Hi, I’m Donna Galvan!

Welcome to Donna’s Quilting Respite!

My goal here is to help people overcome stress and worries through the discovery of their own talents and creativity. Whether you’re brand new to sewing or have been quilting for years, I’m here to create a space where you can learn, create, and connect.

How Quilting Found Me

Quilting became part of my life during a challenging chapter-caring for my mother through her journey with Alzheimer’s. Amid the stress and sadness, I found that working with fabric brought me calm, focus, and joy. Each stitch felt like a small act of healing, and over time, quilting became both a creative outlet and a source of strength. Inspired by how much quilting had given me, I set out to share that same sense of peace and accomplishment with others. I believe that creativity can transform stress into beauty, and I love helping students experience that transformation for themselves.

Experience You Can Trust:

  • 14+ Years of Global Quilting Education

    I’ve studied under expert instructors across the globe-from 12 years at the International Quilt Festival in Houston to classes in Tokyo, Osaka, and Texas.

  • Certified in Collage Quilting & More

    I'm an Advanced Certified Instructor in Laura Heine's collage quilting, and I also teach the popular “By Annie” patterns, including structured bags and backpacks.

  • Skilled with Major Machine Brands

    Whether it’s Bernina, Brother, Juki, or Janome-you’re learning from someone who knows the tools inside and out, with hands-on experience in all of them.

  • A Doctor & Builder at Heart

    Before quilting, I spent over 30 years as a Medical Doctor and commercial contractor. Precision, patience, and problem-solving are stitched into every class I teach.
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  • My Mission:

    At Donna’s Quilting Respite, my mission is to help others discover the peace, purpose, and joy that quilting brought into my own life. What began as a therapeutic escape during a difficult time has grown into a heartfelt passion to teach, share, and inspire.

  • My Vision:

    My vision is to create a welcoming, supportive space where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect through creativity. Whether you’re stitching your first seam or mastering advanced techniques, this is a place to grow, express yourself, and find comfort in the art of quilting.

Ready to Quilt with Me?

Whether you're brand new or already stitching, I’d love to welcome you to a class at Quilting Respite. Let’s create something beautiful together.

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