Hi there, and Happy New Year!  I hope you are all excited and looking forward to a fabulous 2026.  It is certainly shaping up to be a busy year at Annie’s with the calendar looking pretty full already.
Our regular classes will start again at the end of the month, with our first Friday night Cross Stitch Gathering on January 30th, followed by our Wool Class on Saturday 31st.    Our  Thursday morning patchwork classes will begin again on February 5th.  

I am also excited to tell you about the “Slow Stitching with Stanley” class tutored by Oamaru Textile Artist Maria Morrissey which is scheduled for Friday – Saturday March 27-28.  (“Stanley” is the horse in the middle of the stitchery panel by Australian designer Kasia Jouquat.)  

Maria has taken the panel and worked her magic.  She will show you how to cut it up and add fabrics, threads, textures and embellishments to create your unique piece.  In the class you will also make your own handmade buttons.   The finished panel could be used as a feature on a bag or cushion, in a quilt or mounted on an art canvas.  Book now as places are limited!  

More details about all the classes including the Bernina Skills Class Friday- Saturday 13-14 February.   This is a must for everyone who wants to get most out of their machine, or just a reminder about what all the buttons are for, a chance to try some new techniques and some hints and tips that will save you money!   A free kit is also included.  
Details for all of these classes are on our website or you are welcome to give us a call. -  www.anniesquilts.co.nz/cms/classes

Just to give you the heads up as well.  January is a great time to buy a new Bernina or Bernette sewing machine or overlocker or any feet and accessories that you might need as price increases will take effect February 1.  Give us a call and let us know what you need, or call in and see us for a free demonstration. 

I would also like to show you another project that I completed over the Christmas break.  This gorgeous baby blanket would make the perfect gift, and comes as a complete kit ($99) with the pattern, fabric, crochet hook and cotton yarn.  Basic crochet skills are required, but if you get stuck I am more than happy to help.  ☺

Before I forget the winner of December’s $50.00 voucher from Annie’s is  Toni Bestow.    If you would like to be in the draw, don’t forget to fill out a form at the counter when you make a purchase.
Now, on to the recipe.  This is in anticipation of all that fabulous summer barbeque weather that is just around the corner!  

Pineapple Salsa

• 1/3  fresh pineapple (or a tin or pineapple will work fine too)
• ¼ small red onion
• Fresh corriander 
• 1 Tbsp lime juice
• 1 red chilli

Slice or chop the ingredients and mix together in a bowl and season with salt and pepper and more lime juice to suit your taste.  Chill and then serve with barbeque meats.

 
Have a great weekend. 
Rachel and the team at Annie’s.
03 3076 277
www.anniesquilts.co.nz