Group Hug

I once heard Jenny Doan say, “Quilting is the one hobby you start for yourself and soon it’s about everyone else.”    I’m with her.  I think quilters are some of the most generous people I know.  They make quilts for family, friends, even total strangers.

 Part of the reason my be that if we didn’t the windows of our homes would soon look like this display case my dad made me, full from floor to ceiling.

In addition to finding joy in giving quilts, quilters enjoy sewing together.  We go on retreats, we meet at homes and community centers.  Food, friends and fabric coming together to make a perfect gathering.  Often these perfect gatherings are all about making quilts for others.  I know that the President of the Utah Quilt Guild has been holding sew ins at a local quilt shop to make quilts for area women’s shelters.  

 I hold sew ins at least once a month for my Quilty Hugs for Happy Chemo.  I thought I would share a few tips that I have found make for a successful charity group sew in. 1. Choose a simple pattern.  Not everyone’s 1/4″ seam is the same.  So to illuminate cut of points or unmatched seams a simple pattern is ideal.  I have found string quilts, disappearing nine patches, my simply charming quilt, and the Scrappy Duo all work up nicely.

2. Have opportunities for people to do various things.  Not everyone wants to or can lug their sewing machine.  Let them cut fabric or press blocks. 3. Have food on hand.  Whether you have a pot luck or provide treats yourself having food on hand is always a good idea.  Busy sewers get hungry. Hope you find these few tips helpful as you go about making quilty hugs.