The annual Quilt Show, held at Memorial Hall over the weekend of Homespun, proved to be as successful as always, a welcome additional stop on the itinerary of visitors and guests.
More than 460 people came through the doors over the two days of the show, taking an opportunity to see some of the wonderful, locally produced quilt designs, as well as visiting the various vendors stalls and taking part in quilting demonstrations put on throughout the two day event.
Event organizer Lauren Hume was pleased not just with the visitor turnout, but with the number of display quilts that were made available for the show.
"We have a total of 98 quilts put in for display, plus and additional 30 from the Bits n' Pieces Quilt Club of Carlyle," Hume said. "The number of displays likely had something to do with the fact our visitor numbers were up compared to last year."
The hall had been transformed into a soft den of riotous colours and patterns throughout the show, which ran on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 18 and 19.
Every square inch of wall space was taken up by quilts, and the patterns ranged from more traditional patterns to some very contemporary designs featuring such things as dinosaurs or Canadian motifs.
"I've never been to a quilt show before, and I have to say, I'm completely amazed by the artistry that is in them," said Homespun exhibitor and quilt show visitor Janice Stefan of Sister's Glass. "They are so creative and unique from one another. It really is a wonderfully colourful display too. I'm going to have to go to more of these!"
While the visitors were enjoying the beauty of the displays, or taking part in the numerous demonstrations that were offered throughout the weekend, the vendors too seemed to be enjoying the event.
"It has been a great weekend so far, and it is always nice to have a chance to meet and talk to other quilters," said Arlyce Thompson, one of the exhibitors at the show. "It has been excellent so far, and I am having a wonderful time."
"Of course, for me, every day at a quilt show is a good day!"
As for the quilt displays, the people's choice awards for the best quilt went to Earla Young of Carlyle, as well as Betty Bennett of Arcola and Flora Stork also of Arcola.
The block challenge, which allowed participant to design and stitch a quilt-block associated to a set theme (this year it was 'among the stars') was won by Sheila Quinnelle of Wachupe.
"We had another great year at the show, and it was all thanks to the people who brought in display quilts and volunteered their time," Hume said. "I think everyone had a wonderful time."
The blocks from the block challenge will now be made into a quilt, which will later be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to a worthy area charity.
