APQS All-Star Longarm Quilting Retreat in Denver, Colorado!

September 4-7, 2025 | Cost: $1,500

Join us in beautiful Golden, Colorado, for an unforgettable quilting experience filled with learning, creativity, and community. Over two and a half days, you’ll explore hands-on longarm techniques and lecture-style sessions designed to meet you wherever you are in your quilting journey. Whether you’re diving into Quilt Path™, sharpening your freehand skills, or exploring design and business strategies—this event is all about helping you grow and shine.

Your registration includes:

  • Your choice of educational sessions led by fabulous APQS educators

  • 3 nights at the Denver Marriott West included in the price!

  • Breakfast and lunch on both full class days, plus a welcome reception

Limited tickets available! Don’t miss out. Call 800.426.7233 and leave a message, or click the link to secure your spot now!

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Evening Receptions

September 4th | 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Evening Welcome Reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres and drinks

Class Schedule

Day 1

Available sessions from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Quilt Path Quick Start

Instructor: Lisa Eichelberger
Skill level: All skill levels
Lecture/Demo

Get quilting quickly stitching overall patterns with Quilt Path. This class will explore the features of Pantograph for creating successful quilts every time! The options of Sew In Zones will be covered. Edge to Edge and Border to Border quilting techniques will be demonstrated.

Quilting Design Decoded: Choosing Designs with Confidence

Instructor: Dorie Hruska
Skill level: All skill levels
Lecture/Demo

Have you ever wondered how experienced quilters choose the designs they include on their quilts? They make it look so easy! Join us to demystify the process, learn invaluable techniques and thought processes, and gain the confidence to select and implement the perfect quilting designs for your projects.

Fancier Feathers

Instructor: Lauren Jackson
Skill level: All skill levels
Hands-On

Ready to elevate your quilting artistry? Whether you’re new to feathers or a seasoned pro looking for fresh ideas, this class is your gateway to mastering fancier feathers. Discover unique feather variations and combinations tailored for masculine and feminine quilt designs, while learning efficient quilting paths to minimize thread overlap. Get hands-on practice with printable guides to follow as you go, each session is packed with creative insights to inspire your quilting journey.

No Fear Beginning Free Motion

Instructor: Myrna Ficken
Skill level: All skill levels
Hands-On

Whether you’ve just gotten your new machine or you’re ready to graduate to the front of your machine, this class will guide you through the exciting journey of free motion quilting. This class is designed to help beginners and those looking to advance their skills. You will learn and practice various free motion designs that will build your confidence. Designs are easy to follow. Myrna will also teach you how to combine these designs into new, unique patterns, giving you the tools to create something truly your own.

Bring a pencil and paper as there will be plenty of drawing exercises along with quilting. Working together with two people per machine. This collaborative approach allows you to learn from each other and share ideas. Handouts will be provided.

Available sessions from 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

No Ruler? No Problem! The many uses of Marking Tool

Instructor: Lisa Eichelberger
Skill level: Beginner
Lecture/Demo

Discover the versatility of Marking Tool in this class. Humble Marking Tool can help you align complex patterns, stitch in the ditch, and create rulerwork type designs…all without touching a ruler!

Power Panto and Pantostacker EZ Class

Instructor: Brenda Shreve 
Skill level: Beginner
Lecture/Demo

This class is a wonderful way to start using (or expand the use of) your new robotic quilting system. You will learn an introduction to the buttons in this section and how to set up a panto that is quilt top specific. You’ll learn about quilting with only two rows, nesting, flipping, and staggering your patterns. We’ll also cover the EZ way to deal with undulating patterns on top and bottom of quilt. Additional topics include creating your own patterns using simple designs and how to use Powerpanto.

Ruler Skills for Custom Quilting

Instructor: Lauren Jackson
Skill level: All skill levels
Hands-On

Excited to dive into the world of ruler work but not sure where to start? This class is your guide to selecting the right rulers, understanding their markings, and handling curves even if they’re not a “perfect” fit for your project. Learn how to quilt stunning designs without marking your quilt, using just one straight and one curved ruler. We’ll begin with foundational techniques and progress to advanced combinations to elevate your skills and get those custom juices flowing! Get ready for a fun, info-packed session.

Have rulers already and not sure how to use them? Grab your rulers and join us!

Row by Row Freemotion Designs

Instructor: Dorie Hruska
Skill level: All skill levels
Hands-On

Quilting is not always about precision. Sometimes you just have to let loose and quilt without any rules. This beginner freemotion class will fill your mind with countless Modern ideas for quilting in those small spaces.

Day 2

Available sessions from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Getting Started with PatternCAD

Instructor: Lisa Eichelberger
Skill level: All skill levels
Lecture/Demo

This class will demonstrate how to create block motifs using PatternCAD. Continuous line and wide format pantograph design will be covered as well.

