forestART
Winter in the Woods Sewing Retreat
November 20-22, 2026
Registration $200
+ BYO materials
Step away from the busy and settle into the quiet beauty of the boreal forest for a weekend of creativity, connection, and sewing.
Join Jenny Ambrose at the Ness Creek site in Northern Saskatchewan, where you’ll spend your days making in the warm, welcoming space of the Jack Millikin Arts Centre, complete with a crackling wood stove and your evenings surrounded by snow-covered forest and cozy cabins.
This retreat is designed to support sewists of all levels, offering a balance of guided instruction, one-on-one support, and relaxed studio time. Whether you’re refining your skills or diving into a new project, you’ll gain practical knowledge in fabric selection, tool use, construction techniques, and professional finishing.
Bring a project you’ve been meaning to complete, or start something entirely new. Clothing and quilts are all welcome. This is your time to focus, learn, and create at your own pace, with support when you need it.
This is a chance to slow down, connect with other makers, and experience the magic of creating in a truly inspiring setting.
Friday November 20th 1pm - Sunday November 22nd 4pm
About Your Host
Jenny Ambrose is a sewist, educator, and creative entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in garment making and teaching. She specializes in working with knit fabrics, with a particular focus on activewear, lingerie, and swimwear—helping students build confidence in sewing techniques that are often seen as more advanced or intimidating.
Jenny was the founder of The Makehouse, a community sewing studio in Victoria, BC, which she successfully operated for 10 years. During that time, she taught hundreds of students, developing a reputation for clear instruction, thoughtful guidance, and creating welcoming, supportive learning environments for sewists of all levels.
Through her work with Soaring Circle and the Sewcase program, Jenny continues to share her passion for sewing by supporting hands-on learning in communities across Canada. She is especially passionate about helping people slow down, build practical skills, and experience the satisfaction of creating garments they feel proud to wear.
What to Bring
Please bring your pattern, fabrics, and any project notions, as well as your sewing machine and serger (if you have one). Don’t forget to include your tool kit, which should contain a cutter, rulers, and a cutting mat. To make the most of the retreat, we strongly encourage you to schedule telephone consultations with Jenny. This will help you plan your project goals and ensure that you have all the necessary supplies well in advance. Additionally, consider bringing slippers, as it’s nice and cozy in the Jack Millikin Centre!
In addition to sewing, there are optional outdoor activities available, such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or hiking depending on what the weather brings. Ness Creek offers rental services for skis and snowshoes, so be sure to come prepared with appropriate outdoor clothing.
How to Get Here
Our classes take place at the Ness Creek Site. Click here to download directions or If you prefer a little technological assistance during your adventures, look up “Ness Creek Site” on Google Maps. Keep in mind, though, that you might lose signal as you get closer to the site.
Meals
We will have an optional potluck supper on Saturday night. Jenny will reach out in early January to find out how many people would like to participate. It was really fun last year!
Accommodations
Please visit Discover Ness Creek