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Moda Quilting Extravaganza


Join Stitchin' Heaven and Friends on a 7-night Western Caribbean Cruise! Cruise and learn from three quilting experts: Doug Leko, Gudrun Erla, & Sherri McConnell!

April 24 - May 1, 2016

Overview

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Overview

Dear Friends,

If you have never been on a quilting cruise you have missed a real treat!  Since 2010 Stitchin' Heaven Travel has offered quilt-related cruises and motor coach tours to literally hundreds of satisfied guests. 

• "The Batik 2015 trip exceeded my expectations and I would definitely consider another cruise, possibly within the next two years with Stitchin' Heaven Travel! I will also want to invite a few friends to enjoy the experience with again."

• "This was my first cruise and obviously first quilt cruise, now I can't imagine doing a cruise without quilting! I loved it!"

• "If you want a fun cruise, check out Stitchin' Heaven! They are organized, think of everything, and bring in great teachers. And provide laser cut kits so we are ready to sew."

How can all this get any better? Here's how!

  •    • Stitchin‘ Heaven Travel communication updates
  •    • A Welcome Aboard Party
  •    • A Stitchin’ Heaven Travel souvenir tote bag
  •    • T-Shirt for each quilter specific to our cruise
  •    • A gift for each quilter
  •    • Optional pre-cut Sail ‘n Sew fabric kits
  •    • Every quilting guest can take all the classes offered
  •    • Classes are taken on days "at sea" so no port time is missed
  •    • Classroom is open 24/7 for plenty of free time sewing!
  •    • Bernina 330 sewing machines for each student
  •    • Free spool of Aurifil thread
  •    • One free charm per trip, charm holder sold separately
  •    • Demonstrations of the latest quilting and sewing products
  •    • Plenty of classroom support
  •    • Oliso Pro Smart Irons™
  •    • Emailed Contact List

Plus ... You'll be sewing on a Bernina 3 Series sewing machine!

That's right!  Each quilter will be provided a state-of-the-art 330 Bernina machine equipped with the extended table, a quarter inch foot, and an open toe foot.  There's no need to bring your sewing machine all the way from home. Visit the Bernina website to see the amazing features of this great machine!

During our sewing classes, we will be using spools of Aurifil™ thread. Each cruiser will be provided a free spool of 50wt. thread. Aurifil™ thread is perfectly suited for every quilt project. Learn more about this wonderful thread at www.aurifil.com.

Also during our sewing classes, we will only be using Oliso® Pro Steam Irons. This ain’t your momma’s steam iron! This professional-grade steam iron features award-winning technology and was designed with quilters in mind. Some of the features included are a pointed detailer tip and flat pressing area, three-way steam, the ability to perform as a dry iron, and an extended auto shut-off. We love this iron and you will too! You can view the full line of Oliso Smart Irons online at www.oliso.com

Consider bringing a friend, your spouse or your family – non-quilters are always welcome to join us and will have many activities to pursue while you are in class.

As usual, we bring you several quilt projects to work on, taught by amazing and talented instructors and designers in the world of quilting: Doug Leko, Gudrun Erla, & Sherri McConnell!

We look forward to our next adventure together with you!

Overview Image

Instructors

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Instructors

Doug Leko • Antler Quilt Design

Doug Leko • Antler Quilt Design

Doug Leko founded Antler Quilt Design in 2008, when he was still a high school student. Working in his mother’s quilt shop had helped him develop his skills and refine his art, and soon Doug began to develop and market his own designs. Since then, his reputation has grown along with his business. He has a vibrant and growing collection of patterns available at quilt stores around the Unites States, Canada, and online. His work has been featured in McCall’s Quilting and Quiltmaker, and American Patchwork & Quilting.

Doug is a vibrant speaker and teacher, and has developed a wide following among quilters around the country. His energy and passion coupled with his unique level of experience and his innovative quilt designs make him a favorite addition to any special event.

