Classes and Workshops
Check out “What We Do“ to see an overview of everything we do!
Don’t see what you’re looking for? Email Kathy and let’s get the class or event on the calendar!
Read What Others Are Saying about Our Classes and Workshops
Hands down the best Quiltworx class I have ever taken!
Read more “Hands down the best Quiltworx class I have ever taken!”
Your teaching is fantastic – Just the right mix of show and teach!
Read more “Your teaching is fantastic – Just the right mix of show and teach!”
MASTER Educator!
Kathy, it was great to meet you yesterday at the guild meeting yesterday. You are definitely a MASTER Educator! That was by far the BEST presentation I have ever experienced at a guild mtg!
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BobKat’s Autumn in Shipshewana Retreat 2024 – MAGICAL MIXERS
October 8 - October 12
$150.00 – $550.00
You can’t beat the beauty of the Autumn in Indiana’s Amish Country.
Join me in a 5 day retreat — at the The Farmstead Inn — just a short walk from Yoder Department Store and The Cotton Corner. Lodging and meals are arranged for independently. Our “featured pattern” will be YOURS! Learn the MAGIC of Quiltworx MIXERS!! Prior to the retreat, I’ll work with you to help you design and color your very own UNIQUE Quiltworx pattern! Learn the marvel and magic of mixers! As always — you are also welcome to bring the pattern(s) of your choice to work on!
Reserve your spot today! See details about deposits and costs (including the EARLY BIRD SAVINGS) below. See dates for cancellations and reimbursement policy below as well.
About the retreat:
WHEN: October 8 – 12, 2024.
WHERE: The Farmstead Inn in Shipshewana, Indiana
WHY: Because you’ll have 5 days of fun, sewing, shopping, eating and spending time with other Quiltworx Quiltmakers! Oh, and I’ll be there to help you every step of the way (before, during and after the retreat!!!)
Added benefit:
If you choose the featured MAGICAL MIXER PATTERN — I will work with you to design a custom Quiltworx Mixer — unique to you!
Soon after you register, we’ll meet face-to-face on Zoom and I’ll help you plan your quilt on using the “mixer” function on Quiltster. You’ll get a personalized report outlining your fabric shopping list, an index of fabric locations and the order for your custom Quiltworx Foundation papers. Click here to see a preview of how we’ll design your quilt in Quiltster!
In addition, you’ll have access to my library of MAGICAL MIXER TECHNIQUES support videos at no additional cost! A great benefit and a huge savings! Ideally you’ll secure your fabric and get organized before the retreat. At the retreat I’ll help you make great progress on your own one-of-a-kind Quiltworx keepsake quilt.
Looking to do a different pattern? No problem, bring your own pattern and you’ll still get great personal support from me (and complementary class v
ideos when available!) Just want some quality sewing time in a supportive environment? We’d love to have you join us!
COST: The retreat is $550 and does not include meals or lodging. It does include all instruction, sewing room access and support, video support, Quiltster Design Support and a Recorded Quiltster Instructional Class. Contact The Farmstead Inn directly to make your reservation — tell them you are with the BobKat Quilts Retreat for a bit of savings on your room! Looking to come but would love a roommate? I’m not a matchmaker — but I can share your contact information and you can explore the opportunity with other registrants. Also — check out OUTDOORSY.COM for information regarding renting an RV or cabin for the week!
Reserve your spot today with a deposit of $150.
Save $75 off retreat fee by paying in full before July 15, 2024. Payment in full is due no later than August 15. Retreat payment is refundable through August 30th — after that you receive a credit toward Zoom Classes, notions or Quiltworx patterns and/or Fabric Kits.
Here’s what others have said about our retreats and classes…
Fun instructor who teaches to all levels of skill
Hi,
Just wanted to post a little note. I am very new to sewing and especially quilting. My friend, who lives in Indiana, asked me if I wanted to take a quilting class with her. So I did. Kathy was beyond fantastic. She is a true instructor who understands how not to overwhelm students who are trying to learn a new skill set. It was super fun, relaxing and I learned a lot. There were some very experienced quilters in the class who also learned a lot. Going again next year (2024) to Shipshewana! Thanks for a fun week.
