Quilting is a language. It is a form of expression that is not bound by time, custom or culture. A hand-crafted blanket conveys a certain warmth when wrapped around shoulders that transcends any spoken words.
We each have our own reasons for quilting. Perhaps you discovered the artistic pastime during a time of recovery or emotional healing. Maybe you inherited a handmade quilt from a grandmother or great aunt that now holds memories of years past. Or, maybe you want to leave a lasting heirloom for those who come after you to remember the love you had for them. For many of us, we cut, piece and stitch for all these reasons and more.
The idea of why we quilt, drove me to learn a little more. I was fascinated by what I found and I’m sure you will be, too. Perhaps you will even see a bit of yourself in these stories.
I quilt to connect with my past. Author Susan Branch started collecting quilts when she inherited one from her great-grandmother. She says, “What I love about them is the history they represent, and the beautiful handwork of countless creative women. None of these quilts is signed or dated. Yet you can hear the whispers of talk that went on at quilting bees when these were made, all by hand, all with little stitches, fireplaces crackling, needles flying, women connecting, making beauty!”
I quilt to create something beautiful. A young city-dweller poses this simple question: “So, do I quilt because it is cold in the Northeast and I need blankets? Or, is it the artistic creation that comes from taking large pieces of fabric, cutting them into smaller pieces, and putting them back together in a newly designed large piece of fabric that drives me?” What do you think?
I quilt to share my talent with those I love. Jennifer Schifano Thomas sums it up well with this vivid description of her bedtime routine. “I quilt for love. Love to wrap up my family in. It’s like being there to hug someone, even when you’re not there. Warmth, comfort and love. Even the cats want a little quilt to curl up in on cool evenings. When I tuck my boys in at night, we always end with ‘a quilt to keep the love in. Good-night.’”
So why do you quilt? Share your thoughts with us. We would love to hear them! Until next time, happy quilting!