California Poppy
Stitching Retreat 2027
February 21–25, 2027
Monterey, California

Chasing away the February blues has never been easier!
Join us for five delightful days of stitching, friendship, creativity, and relaxation in beautiful Monterey, California, at the historic Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa.
Nestled among lush gardens, Casa Munras offers a charming blend of California history and modern hospitality. Originally built in 1824 as the residence of Spanish diplomat Don Estéban Munras, the property has evolved into one of Monterey's most welcoming boutique hotels.
The hotel's restaurant, Esteban, features Spanish-inspired cuisine, including traditional tapas, paellas, and delicious brunch selections.
Whether you're working on a favorite project, learning new techniques, or simply enjoying the company of fellow stitchers, we have a wonderful retreat planned for you!
Stitching Opportunities
Bring your favorite project and settle in for some uninterrupted stitching time!
Attendees are welcome to bring their own canvases, threads, and supplies. Kay will be available to offer suggestions and guidance as desired. And, of course, fellow stitchers are always a wonderful source of ideas and inspiration!
Thinking about starting something new?
Purchase a canvas from Stitched Up Needleworks, along with its stitch guide and threads, and receive a 20% discount. Your new project and supplies will be waiting for you in Monterey!
Our dedicated Stitching Room will be available daily from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m., allowing plenty of time to stitch at your own pace.
Our retreat schedule includes:
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Sunday, February 21 — Half day of stitching and afternoon meet-and-greet.
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Monday, February 22, through Wednesday, February 24 — Three full days of stitching.
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Thursday, February 25 — Breakfast and a final half day of stitching before departure
California Poppy Shading Workshop with Kay
One of the special features of our retreat will be an opportunity to explore shading techniques with Kay.
During two informal sessions of approximately 90 minutes each, Kay will demonstrate and discuss ways to create beautiful shading effects in needlepoint.
You'll then have the opportunity to experiment with these techniques on your very own California poppy canvas, using the threads and instructions provided.
It's a wonderful chance to learn something new, enhance your stitching skills, and take home a lovely reminder of our retreat!
Special Events & Activities
A Visit with Monterey Artist Kathy Sharpe.
We are especially delighted that well-known Monterey artist Kathy Sharpe has invited our group to visit her studio, where she will host a welcome gathering.
Some of Kathy's beautiful paintings have been adapted into needlepoint canvases, making this a particularly special opportunity for our stitching community.
The date and time of this event will be announced.
Drawings & Other Surprises
Throughout the retreat, we'll have several optional drawings for those who wish to participate.
Additional excursions or activities may also be offered as plans are finalized.
Spa Special
As an added treat, Casa Munras is offering our attendees a 15% discount on spa services during the retreat.
Accommodations
We have arranged a special room rate of approximately $220 per night, including taxes, parking, and resort fees.
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Standard rooms offer either one king bed or two queen beds.
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Room rates are the same for single or double occupancy.
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Suite upgrades are available for an additional fee.
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We have requested first-floor accommodations for our attendees.
Hotel accommodations are booked separately and are not included in the retreat registration fee.
Casa Munras does not offer regular porter service. However, the hotel can arrange for assistance with luggage during check-in and check-out for those who would appreciate it.
Attendees requesting this service will be responsible for the associated cost.
Dining & Refreshments
We've planned several opportunities to relax, enjoy a meal, and spend time with fellow stitchers.
Included with your retreat:
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Daily beverages and snacks in the Stitching Room.
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Lunch on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
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A special group dinner on Tuesday evening.
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Breakfast on Thursday, our departure day.
Casa Munras also offers breakfast and dinner at its restaurant, at attendees' own expense. Monterey has a wonderful variety of additional restaurants and eateries to explore.
On Sunday afternoon, we'll gather for an informal, no-host meet-and-greet to welcome everyone and begin our retreat together.
Dietary considerations: Please let us know when registering if you have any dietary restrictions or concerns, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or food allergies.
Retreat Registration
Retreat Fee: $925 per person
Hotel accommodations are not included in the retreat fee.
To reserve your place, please call or email Stitched Up Needleworks.
A $300 non-refundable deposit is required before Dec. 15, 2026, to secure your reservation. In the unlikely event that the retreat is canceled by the organizers, your deposit will be refunded in full.
Once your retreat registration is confirmed, you will receive a special booking code and instructions for reserving your room directly with Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa.
Final payment is due no later than February 1, 2027.
We look forward to welcoming you to Monterey for a memorable retreat filled with beautiful stitching, new techniques, wonderful friendships, and a little California poppy magic!