Custom Quilting with Quilt Path

Instructor: Brenda Shreve
Skill level: All skill levels
Lecture/Demo

Do you want to be confident in custom quilting?  Learning all the ways to place patterns in blocks is the beginning of success.  You will see demos of placement methods for custom quilting each block in your quilt.  This will include cornerstones and sashings. Suggestions on how to choose patterns for quilt.  You will also see a demo of the border section of Quilt Path to complete the borders of your quilts.

Modern Background Fillers

Instructor: Lauren Jackson
Skill level: All skill levels
Hands-On

Ready to move beyond feathers and loops? This class is all about stepping out of your traditional comfort zone and into fresh, modern design. Learn a variety of contemporary background fillers that add texture, interest, and movement to your quilts without overpowering the main design.

Lauren will guide you through techniques that balance bold and subtle, structured and organic. Whether you want edgy minimalism or playful texture, you’ll leave inspired and equipped to bring modern flair to any quilt top.

Block Party

Instructor: Myrna Ficken
Skill level: All skill levels
Hands-On

Always staring at a block and wondering what to do next? Let’s conquer the art of creating different designs and learn how to make them work throughout the quilt in a pleasing and cohesive manner. Using balance by repeating certain elements with a little different twist. Using elements of the quilting designs by bringing them out into the border and sashing creating a unified look can lend cohesiveness to the design.

Block Party is about mastering the art of quilting designs, cohesion, and using your creativity to bring them all together to create quilts that are visually stunning and personal. Let the quilting festivities begin!

Available sessions from 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The Power of Pattern Placement

Instructor: Lisa Eichelberger
Skill level: All skill levels
Lecture/Demo

Put Select & Sew to work for you! Learn the basics of pattern placement, followed by Multi-Placement and Point to Point with Insta-Place. Complex design placement techniques will be covered using various methods.

Borders With Quilt Path - No Turn Method

Instructor: Brenda Shreve
Skill level: All skill levels
Lecture/Demo

Learn how to quilt borders without turning the quilt using Quilt Path Border section, one point placement and Panto EZ. We’ll cover quilt top prep for borders and setting up borders. You’ll see a demo of how to execute quilting for borders using the new border section. And we’ll talk about pro and cons of working the borders as you go or turning the quilt top for borders.

Mastering the Straight Line

Instructor: Dorie Hruska
Skill level: All Skill Levels
Hands-On

Ready to expand beyond free-motion quilting on your longarm machine? Join Dorie as she teaches you to quilt precise straight-line designs using rulers. Straight line designs help to provide depth and personality to your quilty projects. Learn a variety of techniques, including Piano Key patterns, Crosshatching and tips for stitching in the ditch. By the end of this class, you’ll have the confidence and skills to incorporate straight-line ruler work into your next quilt project. This class is for all skill levels.

Discover The Art of Background Fills

Instructor: Myrna Ficken
Skill level: All skill levels
Hands-On

Get ready to elevate your quilting skills with Myrna’s exciting and dynamic class on background fills! Background fills are a crucial element in custom quilting that can enhance the visual appeal of your work. With a wealth of experience and a passion for quilting, Myrna is here to guide you through a journey that will transform your quilts into masterpieces. You will learn numerous background designs that can add depth and texture to your quilts.

Myrna will teach you tips on where to place fills, how to mix different designs together, and give guidance on the appropriate size of fills. By mastering fills, you will be able to create unique and eye-catching quilts and develop your personal quilting style.

Day 3

Available sessions from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Quilting Tips and Inspiration!

Instructor: Myrna Ficken
Skill level: All skill levels
Lecture/Demo

Join a class that will address all your queries and curiosities, from thread choices and design selection to tensions and pricing. Whether it’s custom work or edge-to-edge quilting, modern quilts, machines, threads, tension issues, or cleaning techniques, this session will cover it all. You’ll benefit from insights and knowledge accumulated over 25 years of experience. Prepare to uncover things you didn’t even know you didn’t know. The answers to your countless questions await.

Quilt Path - PatternCAD

Instructor: Brenda Shreve
Skill level: All skill levels
Lecture/Demo

In this class Brenda will show you what the buttons do in this section. We’ll cover editing patterns and creating patterns using EZ tools Drawing patterns will become a possibility and maybe even your passion!

Fun and Forgiving Feathers

Instructor: Dorie Hruska
Skill level: All Skills Levels
Hands-On

Dive into the playful world of Whimsical Feathers: Fun and Forgiving Free-Motion Quilting. These are not your traditional feathers. Learn to create unique and light-hearted designs that are full of personality yet easier to make. These feathers are organic, free-flowing and playful, making them both fun and forgiving. Join Dorie as she guides you through the process of crafting these one-of-a-kind feathers, and discover just how enjoyable and creative quilting can be!

Create Texture with Yarn Couching on Your APQS Machine

Instructor: Lauren Jackson
Skill level: All skill levels
Hands-On

Discover the art of couching—where texture meets creativity! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn how to quilt stunning designs using yarn layered through your stitches for bold, dimensional effects. Lauren will guide you as you use a specialized foot made for APQS machines, we’ll explore techniques that turn simple yarns into eye-catching art. Perfect for adventurous quilters ready to try something new! We will complete a small project during class to really drive the techniques home.

