Meet Karen McTavish of APQS Duluth—Where quilting dreams come to life

Have you ever encountered someone whose passion for quilting is so vibrant that it fills the air with warmth and creativity? That’s Karen McTavish of APQS Duluth! Since 1997, Karen has been weaving her magic into the hearts of quilters worldwide with her signature stitching style, “McTavishing.”

A journey to APQS

Karen’s quilting adventure began with her first longarm machine. After grappling with poor stitch quality and limited support, she embarked on a quest to find the world’s finest longarm—and discovered the APQS Millie! In 2001, she upgraded to an APQS and never looked back. Since then, she’s become a cherished member of the APQS family, featuring in training videos and appearing on TV shows like HGTV and PBS.

A passion for teaching and innovation

Karen’s commitment to teaching is as remarkable as her quilting. With over 200,000 copies sold of her six quilting books, including Whitework Quilting, The Secrets of Elemental Quilting, and Mastering the Art of McTavishing, she’s a true pioneer in the quilting world. Karen ensures every new longarm owner feels confident and inspired from the start.

Click here to learn about the exciting classes Karen is offering at the APQS Showroom and National Training Center in Carroll, Iowa in May 2025.

The McTavish quilting studio and fabrics experience

Step into Karen’s showroom in Duluth, Minnesota, and you’ll find more than just longarm machines—you’ll discover a lively quilting community. Her store is renowned for its inviting atmosphere, where quilters of all backgrounds and experience levels can explore, learn, and receive personalized advice.

At APQS Duluth, her brick-and-mortar showroom established in 2015, Karen offers:

• One-on-one and small group longarm rentals
• Service and maintenance for APQS machines
• Beginner and advanced classes (including computerized QuiltPath)
• A curated modern quilt shop with a large selection of wide backings and supplies

Beyond in-person classes, Karen also offers online courses for those eager to enhance their quilting design skills from home. Whether your interest lies in traditional or modern quilting, Karen provides tips and techniques for every style.

Your destination quilting adventure

Karen’s APQS Duluth showroom has become a haven for traveling quilters seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Northern Minnesota while gaining new quilting insights and techniques. With a wealth of advanced workshops, private lessons, and business-building guidance, Karen ensures each visitor leaves inspired, encouraged, and ready to elevate their skills.

Connect with Karen

Eager to meet Karen or discover all that APQS Duluth has to offer? Visit www.mctavishquilting.com for more information.

Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a budding quilter, you’ll find a community that welcomes you with open arms. Karen McTavish’s passion, expertise, and genuine love for quilting make APQS Duluth a must-visit destination—because quilting dreams truly come to life in Karen’s studio!