Let’s Get Wonky Quilt Retreat Class
It may look wonky—but every stitch is perfectly precise.
Let’s face it—quilting is more fun when we loosen the rules a little! This retreat is all about exploring creative freedom, finding joy in every curve and corner, and discovering that “wonky” can still be wonderfully accurate. You’ll laugh, learn, and leave with a quilt that reflects your unique style and confidence.
📍 May 13–17, 2026 | 50 Acre Woods Retreat Center
Meet the Instructor
Beverly Burris
Beverly Burris is from Paducah, KY, where she resides with her husband, John, and Border Collie, Maize.
Bev learned to quilt on the knee of her grandmother, Mariee Nisbet Whisler, at the age of five. Many hours of love and companionship paved the way to what has been a lifelong passion.
In 2001, she opened and ran her own retreat location called Whistling Meadows for over 20 years in Greenville, IL. In 2010, Bev was invited to speak at Oxford University in England on The History of Handwork in America.
After retiring as a junior high school teacher and college professor, she opened and ran the Quilt In A Day store in Paducah, Kentucky, for Eleanor Burns.
Bev has been featured in several Quilt In A Day books, as well as numerous quilting magazines.
Today, Bev quilts at home most days with her friends and enjoys the occasional speaking and instructional classes at retreats.
About the Class
Join in the fun with Let’s Get Wonky!
This lively and creative class celebrates color, connection, and craftsmanship. You’ll explore five unique techniques using the Quilt in a Day ruler, learning how a single tool can create endless design possibilities.
Bring your favorite 2.5-inch strips and two complementary colors, and you’ll piece together a beautiful quilt top that’s as playful as it is precise. Whether you’re a confident beginner or an experienced quilter looking to shake things up, this class will help you rediscover the joy of quilting without pressure or perfection.
🪡 Note: The Quilt in a Day ruler is required for this class and may be purchased for an additional $30.00.
Level: All levels welcome—from total beginners to seasoned stitchers ready to shake things up.What You’ll Accomplish:
Complete a colorful quilt top using your favorite 2.5” strips and two complementary fabrics
Master five creative block techniques using the Quilt in a Day ruler
Design a quilt layout that balances playful “wonkiness” with polished precision
Gain confidence in mixing fabrics, colors, and patterns for maximum visual impact
Enjoy a weekend of creativity, connection, and quilting camaraderie at 50 Acre Woods
Skills You’ll Learn:
How to use the Quilt in a Day ruler in five distinct, precise ways
Techniques for accurate cutting and piecing with angled or “wonky” designs
Methods for color coordination and fabric placement that enhance your quilt’s flow
How to chain piece efficiently for speed and consistency
Tips for pressing, squaring, and joining blocks so your finished quilt looks beautifully intentional
Photo Library
Materials & Supplies
Provided by Instructor (included in materials fee):
Step-by-step printed pattern instructions for all five ruler techniques
Demonstrations and guided practice for each method using the Quilt in a Day ruler
Personalized support from instructor Beverly Burris throughout the retreat
Design inspiration boards to help you visualize layout and color options
Access to shared cutting and pressing stations for group efficiency
Plenty of laughter, encouragement, and expert tips from Beverly’s years of quilting experience
What to Bring:
Your favorite jelly roll (2½-inch fabric strips)
Two complementary fabrics (1½–2 yards each) for background and accents
Quilt in a Day Ruler – required for class (available for purchase at the retreat for $30.00)
Basic sewing supplies: machine, power cord, foot pedal, extra needles, and thread
Rotary cutter, mat, and ruler for trimming and cutting precision pieces
Pins, clips, and seam ripper for accurate piecing and adjustments
Iron and pressing mat (optional, shared stations available)
A sense of adventure and humor—because getting “wonky” is part of the fun!
Preparation Instructions
Choose your fabrics: Coordinate your favorite jelly roll (2½-inch strips) with two complementary background fabrics that make your colors pop.
Gather your supplies: Bring your sewing machine and basic quilting tools so you’re ready to dive right in when class begins.
Bring your creativity: Come with an open mind and a playful spirit—“wonky” designs are all about having fun while learning something new!
Class Details
Date: May 13–17, 2026
Time: Arrive anytime after 3:00 PM on May 13, 2026. Orientation will begin after dinner at approximately 6 PM.
Instruction will begin at 9:00 AM on May 14th (Thursday)
Check-out is anytime in the morning on May 13th, 2026
Location: 50 Acre Woods, 3419 Jarman Hollow Road, Palmyra, TN 37142
Cost: Approximately $525 plus the $30 ruler if needed. This includes lodging, 3 meals/day, sewing amenities, taxes, and all the fun you can bring!
Skill Level: All Levels
Testimonials
“Beverly’s teaching style made everything click—her ruler tips completely changed the way I quilt!”
— Linda M., Paducah, KY
“Beverly is so patient and encouraging—she made even the tricky parts feel easy and fun.”
— Carol M., Paducah, KY
“She explains things so clearly and makes you feel like a pro, even when your seams aren’t perfect.”
— Janice R., Paducah, KY
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