2027 Alaska Cruise Classes

PLEASE READ:

Come relax and sew your days away this amazing ALASKA quilt cruise getaway. We are providing lovely Bernina made machines on this cruise as well as a machine expert so you don’t even need to thread your own needle!

Take as many or as few workshops as you wish. Workshops are offered on each at sea day, not on port days. Additionally, you may request open sewing for a worksohp time as we will have a dedicated room waiting for your enjoyment.

Workshop sign up forms will be made available to you in June, 2027 if you have chosen the I AM A QUILTER option with your booking. You may choose any number of workshops by number (#1, #2, #3 etc… choice) per at sea day. As previously mentioned, free sewing (Open sewing) for independent or workshop projects will be also be available for you as a workshop choice.

Don’t delay in booking, this cruise will sell out quickly – we have had many requests for this unique opportunity.

Don’t despair, you may take as many or as few classes as you like when they are offered. Space is limited, don’t forget to register soon!

See you in ALASKA!

Workshops with Debbie Maddy
Workshops with Jo Lynn O’Neill
Workshops with Ilaria Padovani
Workshops with Susan Powell

Workshops with Debbie Maddy

Hunters Star Simplified

Hunter’s Star Simplified Lap 58” X 58”

Image is a mockup with new fabrics available in time for the cruise.

This is a very easy quilt made with half-square triangles and squares. There are NO Y seams or set-in seams. Other sizes are available.

Kit is available in the colors shown $65.

Kits need to be ordered early so you can precut them.

Kit includes pattern, all fabrics for the quilt top, and binding.

If you choose to use your own fabrics:

Fabric Requirements:

The lap quilt can be made with fat quarters or selvage to selvage yardage fabrics.
8 Fat Quarters or 3/8 yard each of 8 fabrics
First border ~ 1/2 yard
Outside border ~ 1 3/4 yards
Backing ~ 4 yards
Binding ~ 5/8 yard

General Sewing Notions

Modern Art

Modern Art 70” X 86”

Image is a mockup with new fabrics available in time for the cruise.

Modern quilt with large pieces to show off the beautiful fabrics.

Larger size is available; contact Debbie.

Kits is available in the fabrics shown $97.

Kits need to be ordered early so you can precut them.

If you choose to use your own fabrics:

Fabric requirements:
Fabric A 3/4 yard
Fabric B 3/4 yard
Fabric C 3/4 yard
Fabric D 3/4 yard
Fabric E 3/4 yard
First Border 7/8 yard
Outside Border 2 1/8 yard
Binding 3/4 yard

General Sewing Notions

Stella's Surprise

Stella’s Surprise Lap 66” X 66”

No Diamonds/No Y Seams!

Larger size is available; contact Debbie.

Kit is available in the colors shown $90.

Kits need to be ordered early so you can precut them.

Kit includes pattern, all fabrics for the quilt top, and binding.

If you choose to use your own fabrics:

Fabric Requirements:
Amounts are based on fabric that has 40” of usable fabric between the selvages.
Fabric #1 ~ 3/8 yard
Fabric #2 ~ 3/8 yard
Fabric #3 ~ 3/4 yard
Fabric #4 ~ 3/8 yard
Fabric #5 ~ 1/2 yard
Fabric #6 ~ 1/2 yard
Fabric #7 ~ 1/2 yard
Background fabric ~ 3/4 yard
First border ~ 1/2 yard
Outside border ~ 2 yards
Binding ~ 5/8 yard
Backing ~ 4 yards

General Sewing Notions

Swallows

Swallows Lap 64” X 64”

Image is a mockup with new fabrics available in time for the cruise.

Delightful scrappy quilt with a vintage look.

Larger size is available; contact Debbie.

Kit is available in the colors shown $77.

Kits need to be ordered early so you can precut them.

Kit includes pattern, all fabrics for the quilt top, and binding.

If you choose to use your own fabrics:

Fabric Requirements
3 charm packs + 1 mini charm or 4 charm packs or 1 1/2 yards of scraps
Background 2 1/4 yards
1st Border 1/2 yard
Outside Border 1 7/8 yards
Binding 5/8 yard
Backing 4 yards

General Sewing Notions

Labrynth

Labyrinth Lap 58” X 58”

Image is a mockup with new fabrics available in time for the cruise.

Larger size is available; contact Debbie.

Make this incredibly difficult looking but easy quilt with amazing results. No Y seams only half square triangles, squares, and rectangles.

Kit is available in the colors shown $74.

Kits need to be ordered early so you can precut them.
Kit includes pattern, all fabrics for the quilt top, and binding.

