Sun Lakes Sew-N-Sews has been in existence since 1997. Presently, the group has about 140 members. The group has been a significant contributor to the communities near Sun Lakes. Many members are active in several of the SIGs (Special Interest Groups). This organization’s members are focused on Creativity, Comradery, Classes, and Charitable donations. It has been the creativity and enthusiasm of the members that keeps this organization growing.
Members are encouraged to share their work and their creativity at the monthly meetings. Many times, members show interest in the project, and a workshop or class may be offered. Each month a guest is invited to share their talent and show their work with the members during the meeting. The presentations are inspiring and enjoyable ways to learn more about textiles, fiber arts, and other handcrafts. In October, Judy Wells shared her needlepoint trunk show. Judy enjoys needlepoint and has created many Christmas ornaments, Halloween decorations, and other detailed and beautiful work. Several have received awards. Members were impressed with Judy’s work and showed their appreciation for her skills and creativity. After this presentation, members proudly shared completed projects. There were quilts and clothing made to donate to women trying to overcome challenges and prepare for interviews.
Some of the ladies were able to sign up for future classes, which include thread painting, making jewelry, making table runners, and other small projects that would make great gifts. These workshops and classes are taught by members. A few projects may require more time. During these sessions, friendships form and members are encouraged to become more involved and use the skills and projects in other ways.
While members are together, there is always some chatting and sharing. Each new member is encouraged to share their experience or interest and may sign up for the workshops or classes. Several members get together for lunch once a month on a set day each month. There is also a chance to gather for lunch prior to the monthly meeting. Some of the members also plan trips to shop or a weekend quilt retreat in the Pines in Prescott. You can always find someone else to get tips and ideas from for your projects.
There are also two very important groups that give back to the community. Pads for Paws and Children’s Charities meet each month. Both groups rely on donations of fabric, fiberfill, and even small stuffed toys. They rely on donated fabrics, crayons, coloring books and crayons, stuffed toys, and other small toys to stuff baskets for Amanda Hope and foster children organizations. Many in the group meet each month to cut fabric and put together a kit to be sewn. The group will also make some pillowcases and stuffed bears to be donated.
If you have an interest in being part of Sun Lakes Sew-N-Sews, consider joining. Experience the 4 C’s: Creativity, Classes, Comradery, and Charity of Sew-N-Sews. You can contact the organization by email at [email protected] or come to a meeting. The monthly meetings are always on the second Wednesday. The November meeting will be on Nov. 13 at 1 p.m. in the Cottonwood Lecture Hall located at 25630 S. Brentwood Drive, in Sun Lakes.