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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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
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
Winning Ways
Friday, September 3, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, $35/ticketTheme: Craft, Craftsmanship, Art
Join us on September 3rd, 2021 in Chicago for a series of four lectures looking at Craft, Craftsmanship and Art in Textiles. Speakers will be: Pat Goaley, Chairman of the Needlework Judges Certification Program, Beth Lindsay, a certified appraiser via the Rhode Island School of Design, Kim Stenehjem, quilter and purse designer, and Debbie Rowley, needlepoint designer and owner of DebBee’s Designs. Join us for a day of interesting and provocative lectures.
Winning 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.
Magnificent Chicago Tours
Friday, September 3, specific times and fees will varyDetails coming soon! See “Tours” tab for destinations and descriptions.
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
We are excited to share that we are planning four “Magnificent” tour options for The Magnificent Stitch national seminar in Chicago. Friday, September 3, 2021, will be your opportunity to explore some of what this spectacular city has to offer. Watch for additional details in early 2021. As always, Early Registrants may sign up for tours and other optional items when completing their registration in February 2021. (Please note that our tours are offered the same day as Winning Ways lectures and one day classes.)
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT – HOME & STUDIO TOUR
Experience everything architecture in the city passionate about skyscrapers and all things big and bold. Your group will travel over to the charming neighborhood of Oak Park to the home of architect genius, Frank Lloyd Wright. This was his first home where he made his initial strides in developing his architectural philosophy and where he raised his six children. Your group will experience a private guided tour of his home and studio, a National Historic Landmark, discovering the details of his family life and astonishing career.
Time: Approximately 3 hoursART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO – ARTFUL IMPRESSIONS
Founded in 1879, The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest museums in the country. Originally built for the Columbian Exposition/World Fair, this iconic museum has continued to grow, most recently adding a Modern Wing, making the square footage over one million feet. Displaying famous art from the Renaissance era to mind-bending 21st century architecture, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Your guide will split you up into smaller groups so you can take in a grand overview and ask questions in a one hour private tour. Afterwards, at your leisure, you will be able to have access to the whole building and choose your own unique museum path.
Time: Approximately 3 HoursWALK THE SITES – LOOKING UP
Sparkling towers of steel, glass, and intricately laid brick all call Chicago home—this is after all the birthplace of the skyscraper! Peering up at the towering heights of the imaginative and innovative buildings that comprise the city skyline, guests on this walking tour will journey back in time. A local guide will traverse the eras of architecture featured in Chicago, starting from the late 1800s, sharing how major events like the Chicago fire have shaped the built environment guests see before them today! Chicago is a leader in skyscraper design and engineering, and attendees will never look at buildings the same way after this!
ADA Restrictions: The Historic Skyscrapers tour is accessible. A majority of this tour is outdoors on the sidewalks of downtown Chicago. There are a few interior lobby spaces included which may have some rivets in the floors, however there are accessible doorways and no stairs in all the buildings visited.
Time: Approximately 2-3 hoursCHOCOLATE DECADENCE – A HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
Experience the delight and decadence of Chicago’s favorite chocolatier, Uzma Sharif! With pastry running through her veins, she learned tips and tricks from her grandfather. After joining the French Pastry School and then the MCA of Chicago in the early 2000’s, Uzma started Chocolat Uzma in in 2012 and has since expanded to a larger space in 2017. This class has been customized to include the history of chocolate, a chocolate tasting, and even a hands-on demonstration — making your own chocolate creation. Once completed, guests will take their chocolate creations with them for a sweet treat.
Time: Approximately 2 Hours -
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