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For those with a pile of unfinished quilting or sewing projects gathering dust in a corner, Coffee Cup Quilting, located at 213 S. Conecuh St., has the perfect solution with its annual Spring Clean Fling event. Owner Claranna Roberts describes it as a self-driven competition to finish any incomplete projects cluttering up your creative space.

“This is exactly what it sounds like and all about those unfinished projects that seem to multiply over the years,” Roberts said. “It is a competition where everyone wins!”

The event encourages participants to take a good look at their unfinished projects and decide whether they still want to complete them. Roberts advises sorting through them and making a list of what can realistically be finished in the next eight weeks. The goal is to have these projects completely finished within the allotted time frame.

“This list should consist of things that you’ve already started that you think you can finish in 8 weeks,” Roberts said. “That means finished. Done. Wearable, usable, bound, done.”

Participants were encouraged to bring their lists to Coffee Cup Quilting after January 24. The competition kicks off with participants starting their sewing projects. Throughout the event, there will be a “sew day” on weekends for participants to gather and work on their projects together, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

Debbie Blackmon, a participant from last year says she found the event both rewarding and productive. 

“Last year, I really got a lot done,” Blackmon said. “I made a list and finished about 7 items that I wouldn’t have finished if I didn’t push myself.”

The Spring Clean Fling isn’t just for locals; Roberts notes that there are even a few competitors from out of state participating virtually. These long-distance participants will be sharing updates and finished results through the shop’s social media channels.

The event culminates in a show-and-tell in March, where participants can showcase their completed projects. Prizes will be awarded to recognize the hard work and creativity of the participants.

Roberts encourages anyone that is ready to declutter their workspace and turn those unfinished projects into finished masterpieces to join in at Coffee Cup Quilting’s Spring Clean Fling.