Riverglen Quilt Retreat Recap
No cooking. No cleaning. Just quilting.
A Perfect Fall Getaway
Our recent quilt retreat at Riverglen, near Mount Ida, Arkansas, was everything a quilter could hope for. The drive through the Ouachita National Forest was gorgeous—rolling hills, winding roads, and trees filled with yellow, orange, and plenty of green. Fall wasn’t quite at its peak yet, but it was on its way. The crisp air and peaceful drive set the tone for a wonderful few days ahead.
When we arrived on Wednesday evening, it was already dark, so we couldn’t see much of the property yet. Still, we were thrilled to finally arrive. We managed to get a few logs on the fire and create a cozy campfire while everyone unpacked and settled in. One of our retreaters even headed back out to help guide the last pair of quilters who had missed their turn and gone a few miles too far down the road. Once everyone made it safely, we gathered around the fire, relaxed, and started the first round of laughter that would continue all weekend.
Waking Up to Nature’s Beauty
The next morning, we finally saw Riverglen in daylight—and it did not disappoint. The property is surrounded by forest, with trees stretching high and sunlight peeking through the leaves. I spotted deer along the walking path, and there were squirrels everywhere, busily gathering acorns. Wildflowers lined the edge of the woods, and the air felt clean and crisp. It was one of those mornings that made you slow down and breathe it all in.
The retreat center itself is lovely—two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large sewing workshop, a fully stocked kitchen, cozy living room, and a dining area that made meals feel like family dinners. It had everything you’d expect from a high-end Airbnb, only better, because it was made for quilters.
Exploring the Property
Riverglen sits on a beautiful stretch of land with trails that lead to the river bluffs. A few of us ventured down to explore and take photos. I even got turned around during one of those walks, but our kind host rescued me on his ATV and gave me a personal tour of the property.
Since I deal with neuropathy in my feet from chemotherapy, walking uneven terrain isn’t easy for me, so that little act of kindness meant the world.
Great Food and Good Company
My motto for every retreat is “No cooking. No cleaning. Just quilting.” This one definitely lived up to that. Every meal was delicious—hearty breakfasts, comforting lunches, and dinners that had us all asking for seconds. Coffee was always ready, snacks were plentiful, and laughter filled every room.
Even though this was a smaller retreat made up of close family and friends, I didn’t hold back on the details. The table settings, nightly surprises, and thoughtful touches all came together to make the weekend feel special.
A Visit from Belle Brunner
We were lucky enough to have a visit from Belle Brunner, owner of Seams Sew Me, who operates her business from her home near the River Glen retreat property. Belle stopped by during our stay to say hello (and give out hugs!) and completely spoiled us.
She brought a homemade pie—with a sewing machine cutout on top—along with mini goodie bags for everyone. We even received a locally mined quartz (personally delivered by Belle’s father) and I received a special sneak peek sampling of her newest fabric collection.
As a thank-you, I made Belle a tea towel topper, which also happened to be our group project for the weekend. It was a sweet exchange and a fun reminder of our time together at River Glen.
Seams Sew Me is the company owned by Belle Brunner, a designer of textiles, quilt patterns and inspiring educator who runs her business from her home near her family’s retreat property, Riverglen. Belle stopped by during our stay to visit, bringing along a homemade pie (complete with a sewing machine cutout on top!), mini goodie bags, and a sneak peek at her newest fabric collection. Her kindness and creativity made our weekend even more memorable. You can find her work at seamssewme.com.
Generous Sponsors and Amazing Prizes
Another highlight of the retreat was our lineup of prizes, thanks to some incredibly generous sponsors.
✨ Oliso spoiled us with several amazing prizes, including a Mini Iron, an Oliso Ironing Board Cover, and the Commemorative Kaffe Fassett Tin. Oliso is a favorite among quilters and sewists for good reason. Their irons, mats, and accessories are built for comfort, safety, and long-lasting performance. At this retreat, Oliso treated us to a Mini Iron, an Ironing Board Cover, and a Kaffe Fassett Commemorative Tin—each one combining function with a touch of fun. If you’re ready to upgrade your pressing station, click the button below to explore their full lineup.
I use affiliate links for products I truly love and recommend. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
We also had several other prizes that thrilled each retreater! Who doesn’t love prizes (especially when they are quilty)!
Each evening brought new surprises. We played games, gave away prizes, and handed out goodies every single night. By the end of the retreat, everyone went home a winner—and we had plenty of smiles (and maybe a few happy tears) to show for it.
Quilting Projects in Progress
Between the games and good food, there was plenty of quilting happening, too! The sewing workshop stayed busy from morning to night with machines humming and rotary cutters slicing away. Some attendees started new projects, while others made progress on UFOs that had been waiting for just the right push.
There’s something magical about sewing in community. Ideas bounce around, color combinations get tested, and somehow, everyone gets more done than they would at home. We saw everything from classic patchwork to modern geometric designs—proof that creativity thrives in good company.
Wrapping Up the Weekend
Before we knew it, Sunday morning arrived. We packed up our sewing stations, took our group photos, and shared one last meal before heading home. There’s always a little tug at my heart when a retreat ends—it’s hard to leave behind the laughter, inspiration, and shared creativity.
The property, the food, the company, and the projects made this one of my favorite retreats yet. River Glen was the perfect backdrop for a weekend full of quilting, laughter, and connection.
Looking Ahead
Our Winter 2026 Retreat at The Art Nest, near Kansas City, is already sold out, but the fun doesn’t stop there!
Tickets for the Spring 2026 Quilt Retreat (April) will be going on sale soon. Be sure to join my newsletter, because that’s where I release retreat tickets first.
If you’re part of The Quilt Block Club, you get even more perks—first access to retreat tickets plus 20% off your retreat fee. That’s a big savings, and it’s one of the best reasons to join if you love these kinds of events.
Every retreat reminds me why I love what I do. Quilting brings people together in the best ways—through shared stories, creative energy, and the simple joy of making something with our hands. I’m already looking forward to the next time we gather, sew, and laugh until our sides hurt. Until then, keep stitching and stay inspired.
