Crazy Quilting!  Painting! Stitching!
An Artful Women Retreat with Beth Malley and Kathy Parulski
October 12-15, 2025

Due to Joanne’s health issues, she will not be able to lead the retreat this year! Kathy and Beth will lead the group!  We’ll explore ideas and techniques using “slow stitching” to make two projects.  

Choose to create:
  • a 12”x18” hanging tapestry,
  • journal/ book covers

You will take on “crazy quilting”, hand stitching (no experience required!) colorful textured blocks from felted wool, threads, fabric, trims and fibers.  No sewing machines!  You’ll use wool pieces, threads, fabrics, yarns, beads, trims, buttons and more as the base, add a backing and voila you will have your own crazy quilt! We will also make a journal with a crafty cover! You will make a “surprise take home” piece the very first day!

Treat yourself to a cozy, gathering with the good food and beautiful grounds with others that enjoy the same things. Together, explore new ideas, and embrace the benefits of handcrafting and making something uniquely your own. The goal is to make yours different!!

All materials provided, except for a very small supply list. 

What is crazy quilting? Traditionally, blocks assembled from irregular and sometimes scrap pieces; there is no set pattern or design. Crazy quilt patterns were popular during the Victorian period when they were made with silks and velvets and heavily embellished with embroidery, beading, lace, and ribbons. 

SUPPLY LIST
Just bring your favorite supplies on this list, everything else will be provided:
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  • Scissors that cut fabric or wool
  • Ruler or Tape Measure
  • Journal or Sketchbook
  • Black watercolor pen
  • Box of Straight Pins
  • Watercolors and brush
  • 8oz bottle of Fabri-Tac by Beacon (available on Amazon and Michaels)

If you have any questions about the supply list email Beth: [email protected]
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ABOUT BETH MALLEY
Beth Malley, co-curator of the Monastery Gallery of Art, is also a certified Zentangle teacher dedicated to nurturing others’ artistic and creative gifts. Additionally, she serves as a docent at the Wadsworth Atheneum and hosts the Prayer Shawl Ministry at Holy Family.
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ABOUT KATHY PARULSKI
Kathy Parulski, co-curator of the Monastery Gallery of Art, excels as both a master bookbinder and book artist. Alongside her certification as a Zentangle teacher, she draws on her past experience as a newspaper publisher. Kathy also holds a graduate certificate in Women’s Spirituality from the Women’s Leadership Institute at Hartford Seminary.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION
This retreat is being hosted by The Monastery Gallery of Art with space and online registration provided by Holy Family Retreat & Conference Center.  Registration fees cover provided art supplies, accommodations, snacks and meals during your stay. The retreat begins on Sunday at 3:00 p.m. with an overview of planned activities followed by dinner at 6:00 p.m. and will conclude on Wednesday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. with a boxed lunch for the road.

​​The following accommodations are available, please register below by making a non-refundable deposit with the unit you would like to reserve. 
Private Room with Private Bath - $ 1,445
​​Private Room with Hall Bath - $ 1,250
Commuter - $740

If you have any questions or special dietary/health-related requests, please contact Beth at [email protected].
If you have already registered and would like to pay your registration balance, click the button below.