If you choose to use your own fabrics:
Fabric requirements:
IT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO HAVE HIGH CONTRAST BETWEEN THE
FABRICS FOR THE DESIGN TO POP AND THE WEAVING ILLUSION TO
WORK.
Fabric #1~center star ~ 1/4 yard
Fabric #2~center star ~ 1/4 yard
Fabric #3~diamond around center star ~ 1/2 yard
Fabric #4~square around center star ~ 5/8 yard
Background ~ 1 yard
First border ~ 1/2 yard
Outside border ~ 1 3/4 yards
Backing ~ 4 yards
Binding ~ 5/8 yard

General Sewing Notions

Questions, contact Debbie at Debbie@debbiemaddy.com

Fanciful "Alaskan" Bear - a Teenie Tiny Collage by Laura Heine - 2 day workshop

Laura Heine (Alaska) Bear Collage 16″x20″

Learn to collage the Laura Heine way with Laura Heine certified instructor, Jo Lynn O’Neill.

Alaska is a land where bears roam wild and free, from misty shorelines to forested hillsides—an unforgettable sight for anyone lucky enough to witness them. This vibrant bear, bursting with color and life, captures that spirit in a way that feels both playful and deeply personal. As you stitch each piece, you’ll be weaving together memories of glaciers, sea air, and the thrill of spotting wildlife in its natural home. Long after the journey ends, this fanciful bear will remain a joyful reminder of your Alaskan adventure.

OR, may your choice of any Laura Heine “Teenie Tiny” (16″x20″) collage.

Supplies:

Kit or Pattern available at www.fiberworks-heine.com or any authorized dealer our Alaska bear kit can be found here: https://www.fiberworks-heine.com/shop/Kits/Laura-Heine-Collage-Kits/p/Teeny-Tiny-Group-3-Collage-Kit-Bear-2nd-Edition-by-Laura-Heine-x69158373.htm

Of note, the pattern is not included in the kit and must be purchased separately.

As the techniques are consistent throughout, once you’ve mastered the “how-to’s,” the only question left will be which of Laura’s amazing designs you’ll choose to create next!

Come join us for a fun no stress class.

I also encourage you to purchase a kit from the Laura Heine website. In the long run it will be less expensive and less weight for your luggage. However, if you have fabric in your stash that you would like to use that is fine. The pattern is not included in the kit and you must purchase it separately. Follow the fabric and materials list on the pattern you choose if you are bringing your own fabrics.

** Please, only bring a “Teenie Tiny” project, do not bring one of the larger patterns, we don’t have room on our tables to accommodate these.

Your homework is to have all of your fabrics fused before you get to class. You must do this!

Supplies:

Laura Heine 17″ or under pattern and/or kit of your choice
Steam a Seam 2 fusible (not lite)
Applique Pressing Sheet
Black Sharpie pen and a pencil
Pattern Ease- see pattern for amount
Sharp fabric scissors—I love Karen Kay Buckley’s perfect scissors, the (blue handle) works especially well for this
Pins
Tweezers-optional
Background fabric-again check your pattern.

Please contact me if you have questions.

Jo Lynn O’Neil –jolynn.oneill@Gmail.com

Jolynn.oneil@gmail.com

See otter - SEA otter - 2 day workshop

See Otter – SEA Otter

Enjoy making this delightful whimsical otter designed and offered by Wildfire Designs Alaska.

Creating this delightful sea otter is a joyful journey in itself, as each carefully placed piece brings its sweet expression and playful spirit to life. You might see many otters on our journey, making this project even more meaningful. With its layered textures and soothing coastal tones, this charming otter is sure to become a favorite reminder of your Alaskan adventure.

The Maritime’s Most Wanted: Sea Otter Laser Kit is $82.45 and includes a pattern, all laser cut appliques backed with Lite Steam-a-Seam 2, background, borders and binding to make the individual Sea Otter wallhanging. Batting and backing not included. You may order the kit at https://www.shopwildfireak.com/shop/p/maritimes-most-wanted-sea-otter-laser-kit-with-pattern

A pattern is also available at https://www.shopwildfireak.com/shop/p/maritimes-most-wanted-sea-otter-pattern however, you will need to precut and fuse your pieces prior to the cruise.

Come join us for a day of stress-free stitch-free creativity, and good company!

