Quilting is not just a craft; it's an art form that weaves together pieces of fabric, creativity, and stories.
Whether you're a seasoned quilter or just starting on your quilting journey, having a community of like-minded friends who share your passion can be a source of inspiration, learning, and lasting friendships.
In this blog post, we'll explore a variety of ways to find quilting friends and cultivate a supportive quilting community that fuels your creative spirit.
1. Local Quilting Groups or Guilds
Local quilting groups or guilds are vibrant hubs where quilters of all skill levels come together to share their love for the craft. These organizations host regular meetings, workshops, and events that offer opportunities to connect with fellow quilters.
Ways to find quilt guilds or local meetups:
Do a google search, "quilt guilds near me" or "quilt guilds + location"
Ask at your local library or community center
Post in your local community chat group on Facebook
Look at your local churches
By participating in these gatherings, you can engage in lively discussions, exchange tips, and form lasting friendships with people who share your passion.
2. Online Quilting Communities: Stitching Virtually, Bonding Authentically
The digital age has brought quilters from around the world closer than ever before. Online quilting forums, social media groups, and communities provide a platform to connect, share, and collaborate with quilters beyond geographical boundaries.
Platforms like QuiltingBoard, Reddit's r/quilting, and dedicated Facebook groups are treasure troves of inspiration, advice, and a chance to showcase your latest quilted creations.
And, if you're local to the Southeastern U.S., we would love to invite you to join our Facebook group with over 1,000 members!
3. Quilting Workshops and Classes
Enrolling in in-person quilting workshops and classes not only enhances your skills but also introduces you to a network of fellow quilters. These hands-on experiences offer a unique opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about quilting.
Whether you're perfecting a new technique or tackling a challenging project, the camaraderie forged in these settings often extends beyond the classroom.
You can usually find quilting classes at your local fabric and quilt shops, churches, or community centers, or public libraries.
4. Quilting Retreats: A Patchwork of Friendships
Quilting retreats and other types of events like conventions and expos are like melting pots of creativity, drawing quilters from diverse backgrounds and experiences.
These events provide a chance to immerse yourself in all things quilting, while also forming connections with people who share your dedication. From workshops to shared meals, these gatherings foster an environment of collaboration and friendship.
5. Social Media and Online Platforms: Weaving a Digital Tapestry
In today's digital landscape, social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok offer avenues to showcase your quilting prowess and connect with fellow quilters worldwide. Instagram is particularly popular with younger, millennial quilters, and within the modern quilting community.
By using relevant hashtags, engaging with others' posts, and sharing your own creations, you can attract a community that resonates with your artistic vision.
6. Local Craft Stores and Fabric Shops
Your local craft stores and fabric shops can be more than just places to source materials—they can also serve as community hubs.
Check out bulletin boards, community spaces, and events hosted by these establishments to discover local quilting gatherings and likeminded individuals. A lot of times these quilt shops have "sit n sew" days where you can come in for free or for a small fee and sit and sew with other quilters in their classroom or workspace. Be sure and follow your local quilt shops on Facebook or sign up for their email lists to be notified of these events!
7. Volunteer for Quilting Projects: Stitching for a Cause, Connecting with Hearts
Volunteering your quilting skills for charitable projects or community events is a wonderful way to connect with fellow quilters while making a meaningful impact. Collaborating on projects that benefit others can create lasting bonds and friendships built on shared purpose.
A few great quilting volunteer groups that are national or global and often have local chapters include Quilts of Valor, Quilts for Kids, Quilts Beyond Borders, and Project Linus.
8. Attend Quilt Shows and Exhibitions: A Kaleidoscope of Inspiration and Connections
Quilt shows, exhibitions, and fairs provide a sensory feast of color, design, and creativity. While exploring these events, strike up conversations with fellow attendees, artists, and vendors. The shared admiration for quilting artistry can spark conversations that lead to lasting connections.
You can find quilt shows and expos through your local quilt guilds or by searching "quilt show + your city" on google.
9. Start Your Own Quilting Group: Crafting a Community
If you find a lack of quilting groups in your area, consider taking the initiative to start your own!
Create a meetup group or an online community where quilters can gather, share ideas, and foster connections. By taking this step, you not only cultivate your own quilting circle but also become a catalyst for others seeking like-minded friends.
You can usually find a space to meet like a fabric shop, your library or community center, or a church, or even meeting in someone's home. Your group doesn't have to be large to make great connections.
10. Networking at the events you already go to. like retreats or guilds
When participating in quilting workshops, retreats, or classes, make an effort to engage with fellow participants beyond the craft. Exchange contact information, share your experiences, and be open to forming friendships that extend beyond the confines of the class.
Conclusion
In the world of quilting, the threads that bind us together are woven from shared passion, creativity, and a love for the craft. Finding quilting friends and building a vibrant community can enrich your quilting journey in ways you never thought possible.
By exploring the avenues mentioned above, you'll embark on a path of connection, collaboration, and lasting friendships that amplify the joy of quilting. So, whether you're stitching together fabric or relationships, remember that every quilt has a story, and every friend adds a new chapter to your quilting tale.
PS: do you live in the Southeastern U.S. & you want to keep up with our retreats, as well as get updates on quilt shows & guilds, new quilt shops, and other fun, quilt-y news & inspiration? Join our email list below!