Dana ARetreat, Videos, In-Person – Great ways to learn!
I really like your hybrid teaching concept with great in-person instruction, supplemented with videos shared before and available for review after the retreat. I think that is more of the way the future will look. Many traditional quilters like the in-person sessions, and I understand that. But those of us with jobs and kids and other responsibilities cannot afford to be away for long periods of time. While this was a table topper class, I did purchase a queen size pattern, so it was worth going thru the class versus doing something from videos only.
Gina VivianoYoder's Department Store - Shipshewana, IN“My First Retreat! — What A Blast!”
What a blast! The “Best Little Quilt Retreat in Texas” was my first retreat, my first paper piecing project, and a first-class teacher 
. Thank Kathy for making the Judy technique doable for me!
Terri J.M. Best Little Quilt Retreat in Texas 2023I learned a LOT!
I have special needs children and really needed a 2-day respite, but the pace was faster than I expected, so I didn’t get much rest! The videos you shared ahead of the retreat were a life-saver! However, with that said, I did enjoy my time at the retreat. I appreciate how you were able to attend to everyone in the place they were as we got going. You were thorough in your explanations, which was great. And you shared some invaluable tips and tricks to surviving a “Judy project”. Meredith the other instructor from Yoder’s Department Store was a strong, stable persona in the room the entire time and that helped as well! I enjoyed getting to know you and the ladies in the group, which is rare for me as an extreme introvert! Thank you for the experience!
Gina VivianoYoder's Department Store - Shipshewana, INHer first Paper Piecing Project – WOW!
Kathy’s note: This was Elaine’s first paper piecing project! All I can say is WOW!!!
Thanks Kathy! Couldn’t have done it without you! You are a great teacher. I highly recommend her for your quilting projects.
PS The Quilt is even more beautiful in person!
Elaine Y.S.Can’t Recommend Kathy Enough!
Take one of Kathy’s classes- live and/or zoom. You will be guided through the process with as much support as you need. I can’t recommend Kathy at BobKat quilts enough!
She is wonderful!
Wendy SBobKat’s Retreat – The Value is Phenomenal!
Can’t say enough about how fun, laid back, and informational this retreat has been! I can’t truly say I’m “bummed” about missing her next one because I’m going to Quiltworx (!!!) in October, but if it weren’t for that I’d be doing everything I could to be here. But that just means my seat is open for someone else! This retreat WILL fill up! If you have the time, you should be here — The value is phenomenal.
Thank you Kathy for a fantastic week!
Tabitha A.I Loved the Retreat!
I joined Kathy at her BobKat Quilts Shipshewana Retreat where I worked on my 1st Quiltworx Quilt Carnival Flower. I loved the retreat and Kathy’s world of knowledge!
If you get a chance, join Kathy at one of her future in-person or zoom classes or at an upcoming retreat
Daphney CThank You for a Fantastic Week!
Thank you so much for a fantastic week. This is my first time making a JN quilt and Kathy made the whole process understandable and enjoyable. She is an outstanding instructor and I will be taking future classes with her.
Wendy SOutstanding Retreat!
Your Shipshewana Retreat was Outstanding!!! Had a great time with great people. And I will go home with my Carnival Flower in Tula colors 3/4 assembled. Couldn’t quite get that last slice in there but will finish at home. I learned so much this week 
Janet L.Great class with Kathy Groves
I really enjoyed our class in Shipshewana doing Zen Garden. I thought your teaching was right on. Loved all of your short cuts and tips so our projects would come out perfect. Even at home as I continue my project, I can use your tricks.
We really didn’t go thru the instruction book. I don’t know if that was a good thing or not. I certainly have had no problem following along now that I’m at home.
