By Charlotte Ezaki
Every two years, magic happens. Mountains of fabric and rivers of thread are transformed into quilts that are displayed for all to see.
Members of Fernie Quilt Guild cut and sew, stitch and quilt, creations of all sizes, shapes, colours and styles.
There are quilters like Louise Poirier who has a long history of designing and making unique quilts. She has published her designs and teaches quilting to Guild members and others. Julie Laird has also quilted for many years and she creates ‘scrappy’ quilts that are beautifully coordinated with jewel tones. Loreli Hunter uses appliqué and embellishment to adorn wall hangings that look like paintings.
These are only a few examples of the variety of colourful quilts that will be on display.
In addition to making quilts for themselves and their families, Guild members also make quilts to donate to local charities. Recent recipients of these quilts are Rocky Mountain Village residents, Better Babies clients, and Ministry of Children and Families children in care.
The Fernie Quilt Guild was started in the 1980s and several of the founding members are still in the Guild. It’s current home is in the Arts Station where meetings are held twice a month, and ‘Quilt Till You Wilt’ weekends every month.
New members are always welcome.
Fernie Quilt Guild presents ‘Mountains of fabric, rivers of thread’ quilt show on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Fernie Museum. Admission by donation.
