Blanca Sanchez, Desert Threads Chapter of AQG
Wrapping Up the Year and Welcoming 2026
As we close out another vibrant year of creativity, friendship, and service with Desert Threads, we look forward with excitement to all that 2026 has in store. Our members continue to inspire one another with their talents, generosity, and passion for quilting, and the new year promises to bring even more opportunities to learn, share, and grow together.
We wrapped up our last meeting of the year with a joyful Holiday Luncheon that truly reflected the spirit of our group. Members enjoyed a lively hat decorating contest and a creative gift wrap exchange challenge, bringing plenty of laughter and friendly competition. Festive music set the mood while we played bingo and, of course, prizes added to the fun. It was a wonderful way to celebrate our year together and head into 2026 with warmth and cheer.
January Program: Quilters University Round Robin
We are kicking off the year in a big way at our January meeting with a Quilters University Round Robin. Members will rotate through stations highlighting three popular techniques:
• Foundation Paper Piecing—precision piecing at its finest
• One Block Wonder—a spectacular kaleidoscope-style approach
• AccuQuilt Cutting System—fast, accurate cutting for perfect shapes every time
Our own talented quilters will be teaching these methods, showcasing the depth of knowledge in our group and giving everyone a chance to explore something new.
January Workshops: Learning, Playing, and Creating
This month brings a wonderful lineup of workshops designed to stretch our creativity:
Sea Glass Quilts, Jan. 19 and 23. Led by our member Pam Matassarin, this class explores the artistry of sea glass quilts, an improv-style project using fabric scraps, raw edge applique, free motion quilting, and layered textures.
Diamonds are Forever, Jan. 30. This class is being taught by Lesley Visutsiri, a former quilt shop owner. This workshop focuses on striking diamond designs created through strip-piecing techniques. It offers both challenge and fun.
As we begin 2026, we celebrate the spirit of learning and camaraderie that makes Desert Threads such a special place. Here’s to a year filled with color, creativity, and community. We’d love for you to join us! Desert Threads is a welcoming, inclusive group. We meet on the second Wednesday of each month from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the Cottonwood Computer Learning Center of Sun Lakes Country Club, 25630 S. Brentwood Drive, in Sun Lakes.
Visit our website at desertthreads.org to learn all about us.