Gudrun Erla • GE Designs

Gudrun Erla • GE Designs

Gudrun Erla, the designer and owner of GE Designs was born and raised in Iceland. She started quilting at the age of 23 and became totally addicted to it right away. After owning and running quilt shops in her home country and designing patterns along side it, a career move brought the family to Minnesota in 2003. Since then Gudrun has been designing full time, publishing patterns and books from her home office in Chanhassen, MN; where the family has been living since the move to the US.

Gudrun loves everything quick and simple, so her quilts might look more complicated than they really are. She loves to find ways to do things quicker and use easier methods. Her “quilt as you go” patterns have been very popular, with easy to follow instructions and quick assembly and finishing. All her patterns are geared toward today’s quilt makers, easy and fast with a modern touch. Gudrun has also been designing fabrics for Red Rooster Fabrics since 2006.

Sherri McConnell • www.aquiltinglife.com

Sherri McConnell • www.aquiltinglife.com

Inspired by a rich family heritage of generations of women who loved sewing, Sherri McConnell loves to sew and quilt. Married and the mother of 4, she attended BYU and received a BA in English from UNLV. She teaches English part-time at a local community college and spends her free time sewing, quilting, and writing about her creative journey. 

She has been publishing her quilt designs in books, magazines, and patterns since 2011. Her first book, A Quilting Life: Creating a Handmade Home was published in March 2013 by C&T; her second book, Fresh Family Traditions: 18 Heirloom Quilts for a New Generation was released in April of 2014 (also published by C&T). She writes for Craftsy.com and for the Moda Cutting Table Blog and writes her personal quilting blog atwww.aquiltinglife.com.

Projects

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Projects

Doug Leko's Mysterious

Doug Leko's Mysterious

You will love this mystifying quilt! To make this quilt you will make multiples of one block. Then, Doug will cover all the different construction techniques so you can see first-hand how to lay the blocks out into the six different featured layouts! Finished size is 63"x 79".

Gudrun Erla's Strip To Shore

Gudrun Erla's Strip To Shore

What a beauty! You are sure to love this gorgeous quilt that is made with 2-1/2" strips and center hexagons for a modern look. Finished size is 54" x 58".

Sherri McConnell's Swirls & Whirls

Sherri McConnell's Swirls & Whirls

This breathtaking quilt is a modern scrappy play on pinwheels! It is a fun scrappy quilt perfect for using up your scraps--or you could also make it with fat quarters or even layer cake squares. Finished size is 75 1/2” x 87 1/2”.

Optional Sail 'n Sew Fabric Pack

Our incredible Sail 'n Sew fabric pack includes all of the fabrics and patterns for your projects and they are pre-cut so all you need to do is sit down and sew! The price of the Sail ‘n Sew fabric pack is $350.00 and it includes all three of the projects for this cruise. Individual kits can be purchased for $125.00 per project. If you would like a Sail ‘n Sew pack, just let us know when you make your Reservation and we'll have a kit waiting for you on the ship.

Want to cut your fabric yourself? We do have an option where we will send you all the fabrics and the patterns for all three of the projects. The price for this is $300.00 and we will mail it to you at least 60 days before the cruise. You can then cut your fabric and bring it and your patterns with you.

If you do not wish to purchase a Sail 'n Sew Fabric Pack, remember to pack your own fabrics. We will not have fabrics available for purchase aboard the ship.  You will need to bring your fabric pre-cut and ready for class. You must also bring your pattern or book. These can be purchased here. We will not have patterns for purchase on board for the classes. Click here for the fabric requirements and cutting instructions.

A complete supply list will be sent to you 90 days prior to departure. 

Itinerary

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Itinerary

Day 1

Port Canaveral, Florida

The gateway to Central Florida, Port Canaveral provides access to the wonderful theme parks and entertainment complexes of Orlando, the spectacular wonders of the Kennedy Space Center and the natural habitats of the alligator and Florida manatee. Experience the wonders of the Kennedy Space Center with the whole family. See, hear and touch NASA's glorious past, inspiring present and exciting future. Stroll through the Rocket Garden, home of Apollo and Gemini-era rockets, board life-size replicas of the space shuttle Explorer and see spacecraft that have actually orbited the Earth. Explore Cocoa Beach, made famous by "I Dream of Jeannie," just a short drive from Port Canaveral and south of the Kennedy Space Center. You'll be charmed by the unique shops, many parks and 12 miles of beaches.

