Share the Wealth

At the start of the Quiltmaking 101 class I teach locally for beginning quilters, I start by saying "Making a quilt is an expensive way to get bedding--if you just want a blanket, go to the store." 

Quilters know this is true, non-quilters think you should be able to make them a queen-size quilt for $50. Not even close...

So, why do we do it? We are "making gifts for generations yet unborn"--a phrase I have loved since I first heard it years ago. My children, and their children, and hopefully, THEIR children, will have a tangible reminder that I was here.

Stella admiring "Stella's Splendid Sampler" two years ago

"Can you find the flower?"

Stella and Sam, Easter 2019

A few months ago, one of those beginning students sent me a lovely email, thanking me for all she learned in the 5 week class. She said she loves quilting now but wasn't sure how much she could do because of the cost of supplies. This made me a bit sad.

The Sunday Sew and Sews is a great group of quilters I am leading through the Block of the Month from The Quilt Show. In passing, I mentioned that student's comment and said we should be thankful we can engage in our passion with such abandon. After class, several of them told me they wanted to share some of their excess with this quilter.

Just a few of the Sunday Sew and Sews--we need a new photo

I let everyone know we would collect things to donate to this student for a couple months. I just asked them not to dump garbage bags full of hand-offs--make the donations nice things a new quilter might actually want to receive.

The other day I gathered up the donations--it was quite the haul! One person would be overwhelmed with all stuff: fabric, notions, books, etc.  

One of my goals for each beginning class is to "addict" at least one of them, completely and totally to quiltmaking, so our industry and "tribe" can continue to grow. In the past two classes, two more women jumped in with both feet, eager and excited to learn all they can about quilting.

So, I invited all three of these wonderful women to my home to pick up "a few things". 

It was like Christmas--I wish I had taken a photo of my Q20 piled high with all the gifts. I gave each of them a big tote bag and they took turns, selecting whatever they wanted. 

One of the Sunday Sew and Sews wrote this nice note--I read it to all of them:

Most quilters who have been at this a while, have more than they will ever need--I certainly do. It is fun to share with others. If you have a group of quilter friends, consider a "swap"--each person can bring things they want to get rid of in exchange for finding new treasures.

Perhaps there is a Girl Scout troop you can work with--helping future quilters to "catch the bug". 

I'm sure you can think of other ways to "share the wealth" with quilters just getting started. I'd love to hear your ideas.

And a big "Thank You" to the Sunday Sew and Sews who generously shared their bounty!

Let's quilt,

Barbara