A steady crowd of on-lookers admired the impressive display of artistry and craftsmanship by exhibitors at this year’s Quilts in Bloom, held Friday and Saturday at the Keystone Complex in Shedden. It was the fifth edition of the biennial event which showcases the talents of quilters working in both traditional and more modern interpretations. |
At the show, we met Tanya, an exhibitor whose lovely first quilting effort was on display. Her parents were also taking time to check out her quilt and the many others. Tanya had high praise for her instructor, Pat Palmer, who, it turns out, is also the quilting-savvy member of the show’s organizing committee.
Above - Saturday at Quilts in Bloom. Balfour, Tanya and Marg viewing one of the quilts (bottom left); Tanya with her quilt (bottom right). Tanya with her instructor, Pat Palmer and one of Pat's quilts shown in photo at top of article.
Pat noted that the event is particularly exciting for the many first-time exhibitors. She has taught quilting for about twelve years, and is passionate about not letting the skill die out. Although quilters make up a large and active community, she wants to make sure that continues to be true.
One way to ensure the knowledge continues on is by encouraging new generations to give quilting a try. Pat says, “Even children love to quilt. They may have trouble threading the needle, but once that’s done, they are often very good at quilting.” Some of her classes include camps on PA days.
Quilts in Bloom is hosted by the Shedden Agricultural Society and is also one of their fund-raisers. Quilting committee and Agricultural Society member Shirley Longhurst noted that this year’s event was very successful – and busy. Visitors could view more than 150 large quilts, along with many other quilted pieces, stop for lunch and check out several vendors on hand.
One way to ensure the knowledge continues on is by encouraging new generations to give quilting a try. Pat says, “Even children love to quilt. They may have trouble threading the needle, but once that’s done, they are often very good at quilting.” Some of her classes include camps on PA days.
Quilts in Bloom is hosted by the Shedden Agricultural Society and is also one of their fund-raisers. Quilting committee and Agricultural Society member Shirley Longhurst noted that this year’s event was very successful – and busy. Visitors could view more than 150 large quilts, along with many other quilted pieces, stop for lunch and check out several vendors on hand.