Sewing Up a Storm in the Desert
2nd-5th August 2025
The desert is calling! Escape to Uluru for a transformative sewing retreat unlike any other. Immerse yourself for a special time away with us stitching, stargazing, and connecting with fellow artists under the vast desert sky. Learn from renowned tutors Gloria Loughman, Caroline Sharkey, Emma Jean Jansen and Mandy Murray of SewQuirky, nestled in the comfort and beauty of Ayers Rock Resort’s state of the art conference centre “The Uluru Meeting Place’.
Spots are limited, so secure yours now to avoid disappointment.
Innovative textile
art classes
Explore cutting-edge techniques and push your creative boundaries with our curated selection of workshops.
Breath-taking destination to explore
Immerse yourself in the stunning Uluru desert surroundings and relax at the resort township of Yulara, creating lasting memories with fellow artists.
A place to belong
Feel fully supported and valued throughout the retreat with our dedicated team ensuring your well-being, greet old friends and make new connections to cherish when you return home.
Seamless retreat experience
Enjoy a meticulously planned retreat, We aim to share this majestic place with you all so when you head home you have wonderful new memories.
Wherever you are in your textile art journey, we have a place for you.
Textile artists of all skill levels, from beginners seeking inspiration to seasoned creators looking to refine their craft.
Anyone who craves a unique and enriching travel experience that combines creativity, connection, and cultural immersion.
Those seeking a chance to escape the everyday and reconnect with their inner artist in a place of majestic beauty and cultural heritage.
“To be in this place is spiritual.”
“Attending the 2023 Sewing up a Storm in the Desert with Caroline and her team was my third time and definitely the best. Such a wonderful group of sewers including old friends and many new friends. The workshops were excellent, Hard to choose which one to do as they were all exciting, and then the evening activities handpicked by Caroline and her crew were amazing. I would definitely recommend Sewing up a Storm in the Desert as a definite bucket list item. 2025 is likely to be even more wonderful if I know the team!” Where nobody is left behind. All participants report having the best time ever.”
Vicki M.
An experience so exquisite, you can feel it already.
Sun-drenched days spent learning new techniques and creating breathtaking textile art inspired by the majestic Uluru and the surrounding desert landscape.
Evenings filled with lively conversations, shared laughter, and the comforting clinking of glasses under a star-studded sky.
Intimate workshops led by world renown Tutors, where you'll gain valuable skills and unlock new creative possibilities.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region, learning the stories On Country and connecting with the ancient spirit of the land.
Stitch up a storm with talented guest tutors Gloria Loughman, Emma Jean Jansen, Mandy Murray from SewQuirky, and your host Caroline Sharkey.
Meet the Tutors
Gloria Loughman -SOLD OUT
Gloria is a master of design and construction with an eye for fabric choice that makes her art exquisite.
Rhythm of the Outback with Gloria Loughman
Rhythm is defined as a combination of elements repeated but with variation. In this workshop we will play with repetition and pattern decorating our sky to add movement and interest for your individual design. Participants will construct a small wall hanging the first day where the pattern is provided and the emphasis will be on colour choices, creating perspective and becoming familiar with the construction process. We will then move on to create our skies, over painting some interesting commercial fabrics and decorate with a series of repeated shapes. Once the sky is constructed and quilted, we will add our foreground. There will be a choice of two patterns. One will feature Kata Tjuta and the other Uluru. Kit cost $125
Gloria creates unforgettable art quilts, a multi prize winner and internationally recognized textile art quilter and tutor. To spend time in class with Gloria is an absolute treat and learning from her is a bonus.
Caroline Sharkey - 5 spots left
Step into the world of textile art with Caroline's unique and inspiring desert art class.
A Place Called Uluru with Caroline Sharkey
Designed specifically for this Uluru masterclass Workshop, Caroline has meticulously crafted three distinct kits for you to choose from. Drawing inspiration from the artwork design for the 2025 sewing machine skin, Caroline has created three stunning Desert scenes, featuring her favourite Galah bird. Before class, you will have the opportunity to select one of these designs, to then work alongside Caroline at the retreat workshop to bring your Desert artwork to life. Join Caroline at Uluru and let your creativity soar as you stitch up a storm in her engaging and enriching class.
Kit $130 each
Caroline is the owner and host of the Sewing up a Storm Events as part of her business headquarters The Textile Collective.
Artist, Tutor, Business Mentor and Event Host means Caroline is a very busy and inspiring woman, she loves nothing more than gathering her Tribe to Create Art!
Emma Jean Jansen
BOOK NOW!
you are in the best hands with Emma to learn the new ways to create beautifully designed quilts with a spin on tradition.
