Patriotism shown in stitches
What does Canada mean to you?
Members of the Northumberland Quilt Guild answered this question through their craft as they created quilt blocks for their annual show and sale.
The blocks were on display at the DeCoste Performing Arts Centre on Saturday and Sunday, featuring such designs as a lighthouse, a Mountie and the maple leaf. A couple also depicted the Canada 150 logo, which was the reason behind this year’s My Canada to Celebrate challenge theme.
Each year the quilters can choose to participate in the challenge, sewing a block representing the theme. The blocks are then pieced together into quilts that are raffled, with the proceeds donated to charity.
Some members opt to have their block judged, with people attending the show voting on their favourite. About 45 quilters participated in the 2017 challenge. Three quilts have been made from blocks not entered into the competition, and guild member Joanne Swanson said they hope to make two more.
This year the quilts will be given to families who have lost a family member who served in the Canadian Armed Forces. “To honour someone who has given their life for Canada,” said Swanson.
Proceeds from the two-day quilt show go toward hall rental and bringing in guest instructors for the 98 guild members, said show co-chairperson Sharon Elliott.