We are excited to welcome 32 friends and Jinny Barney McAuliffe (of Stitch Style) to our Island House Studio for our first ever Winter Weekend Retreat on January 30 – February 1, 2026!  Come alone or come with friends for a relaxing weekend of friendship and needlepoint.

Saturday and Sunday mornings Jinny will be leading us through her stitch guide for the exclusive customized retreat canvas.  Please feel free to bring your own project for open stitch times in the afternoons.  (Note: participants are not required to participate in the stitching instruction and may instead work on their own projects.)  Jinny will be available each afternoon for guidance with stitching and kitting.

When: Friday Jan 30, 2026 5 – 8 pm || Saturday Jan 31, 2026  10 am – 4 pm || Sunday Feb 1, 2026 10am – 2 pm

Where: In Person – Island House Needlepoint – 11 Day Street S. Norwalk, CT 06854

Retreat includes:

• Saturday and Sunday classes with Jinny Barney McAuliffe of Stitch Style.  Jinny will be teaching to her stitch guide for our exclusive Retreat Canvas
• Exclusive Stitch Style blog customized canvas, including threads and stitch guide
• Fabulous customized SWAG BAG!
• Shopping Stitch Style trunk show with Jinny’s assistance kitting your purchases from her canvas line
• 10% discount on all Island House canvas, threads and accessories
• Friday night pizza and wine mixer
• Lunch will be provided on Saturday and Sunday, as well as drinks and snacks throughout the day

Supplies to bring: Your needlepoint tool kit, stand if you choose to use one, and battery operated light if you desire

Accommodations:  We have secured a room block at the Residence Inn by Marriott (45 S Main Street, South Norwalk, CT) for Friday and Saturday nights.  Please reach out to the hotel directly and ask for the “Island House Retreat” room block – 855-999-0131.  Alternatively book on line using our group rate link Book your group rate for Island House Retreat .  Accommodations include complimentary breakfast.  Parking is available for a nominal fee at the hotel. Our room block rate is held through December 30, 2025.

South Norwalk is a lively area with many dining options and activities.  Please take a look at our website for dining suggestions.  We do not have a group dinner planned for Saturday evening, however are happy to put groups together and help with reservations.

Please note: Retreat fees are non-refundable.  If you are not able to attend, you may choose to transfer your fee if you find a participant to come in your place.