Summary of Schoodic Quilt Retreat: Fun Friends and Fabulous Finishes

We can’t help but feel the excitement bubbling within us as we reminisce about the incredible experience we had at the UFOs Over Schoodic Quilt Retreat. It was truly a magical journey of creativity, friendship, and inspiration set against the breathtaking backdrop of Acadia National Park. We’re here to share some wonderful moments and extend an enthusiastic invitation for you to join us next year – you won’t want to miss out on the fun!

Unforgettable Memories: The retreat, hosted by Bev and Irene Henion, welcomed participants to the serene beauty of the Schoodic Peninsula in Maine. Acadia National Park served as our canvas, and we painted it with vibrant fabric and threads, creating beautiful quilts inspired by nature.

Techniques Galore: I was delighted to be the instructor for the first week of UFOs over Schoodic!  While this week’s goals were to learn the Rotary Cutting Techniques for two beautiful applique quilts, a few of our members brought SPD quilts that they wished to finish during the retreat.  Many of our Ahead of the Curve members attended the week-long retreat as a way to get their projects finished, while many participants new to my Rotary Cut quilts were eager to start their first SPD projects.  Daily instruction time was the heart of our quilting adventure, but forming friendships that will last a lifetime is the true goal of the week.  

Sewing in Slippers and More: The atmosphere was relaxed and cozy, allowing us to quilt in our slippers, making each stitch a pure joy. We had a Welcome Reception where introductions were made, friendships from last year were renewed, and last year’s finished projects were revealed.  I introduced this year’s projects, igniting our creativity for the week ahead. During the week, additional “Show and Tell” sessions let us celebrate each other’s work

Off to a quick start of Applique Magic: Our first day began with instruction on cutting, fusing, and stitching techniques for a Drunkard’s Path quilt with no curved piecing.  Rotary Cut Applique transformed the seemingly complex into the beautifully achievable. We created stunning Drunkard’s Path blocks with newfound confidence and spent Day Two discovering the endlless arrangment of blocks into stunning quilts.  

Stunning Quilt Projects: Our Drunkard’s Path Wall Quilt allowed us to capture the essence of Acadia’s natural beauty, while the Hope’s Diamond project reflected the serene Atlantic Ocean and the vibrant fall foliage of New England.

Perfect Quilting Space: With spacious 6-foot tables, ample pressing stations, and cutting mats, we had all the tools we needed to bring our quilt visions to life.  In addition to the fabulous facilities, Rick Henion made each participant a goddess Pressing Board and a Kaffe Design Board to take home!  

Accommodations and Meals: Staying in cozy apartments just a short walk from the sewing center made our experience stress-free. The community dining hall provided delicious meals, culminating in a traditional Down East Maine Lobster Dinner that was simply unforgettable.

Guided Park Walks: Exploring Acadia NationalPark was a highlight, offering fresh air, exercise, and endless inspiration for our quilt designs. Sue’s favorite walk along the Sundew Trail was a true gem.  Those who walked the Sundew Trail were rewarded with a magnificent view of the ocean from a rustic wooden bench among the pines.  
Amidst the creative energy, we all found moments of tranquility and self-reflection, surrounded by the park’s natural beauty.

The UFOs Over Schoodic Quilt Retreat has left us with cherished memories and newfound skills, and we can’t wait to create more with you next year. Until then, keep quilting, keep creating, and keep dreaming!

Warmest quilting wishes,

P.S.: Check out the galleries for a visual taste of the joy and creativity that awaits you at UFOs Over Schoodic! 🧵🪡🌲