March is National Quilting Month

The National Quilting Association (NQS) designated the month of March as National Quilting Month in 1991.  It began as a way to showcase and promote quilting. Quilt shows were held during the month with classes for quilters to learn about techniques and the history of traditional quilts. Educational programs were developed to educate and certify quilt judges and historians.

Worldwide Quilting Day evolved over time and is the third Saturday in March.  This year, it is March 17, 2018.  NQS disbanded in 2015 and the Quilt Alliance now organizes Worldwide Quilting Day.  Activities vary by region and community but have included quilt shows, classes and shopping events on this day.  Another area of focus has been groups coming together to make donation quilts for others.

What can you do to support quilting in our community?

1. Share your love of quilting with a new quilter!
2. Support your local quilt store by shopping in their brick and mortar or online shops.
3. Participate in a group event creating quilts for others.
4. Explore a “new to you” area of quilting.  Hand piecing?  Walking foot quilting?  New color way?  Block of the Month?  Curved piecing?
5. Maintain the history of quilting by documenting your quilts.  Label your quilts!  Include your name, the occasion or the name of the quilt, the recipient’s name, date and city.

Enjoy this month!  Happy Quilting!