See you in Chicago! Open Registration for EGA members and non-members started on Saturday, March 13th, at Noon Eastern Time and will be available through June 15, 2021. Register today!
The Magnificent Stitch 2021
EGA National Seminar 2021
Welcome
Thank you for your interest in The Magnificent Stitch!
Open Registration for EGA members and non-members begins on Saturday, March 13th, at Noon Eastern Time and will be available through June 15, 2021.
Please note that open registration is first-come, first-served, and classes may fill up quickly, so don’t wait too long to make your plans.
For more information, click on the Open Registration tab below.
We encourage you to register online, to place yourself directly into our available classes. Online registration is quick and easy!
Click Here to Register
If you prefer to submit a printed registration form, click here to download. Please note that registrants mailing in a printed form will submit 1st, 2nd and 3rd choices, and be placed in classes based on availability when form is received.
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Open Registration
CLASS AVAILABILITY
All registrations are on a first-come, first-served, space-available basis. Registration is open to all EGA members. Non-EGA participants are welcome for an additional fee of $60. If you wish to join EGA, contact headquarters at (502) 589-6956 or click here. Your membership must be on file or in process by May 31, 2021.REGISTRATION
Registration can be completed either online or by mail. The registration form is contained in this document or use the link to register online via the EGA website. Registration must be postmarked or completed online between March 13 and June 15, 2021.CLASS CHANGE
All requests for changes must be submitted to the assistant registrar in writing, with receipt of same confirmed by the assistant registrar. Changes to class registration requested after May 15, 2021, will incur a $30 administrative fee for EACH request. No administrative fee will be assessed for adding classes, banquet tickets, or other events. All changes are subject to availability.BANQUET INFORMATION
Banquet sign-ups and cancellations must be received and confirmed by the assistant seminar registrar by July 31, 2021, for the seminar opening and closing banquets.If you require a special meal, check the box on the registration form. Special meals must be requested by July 31, 2021.
To invite a guest to attend one or both banquets, please mark the appropriate banquet(s) on the registration form. Each banquet is listed separately. Include the charge(s) in your total registration cost. Note that a guest will receive a banquet favor as part of the ticket price.
Note: If you are unable to attend a banquet, we ask that you inform us ahead of time. Although refunds are not possible, favors can be picked up while at seminar. Watch for details to come in communications from seminar beginning summer of 2021.
PAYMENT OF FEES
Payment of class fees, as well as fees for special events and optional items, is due with registration. Kit fees and adjustments for mail-in registrations will be billed as received. Money orders or personal checks in U.S. funds should be made payable to “EGA Seminar 2021.” Visa, MasterCard, or Discover is accepted. Any remaining billed fees will be due and payable no later than June 30, 2021.NONREFUNDABLE DEPOSIT
A nonrefundable deposit ($100) is required for ALL attendees who register for two or more days of class. This deposit does not apply to nonparticipants or to early registrants who have already paid the deposit. Please note that this deposit has been included in the fees listed below, as applicable.CLASS REGISTRATION FEES
The following fees include the nonrefundable deposit and the Hospitality Package, but DO NOT include kit, tour, special event, or optional item fees. (The Hospitality Package includes the seminar pin and handbook.)Five Days of Class/Wednesday and Sunday Banquets ($745) includes your choice of one Friday class and four days of class (either one four-day class or two two-day classes), OR one three-day class and one two-day class and both banquets.
Four Days of Class/ Wednesday and Sunday Banquets ($670) includes your choice of four days of class (either one four-day class or two two-day classes) and both banquets.
Three Days of Class and One Banquet ($470) includes your choice of one Friday-Sunday three-day class with either banquet, one Wednesday/Thursday class and one Friday class with either banquet, OR one Saturday/Sunday class and one Friday class with either banquet.
Two Days of Class and One Banquet ($395) includes your choice of one Wednesday/Thursday class with either banquet, OR one Saturday/Sunday class with either banquet.
One-Day Class ($95) includes a Friday class and no banquet.
OTHER REGISTRATION FEES
Nonmember Fee ($60) applies to those registering for
classes who are not members of EGA.Nonparticipant Fee ($270) for those not taking classes at seminar. Must be registered at one of the designated seminar hotels as part of the EGA-negotiated room block. The fee includes two banquets and the Hospitality Package.
Facilities Use Fee ($250) applies to those not staying at the designated hotel(s) at the EGA-negotiated rate. See policy here.
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Chicago Bound!!!
As EGA president, I promised that a decision would be made by May 31 whether the 2021 EGA national seminar, “The Magnificent Stitch,” would be an in-person seminar or a virtual seminar. The EGA executive committee, the seminar committee and the national seminar committee have reviewed advice of national and local authorities on the status of travel to and from Chicago, Illinois, and all areas across our nation. After much consideration, it gives me tremendous pleasure to announce that we will indeed be stitching magnificently in Chicago!