Lastly, I would like to know how you organize your instruction book(s). I know a lot of people use highlighters on certain instructions. How do you do it?
Again thank you for a great class. I am looking forward to seeing you again in Shipshewana for future classes.
Debra RYoders/Cotton CornerEnjoyable and relaxing
I enjoy Kathy’s method of teaching. It’s relaxed and free form. I can progress at my pace. Kathy is always happy and open to suggestions. She had a terrific solution to a fabric problem. I didn’t need to recreate a section or buy more fabric! I wish the workshop was four days. I felt that I was just understanding the methods of construction plus making progress when it was over! I am looking forward to her return to Shipshewana.
Marilouise HYoder Department Store and The Cotton CornerGreat Instructor, I highly recommend her!
Very nice, patient and knowledgeable teacher. Easy to follow her instructions. Kathy has great tricks that she easily shared and made sure we understood before moving on. Highly recommend one of her classes.
Debra RYoders and The Cotton CornerGreat group instructor…AND personal follow up!
Kathy was very helpful during Qultworx University. She provided helpful tips and shortcuts, written cue cards. I found her group instructions to be helpful and appreciated individual follow up after the demonstration. She was also quick answer individual questions and requests for help with problems. I enjoyed learning to know and work with Kathy.
Sarah Buller FentonGreat instructor! Very easy to understand…
Kathy is very patient and knowledgeable. She teaches in a way that is very easy to understand no matter your level of experience
Sandra Berg-WhileyAfter your class…I am having a ball!
I can’t believe how smoothly my quilt is going together. I’ve been sewing 2-3 hours a day! Thanks for the joy you have brought me through your class!
Sherri W.A.Cotton Corner, Shipshewana, IN
Fun instructor who teaches to all levels of skill
Hi,
Just wanted to post a little note. I am very new to sewing and especially quilting. My friend, who lives in Indiana, asked me if I wanted to take a quilting class with her. So I did. Kathy was beyond fantastic. She is a true instructor who understands how not to overwhelm students who are trying to learn a new skill set. It was super fun, relaxing and I learned a lot. There were some very experienced quilters in the class who also learned a lot. Going again next year (2024) to Shipshewana! Thanks for a fun week.
Retreat, Videos, In-Person – Great ways to learn!
I really like your hybrid teaching concept with great in-person instruction, supplemented with videos shared before and available for review after the retreat. I think that is more of the way the future will look. Many traditional quilters like the in-person sessions, and I understand that. But those of us with jobs and kids and other responsibilities cannot afford to be away for long periods of time. While this was a table topper class, I did purchase a queen size pattern, so it was worth going thru the class versus doing something from videos only.
“My First Retreat! — What A Blast!”
What a blast! The “Best Little Quilt Retreat in Texas” was my first retreat, my first paper piecing project, and a first-class teacher . Thank Kathy for making the Judy technique doable for me!
I learned a LOT!
I have special needs children and really needed a 2-day respite, but the pace was faster than I expected, so I didn’t get much rest! The videos you shared ahead of the retreat were a life-saver! However, with that said, I did enjoy my time at the retreat. I appreciate how you were able to attend to everyone in the place they were as we got going. You were thorough in your explanations, which was great. And you shared some invaluable tips and tricks to surviving a “Judy project”. Meredith the other instructor from Yoder’s Department Store was a strong, stable persona in the room the entire time and that helped as well! I enjoyed getting to know you and the ladies in the group, which is rare for me as an extreme introvert! Thank you for the experience!
Her first Paper Piecing Project – WOW!
Kathy’s note: This was Elaine’s first paper piecing project! All I can say is WOW!!!
Thanks Kathy! Couldn’t have done it without you! You are a great teacher. I highly recommend her for your quilting projects.
PS The Quilt is even more beautiful in person!
Can’t Recommend Kathy Enough!
Take one of Kathy’s classes- live and/or zoom. You will be guided through the process with as much support as you need. I can’t recommend Kathy at BobKat quilts enough!