Supplies

Purchase kit or pattern (prepare all fabrics for pattern by fusing and cutting prior to the cruise)
Purchasing the pattern, yardage requirement for quilt is on the back of pattern.
Good sharp pair of scissors (recommend Gingher 5” Knife Edge Craft G-5C or 8” Knife Edge Dressmaker Shear G-8)
Paper scissors
Sharp pencil
Good sharp pair of thread scissors
Non-stick pressing sheet
Cutting Board and ruler, not required but recommended

There are companion pieces available for the Sea Otter in wildfiredesignsalaska.com’s Maritime’s Most Wanted Collection, once you’ve mastered this little guy, you might wish to make his friends!

Questions, contact JoLynn at Jolynn.oneil@gmail.com

What could be more Alaska than a Whale? 2 day workshop

What could be more Alaska than a Whale?! Laura Heine Collage

Learn to collage the Laura Heine way with Laura Heine certified instructor, Jo Lynn O’Neill.

Alaska’s waters are alive with wonder, where whales surface in the mist and the rhythm of the sea becomes part of your journey. This beautifully detailed whale captures that magic, blending ocean life, color, and storytelling into every piece. As you create it, you’ll relive moments of watching for spouts on the horizon and feeling the awe of the wild all around you. Long after your cruise has ended, this whimsical whale will remain a vivid, fanciful reminder of your Alaskan adventure.

OR, may your choice of any Laura Heine “Teenie Tiny” (16″x20″) collage.

Supplies:

Of note, the pattern is not included in the kit and must be purchased separately.

As the techniques are consistent throughout, once you’ve mastered the “how-to’s,” the only question left will be which of Laura’s amazing designs you’ll choose to create next!

Come join us for a fun no stress class.

** Please, only bring a “Teenie Tiny” project, do not bring one of the larger patterns, we don’t have room on our tables to accommodate these.

Your homework is to have all of your fabrics fused before you get to class. You must do this!

Supplies:

Laura Heine 17″ or under pattern and/or kit of your choice
Steam a Seam 2 fusible (not lite)
Applique Pressing Sheet
Black Sharpie pen and a pencil
Pattern Ease- see pattern for amount
Sharp fabric scissors—I love Karen Kay Buckley’s perfect scissors, the (blue handle) works especially well for this
Pins
Tweezers-optional
Background fabric-again check your pattern.

Please contact me if you have questions.

Jo Lynn O’Neil –jolynn.oneill@Gmail.com

Jolynn.oneil@gmail.com

Jo Lynn O’Neil is a certified Laura Heine instructor. She will be teaching collage classes as follows:

We are offering this 2 day collage workshop three twice during our cruise. If you choose both workshops, you may work on one or two Laura Heine projects.

During our time together, you will learn Laura Heine’s collage technique with all the in’s and out’s and special methods Laura recommends.

We will be making a Collage quilt using Teeny Tiny patterns by Laura Heine. Each pattern makes a quilt approximately 16”x20”. You can use one of the patterns pictured here or choose any of Laura’s Teeny Tiny pattern. You may see all of the patterns by going to www.fiberworks-heine.com, then searching for Teeny Tiny. You will pull up both kits and patterns. There are many to choose from.

As the techniques are the same, you may choose from any of the Teeny Tiny quilt patterns

Come join us for a fun no stress class. You will have some homework as there are limited irons available on the cruise ship.

** Please do not bring one of the larger patterns, we don’t have room on our tables to accommodate these.

Your homework is to have all of your fabrics fused before you get to class. You must do this!

Supplies:

Laura Heine 17″ or under pattern and/or kit of your choice
Steam a Seam 2 fusible (not lite)
Applique Pressing Sheet
Black Sharpie pen and a pencil
Pattern Ease- see pattern for amount
Sharp fabric scissors—I love Karen Kay Buckley’s perfect scissors, the (blue handle) works especially well for this
Pins
Tweezers-optional
Background fabric-again check your pattern.

Please contact me if you have questions.

Jo Lynn O’Neil

Jolynn.oneil@gmail.com

Easy Peasy Fabric Collage

Fabric Collage

Fabric Collage – 1 Day

Bring your creativity and leave with a unique piece of fabric art!

What a fabulous method to make a quick and personal gift!!

In this workshop you will learn to unleash your creativity and repurpose fabric
scraps in a sustainable way by creating a stunning fabric collage.
You will explore shape and colour composition, see fabric in a whole new light by
working with different scales and textures. You can choose from available
patterns or bring your own drawings/photos to transform fabric remnants into
beautiful art pieces using a technique that doesn’t require ironing during the
class. You will also receive detailed guidance to safely transport your collage,
quilt and complete your piece at home, turning it into a gorgeous wall-quilt
or cushion.

