On display
Quilt exhibit showcases mix of modern, traditional
WATERLOO — The history and future of quilting is on display at the upcoming Waterloo County Quilters’ Guild exhibit.
“There’s a trend toward modern and art quilting,” said guild member Ilene Atkins. “And the show reflects that.”
The quilt exhibit is being held on Friday, Oct. 13, and Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at RIM Park in Waterloo. Admission is $5.
The guild holds an exhibit every two years to showcase quilts made by its more than 200 members, making it one of the largest quilting guilds in the country.
“We’ve got a history of quilting here and we do have a large guild,” Atkins said.
While the guild has been going strong for more than three decades, the style of quilting has evolved in recent years beyond traditional techniques and fabrics.
That will make for an interesting show of more than 200 quilts, ranging from traditional patterns to more modern designs and artistic creations using fabric.
“There’s quite a large variety of quilts and styles and techniques,” Atkins said.
Along with the quilts on display, there will be vendors selling quilt-making supplies, door prizes, small quilt draw, tea room and a charity raffle quilt.
The last show, also held during the last weekend of Oktoberfest, attracted about 1,600 people, many who weren’t quilters but came to appreciate the artistry.
Each quilt on display will be accompanied by a story card written by the quilter, explaining the time, techniques and inspiration.
Guild members make hundreds of quilts a year to donate. They go to places such as Grand River Hospital, Vera’s Place, Ronald McDonald House, the Alzheimer’s Society and the New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale.