Is an award-winning quilt artist and teacher with over 20 years of experience in both modern and traditional quilting styles, working across hand and machine techniques. She is known for her intricate designs, love for colour, movement, and texture, as well as her passion for sustainability - often repurposing quilts into wearable art such as coats. An active member of the International Modern Quilt Guild Lorena teaches workshops locally and internationally, including events like Quiltcon, AQC & Quilt Symposium. Through her work, she celebrates the value of creativity and craft.

Living on beautiful Bundjalung Country in NSW, Barbie Mitchell is a designer, maker, international tutor, and Aurifil Artisan who brings a vibrant energy to traditional textile arts. Guided by her love of art, nature, colour, and all things handmade, her quilts often highlight the rich texture of needle turn applique, big stitch hand quilting and bold colour play. Barbie delivers an encouraging, high vibe atmosphere wher makers can experiment with technique, trust, their instincts, and create truly personal work.

St. Clement's Retreat and Conference Centre is a historic venue situated in the beautiful Hilltops region of NSW, along Kalangan Rd in Galong. It’s approximately 3.5 hours from Sydney and 1.5 hours from Canberra, nestled on 800 acres of stunning landscapes, expansive gardens, and a serene, tranquil environment.

Arrive after lunch on Thursday, July 29th, for a meet-and-greet with the teachers and organizers, followed by nibbles and champagne, a trunk show, and dinner. You’ll then have free time to socialise and work on your own projects.

On Friday and Saturday, participants will be divided into their respective tutor groups. Teaching hours are from 9.30 AM to 4 PM each day, and you're encouraged to sew before and after the workshops, so make the most of your time! Departure is scheduled for after breakfast on Monday, August 2nd, until mid-morning.

Sunday will be a free sewing day — a chance to relax, unwind, and sew at your own pace. You’re welcome to continue working on your projects from either tutor, or bring along something of your own to stitch away on. It’s your day, so make it whatever you’d like it to be! 🧵✨

We will have optional extra activities daily which include block lotto, trivia, walks, general fun & games.

And to make your experience even more special, each participant will receive a surprise goody bag and care package upon arrival. We can’t wait for you to discover the thoughtful goodies waiting for you!

Enjoy fresh, country-style meals with morning and afternoon tea on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, plus tea and coffee anytime.

BYO is welcome, but we’ll be kicking things off in style with bubbles, local wines, and nibbles on Thursday night. 🍾✨

We’d love you to join us each evening at 5pm in the kitchen just off the Castle teaching room for a relaxed catch-up before dinner. It’s a lovely way to unwind and connect after a big day of stitching!

Please remember to note any dietary requirements on your registration form so we can make sure everyone’s well looked after.

Mandy Schiller from Fabric Sauce, a local girl from the beautiful Hilltops region, will be joining us at the retreat and bringing her delightful shop along! This is a fantastic opportunity to explore a curated selection of fabrics, tools, and supplies that Mandy has thoughtfully chosen for our attendees. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, unique materials for your projects, or just want to browse, her presence will enhance your retreat experience. Don’t miss the chance to shop and chat with Mandy about her favorite fabrics and the latest trends in quilting and sewing!

Sewing Machine & your general sewing machine supplies eg: thread, needles, bobbins, quarter inch foot.

Rotary Cutter & Board

Hand Sewing supplies - thread, needles, thimble, scissors.

Full detailed list will be provided to the retreat attendees as the retreat gets closer.

Own Room with an Ensuite. - $TBA

Sharing an Ensuite room with a sewing buddy. - $TBA each person

Own Room with a Shared Bathroom. - Price $TBA

A $500 deposit will be required to confirm your registration. The remaining balance can be paid in instalments, with the final payment due by 30th April 2027.

If by some reason you cannot make the retreat it is your responsibility to sell your place as the organiser's cannot be responsible for a change in circumstances.

If you’ve received an email offering you a place at the 2027 SewClusion Retreat, please click the link below to complete your registration form, including your dietary requirements.

We already have registrations from last year's attendees, so places will be limited. Please add your name to our waiting list if you would like to be offered a place if a vacancy becomes available