Supply List:
• Fabric scissors with fine sharp points
• Tracing and white paper and pencil
• Aleene’s® Original Tacky Glue pen
• 12’ x12’ piece of foam core board

Mandatory Kit: $50 includes:
• Access to a large selection of Kaffe Fassett’s fabrics
• Steam a Seam 2 Lite sheets
• Templates
• Full instructions to complete the project.

Sashiko Meets Kaffe Fassett

Sashiko Meets Kaffe Fassett – 1 Day

In this workshop you will start by practicing how to transfer Sashiko patterns onto fabric and sew the various techniques on a sample. Using your new skills, you will then transfer a chosen design which you will stitch and make into a little table mat or wall hanging framed with Kaffe Fassett fabrics of your choice. Sashiko is a relaxing and portable method of stitching that adds design elements to fabrics, garments and quilts, and it is beautiful when partnered with applique work.

Supply List:
• Small cutting mat (A4)
• Rotary cutter
• 12” Ruler
• Fabric scissors
• Embroidery threads/heavy duty thread
• Thimble (optional)
• Needle threader (optional)
stitching that adds design elements to

The mandatory kit is $50 and will be available to purchase and collect on the day of the workshop. Kit includes indigo colour fabric, sashiko thread, sashiko needle, white marking pen, pattern template, access to a selection of Kaffe Fassett fabrics for the borders
Cash only please.

The Art of Visible Mending

The Art of Visible Mending – 1 Day

Visible mending invites us to slow down and care for the things we already have. Through simple stitches and thoughtful patches, worn fabric is gently restored, turning repair into a quiet act of creativity and respect for the life of a textile.

In this workshop you will explore the creative and mindful practice of visible mending repairing and strengthening worn or damaged textiles celebrating, rather than hiding, the repair.
Using simple hand-stitch techniques, we will work with denim and sturdy cloth, learning how to reinforce holes, tears and weak areas while adding colour, texture and character. Drawing inspiration from traditional mending practices such as sashiko and darning, alongside more free and expressive stitch work, this workshop encourages play, experimentation and an intuitive approach to repair.
You are welcome to bring a pair of jeans or a garment in need of repair, or to work on supplied fabric samples if you prefer.
Supply list:
• 12wt cotton thread
• Crewel/embroidery needles size #5-10
• Fabric Scissors
• Needle threader (optional)
• Thimble (optional)
The $20 mandatory kit includes sample fabric (denim, cloths in different weight and access to a selection of Kaffe Fassett’s fabric, threads (stranded embroidery and 12wt, needles)
The kit will be available to purchase and collect on the day of the workshop.
Cash only please.

Kawandi With a Twist

Kawandi With a Twist – 1 Day

In this workshop you will learn how to make your own beautiful Kawandi using
Kaffe Fassett’s gorgeous fabrics.
Kawandi are traditional quilts of the Siddi community of India, which are typically made from sari scraps patched together from the outside in.
This technique is very organic and relaxing and gives the finished quilt lots of
texture. Unlike traditional quilts, Kawandi are pieced and quilted at the same time making this technique perfect for a beginner quilter or for a project ‘on the go’.

Supply list:
• 12wt cotton thread
• Crewel/embroidery needles size #5-10
• Fabric Scissors
• Needle threader (optional)
• Thimble (optional)
The mandatory kit is $35 and includes all material necessary to complete a 12” square Kawandi quilt (backing fabric, wadding and access to a selection of Kaffe Fassett’s fabrics).
It will be available to purchase and collect on the day of the
workshop.

Cash only please

Ribbon, Fabric and Bead Necklace

Ribbon, Fabric and Bead Necklace – 1 Day

In this workshop you will learn how to make felt beads wrapped with Kaffe Fassett’s beautiful fabric and jacquard ribbons featured in Little Ribbon Patchwork and Appliqué.
You will be shown how to make and secure the basic felt beads, the simple finishing process that prepares for decoration and finally all possible variations and additions to the basic designs – using Lurex, wires, seed beads, ribbons, threads, and fabrics.
Supply List:
• Small cutting mat (A4)
• Rotary cutter
• 12” Ruler
• Dressmaker pins
• Embroidery scissors
• Crewel needles size #5-10
• Thimble (optional)
• Needle threader (optional)
Kit includes all material necessary to make a 12-bead necklace
(ribbons & fabrics, felt strips, gold thread, cotton threads, seed beads, threading
elastic & cord, bamboo skewer).
Not included are the large spacing beads that separate the felt beads.
Kit is $45 and will be available to purchase and collect on the day of the workshop.
Cash only please.
The kit is mandatory.

