HERE'S THE STITCH. This creation by a Stitching Pals member is an example of the quilts in their annual Quilt Show at the beginning of October. (Submitted photo)

Years of excess consumption have given way to recognition, once again, of the value of mending and reusing. Alongside that has come an accompanying desire to save artisan skills from extinction. What is keeping those skills alive today are the passions, creativity, and community of older generations willing to share their knowledge.

In the Chippewa Valley, The Stitching Pals Quilting Group views its annual show as essential to the sharing of the legacy of quilting and inspiring future generations to learn the art of quilting. Held Oct. 1-2 at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds in Chippewa Falls, the group will present around 200 handmade quilts, which is only a fraction of the quilts that members make each year. The group gives away hundreds more quilts every year to local charities, community organizations, and people in need.

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Quilting has become more of an art form over the years, and these comfy creations still bring a sense of love and comfort to community and family.

CINDY SEIPEL

QUILTER

Attendees at the show can vote for the Viewer’s Choice award, and proceeds from the event help the group buy the supplies and fabrics needed to make the donated quilts. 

“Quilting has become more of an art form over the years, and these comfy creations still bring a sense of love and comfort to community and family,” said Cindy Seipel, chairperson of the Quilt Show for 2022. “Not only do we love to create these quilts, formed from different fabrics and patterns, but also to continue on in the footsteps of the women before us. Quilting and craft-making truly does connect us with our past generations, and I would challenge you today to help upcoming generations learn and treasure the art of quilting.”

The group meets every Monday at the Chippewa Valley Bible Church from 1-3pm, and all are welcome! No matter your skill level or area of interest, the group would love to meet new crafters. Tools are available to use, and more experienced members are happy to help with any queries.

The deadline to submit a quilt to the show is Saturday, Sept. 17, and the form is on stitchingpals.wordpress.com.