She is wonderful!
BobKat’s Retreat – The Value is Phenomenal!
Can’t say enough about how fun, laid back, and informational this retreat has been! I can’t truly say I’m “bummed” about missing her next one because I’m going to Quiltworx (!!!) in October, but if it weren’t for that I’d be doing everything I could to be here. But that just means my seat is open for someone else! This retreat WILL fill up! If you have the time, you should be here — The value is phenomenal.
Thank you Kathy for a fantastic week!
I Loved the Retreat!
I joined Kathy at her BobKat Quilts Shipshewana Retreat where I worked on my 1st Quiltworx Quilt Carnival Flower. I loved the retreat and Kathy’s world of knowledge!
If you get a chance, join Kathy at one of her future in-person or zoom classes or at an upcoming retreat
Thank You for a Fantastic Week!
Thank you so much for a fantastic week. This is my first time making a JN quilt and Kathy made the whole process understandable and enjoyable. She is an outstanding instructor and I will be taking future classes with her.
Outstanding Retreat!
Your Shipshewana Retreat was Outstanding!!! Had a great time with great people. And I will go home with my Carnival Flower in Tula colors 3/4 assembled. Couldn’t quite get that last slice in there but will finish at home. I learned so much this week
Great class with Kathy Groves
I really enjoyed our class in Shipshewana doing Zen Garden. I thought your teaching was right on. Loved all of your short cuts and tips so our projects would come out perfect. Even at home as I continue my project, I can use your tricks.
We really didn’t go thru the instruction book. I don’t know if that was a good thing or not. I certainly have had no problem following along now that I’m at home.
Lastly, I would like to know how you organize your instruction book(s). I know a lot of people use highlighters on certain instructions. How do you do it?
Again thank you for a great class. I am looking forward to seeing you again in Shipshewana for future classes.
Enjoyable and relaxing
I enjoy Kathy’s method of teaching. It’s relaxed and free form. I can progress at my pace. Kathy is always happy and open to suggestions. She had a terrific solution to a fabric problem. I didn’t need to recreate a section or buy more fabric! I wish the workshop was four days. I felt that I was just understanding the methods of construction plus making progress when it was over! I am looking forward to her return to Shipshewana.
Great Instructor, I highly recommend her!
Very nice, patient and knowledgeable teacher. Easy to follow her instructions. Kathy has great tricks that she easily shared and made sure we understood before moving on. Highly recommend one of her classes.
Great group instructor…AND personal follow up!
Kathy was very helpful during Qultworx University. She provided helpful tips and shortcuts, written cue cards. I found her group instructions to be helpful and appreciated individual follow up after the demonstration. She was also quick answer individual questions and requests for help with problems. I enjoyed learning to know and work with Kathy.
Great instructor! Very easy to understand…
Kathy is very patient and knowledgeable. She teaches in a way that is very easy to understand no matter your level of experience
After your class…I am having a ball!
I can’t believe how smoothly my quilt is going together. I’ve been sewing 2-3 hours a day! Thanks for the joy you have brought me through your class!
Need more information? Please email me! [email protected]
Related Events
I’ve taken many of classes, Yours are among the best!
It is obvious that you have taught before. You have a lot of clarity and seem to anticipate your student’s needs. It is obvious that you want things to go well and are very patient. Your follow up videos help break things down and reinforce class learning.
Looking forward to next weekends class and I have already registered for your Dinner Plate Dahlia course coming up.
Read more “I’ve taken many of classes, Yours are among the best!”
Best class I have ever taken…and I’ve taken alot!
(Oh and Yes, I did get my Stormy Seas Table Runner top done!)
Read more “Best class I have ever taken…and I’ve taken alot!”
I love how she makes me feel comfortable doing classes on ZOOM!
Kathy is a great teacher and inspires you to want to jump right in! She will be there with you each step of the way! . I love how she will makes me feel comfortable doing classes on ZOOM!