got questions?



Everyday, I field a large number of phone calls from prospective students asking me a myriad of questions. The following are the top ones that I hope will help answer your questions:

1. Is there anything for me to do at the show if I don't machine quilt?  Yes, MQX welcomes all quilt aficianados to participate in all of it's classes and events.If you are a machine quilter and have a piecing friend, bring them with you. There are many types of classes to take like piecing, design, art, business and robotic quilting to name a few.

2.  Which class should I take if I only use a home sewing machine to quilt ?  I like to tell my students that it doesnt matter whether you move the fabric under the needle (sit down) or move the needle over the fabric (frame quilting) many of the lecture /demo classes are on techniques and will,, for the most part, apply to you except for some of the product specific ones. 

3.  I'm a beginner but I want to take a class that is for an intermediate level?   If it is a lecture/demo type class,go for it.  If it is a hands-on you might want to think it over since it would be easy to fall behind and get frustrated.  Should you want to give it a try, keep in mind that you will retain what you feel you can use now and file away more advanced information for when you're ready. I have never taken a class where I did not learn something.  As an experienced quilter, I have taken classes from teachers that were for beginners and been wowed at some of the tips I learned. Think about it , there aren't that many machine quilting shows that offer the number of classes MQX offers.  Take advantage of it! 

4.  Can I bring my husband?  Yes, We love your significant others.  We will have plenty of volunteer work for them to do and/or you can let them shop the vendor mall and fine tune which machine they want you to buy. I have seen it happen time after time that the husband will get hooked on robotics, tools and gadgets and end up taking classes themselves. 

5.  How many classes should I take?  Know your limits! Remember to take time to shop the vendor mall, mingle with your fellow quilters and have some fun.  MQX generally has a one hour break between each class giving you plenty of time to browse the show floor or to relax with a snack. I have seen students take back to back classes and never go on the show floor. It is all up to you.

6.  Are my classes tax deductible?  If you are running a business YES!  Please check with your accountant for specific tax information regarding specific deductions.

7.  Which events can I attend if I do not register for classes?  You may purchase single or multi-day admission to the exhibit hall to see the quilts, vendors and special exhibits.  Public show days are Thursday , Friday and Saturday.  The Sneak Peek Preview is for registered students.  Ice Cream Social, Awards Ceremony, Fashion Show and Banquet tickets may be purchased by anyone without incurring a class registration fee.

8 . Does it really work out to have a roommate?  Most of the time it does.  It saves you money and most will go home with a new friend. 

9.  Do I need to bring my sewing machine for the piecing classes? NO , The domestic sewing machine classes all have machines provided for use in the classroom. Extra needles and basic sewing supplies, plus the supply list items for your specific class(es), are all that you need to bring.

10.  I only know some of the classes I want to take, should I sign up or wait till I know which other ones I want?  Sign up for the ones you know you want now.  This secures your seat in the class.  You may add on additional classes and events anytime thereafter.  This year, students that bring a laptop with them may opt to sign up for additional classes from your hotel room and up to 24 hours in advance of the class.  Your name will be on the class roster and you can go straight to class without stopping at Student services.

When in doubt, call me!  I can be reached toll free at 866-675-7247. I live in Vermont where it is Eastern Standard Time, 

See you in April in beautiful Providence, Rhode Island

Mary Schilke

Categories: 2010 Class News