As we all know, quilting gives us something of an instant community. Whether you are a guild person or not, you find connections with other quilters almost anywhere you go. Sitting in a waiting room or meeting someone new at church, you are bound to find someone who understands the draw of cutting up fabric and sewing it back together. People who don’t get it REALLY don’t get it.
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When I was a girl my mother was part of a large group of women who came when one of them needed a few extra hands to complete a new project for a family member or a wedding gift. I have always said that I grew up under a quilt, because it seemed that several times a year there was one in the middle of our long, skinny living room, making it difficult to see the TV unless you watched from beneath the frame.
Mom was lucky, because her friends were accomplished and speedy quilters and they usually completed the job in a work week. The hostess of the event would provide appropriate treats and snacks and even lunch if needed to sustain the workers. It was a pleasant and fondly remembered time of the sisterhood of friends supporting each other. This is a quilt that was completed by these fabulous ladies:
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One of the main quilters was my father’s brother’s wife, my beloved Aunt Jo. She had had a difficult childhood and had immersed herself in all types of handiwork over the years to stay occupied and she was proficient in all of them. She lived nearby and was the first to come and the last to leave. One feature of every quilt of mine that she was part of is a tiny drop of her blood. She was famous for sticking her finger with a needle on about every quilt she participated in quilting. It is an enduring part of her legacy, even after the traces were blotted out.
Now that the days of hand quilted bees are over, except perhaps with the Amish, there are lots of ways we can find or form a community that we can feel support, assistance and camaraderie by being a participant. There are lots of classes available! There are classes at stores, classes in community education, classes at libraries and thousands of classes online.
It’s fun to go with a friend or just go to FIND a friend. I have a couple of gals that I quilt for who have been taking classes together for decades and I’m always amused by their “twin” quilts, because they often vary just a bit. Here is an example: (Oops, I only have one picture. Use your imagination. The other one was square with a different layout.)
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I have even taught a sampler class in my neighborhood that drew others from around the area. Gathering once a month to learn a new skill we became dear friends who I still am in contact with years later.
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Quilt Expos and Conventions are a terrific place to find likeminded people. Dozens of classes are offered and the teachers are usually nationally rated. I’ve taken many classes from amazing professionals and met some wonderful people. Again, go with a friend or two. Nearly everywhere you go there is a Quilt Guild. They can be a really great resource and gathering for beginning and experienced quilters alike. I have to confess that I’m not much of a joiner and can be a bit of a recluse, plus I have so many projects of my own that I have never taken the time to become a member. But I know TONS of ladies who look forward to their monthly guild meetings and are members for years.
My mother was an active member well into her 80’s and was often called on to present trunk shows or demonstrate new ideas and techniques and she loved it. She was also voted President and other guild offices quite often. One of the special community building activities was block swaps. Sometimes they would all bring what they considered the ugliest fabric they had in their stash and each member would select another’s piece then use it for the block, adding coordinates from their stash.
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When an officer was stepping down someone would choose a pattern or colors and everyone would make a block with their signature. Mom was a recipient of this group of random blocks from her guild friends. She was especially adept at arranging these into a pleasing arrangement.
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These days there are Facebook groups, Instagram groups, and lots of videos on YouTube and elsewhere to find connections. My Facebook and Instagram are becoming largely dedicated to quilt accounts. I feel like some of them have become friends as we share successes and difficulties. I invite you to get out wherever you feel comfortable and find your people. Quilters are the nicest ones of all!
— Queen Bee
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Today’s Tip - Finding A Local Quilting Group
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Finding a quilting group or guild can be a fantastic way to connect with fellow quilters, share knowledge, and gain inspiration. Here are some tips to help you find the right quilting group or guild for you:
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Attend Quilting Events and Shows: Quilting events, shows, and exhibitions are excellent places to meet fellow quilters and learn about local quilting groups or guilds. Look for events in your area and attend them to network with other quilters and gather information about potential groups to join.
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Visit Quilt Shops: Quilt shops are hubs for the quilting community, and many of them host quilting groups or have information about local guilds. Stop by your local quilt shop and inquire about any quilting groups that meet there or if they know of any guilds in the area.
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Ask Fellow Quilters: If you know other quilters in your area, ask them if they belong to any quilting groups or guilds. They may be able to recommend groups to you or even invite you to join their own group
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Check Community Centers and Libraries: Some community centers, libraries, or churches host quilting groups or guild meetings. Check their event calendars or bulletin boards for information about quilting groups that meet there regularly.
When choosing a quilting group to join, consider factors such as meeting frequency, location, membership dues, and the group's focus or special interests (e.g., traditional quilting, modern quilting, charity quilting, etc.)
Choose a group that aligns with your interests and schedule.
By following these tips you'll likely find a group that's welcoming and supportive, allowing you to connect with other quilters and grow in your craft.
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Join Our Facebook Quilting Group - For Quilters Everywhere
Engage in interactive experiences, seek personalized advice, showcase your work, and make new friends with other quilters.
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