Workshops with Susan Powell

Zen Paper Piecing (EPP)

Zen English Paper Piecing – Pin Cushion – 1 Day

Discover the joy of the Zen of English Paper Piecing! Portable! Sociable!

Zen paper piecing is a quiet, meditative approach to quilting that invites you to slow down and enjoy the simple rhythm of stitching. The process encourages focus and calm, turning quilting into a mindful practice where creativity unfolds gently and each stitch becomes part of a peaceful, satisfying journey.

Skills – English Paper Piecing, hand sewing, fussy cutting, we will work on 1 ½” hexagons to explore the fun of fussy cutting and hand stitching.

We will also make a hexagon pincushion, maybe from fabric you find along the way.

Materials List

English papers, 1 ½” hexagons. I use Paperpieces.com.
Small amounts of cotton or silk fabric with images suitable to fussy cut.
#50 Aurifil cotton thread; light, medium, dark, warm and cool neutrals or colors to match
Sewline glue pens
Paper scissors
Small fabric scissors
Plastic clips (optional)
Basic Hand sewing supplies

Optional kit will be available at a price to be determined

A kit for the pincushion will also be available.

Broderie Perse Applique

Exploring Broderie Perse Applique – 1 Day

Broderie purse applique begins by carefully selecting and cutting beautiful motifs from printed fabrics, allowing the quilter to isolate flowers, birds, vines, or decorative shapes. These designs are then gently appliquéd onto a background, creating a layered composition that feels both playful and artistic. The process transforms ordinary printed fabric into a new, personal design, where each motif finds its place through patient stitching and creative arrangement.

Join in what I think is a fun day taking images from contemporary and/or reproduction fabrics to apply to a surface background fabric to create your own new story.

We will be assessing fabrics and how to use them using basic applique skills to tell our story.

Basic applique skills will be helpful.

Fanciful Fish - Learn Needleturn Applique

Fanciful Fish – The technique of needleturn applique – 1 Day

Enjoy the freedom of stitching without days of preparation to make applique designs with the needleturn method. Needleturn appliqué is a slow, hand-guided process that invites the quilter to shape fabric gently with each stitch. As the edges are turned under and stitched in place, the work becomes a quiet conversation between hands and cloth, creating soft forms that grow patiently over time.

Materials

Fat Quarter for background
Small pieces of fabric from your stash. Variety of fabric is beneficial
Applique needles
Silk or cotton applique thread, 60 wt or smaller (I use 100 wt silk) in warm and cool neutrals or colors to match
Paper scissors
Small, sharp applique scissors
Freezer paper or Totally Stable by Sulky
Marking pencils for light and dark fabric
Basic sewing supplies

An optional kit will be available. Price is undetermined at this time.

Whale Watch

Whale Watch Mixed Technique – 1 Day

While on my first trip to Alaska I was fascinated by the “Button Blankets” made
by the Tlingit tribes of Native American Indians. I always wanted to make one,
and actually bought shell buttons at each cruise stop.

In this class, we will explore the technique in a small way using images of Alaska
using wool, cotton, and of course, buttons without trying to totally appropriate their native imagery. Skills – Needleturn applique and wool applique

Materials List

Wool background center – 18” square
12” square water themed cotton fabric
One third yard or fat quarter cotton fabric for scallops
12” square black wool
Black fat eighth in cotton for the whale body
White cotton scraps for spots on the whale

Clamshell Needle Book

Clamshell Needle Book – 1 Day

Make a sweet needlebook for yourself or a friend! This charming needle book using clamshell English paper piecing, a relaxing and portable hand-stitching project perfect for time at sea. Use treasured scraps from your own fabric collection or incorporate fabrics you may discover along the way during our Alaska ports of call. As the clamshell shapes come together, you’ll create a beautiful and practical needle book to hold your hand-sewing needles and small notions—something both useful and a lovely reminder of your Alaska quilting adventure.

For those who prefer everything prepared, kits will also be available for purchase (price to be determined) in either reproduction or contemporary fabric styles.

Materials:

1 1/2”clamshell template
24 2 1/2” squares of fabric assorted
24 1 1/2” clamshell papers
6” x 2” background fabric
5” x 6” back cover fabric
1” x 6” center panel fabric
2” x 42” binding fabric

Basic sewing supplies :

Small sharp fabric scissors
Applique needle
Appliqué thread: 100 wt silk , or 80wt cotton, or Superior brand polyester60 or 50 wt cotton thread
Sewline glue stick and refills
Fine pins or applique pins
6 1/2” x11” lining fabric
6 1/2” x 11” pocket fabric
7” x 12” batting
Finished size 5” x 6”