Pickled Orange Peel with Emma Jean Jansen
Join Emma for a fabulous skill building class which is suitable for advanced beginners and beyond. Over the 4 days you will learn foundation piecing using the freezer paper technique and also master curved piecing. Emma will also share her knowledge about colour placement and values to help you get the best out of your own quilt.
Kit Cost: $55 for pattern and templates
Emma loves nothing more than designing new quilt designs and is known for her use of bright colours and re-take on traditional piecing. Emma is the author of her book called By The Bundle, A social media influencer in her field and is also a qualified Textile Designer getting her degree from RMIT and has already released 7 fabric ranges.
Mandy Murray - SewQuirky BE QUICK!
Goldie & the Blooms with Mandy Murray - SewQuirky
A Quirky Camel textile art – constructed into a large fabric suitcase, ready for your next sewing adventure!
Mandy will take you on a journey where you'll grow confident in fabric selection, looking at fabric in a new light and immersing yourself with fussy cut blooms to create a rich scene of Uluru. Goldie the camel wants the spotlight, her energy fills the work with charm and character. A gorgeous big eye, detailed with free motioned lashes whispers an invitation for you to explore her home of spirit and beauty. Adorned with trims, pops of colour and vinyls bring a wonderland of interest to this kind hearted animal of the desert. Goldie is ready for an adventure of a lifetime with you! Memories to cherish and a practical fabric suitcase to display your textile art!
Starter kits will be available from Sew Quirky.
Enter the wonderful world of Sew Quirky, full of colour, texture and whimsy. Mandy is the creative heart and talent behind Sew Quirky her business name. Designing projects featuring appliqué, fussy cutting, free motion quilting and inventive uses of decorative stitching to create textile art with an abundance of texture. Add in vinyl, leather and wool felt and you're set to explore a Sew Quirky dreamland that shouts out loads of uniqueness!
Luxury Accommodations and Event Venue
Relax and recharge in beautifully appointed rooms at the various resorts in the township of Yulara just outside the National Park, with breathtaking views of Uluru.
create in state of the art retreat venues.
Celebrate and Experience the Awesomeness!
celebrate with us the Retreat outings to experience the many wonders of the desert.
Enjoy the Delicious gourmet meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Excursions & Cultural Experiences
there’s noting that prepares you for the magnitude of this vast landscape.
Delve deeper into the heart of the Outback with guided tours and opportunities to connect with the local first nations people.
THE RETREAT
4 Day Masterclass with the tutor of your choice
4 day gourmet retreat lunches, morning and afternoon teas
Classes in the exclusive state-of-the-art conference centre
at ‘The Uluru Meeting Place’Retreat gift.
Poolside Gala Dinner THEME OUTBACK MASQUERADE to welcome Tutors and Delegates
Enjoy memorable Cultural Activities together.Uluru & Kata Tjuta sunset experience with wine and canapés
Award-winning ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner under the stars
with world famous Constellation Star Talk.Wintjiri Wiru - The New Uluru cultural storytelling drone & sound experience
Return airport-resort-airport shuttle transfers
full retreat package with Bernina sewing machine - exclusive retreat art skin to take home - $3,995
Or full retreat package with machine hire-only - $3,495
The booking form has all further booking information.
PLEASE NOTE - You are responsible for all travel and accommodation for this retreat, The Ayers Rock Resort offers a discounted stay for delegates during the retreat the direct link to the resort booking group is below.
You will also need to book an extra booked baggage allowance to take your machine home if you take the sewing machine package option.
We encourage you to have your own personal travel insurance.
The ULURU Retreat Machine
Good things come in small packages!
Isn’t it gorgeous!!
The Uluru 2025 BERNINA 335 machine with art skin has been especially designed from a Caroline Sharkey Textile Artwork for this retreat and will be the envy at all your sewing groups.
The BERNINA 335 strikes the perfect balance between compact convenience and powerful performance, making it an indispensable addition to any sewing space. Despite its small footprint, this remarkable machine is fully equipped to handle your toughest materials and unleash your boldest ideas. With its sleek, updated design, it not only produces exquisite stitches but also adds a touch of elegance to your creative space. Don’t miss the opportunity to work with this outstanding machine during the retreat and experience firsthand how it can elevate your sewing projects to new heights! Get ready to stitch in style! With this fancy little work horse.
The ULURU Retreat Hire Machine
You have 2 choices this year thanks to BERNINA you can take home your own exclusive skinned machine with you as part of retreat package or you can now hire a machine at the retreat BERNINA have agreed to offer a per-ordered hire machine for delegates this year, as we know some returning delegates have several machines from our retreats now and also international delegates want the option to hire machines.
See booking form for more details.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
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Your ticket purchase covers the cost of the retreat session workshops, Retreat outings and dinner experiences, sewing machine if you take up the machine package option or the hire a machine package option.