Instructor Bios

Brenda Shreve

Teaching from her Red Barn Quilting studio in Oklahoma, Brenda Shreve brings expert-level Quilt Path instruction rooted in real-world experience.

Learn more

Brenda Shreve runs Red Barn Quilting in Oklahoma, where she specializes in demystifying Quilt Path for all levels. Her calm, methodical teaching style is perfect for quilters who want a solid foundation or a performance boost with their computerized quilting. Brenda’s goal? To make sure every student walks away feeling empowered, efficient, and in full command of their machine.

Visit Brenda’s Red Barn

Dorie Hruska

From Missouri, award-winning quilter Dorie Hruska shares her signature no-mark free-motion style that redefines creative flow.

Learn more

A nationally recognized name in quilting, Dorie Hruska is known for her award-winning free-motion work and revolutionary “no-mark” continuous line techniques. As the owner of Forever Quilting and author of multiple books, Dorie shares a design philosophy rooted in rhythm, efficiency, and creative freedom. Her classes unlock new possibilities for quilting with fluidity and confidence—no rulers, no markings, just flow.

Visit Forever Quilting

Lauren Jackson

Based in Florida, Lauren Jackson of Bold Notion Quilting is known for her dynamic free-motion techniques and empowering instruction.

Learn more

Lauren Jackson is a fearless force in the world of free-motion quilting. As the creative mind behind Bold Notion Quilting, she’s known for her dynamic approach, empowering quilters to break boundaries and embrace their style. Lauren’s free-motion classes blend hands-on technique with creative design thinking—making her a favorite for quilters who want to move beyond patterns and into artistry.

Visit Bold Notion Quilting

Lisa Eichelberger

Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Lisa Eichelberger—The Quilt Wizard—specializes in intuitive Quilt Path mastery with a touch of fun and flair.

Learn more

Lisa Eichelberger brings wizard-level mastery to the world of Quilt Path. With a gift for making the complex feel intuitive, Lisa has earned her reputation as a go-to instructor for computerized quilting. Her classes are a must for anyone looking to boost their confidence with Quilt Path—from efficient edge-to-edge setups to custom design tips you won’t find in the manual.

Visit The Quilt Wizard

Myrna Ficken

Myrna Ficken

Based in Colorado, Myrna Ficken of A Quilter’s Choice offers expert free-motion training with a focus on design clarity and confidence.

Learn more

Myrna Ficken brings decades of experience in free-motion quilting. Her deep understanding of design structure, stitch path, and storytelling through thread makes her a treasured instructor for quilters looking to refine their artistic voice. Myrna teaches with warmth and clarity, helping students create quilts that not only look beautiful but feel intentional.

Visit A Quilter’s Choice

FAQS

General Event Information

When and where is the event taking place?
The APQS All-Star Education Event will be held September 4–7, 2025, at the Denver West Marriott in Golden, Colorado.

Who is this event for?
This event is ideal for longarm quilters of all skill levels. Whether you’re focused on free-motion quilting or using Quilt Path, there’s something here for you!

Hotel & Travel

Where will I be staying?
Relax in comfort at the Denver West Hotel, included with your event registration. You’ll enjoy modern amenities, beautiful views, and easy access to local shops and restaurants.

Do I have to stay at the host hotel?

Event pricing includes single occupancy accommodations at the host hotel but you may make other arrangements if you prefer. Staying at the host hotel has many benefits, not the least of which are convenience and community.

Do I have to room with a stranger?

There are no strangers in the APQS family! But no need to share a hotel room. Event pricing includes single occupancy accommodations at the host hotel.

Is transportation included?
Transportation to and from the hotel is not included. You’ll be responsible for your own travel arrangements, but we’re happy to recommend nearby airports and transportation options.

Meals & Dining

Are meals included?
Breakfast and lunch are provided daily. Dinner is not included, but we encourage you to enjoy the many dining options near the hotel with new friends!

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
We’ll do our best! Please let us know during registration if you have any specific dietary needs.

Class Details

Do I need to bring my tablet for Quilt Path classes?
You’re welcome to bring your tablet if you’d like to follow along, but it’s not required. Many students prefer to take notes. While we can’t pause for individual tech support, you’re free to explore on your device if you’re comfortable.

What supplies do I need to bring?
Nothing! We’ll have everything you need. Just bring your enthusiasm and a readiness to learn.

Will I be able to try machines during class?
Yes! Hands-on with APQS longarm machines are available.

Other Questions

What if I have to cancel?

Registration is fully refundable until July 1st. Cancellations between July 1st and August 1st will be refunded 50%. No refunds will be given after August 1st.

Can I choose my classes or instructor?
Yes! All attendees will be able to select their preferred classes and instructors. Class selection opens July 1, and schedules will be processed in the order of registration. That means the earlier you register, the better chance you have at securing your top picks so don’t wait!