Library showcases the growing appeal of quilting as a creative outlet

Quilting has evolved over the years from a practical way to turn scraps of material into a warm blanket to a quintessentially American art form.

"I think quilting reminds people about what their grandmothers used to do. And it is certainly not that anymore,” says Carol Vinnedge, a member of the Big Red Quilters' Guild. "It’s such a creative outlet and — to me — a stress reliever.”

March events

Herrick District Library is hosting several events in March to highlight this creative fiber art.

"So many people in our community are talent creators," HDL librarian Abbey Stroop says. "Now, as we are all looking for ways to reconnect with people, this came across as a wonderful opportunity to help open new connections."

Hopefully, Stroop said, the Quilt Month events will help connect people in the community who want to be creative in a new way with those who can help get them started. Quilts will be hung up for display at the main library all month long. 

Most of this month's special events are in partnership with other libraries and have been coordinated at Herrick with Big Red Quilters Guild, a Holland nonprofit. This year, the Big Red Quilters Guild donated 275 quilted placemats to Meals on Wheels for its homebound seniors who receive meals.

Quilters in residence

Throughout March the members of the Big Red Quilters' Guild will put their skills on display as they answer questions from visitors to Herrick District Library’s main branch, 300 S. River Ave. Quilters in residence will be at the library several times this month:

• 3-5 p.m. Thursday, March 17; Friday, March 25
• 9:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, March 12
• 6-8 p.m. Monday, March 14; Tuesday, March 22; Wednesday, March 30

Those who want to know more about how to get started making their own quilts can attend Quilting 101, 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, March 19, in the HDL main floor meeting room. Attendees will find out how to get started as staff members from Pressing Matters Quilt Shoppe cover beginner-friendly patterns, basic tools, fabric selection, piecing, quilting, and finishing.

"Quilting is absolutely doable for anyone who wants to give it a try," Stroop said. "There are resources and groups ready to welcome those who are seasoned quilters or those just starting out."

Expensive equipment isn't necessary. Only a sewing machine — something coming soon to HDL's Library of things.