2026 Quilting Workshops & Retreats

Experience the Art, History, and Spirit of Gee’s Bend

Step into the rich quilting tradition of Gee’s Bend, a place celebrated not only for its breathtaking, improvisational quilts but also for its pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement. Our FQB Legacy Quilter Workshop & Retreat offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in this cultural legacy guided by expert quilters from the Gee’s Bend community.

2026 Dates to Choose From:

What to Expect

This 5-day retreat (6 hours per day) is designed for quilters of all experience levels—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artisan. You’ll learn the distinctive techniques of Gee’s Bend quilting in a relaxed, welcoming environment where creativity knows no rules.

What’s Included:

  • All Supplies Provided:
    • Fabric pieces, including upcycled old clothes (shirts, pants, dresses, etc.)
    • Scissors, threads, needles, pins, seam rippers, small quilting hoops
    • Tip: Bring your own thimble or fabric scraps if you’d like to personalize your project!
  • Quilting Instruction:
    • Learn to lay out and piece a quilt block (16×16 to 20×20 inches) by hand or sewing machine (if available).
    • Hand quilting techniques are taught step by step by experienced Gee’s Bend quilters.
    • Option to bring your own materials or learn exclusively with provided blocks.
    • Unfinished blocks? Make arrangements with the quilter to have them completed and sent to you.

No rules. No pressure. Just creativity and connection.
Whether you’re cutting, sewing, or stitching, expect to have “Sew Much Fun” while fostering new friendships and soaking up the inspiring history of Gee’s Bend.

Sample Itinerary

Arrival
Guests are encouraged to arrive in Gee’s Bend one day prior to the retreat. 
Check in at local accommodations.
Lodging arrangements are the responsibility of each guest. 

Day 1
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Welcome and introductions; meet your workshop leader. 
 Discuss Gee’s Bend community history and quilting traditions.
 Begin hands-on quilting workshop; lunch provided.

Day 2
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Full-day quilting session at the Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy.
Lunch provided

Day 3
8:30 AM–11:30 AM
Board the Gee’s Bend Ferry to Camden, AL. 
Visit Black Belt Treasures and the Camden Shoe Shop & Quilt Museum.
Return to Gee’s Bend by ferry.

12:00 PM
Tour the River Gallery, followed by lunch (provided).

1:30 PM–4:30 PM
Afternoon quilting session at the Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy.

Day 4
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Full-day quilting session at the Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy.
Lunch provided

Day 5
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Final quilting session at the Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy.
Closing remarks and adjournment

Departure
Check out of local accommodation & begin your journey home.

The Legacy of Gee’s Bend

Gee’s Bend isn’t just home to masterful quilting—it’s a place where art meets activism. The quilting tradition here is rooted in resilience, self-expression, and community. During the retreat, you’ll quilt in the same space that empowered generations of women through the Freedom Quilting Bee, a cooperative that supported the Civil Rights Movement.

This retreat isn’t just a workshop; it’s a chance to connect with the spirit of the legacy and leave with a piece of its history—created by you.

Retreat Details

Cost Breakdown:

  • Quilting Retreat Workshop: $900
  • Continental Breakfast & Lunch: $175
  • Freedom Quilting Bee Facility Fee: $250

Total: $1,325

Payment Plan:

  • Non-refundable deposit: $662.50
  • Final payment (due 30 days before): $662.50

Additional Information & Lodging:

  • Each retreat accommodates up to 20 participants.
  • Individual lodging is not included; participants are responsible for arranging accommodations. Visit geesbend.org for preferred accommodations.

Why Join Us?

  • Learn authentic Gee’s Bend quilting techniques.
  • Immerse yourself in the stories and history of a culturally significant art form.
  • Enjoy the serene surroundings while fostering lifelong friendships.
  • Take home a finished (or in-progress) quilt block to cherish forever.

Reserve your spot today and be part of something extraordinary. Spaces are limited, so don’t wait to join this unforgettable experience in one of America’s most cherished artistic and historical communities.