By Grant Lewis and Lynda Ramsay – Stunning! Wow! Beautiful! These are just a few of the adjectives to describe the “Strut their Stuff” portion at a recent meeting of The North Shore Pins and Needles at the Legion. Some of the over 50 members are encouraged to bring their works of art (and works of art they are) and to talk about the design and techniques involved.
This group met informally in the United Church basement for years before the quilt guild was formed in 1976 and since then membership peaked at over 70 members. Here was a forum for studying,and trying out new techniques in the quilting world and the results are truly impressive.
Founding member Lynda Carey (Ramsay) figures this enthusiastic group have made and donated over 700 quilts to our community. Lucky recipients have been the Lions Club, VICARS, Community Living, O.P.P., Healthy Babies Program, Long Term Care residents plus others. These “Community Quilts” and made and donated with love.
The purpose of the guild is to keep up with new techniques, patterns and material in the quilting world. Quilt shows provide the opportunities to exchange ideas with other quilting enthusiasts in the area.
Espanola is indeed fortunate to have yet another group trying to make our community a more caring place to live through quilts. The Espanola Lions was pleased to present a cheque for $3,000 dollars so they can continue to do their job!
Just recently, the group changed its name to “North Shore Quilting and Stitchery Guild.” The former name was too long and I NEVER did get it right!!!.
Photo-by Grant Lewis