We strongly recommend that the attendees be fully vaccinated or have a negative test within 72 hours of arriving at the seminar. We will abide by the rules Chicago has in place at the time of the seminar as far as social distancing and masks.
So, if you have not registered, please do so as soon as possible. Registration ends June 15, 2021.
We want to see you in Chicago!
Sincerely,
Janet Noble
EGA President -
FAQs for Virtual vs In-Person Seminar
When will we know whether the in-person seminar in Chicago will be transformed into a virtual seminar?
It is our hope that we will be able to successfully host an in-person seminar in Chicago as planned. There are positive indications that things are improving, however there are many variables which none of us can predict. We hope we will be able to make this determination by May 31,2021, but we ask for your patience as we monitor developments closely. Of course, the safety of our attendees will always be of paramount importance.If we are able to attend an in-person seminar, will masks be required? Social distancing?
If the seminar is held in-person as originally planned, EGA will follow all state and local mandates.How will registrants be notified if in-person seminar must be cancelled?
Should it become impossible to host an in-person seminar, all registrants will be notified by email or letter (depending on communication preference)What will happen to registrants if the seminar becomes virtual only?
Each registrant will be given the option to either continue with their registration in our virtual seminar event or to decline participation in our virtual seminar.How does the Cancellation Policy apply if in-person seminar becomes a virtual seminar?
This final section of the EGA Seminar Cancellation Policy will apply:
(3) In the event EGA cancels national seminar, the registrants will receive a refund of the registration fee, which may include the non-refundable deposit based on a decision of the board of directors.Will I keep my class assignments if the in-person seminar becomes a virtual seminar?
Yes, if you choose to continue with your registration, your class assignments will remain the same.Will the cost of virtual seminar be the same as in-person seminar?
Obviously, some events apply only to an in-person event, such as banquets. For those events, a full refund will be given. The class registration fees will be adjusted for the virtual seminar, and a flat fee will apply to each kit, to cover shipping costs. The difference between in-person and virtual seminar fees will be refunded to each registrant.How would a virtual seminar work?
EGA defines a virtual class as a class given in a non-face to face classroom with written instructions, online technique/stitch demonstration videos, and real-time interaction with Teacher via Zoom or another online meeting platform. -
A message from our President
If all goes as we plan, the seminar will be in person in Chicago September 1, 2021-September 5, 2021. We continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation. If we cannot meet in person then, we are still planning on having the seminar. The seminar committee is working hard on all scenarios, including an in-person seminar or a virtual seminar. Whatever seminar we have, we want to make the seminar the best experience possible.
EGA will remain compliant with all state and local regulations regarding indoor capacities, social distancing, and COVID-19 related safety measures.
Open Registration begins on Saturday, March 13, 2021. You don’t want to wait until the last minute to make your plans. This registration will be first come, first served and some classes will fill up quickly.
Janet Noble
EGA National President -
2021 Seminar Classes
Teacher Kathy Andrews 
We will have a great selection of exciting classes at our 2021 seminar! Click the link below to see the classes, including some region-sponsored mini classes.
Class Selection and Proficiency Levels
We have made every effort to describe each class accurately. Please rely on the class description as your primary guide in choosing your class(es), paying particular attention to the techniques used, materials, and level of difficulty. If a student registers for a class that is beyond the student’s proficiency level, we are not responsible for the student’s success in the class.
To help you select a class, please be familiar with the following EGA proficiency-level definitions:
Basic: No experience with the technique being taught is necessary.
Intermediate: Knowledge of basic stitches, materials, and their use in the technique being taught is required.
Advanced: Ability to execute simple and difficult stitches in the technique is required. The student should also have knowledge of color and design that will allow exploration and creativity.
All levels: Class is suitable for all levels.Reminder: All student electronics, including task lights, used in the classrooms must be battery-operated.
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Hotel Accommodations
Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile
Trendy and trendsetting, the 4-star Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile provides chic comfort in a vibrant city center location. For those who have visited in the past, the hotel has just completed a $120 million renovation! Relax in beautifully appointed hotel rooms and suites, featuring modern furnishings, thoughtful amenities and exceptional views of the city and Lake Michigan. Travel brilliantly when you stay at Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile, placing the best of the city at your doorstep.
Rooms
Stay in one of 1200 guestrooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with down comforters and premium bedding. Wireless Internet access – free for Marriott Bonvoy members (free to join), or $1/day surcharge – keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers.
