Get Creative & Find Opportunities for Connection During Quilting & Sewing Arts Month
Posted on August 18, 2026 at 6:00 am
By Gwendolyn Haley
Quilting & Sewing Arts Month
Quilting is about so much more than fabric and thread. It brings people together to share stories, learn from one another, and create something meaningful by hand.
From friendships formed around a sewing table to the satisfaction of completing a cherished project, quilting offers an outlet for creativity and opportunity for connection. That spirit of community is at the heart of Quilting & Sewing Arts Month at The Lab at North Spokane Library this September.
The library is hosting classes, demonstrations, and open hours for those interested in quilting. Participants will be able to explore traditional and modern quilting techniques, receive guidance from experienced quilters, and use a variety of tools and equipment.
Quilters of all skill levels are invited to gather, learn, and create together at the library.
This celebration of textile arts is made even more special by the loan of a Handi Quilter (HQ) Sweet 16 Longarm Quilting machine shared in memory of Sandy Calbreath by her family. As an avid reader (particularly of mystery novels), passionate quilter, and longtime library supporter, Sandy believed deeply in the joy of quilting and the friendships it fosters. She treasured the friendships formed in her quilting group and looked forward to the annual quilt retreat each year. She created beautiful quilts for her children and grandchildren that are a continuous, tangible expression of her love.
By sharing Sandy’s longarm quilting machine with the library and the community, the Calbreath family is helping to continue her legacy and give others the opportunity to experience the creativity, accomplishment, and sense of belonging that quilting can inspire.
Whether you’re picking up a needle for the first time or have years of quilting experience, Quilting & Sewing Arts Month at The Lab offers a welcoming place to learn, create, and connect.
Library Programs & Open Hours
For events requiring registration, go to our events calendar to sign up.
Quilting Arts Open Hours in The Lab
Volunteer quilters provide quilting assistance and advice during these drop-in open hours. Available quilting equipment includes standard sewing machines, a Handi Quilter (HQ) Sweet 16 Longarm Quilting machine, and an AccuQuilt GO! fabric cutter. The longarm quilter can accommodate lap-size or baby quilts up to 50 inches by 65 inches. All equipment is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Adults
To confirm open hours for each session, we recommend checking our events calendar or calling North Spokane Library at 509.893.8350.
NORTH SPOKANE
Tuesdays, Sep 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29, 1–4pm
Wednesdays, Sep 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30, 10am–12pm
Wednesday, Sep 23, 1–4pm
Thursday, Sep 3 & 17, 5–7:30pm
Fridays, Sep 4, 11, 18 & 25, 3–5pm
Saturdays, Sep 5, 12, 19 & 26, 9am–1pm
Saturday, Sep 26, 1–4pm
Sewing a Simple Shopping Bag
Learn basic sewing skills while creating a practical, reusable shopping bag. This beginner-friendly class introduces simple construction techniques, straight stitching, and sewing machine fundamentals. Adults
Presented by quilter and sewist Annette Moller
Registration is required. Registered participants will receive a supply list for this program via email.
NORTH SPOKANE
Thursday, Sep 3, 9:30am–12:30pm
Four-Part Quilting Class: Seasonal Table Runner
Create a seasonal table runner while learning and practicing essential quilting techniques. In this four-part class, we plan, cut, piece, sew, quilt, and bind a four-patch variation table runner from start to finish. Adults
Presented by quilter and sewist Pat Meinecke
Registration is required. Registered participants will receive a supply list for this program via email.
NORTH SPOKANE
Wednesdays, Sep 8, 15, 22 & 29, 9:30am–12:30pm
Sewing a Cinch-and-Go Drawstring Bag
Create a versatile bag that sits flat for easy filling and cinches closed with a drawstring to securely hold contents. This project is ideal for storing items such as LEGO bricks, makeup, art supplies, or small games with multiple pieces. Bags can be made in a variety of sizes based on your needs. Ages 10–14
Presented by quilter and sewist Becky Milton
Registration is required. Registered participants will receive a supply list for this program via email.
NORTH SPOKANE
Saturday, Sep 12, 2–4pm
Quilting Arts: Color Confidence for Quilters
Struggling to choose coordinating fabrics? This class guides you through practical techniques for selecting colors and building a cohesive palette. Gain the confidence to create quilts that feel balanced, vibrant, and uniquely your own. Adults
Presented by quilter and sewist Becky Milton
NORTH SPOKANE
Tuesday, Sep 15, 6–7:30pm
Sewing a Magic Pillowcase
Learn a simple technique for creating a pillowcase with fully enclosed seams for a professional finish. This quick, beginner-friendly project is perfect for building confidence with basic sewing skills. Ages 10–14
Presented by quilter and sewist Becky Milton
Registration is required. Registered participants will receive a supply list for this program via email.
NORTH SPOKANE
Saturday, Sep 19, 2–4pm
Sewing a Beginner Pincushion
Create a simple pincushion while learning essential sewing techniques in a supportive environment. Perfect for new sewists, this class covers basic stitching, fabric handling, and finishing skills. Adults
Presented by quilter and sewist Annette Moller
Registration is required. Registered participants will receive a supply list for this program via email.
NORTH SPOKANE
Monday, Sep 21, 9:30am–12:30pm
About the Presenters
Pat Meinecke
Pat Meinecke is a transplant from North Carolina, where she served for 11 years as the Resident Quilter at the John C. Campbell Folk School in Brasstown. Before that, she lived, sewed, and studied textile arts in a variety of fascinating locations as her husband’s U.S. Navy career took their family around the country and beyond.
Becky Milton
After more than 45 years as a quilter and well over a hundred quilts completed, Becky Milton remains deeply passionate about the craft. She finds quilting both therapeutic and creative—a balance of social connection through quilting groups and guilds and a calm, peaceful personal pastime. Becky has shared her skills as a guest speaker at quilting retreats, sewing camps for kids, homeschool groups, and with her own grandchildren. She is dedicated to spreading the beauty, warmth, and joy that quilting brings to homes and communities.
Annette Moller
Annette Moller began sewing through 4-H Club at age nine and has spent a lifetime creating clothing, costumes, quilts, and many other handmade projects. An experienced quilter and sewing enthusiast, she enjoys sharing her skills and helping others gain confidence in sewing.
Gwendolyn Haley is a Public Services Manager with Spokane County Library District. It’s a big job that on any given day might include robots, concerts, new gadgets and things, special events, and everything in between. She has a passion for learning new things and loves to help people ignite their curiosity and discover new passions.
