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.

Is a trained Secondary School Visual Arts Teacher and a passionate improv quilt maker, Jess is equipped with tips and techniques to help you develop your ideas and focus your creative energy.

Recently, she gained recognition in the fashion world for her pieced improv work, which was transformed into stunning couture outfits showcased at the Paris catwalk collection for Romance Was Born. This experience might just inspire you to create your own wearable fabric pieces!

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 Friday, August 1st, 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 Saturday and Sunday, participants will be divided into two groups. Group 1 will work with Lorena on Saturday and then switch to Jess on Sunday, while Group 2 will do the opposite. Teaching hours are from 10 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 4th, until mid-morning.

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!

Join Lorena to create two striking projects: The Starman and Kaleidoscope quilts!

Both are versatile and can be hand or machine pieced, with options to make a cushion, quilt, or even a quilt coat. You'll learn techniques for quick, accurate piecing and discover how to create captivating secondary patterns. Use your own fabric scraps, go with solids, or choose a curated bundle by Mandy.

The Starman Quilt comes in 12" and 16" block sizes, while the Kaleidoscope quilt uses 6" blocks and offers hand, machine and foundation paper piecing options. Templates and patterns are available for preorder or can be purchased at the retreat.

Closer to the retreat, you'll receive a requirements list and inspiring images to help plan your project.

Join Jess Wheelahan for an exciting day of improv piecing! Jess will share plenty of show-and-tell to spark your creativity, along with engaging exercises to get your ideas flowing.

In this workshop, grab your scrap bag and come prepared for our wonderfully flexible “almost anything goes” class. You’ll have the opportunity to break free from the burden of the more traditional methods and embark on a quilt, wall piece or cushion designed by you. Explore various design elements such as shape, line, color, size, space, value, and texture. You can even incorporate words into your quilts for impactful statement pieces.

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

BYO is welcome, and we'll kick off with bubbles and nibbles Friday night and local wine with dinner. Let us know any dietary needs on your registration form.

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.

Fabric if you are using your own fabric for any of the workshops.

$1050.00 per person for your own Room with an Ensuite. -SOLD OUT

$  850.00 per person if you are sharing an Ensuite room with a sewing buddy.

$  900.00 per person for your own Room with a Shared Bathroom. - SOLD OUT

$500 non refundable deposit is required to secure your spot and must be paid upon registration, the remaining amount can be paid in instalments, but the final balance must be paid by 30th April 2025.

If you would like to pay upfront and take advantage of our Early Bird Payment Option you can take $50.00 off your total price.

After filling out your registration form you will be sent an Invoice from Fabric Sauce where you can pay via Direct Deposit, Paypal, Credit Card or Shop Pay.

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.

Please click on the link below to fill out your expression of Interest. Rooms will sell quickly, so we will be back in touch with what room configuration we have to offer.