A Cherrywood Retreat with Jane Sassaman

Discover a playful journey into the wonders of the natural world with Jane Sassaman and Cherrywood Fabrics. This retreat in the heart Minnesota invites you to unleash your creativity, inspired by the vibrant patterns and colors found in nature. Embrace the joy of abstracting natural beauty and bring your artistic visions to life in a fun, supportive environment. Jane says, "This class is especially beneficial for the drawing impaired and the tragically literal."

Jane is a Cherrywood Ambassador and lover of Cherrywood for the depth of color and texture that they lend to her quilts.

REGISTER NOW!

About the Retreat

  • Abstracting from Nature

    November 2-6, 2026

    COST

    $1,300 - $1,805 depending on accommodation choice

    Description

    Nature is an endless source of inspiration. In this class we will examine a wide variety of artists interpretations of nature before beginning to manipulate natural forms ourselves. Through a series of exercises we will experiment with abstraction and exaggeration to capture the essence and energy of your favorite flora and achieve dramatic visual effects.  We will then translate these ideas into fabric in this 4 day workshop.

    • Level - Beginning to advanced
    • Sewing machine needed (a limited number of sewing machines may be available to rent at an additional fee)

  • General Workshop Schedule

    Monday, November 2

    • Arrive at Nature Link Retreat Center and check in
    • Welcome Reception and Introductions 
    • Trip to local grocery to shop for personal meal needs

    Tuesday, November 3

    • Morning Class Session
    • Gourmet Box Lunch
    • Afternoon Class Session
    • Dinner on your own
    • Evening Bonfire and S'mores
    • Open Studio Sewing Time

    Wednesday, November 4

    • Morning Class Session
    • Gourmet Box Lunch
    • Afternoon Class Session
    • Dinner on your own
    • History of Cherrywood - presentation by Karla Overland
    • Open Studio Sewing Time

  • Schedule Continued

    Thursday, November 5

    • Morning Class Session
    • Gourmet Box Lunch
    • Afternoon Class Session
    • Catered Dinner Onsite
    • Open Studio Sewing Time

    Friday, November 6

    • Final thoughts
    • Checkout
    • Sewing Studio clean up
    • Departure
    • Optional Cherrywood Studio Tour

SHOP CHERRYWOOD ONSITE

Shop an assortment of Cherrywood Fabric without leaving the retreat center! A wide spectrum of colors will be available to enhance your design process.

Even better, the Cherrywood Studio is nearby, so we can bring in additional colors as necessary. You will have the full range of Cherrywood colors to audition and purchase for use in your design!

There are also two local quilt shops available nearby in case other supplies are needed.

DINE AT FABULOUS LOCAL RESTAURANTS

Nisswa features a number of wonderful eateries and two brew pubs!

Hosted at Nature Link Retreat Center in Nisswa, Minnesota

ACCOMMODATIONS

Nature Link Retreat Center
24621 S Clark Lake Rd, Nisswa, MN 56468


Nature Link sits on the property that used to be home to Minnewawa Lodge, the 2nd oldest resort in Minnesota. Step into a creatively reimagined luxury lodge where technology takes a backseat and nature is your main muse. Here playful inspiration meets peaceful relaxation. Unplug, unwind, and let your imagination dance alongsideMinnesota’s natural beauty in this one-of-a-kind getaway.


Nisswa is located approximately 2.5 hours north of MSP International Airport. Flights are available into MSP or Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD).

Your stay includes 4 nights lodging at the Nature Link Retreat Center. Accommodation selections are available on a first come, first served basis.

Limited private hotel suites are available.

Other accommodations, including queen hotel suites and cabins, are shared.

Choose Accommodations