Amenities
Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as a 24-hour fitness center or take in the view from a rooftop terrace and a garden. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless Internet access in common areas and concierge services. Amenities include: 24-hour front desk, Concierge, Internet Access, Parking – Valet, ATM Machine, Dry cleaning service, Lounge/Bar, Business Center, Gift Shop, Non-Smoking Facility.
Chicago Sightseeing
Located on Chicago’s famed Magnificent Mile, the hotel’s front door provides instant access to some of the world’s best shopping, while outside our backdoor sits the city’s River North neighborhood – the hub of dining, entertainment and nightlife with over 170 restaurants and 138 bars within an 8-block radius of the property.Stroll the Magnificent Mile and visit one-of-a-kind boutiques and celebrated attractions, including Shedd Aquarium, Wrigley Field, Navy Pier and United Center.
Dining
After a day exploring the Windy City, treat yourself to farm-to-table cuisine that celebrates nature’s seasonal bounty, and the Midwest’s gastronomic heritage at Harvest and Reviver, our on-site restaurants. Enjoy dining at one of the hotel’s two restaurants, or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Wrap up your day with a drink at the bar/lounge. Buffet breakfasts are served on weekdays from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM and on weekends from 7:00 AM to 11:30 AM for a fee.Elevate your on-the-go expectations. Our hotel’s executive chef, Frank Sanchez, brings the best of Chicago’s artisan food scene and local farmers to the hotel’s food and beverage offerings at Rush Street Pantry.
Enjoy fresh food delivered quickly for a small fee, or order ahead and pick-up from Rush Street Pantry day and night. Select from a wide range of snacks on our Fresh Bites menu, including sandwiches, salads, and full dinner entrees. We also proudly serve Starbucks coffee to fuel your Chicago adventures, as well as a wide range of soft drinks, juices, wine, spirits and beer.
Rush Street Pantry will be home for our seminar’s Grab ‘n Go breakfasts and lunches.
Seminar Rate
The seminar rate is $179.00 plus tax per night, regardless of number of guests. Rates will be available 3 days prior and 3 days after seminar. Rooms may have one king bed or two double beds.
Hotel Reservations can be made at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile beginning now.
Online Reservation: The hotel has opened a secure registration link dedicated to our event. This link is: https://book.passkey.com/e/50117723 It can also be found on the EGA website at Events – Seminar 2021 – Hotel Accommodations. Caution: You must use this link to obtain the seminar group rate. The hotel will not honor the group rate for reservations made through the Marriott reservation system online.
Phone Reservation Line: 1-877-303-0104
Mention the Embroiderers’ Guild of America 2021 Seminar to obtain the seminar group rate.
The deadline for making reservations is Thursday, August 5, 2021.
Parking
The Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile currently charges $27.00 per day for self-parking. Valet parking is currently $58.00 per day. These rates are subject to change.
Airport
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
Airport Phone: +1 773-686-2200
Hotel direction: 15 miles SE
This hotel does not provide shuttle service.
Alternate transportation: GO Airport Express; fee: $32 USD (one way) ;on request
Estimated taxi fare: $45 USD (one way)
Subway service, fee: $5 USD (one way)
Visit ORD airport websiteChicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
Airport Phone: +1 773-838-0600
Hotel direction: 12.1 miles NE
This hotel does not provide shuttle service.
Alternate transportation: GO Airport Express; fee: $27 USD (one way) ;on request
Estimated taxi fare: $40 USD (one way)
Subway service, fee: $2.25 USD (one way)
Visit MDW airport websiteChicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile
540 N Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611-3890
USA
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Seminar Merchandise
We are excited to offer the following seminar merchandise! All items feature the 2021 seminar logo.
Click the link below to learn more about the items and to place your order.
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Education Exhibit & Golden Needle Awards
Education Exhibit
We have created a handy form you can use to submit your entries for our Education Exhibit, including Golden Needle and Bobbie Pilling Award Entries.
Learn More: Education Exhibit Entry Form
Golden Needle Awards
The Golden Needle Awards is a judged and themed exhibit premiering with EGA’s 2021 National Seminar: The Magnificent Stitch in Chicago!
Learn More: The Golden Needle Awards
Bobbie Pilling Memorial Award
This annual award is presented to an EGA member who has “gone outside the box” with an original piece of needlework that shows personal growth and artistic merit.
Learn more: Scholarships & Awards
If you have questions, please contact Ellie Ames at educationexhibitchair@egausa.org.
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Schedule of Events
All times subject to change.
Tuesday, August 31st
First-Timers’ Meeting
Tuesday, August 31, 5:30 pm – 6:15 pmMeet the Faculty
Tuesday, August 31, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pmMeet the talented teachers of Seminar 2021. See the amazing pieces that they are teaching here at The Magnificent Stitch. Visit and talk with your teacher(s) and preview your class selection(s).