Day 2

Cruising

Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!

Day 3

Labadee, Haiti

Only Royal Caribbean can take you to the private beach destination of Labadee. Our private paradise sits on the north coast of Haiti, surrounded by beautiful mountain slopes and exotic foliage. This exclusive destination offers pristine beaches, breathtaking scenery, incredible thrills and spectacular water activities. Regardless of where you go, you'll find yourself embraced by the beautiful landscape. Labadee's native charm, along with its natural beauty, make this a destination not to be missed. It's impossible to choose just one thing that's special about Labadee. The inviting beach, coral reefs and exciting amenities provide a perfect place to relax and have fun.

Day 4

Falmouth, Jamaica

Quilting Classes in the Conference Center! While we realize a lot of you will want to go ashore and explore Jamaica we will be having class in the conference center. Feel free to come in and leave whenever you would like. Classes will begin at 9AM and continue throughout the day so you can do your excursion in the morning and join in on the class afterwards.

Quaint Falmouth was an economic powerhouse and center for dramatic social change during the English Colonial Period. In today's Falmouth, visitors still enjoy 19th-century Georgian architecture as well as river bamboo raft rides, arts and crafts shopping, flavorful local fare and horse-and-buggy rides. Falmouth is the gateway to the best Jamaica has to offer. Just east of Falmouth is Ocho Rios, known for its spectacular Dunn’s River Falls. Travel west to reach Montego Bay and the beautiful beaches of Negril. Thanks to its central location, Falmouth gives visitors the best tour experiences of the north coast of Jamaica. Visit the spectacular Dunn's River Falls near Ocho Rios, where you can climb 600 feet up from the base of the falls or retreat to the beach where the rushing water exits into the ocean. At Dolphin Cove you can watch the dolphins at play or walk through the jungle to see friendly birds and iguanas. From dune buggy safaris and river tubing to a horse and buggy tour, you will find many activities to keep you entertained.

Day 5

Gerorge Town, Grand Cayman

Grand Cayman is one of a group of three magnificent tropical islands Christopher Columbus called "Las Tortugas" (the turtles) for the sea creatures he found in the ocean water. The designation did not endure, however, for on later maps the islands were labeled the Caimanau, the Carib Indian word for "crocodile." The name "Caimanas" refers inaccurately to the iguanas native to the islands, which were perhaps at one point mistaken for crocodiles. Among other attractions, visitors to the island will enjoy learning about the turtles, visiting the town of Hell, exploring Seven-Mile Beach and enjoying the undersea world. Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure: snorkeling with stingrays at Stingray City Sandbar. These relatively tame creatures will swim right into your arms as they glide around you. They have velvety soft skin and love to have their bellies rubbed. Despite their frightening name, they are very gentle and won't hurt you as long as you stay away from their tails.

Day 6

Cozumel, Mexico

The Conquistadors first saw Mexico from the shores of Cozumel while searching for gold. Today, visitors to the island continue to seek out gold and silver jewelry in the shops of San Miguel while having a great time in its many local bars and restaurants. Plus, the waters around Cozumel's sheltered coral reefs make this one of the best snorkeling areas in the world. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the ruins of the ancient Mayan city of Tulúm, majestically perched above the turquoise Caribbean. The site was occupied as far back as 600 A.D. However, it was most densely populated around 1200 A.D. You will be struck by the pyramid-shaped El Castillo, which dominates the city from atop a forty-foot cliff. The nearby Temple of the Descending God provides equally excellent insight into the architecture of the Mayan people, who gained considerable achievements in the arts and sciences, only to decline and vanish for no apparent reason.

Day 7

Cruising

Quilting Classes in the Conference Center!

Day 8

Port Canaveral, Florida

Return to Port Canaveral, Florida.

