Rarities this beautiful fabric depicting toy trains. The detail is exquisite and we have it on both black and cream backgrounds. We love that this fabric is quite unusual and has a timeless appeal. The attention to detail is quite amazing; it appears that all of the seats in the carriage are taken by lucky passengers.If you don’t want to include this fabric in a quilt, maybe personalise a cushion, cover a book or make a document wallet. Whatever you decide to make, we are sure it will be well received…who doesn’t love a touch of nostalgia?

Fabrics arriving in September and October month: AKAN, TOKI, FURAI, FLOURISH, SEWING BIRD, ATELIA, FAIRY RINGS, GLAZE 3, SERENE DREAM, MYSTIC MEADOW, SHINE, JOIE DE VIVRE, LUCKY and SUNBONNET SUE. There are lots of pre-cuts, Jelly Rolls, Layer Cakes and Charm Packs as another of our suppliers has decided to suppliment their collections in this way. Lots of exciting fabrics and patterns to keep us all inspired.

I came across this poem, Just For You by Kathy Sherlock. It tells the story of a quilt, made with love and given to a child. Quilts are more than just for decoration, they can be the roof of a den or a flying carpet but most importantly, they can be a hug. I spoke to a man many years ago whose son spent time in hospital when he was young. He was given a Linus quilt which he had on his bed during his treatment and took it home with him when he recovered. As he grew, any time he felt poorly, that quilt came down with him as he curled up on the sofa; it gave him comfort because it ws his ‘getting better blanket’. What better reason to make a quilt.If someone makes one for you,remember, it is meant to be used, don’t save it for best, enjoy the hug.
This quilt is made of cloth and thread
To place upon your little bed. It’s not an heirloom just to keep,
But to lie upon as you count sheep.
Or perhaps the floor’s the perfect place
For a Doll and Teddy picnic place.

This quilt can be anything you can dream

From Superman’s cape to the robe of a queen.
Pretend it’s a raft adrift at sea,
Or just cuddle up when you watch TV.

So use it up and wear it out.
I promise I won’t yell or pout.

Just tell me when its days are through,

​And I’ll make another one just for you.

PROJECT LINUS DAY. Come along and sew for a while or stay for the day.

We will be making quilts for this amazing charity & all fabrics will be provided, just bring your sewing kit.

Join us on Saturday 25^th October 9.30am-3.30pm. BOOKING ESSENTIAL.

HUSQVARNA ONYX 30. As you are probably aware, VSM(UK) Ltd. is the parent company for Pfaff, Husqvarna and Singer sewing machines. The brands are kept completely separate and we are definitely ‘Pfaff Loyal’ and have been for over thirty years as this suits our sewing requirements perfectly. However, they have just launched the Onyx 30 which fits a gap in our range so we have agreed to sell it and we are all impressed; it is a great price at £399.

The ONYX™ 30 computerized Sewing Machine makes it simple to get creative. With 150+ stitches, two fonts, a built-in thread cutter, and easy stitch guides, it's perfect for beginners ready to do more. Plus, features like needle stop up/down and stitch programming help every project go smoothly.

We have a lovely new pattern from Delphine Brooks, The Stags Head. Gorgeous in any fabrics, but it could easily be given a ‘Festive Feel’, or even a red nose…. how about a red pompom???? The beauty of these applique patterns is that we could have ten people all making one of the designs and they will always be so different depending on fabric choices and placement. We have many of Delphines patterns in stock; the Highland Cow is still proving to be the most popular, closely followed by the Moonlight Hare, but I am sure the Stag will knock it off the number one slot!

WORTH A VISIT. Knit + Stitch (formerly The Knitting & Stitching Show) returns to London’s Alexandra Palace from 9th – 12th October 2025. Bringing together hundreds of crafting workshops, demonstrations, interactive features, curated textile art galleries, as well as over 150 of the leading specialist craft suppliers – this year’s show is bursting at the seams with creativity and innovation. All under one roof at the UK’s biggest and best craft show!

Obviously that is what the organisers say, but as an exhibitor and attendee, I would say it is an interesting show to visit with usually less patchwork and quilting, but more needlework, embroidery, dressmaking and other crafts than the Festival of Quilts at the NEC that took place a few weeks ago. You can do the show justice in a day and leave feeling inspired by the examples from the Embroiderers Guild and talented textile students. A lovely day out and a stunning view over London, on a fine day. If you decide to visit, come and say hello. As usual, we will be on the Pfaff sewing machine stand.

We are not trying to get you to panic buy, but last year we ran out of the beautiful Christmas Stocking and Advent Calendar panels from one of our favourite designers and this years designs, Winter Moon, are exceptional and already proving popular. The advent calendars are easy to make, no individual pockets, just fold up the fabric, press and stitch. We also have had traditional red and green designs for both children and adults, after all, you are never too old for a Christmas stocking.

SEWFEST………SEWFEST………SEWFEST………SEWFEST

Your chance to win a Sewing machine whilst supporting the Air Ambulance Charity.

We are having a Sewing Festival ourselves at the shop on Saturday 29^th & Sunday 30^th November.

We will be showcasing the new models and matching any offers we previously had at the Festival of Quilts in August. There are new sewing machines extending the Expression range and an exciting new embroidery machine which has been in development for quite a few years, well worth the wait. We will also be demonstrating accessories and techniques throughout the day and having a raffle to win a sewing machine amongst other prizes. There will also be offers on other machines, overlockers and accessories and also some pre-loved machines available, so definitely worth making a note in your diary. Come along and have a demo or better still, sit and sew yourself. It is always wise to ‘try before you buy’; we are well aware that buying a machine is a considered purchase so call in and have a chat with our knowledgable, and sewing obsessed tutors.

Saturday 29^th & Sunday 30^th November, 10am-3pm

P.S….Its not all about sewing machines, there will be special offers throughout the shop.

Keep your sewing smooth and stress-free. Our expert engineer services and repairs all makes and models—sewing, embroidery, overlocker, and coverstitch machines—so your creativity never skips a stitch. No need to book your machine in, just drop it off with us during our opening hours and we will sort everything for you.

Wishing you Happy Stitching, Knitting, Crafting…..whatever you may wish to do, have a gentle time X

Quorn Country Crafts, Parkside Works, East Leake, Leicestershire LE12 6JG

Tel:01509 211604 www.quorncountrycrafts.co.uk