Great Lakes Region Mini Classes
Tuesday, August 31, 6:30 pm to 9:30 pmOur Great Lakes Region will be hosting four mini-classes on the night of Tuesday, August 31, 2021. See the classes and get the Registration Form
Wednesday, September 1st
First-Timers’ Meeting
Wednesday, September 1, 7:30 am – 8:15 amEGA Education Exhibit and Seminar 2022 Preview
Open Wednesday, September 1, Noon – 6:00 pm
Thursday, Friday & Saturday, 7:30 am – 6:00 pm
Sunday, September 5, 7:30 am – 1:30 pmOpening Banquet – Dinner
Wednesday, September 1, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm, $125/ticketThursday, September 2nd
EGA Annual Meeting
Thursday, September 2, Noon – 1:30 pmFriday, September 3rd
Join us on September 3rd for Winning Ways, a series of four lectures focusing on Craft, Craftsmanship and Art in Textiles. Our speakers include: Pat Goaley, Chairman of the EGA Needlework Judges Certification Program; Debbie Rowley, needlepoint designer and owner of DebBee’s Designs; Kim Stenehjem, quilter and purse designer; and Beth Lindsay, certified appraiser via the Rhode Island School of Design.
The Lost Art of Craftsmanship
Pat GoaleyOptions: Making Confident Color Choices for Canvas
Debbie RowleyThe Rebellious Art of Crazy Quilting: Past and Present
Kim StenehjemNeedlework as a Decorative Art: The Relationship of Craftsmanship and Art Through the Eyes of an Appraiser
Beth LindsayWinning Ways is a one-day series of four lectures on various techniques and design and is sponsored by the Certified Needlework Judges Program. While Winning Ways is continuing education for judges and teachers, it is open to all stitchers who wish to learn more about a technique—either to improve their skills or to decide if they want to take a class in a new technique.
Merchandise Night
Friday, September 3, 6:30 pm – 8:30 pmSaturday, September 4th
Judges’ Forum
Saturday, September 4, Noon – 1:30 pmTeachers’ Showcase
Saturday, September 4, 5:30 pm – 6:30 pmAll are invited to the Teachers’ Showcase. Here you can learn about projects and classes offered by many talented and creative teachers. This event may entice your chapter or region to try something new! Teachers, this is a venue for you to meet prospective students and discuss your new classes and your old favorites! You do not need to be teaching at Seminar 2021 to participate in the Teachers’ Showcase.
President’s Farewell Event
Saturday, September 4, 7:00 – 9:00 pm, $25/ticketSay goodbye and thank you to outgoing EGA President, Janet Noble. Cash bar and hors d’ouevres. Net proceeds go toward the President’s chosen charity supporting America’s Wounded Service Members.
Sunday September 5th
Closing Banquet – Luncheon
Sunday, September 5, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, $125/ticket -
Tours
Thank you for your interest in our Magnificent Tours. We have been excited to share Chicago with you!
Unfortunately, due to the worldwide pandemic, we are unable to offer tours through this year’s Seminar after all. However, Chicago offers many opportunities for you to partake of tours and other offerings to explore the Windy City!
In addition to your goodie bag with assorted brochures – check with the hotel’s front desk and with the hotel’s concierge for additional ideas, addresses and everything you’ll need to venture out on your own! It’s highly recommended to call in advance to check on availability and times each are open as we proceed through this summer. Here is a sampling to get you started:
- Frank Lloyd Wright – flwright.org/tours
- Art Institute of Chicago – sales.artic.edu/admissions
- Chicago Architecture River Cruise – viator.com/tours/Chicago/Chicago-Architecture-River-Cruise/d673-5580ARC
- Gangsters & Ghosts Walking Tour – (888) 651-9785
- Gray Line Tours – (312) 251-3100
- Museum of Science & Industry – (773) 684-1414
(For your planning, note that Winning Ways and the one-day classes will be held on Friday, September 3, 2021.)
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Cancellation and Facilities Use Policies
Please download and read our policies regarding cancellations and facilities use.
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Questions?
For additional information, you are welcome to contact any of the following:
Linda Busalacchi
2021 Seminar Chair
egaseminar2021@new.rr.comCarmen Heare
2021 Seminar Assistant Seminar Chair & Banquets
carmenobx@gmail.comJane Farber
2021 Seminar Dean of Faculty
needlejane@aol.comJudy Kotick
2021 Assistant Dean of Faculty
egafaculty2021@gmail.comSusan Koehler
2021 Seminar Assistant Registrar
sukoehle@umich.edu