Creative Giving classes

As you know, my goal is to purchase a sewing machine (or two!) for AMG International Guatemala so they can start a sewing program in one of their projects.  A sewing program could bring life-changing opportunities for families there.  Pretty exciting, huh?  As you might remember, I was originally going to teach some friends how to make pillowcase dresses and send them down there... but God directed us to raising funds instead (you can read the longer version of that story here.)  25% of everything that I make and sell will go toward the sewing machine fund.  But God has also laid it on my heart to offer some classes to friends anyway.  And instead of collecting what we make, I'm going to be accepting donations toward the sewing machine fund.

With Christmas coming, I thought it would be fitting to do some classes centered around gift ideas this fall.  There is a lot of pressure here in America to buy many, many gifts!  And I know it can be overwhelming.  My hope is that some of the gift-giving tension is alleviated by learning how to make some simple gifts. I pray that each class will be a blessing that continues to multiply.  My hope is that we come together and enjoy learning together, that we can collect some money to send to AMG International Guatemala, and that each family has a more peace-filled Christmas season.  I think this video from Advent Conspiracy communicates some of what my heart is thinking that my mind can't quite put into words...

 See, a little bit can make a big difference in the long run.  I hope you can join us for a Creative Giving class this fall!!

Classes will be stand alone - meaning each class will be a new subject.  You can come to one class or every class - hand-pick which ones fit with your schedule and your needs!  Each class will be outlined on a FB event and also here on the blog.   Classes will be the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month.  Depending on the number of ladies that RSVP the classes will be at my house or a clubhouse on post.  I will not publish my address on the blog or FB, but I will happily send it to you via private message once I determine that you are not a creepy-freak.  Classes will begin at 9 am and end by 12 pm - you are free to come when you can and leave when you must.  If you do not finish a project during class that's perfectly fine.  If you need help finishing it up we can make a plan to do so.  Donations will be collected in a jar during class.  You can give whatever you feel is appropriate.  We will spend some time praying for AMG International Guatemala at each class as well.

What about those of you that are far off?  I'm going to post the tutorials or links to tutorials here on the blog on Wednesdays following class... that way if we hit any snags, I can let you know.  I'm working on adding a "donate" button to the blog so you can do paypal donations right here, if you want!  Also, if you are far-off and you want to host your own class let me know, I'd love to pray for your group.

Ok, the first class is next Tuesday!  We are making an "Apron in an Hour".  You will need:

• a sewing machine
• thread
• 1 fat quarter*
• 1/2 yard of a coordinating fabric 

*what the heck is a fat quarter? Its a quarter of a yard, but cut in a square instead of a long rectangle. Normally when you pick up a fabric and take it to the counter for cutting, they roll it out and measure 1/4 of yard - which is 9 inches, they would then cut this width the length of the fabric. Which yields a long, skinny piece of fabric. They now pre-package fat quarters, which is a corner of one whole yard. So its more of a square and its not as long. If you go to Jo-Ann's and ask, I promise you they won't even think you are asking something weird!

I'm very excited to begin the classes next week!