New to QuiltWeek—Instructors You Won’t Want to Miss!

With AQS QuiltWeek – Branson just around the corner (March 12-15, 2025), it’s time to get to know the talented new instructors who will be sharing their knowledge and passion with you. These experts bring a wealth of experience, great techniques, and fresh perspectives to their workshops and lectures.

Meet Devida Bushrod

Devida Bushrod, the creative mind behind Pixel Quilts, has been perfecting the art of pixel quilting for over 18 years. Originally from the UK and now residing in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Dee’s journey to pixel quilting began in 2008 when she made her first quilt in this unique style. What started as a personal passion quickly evolved into her exclusive focus, combining her design background and self-taught quilting skills to create bold, pixelated masterpieces.

Dee’s workshops offer an exciting opportunity for quilters to learn her signature techniques. In “Making a Quilt Dress 101”, participants will gain the skills to design and create their own quilt dress using simple patterns and no zippers or buttons—perfect for those looking to turn quilt tops into wearable art. In her “Pixel Quilts: Piecing Two Ways” workshop, Dee will guide students through two distinctive methods for piecing pixel quilts, including how to use Accuquilt for precise cutting and piecing.

Join Dee to explore the world of Pixel Quilts, where creativity and quilting collide in vibrant, pixelated designs that are as fun to make as they are to admire!

Learn more about Devida and her workshops here.

Introducing Raija Salomaa

For Raija Salomaa, quilting wasn’t a lifelong tradition—it was love at first sight when she saw her very first quilt after moving to the United States. Originally from Finland, Raija’s early sewing experience began in elementary school, but it wasn’t until she discovered quilting that her true creative passion took off. Now an award-winning quilter, designer, and instructor, Raija shares her expertise through her business, Quilters’ Treasure Chest, and as a Studio 180 Design Certified Instructor.

With over 30 years of quilting experience, Raija has developed a talent for precision piecing and enjoys helping students master techniques with specialty tools. Whether it’s achieving sharp points on V Block® units, mastering the Lemoyne Star, or learning to create Cat’s Cradle units with ease, her workshops are designed to elevate your piecing skills while keeping the process fun and engaging.

In addition to hands-on workshops, Raija will also host a Lunch & Learn lecture where she’ll help quilters navigate the overwhelming world of tools and gadgets, sharing her top picks that are truly worth the investment.

Join Raija at AQS QuiltWeek and discover how the right techniques—and the right tools—can transform your quilting!

Learn more about Raija's workshops and her Friday Lunch & Learn here - Sign up today!

Welcome Stephanie Ngai

From industry insider to passionate stitcher, Stephanie Ngai has spent the past seven years immersing herself in the world of quilting and handwork. As the head of events and sponsorships at WonderFil Specialty Threads, she has worked closely with the global quilting community—attending industry shows, fostering connections, and championing new opportunities for engagement. But Stephanie’s journey goes beyond event planning.

When she first joined WonderFil, Stephanie had only beginner-level sewing experience, but her curiosity quickly led her to explore the art of hand stitching. Over time, she developed a deep love for hand embroidery and wool appliqué, even helping design stitching patterns as part of her role. Today, she is dedicated to “threaducation”—introducing quilters and sewists to the creative possibilities of embellishment and handwork, one stitch at a time.

At AQS QuiltWeek – Branson, Stephanie is bringing her expertise to the classroom with her workshop, “Wool Embroidery Wooly Toucan.” In this all-levels hand embroidery class, students will appliqué and embellish a vibrant toucan from WonderFil’s 2024 Wool Block of the Month. Working with 100% Australian Merino wool and WonderFil’s Ellana wool thread and Eleganza perle cotton, participants will learn essential embroidery techniques while adding rich texture and detail to their piece. Whether you're new to hand stitching or looking to expand your skills, Stephanie’s step-by-step guidance ensures a fun and rewarding experience.

Join Stephanie at AQS QuiltWeek – Branson and discover the joy of hand embroidery with a colorful, creative project!

Click here to sign up for Stephanie's workshop today!

Get to Know Lorelai Kuecker

At just 15 years old, Lorelai Kuecker is already making waves in the quilting world. What began as a single heartfelt project—a Quilt of Valor for her mother—quickly ignited a passion that led to the launch of her own quilting business, Pigs in a Blanket Quilting, in 2021. From mastering longarm quilting to designing custom quilted clothing and bags, Lorelai has embraced every opportunity to expand her skills and share her creativity.

Her talent has been widely recognized, with award-winning quilts displayed at prestigious events, including the Kansas City Regional Quilt Festival, the Missouri State Fair, AQS QuiltWeek – Branson, and the Houston International Quilt Festival’s “50 Years of Great Quilts” special exhibit. She has also collaborated with Ruby Star Society and Northcott Fabrics, and her work was featured in Fons & Porter’s Quick + Easy Quilts in June 2023.

Now, Lorelai is bringing her inspiring journey to AQS QuiltWeek – Branson with her lecture, “Stitch by Stitch: A Youth Quilting Journey.” In this engaging presentation, she’ll share how she got started, the challenges she’s overcome, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. The lecture concludes with a trunk show featuring her stunning quilts, as well as her one-of-a-kind quilted fashion and accessories.

Don’t miss this chance to hear from one of quilting’s rising stars—join Lorelai at AQS QuiltWeek – Branson and see the future of quilting in action!

Don't miss Larelai's lecture! Learn more and save your seat here.

The clock is ticking, and AQS QuiltWeek – Branson is almost here! With these new instructors bringing their expertise and innovative approaches to quilting, it’s an event you won’t want to miss. Be sure to check out the links to learn more about each instructor and sign up for their workshops and lectures.

Get ready for a weekend full of inspiration, learning, and creativity—you’ll leave with new skills, fresh ideas, and memories that will last a lifetime. We can’t wait to see you there!