These needlework classes are exclusive events for Stitchers’ Escapes. You must already be registered for the 2026 Escape to Norway cruise to participate.
General Information
Please read the class details carefully.
Class kits will be mailed to you 6-8 weeks prior to the cruise. Although the classes will not require pre-stitching, we mail all kits to students in advance of the cruise when we sail from a foreign port. Make sure you bring them with you on the cruise! We will provide more details in a cruise newsletter closer to the time.
For all classes you will need to bring your own needlework scissors, as well as task lighting and/or magnification if you need them. We require all lighting brought to class to be cordless and will provide more details in a future newsletter.
Classes do not have a minimum enrollment, but they do have a maximum. We are already using our allotted conference space to its fullest capacity, so we are not able to add additional sessions for classes. We will keep a waiting list in the event of a cancellation. All classes will have a “ghost” option. (If you register as a “ghost” you will receive the chart, written instructions, and materials, but will not have a seat in the class.)
Registration
Registration for both classes and excursions will open on Saturday, January 17, at approximately 11am Eastern time. At that time, we will send the registration form link via email, post it in the cruise-specific Facebook group, and add a link to the form on this page.
Due to limited class space, you will rank your choices. For registrations received through January 30, the Stitchers’ Escapes Crew will first assign you to your highest choice available. Once everyone is assigned to at least one class, we will begin assigning you to your additional choices.
If you will be paying for yourself and your traveling companion(s), you will be able to submit a registration form for everyone. If you need to submit a registration for someone who will pay for themselves, you will need to submit an individual form for each person. The Stitchers’ Escapes Crew will be unable to split invoices for multiple people on the same registration form.
Payment
Your invoice will be sent after we make the initial class assignments. A deposit equal to half your total will be due within 30 days. The balance will be due within 60 days. Your space is secure once we receive payment in full from you.
Choose carefully. If you cancel, we issue refunds only if the class is at full capacity and we fill your spot.
Kathy Rees
Holiday Box
Designed to be a box insert or large ornament, Holiday Box is a combination of squares and triangles, diagonal and woven stitches. The contrast in texture of threads as well as stitches provide interest during the stitching process. Choice of colorways: Christmas, Hanukkah, or Halloween.
Design Size: 4″ x 4″
All kits will include: pattern and instructions, Line Drawn 18ct canvas, Caron Watercolours, Kreinik Braid or Silk Lame, Vineyard Silk, and DMC Floss.
Class Options
Option 1 – Kit with one colorway: $89
Option 2 – Kit two colorways: $148
Option 3 – Kit with all three colorways: $207
If you choose multiple colorways, you will receive one copy of the pattern and instructions, plus a canvas and threads for each colorway.
Note: Students will need to pre-mount their canvases on stretcher bars. For those that may be new to needlepoint, we will provide sources for purchasing the bars and tacks.
Rainbow Star
Rainbow Star is a vibrant needlepoint design inspired by a classic quilt block. In this class, you’ll create a striking eight-pointed star bursting with color, framed by a crisp geometric border. Rainbow Star celebrates the joy of color and precision—perfect for stitchers who love both modern design and traditional craftsmanship.
Design Size: 6.5″ x 6.5″
Class Options
Option 1 – Cotton Thread: $99
Your kit includes: pattern and instructions, Line Drawn 18ct canvas, DMC Pearl Cotton #5, and one skein ThreadworX Overdyed Floss
Option 2 – Silk Thread: $149
Your kit includes: pattern and instructions, Line Drawn 18ct canvas, ThreadworX Overdyed Silk, and one skein ThreadworX Overdyed Floss
Note: Students will need to pre-mount their canvases on stretcher bars. For those that may be new to needlepoint, we will provide sources for purchasing the bars and tacks.
Jean Farish
Elegant Whitework Ornaments
$60
Discover the secret: elegant needlework isn’t difficult! In this class you will learn three whitework techniques and get a jump start on your seasonal stitching. Your class kit will include 30-count linen and threads to stitch three designs. Finishing materials are included and will be demonstrated so you will be able to complete the project at your leisure.
Traditional Norwegian Pattern Darning
$65
As we tour the towns and villages of Norway, we’ll see examples of traditional Norwegian costumes that feature colorful needlework designs. Some will be embroidered with simple designs and others will be more complex but most will have just one stitch in common which creates these bright pattern darning embellishments. Your class kit will include 30-count linen and flower thread, chart for design shown, and a copy of Yvette Stanton’s book, “Smøyg: Pattern Darning from Norway” which includes 13 additional projects and background information about this technique.
This class is open to all stitchers, even those who are new to linen. The only pre-requisite is that you can see the linen weave. Bring magnification if needed.
Souvenir Sewing Case
$55
Learn five stitches as we create this special souvenir of our visit to Norway. Your class kit will include your choice of linen or Aida, floss, and the tin to make this adorable sewing case. Finishing materials are included and will be demonstrated so you will be able to complete the project at your leisure.
Class Schedule at a Glance
Monday, July 27
| Time | Class | Teacher |
| 9am – 4pm | Holiday Box | Kathy Rees |
| 9am – 12pm | Whitework Ornament Set | Jean Farish |
| 1pm – 4pm | Norwegian Pattern Darning | Jean Farish |
Saturday, August 1
| Time | Class | Teacher |
| 9am – 4pm | Rainbow Star | Kathy Rees |
| 9am – 12pm | Souvenir Sewing Case | Jean Farish |