Our First Formal Meeting of the 2026-27 Year!

Blanca Sanchez

Welcome back to formal meetings! Summer has a way of slowing things down, and that’s exactly what our informal meetings have been about—relaxed gatherings, casual show and tell, and plenty of stitching without an agenda. Now it’s time to dust off the meeting minutes and welcome everyone back to our formal Fall schedule!

New Leadership, New Energy

This season brings an exciting change at the top. Our new President, Barbara Johnston, is stepping into the role with a reputation that precedes her; an award-winning quilter whose work has been recognized for its skill and creativity. Under her leadership, we’re looking forward to a year filled with fresh ideas, inspiring projects, and the kind of guidance that only comes from someone who truly knows the craft.

Of course, not everyone is back in town just yet. Several of our members are still enjoying their summer homes, and we miss them at every meeting. But we’re looking forward to welcoming them back in Oct. or Nov.

New Classes and Adventures Ahead

If there’s one thing we can promise this season, it’s that boredom won’t be an option. We have a full slate of classes and new group activities designed to stretch our skills and bring us together in new ways. Beginning with the By Annie Two-day Large Tote class on Aug. 18 and 21. Whether you’re a longtime By Annie fan or trying one of her patterns for the first time, this class promises great instruction, good company and a beautiful, functional bag to show for it by the end.

We’re also thrilled to launch a new Machine Embroidery Group, whose first meeting was on Aug. 25. This group will continue to meet every fourth Friday of the month going forward, giving members a regular space to explore embroidery machine techniques, share projects and troubleshoot together. New, beginning and experienced embroidery fans, all are welcome.

Looking Forward to a Memorable Year

As we move from the easy relaxed time of summer into a season of structure, classes and community, there’s a lot to look forward to. New Leadership board, new classes, speakers, more adventures, and old friends returning home to our guild.

Mark your calendars, bring your questions, and get ready to dive back in. We can’t wait to see you at our next formal meeting, Sep. 9, at 9 a.m. (social time), with our meeting starting at 9:30 a.m. We meet in the Cottonwood Computer Learning Lab, 25630 S. Brentwood Dr., Sun Lakes, AZ 85248.

Visit our website to learn all about usdesertthreads.org.