Day

Port

Arrive

Depart

Day 1Port Canaveral, Florida 4:30 PM
Day 2Cruising  
Day 3Labadee, Haiti8:00 AM4:00 PM
Day 4Falmouth, Jamaica10:00 AM7:00 PM
Day 5George Town, Grand Cayman8:00 AM4:00 PM
Day 6Cozumel, Mexico10:00 AM7:00 PM
Day 7Cruising  
Day 8Port Canaveral, Florida6:00 AM 

The Ship

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The Ship

Freedom of the Seas

The newly enhanced Freedom of the Seas® is a marvel of maritime engineering, packed with awesome innovations to stir your imagination. Share a high five with Shrek as part of The DreamWorks Experience. Catch a first-run movie in the 3D theater or poolside under the stars on the outdoor movie screen. Infuse color into your cruise with the artworks from our Art Galleryor with the frosted confections of the Cupcake Cupboard. And finish the evening with a selection of reds or whites at the renovated, now-more-intimate Vintages wine bar. Plus, enjoy all the revolutionary features Freedom of the Seas has always been known for – FlowRider® surf simulatorrock climbing wallice-skating rinkRoyal Promenade, cantilevered whirlpoolsmini golf courseH2O Zone water park, and much more. 

Here is a video about Freedom of the Seas and all the amazing things it has to offer.

Pricing

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Pricing

Cruise prices include the Royal Caribbean Cruise, stateroom, fine dining, exciting on-board entertainment, all quilting classes, group activities and parties. 

Stateroom's are as follows:

     Interior Stateroom$1,199*
     Unobstructed Ocean View Stateroom$1,399*
     Unobstructed Oceanview w/ Balcony Stateroom$1,599*

     *Non-sewing guests will receive a $250 discount. 
     Port charges, taxes & fees of $312.06 are not included. 
     Prices are per person, based on double occupancy.

There is a $350 per person deposit due at registration which will secure your price and availability.

Group travel allows us to provide special touches that are not available on an individual reservation. And unfortunately, discounts from Royal Caribbean are not allowed through our group program. In order to take full benefit from everything Stitchin Heaven offers on our cruises, you must register through Stitchin Heaven Travel. If you have questions or need assistance in changing your individual reservation to a group reservation through Stitchin' Heaven Travel, please let us know. 

Travel Insurance: 

Travel insurance is not included, but is available for your protection from Royal Caribbean in the form of their Travel Protection Program. It is $109 per person and both cabinmates must purchase it separately. In the event insurance is used please be aware that it covers the cost of the cruise only. Sewing package fees are not refunded.
**Insurance fee will be added to your reservation total

Travel Information

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Travel Information

Cabins

With so much to do onboard, chances are really good that you will just use your cabin for changing and sleeping, but it's nice to know that if you want to spend more time there, you will indeed be comfortable. All standard staterooms are attractively decorated in soft tones with fine light woods and two pieces of artwork on the walls. Each stateroom has two beds that convert to queen-size, a private bath, phone, interactive flat-screen TV, mini-bar, hair dryers and air conditioning/heat controls. Bathrooms are on the small side, but functional, and showers have those wonderful, half-round sliding doors as opposed to clingy curtains. Soap and shampoo are also provided.

Travel to and from Destination

You will be responsible for getting to and from the ship in Port Canaveral, FL.
Note: We will notify you once the cruise has reached the minimum guest requirement. Please do not make airfare reservations until the cruise is confirmed. 

Dress

During the day, dress is casual. Evenings are either casual, smart casual or formal. On casual nights, suggested attire is sports shirts and slacks for men and sundresses or pants for women. On smart casual evenings, men should don jackets and tie, with women wearing dresses or pantsuits. On the one or two formal nights per cruise, men can choose from tuxedos or suits and ties, while woman usually wear cocktail dresses.

Gratuities

Gratuities are not included in your reservation costs. Royal Caribbean recommends $3.75 per person, per day to the dining room waiter; $5.00 per person, per day to the cabin steward (or $7.25 if you're in a suite); and $2.15 per person, per day to the assistant waiter. Also recommended is $0.75 per person, per day to the headwaiter. Since we are classified as a group on the ship, Stitchin' Heaven Travel is required to pre-pay these gratuities for our entire group.  This is equal to $12 per person per day and will be added to your cruise costs. A 15 percent gratuity is automatically added to bar tabs.

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