Your Accommodation and Travel are not included and must be booked by each delegate separately.g and unforgettable, from Friday 1st – Sunday 5th August 2025.
Your Accommodation and Travel are not included and must be booked by each delegate separately. We encourage you to have your own travel insurance if any plans change.
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The retreat is located in the heart of the Australian Outback near Uluru. The most common way to arrive is by flying into Ayers Rock Airport and then taking a shuttle or rental car to the Ayers Rock Resort location to check into your accommodation. Book your flights as soon as possible to avoid logistical issues. Lots of previous Delegates have driven into ARResort and either camped or parked to stay in at the resort.
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Booking your accommodation at Ayers Rock Resort offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels and eco-friendly lodges to comfortable campsites and self-contained apartments, there is something for everyone – we’re frequent Uluru visitors, so let us know if you’d like our recommendations or advice.
Book your accommodation as soon as possible to secure your preference. There is a Resort discounted accommodation button to book directly with the resort.
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Our Welcome Poolside Soiree held on the opening night of the retreat is fully catered for, thanks to our incredible sponsors at Bernina. The soiree will be held at the Sail within the retreat venue - Ayers Rock Resort.
Retreat Days Gourmet lunches and breaks are provided for delegates during session times.Sounds Of Silence Dinner is fully catered.
No other meals are included in your ticket, but there are so many delectable restaurants to sample! What better excuse to get to know your newfound friends by dining with other delegates.
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The weather in the Outback can be unpredictable with possible warmer days and cold nights, so it's best to pack layers. Comfortable clothing suitable for sewing and crafting activities, as well as closed-toe shoes for safety during workshops and night outings, are recommended. If you plan to do any additional exploring during your visit, make sure to pack appropriately for your activities.
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You will be required to bring some resources for your classes, and will be provided with a list prior to the event. If your classes require any materials from your tutors, you can purchase these and they will be provided at the event. You will either take a BERNINA machine home or use a hire machine.
Be sure to pack any sewing supplies or tools you may need for the workshops, as well as personal items like sunscreen, a hat and water bottle. A small backpack or tote bag is ideal for carrying your essentials around the retreat.
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The retreat is open to artists of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned stitchers. Inspiration abounds for everyone, and with so many sewists and caring tutors in the room, you will never be without a helping hand.
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The event itinerary is packed with classes, social gatherings and experiences that you’ll not want to miss. While there is ample room for relaxing in between gatherings, we recommend extending your stay if you wish to take in all that Uluru has to offer. You might like to bring your partner or family along to enjoy this special location too.
The Resort offers a shuttle bus service around the township of Yulara so you can get on and off all day and into each night.
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Take advantage of the stunning desert scenery by participating in outdoor activities or simply relaxing and soaking in the unique surroundings. Don't be afraid to ask questions, connect with fellow attendees, and fully immerse yourself in the creative and inspiring atmosphere of the retreat. Car Hire will give you more freedom during your stay there is free car parks everywhere and you can duck into the Uluru national park from the resorts. There are many tours you can join as well by contacting the Ayers R Resort.
Don't Miss Out on This Unforgettable Experience!
Limited spots are available for Sewing Up a Storm in the Desert 2025. This is your chance to immerse yourself in creativity, culture, and breathtaking beauty alongside a vibrant community of textile enthusiasts.
Imagine yourself learning from world-renowned tutors, creating exquisite textile art inspired by Uluru, and forging lasting friendships under a star-filled sky. This retreat offers an experience unlike any other.
Secure your place today and embark on a transformative journey.
“It was certainly worth the wait!”
“After rescheduling because of Covid and the uncertainty of closed borders, the 2023 Uluru Retreat finally happened after a 3 year wait. So much hard work was done by Caroline Sharkey, her family and the wonderful, ‘behind the scenes’ team to make this happen.
As a ‘first timer’ to Uluru what impressed me was the level of communication that was sent to delegates. The Delegates Booklet, outlining the classes on offer, the accommodation options, things to do around the resort, included tours and a schedule of events and times made organising the trip very manageable.
The choice of tutors was excellent. Our 2 brilliant Australians, Caroline Sharkey and Gloria Loughman, along with highly acclaimed textile artists Sandra Mollon and Judy Coates Perez from the USA all made for an exciting and fulfilling 4 days of creativity and learning.
Bernina Australia sponsors this event and each delegate got to bring home a new Bernina 325 sewing machine that they used during the workshops. What an amazing feat to organise so many specially skinned machines showing Caroline Sharkey’s award winning quilt, ‘Star Talk’.
Although it was a busy schedule we had time to meet and chat with other delegates, getting to catch up with old friends and meet new ones.”