QUILTING ARTISTS CONTINUE TO INSPIRE

By Courtney Warren

 

With technology ever-present and constantly updating, the idea of “rise and grind” became a popular mentality. However, there has recently been a surge in the “anti-hustle” lifestyle after the burnout of constant stimulation. Finding hobbies that bring joy rather than money and doing things for a sense of peace has brought older crafting arts to the forefront once again. 
On most social media platforms, one can search “modern embroidery,” “embroidery art,” or “modern quilting” to find beautiful craftsmanship, as people spend less of their time scrolling and more time using their hands. 

While many are discovering these new art forms and media, there are those who have been fabric artists for years – even decades. 

The Allison Wells Quilt Guild has been meeting regularly since the 1980s to create quilts for donations and raffles, as well as to share their love of quilting, embroidery, and the like. 

The guild has a program for each meeting, such as demonstrations on binding and various techniques. 

They also work on quilts together. While one member might create several blocks for a quilt, another will embellish the blocks. 

These meetings are also a time for show and tell, which was a favorite moment for your Canton News editor. 

As these quilt artists pulled their various creations out and allowed the fabric to spill across the table, it was impossible not to run one’s hands over the craftsmanship. Audible gasps were heard when two particular quilts were unfolded. One incomplete quilt displayed turkeys created through various pieces of fabric and a beautiful fall-themed backing. It immediately brought thoughts of warm mugs of tea on the porch during a crisp fall morning. The other was made up of one-inch pieces of fabric and then finished with delicate details sewn into the sides. This is truly an art form. There are even quilting artists who do all of their quilting by hand. 

With plans to spend hours on their creations and then turn around and give many of them to those in need, whether that be women battling breast cancer or older veterans who have served the country, these quilters are serious about their work. 

Currently, the quilters are working on a Christmas quilt, with the idea to “let everyone be as creative as possible.” The only direction was that it be Christmas-themed.  

As this editor writes this story under her very own quilt made by a dear friend, it’s no wonder why this craft is so special. These quilters stitch love and care into their pieces and are eager to teach and share with the Canton community about the art of quilting. 

The group has about twenty members who pay $10 a year in dues. They meet every Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. until noon at the Canton Visitors and Convention Center on the square in downtown Canton. Their business meeting is on the third Tuesday of each month. Contact [email protected] for more information.