Never Summer Quilt Show
I hope you had the opportunity to visit the Never Summer Quilt Show this weekend. If not, make your plans to attend the 2018 show a year from now; it is something you don’t want to miss in the future.
The Never Summer Quilt Show was started six years ago by some talented ladies that have made an art out of the timeless tradition of sewing. From bed coverings and wall hangings, to table runners and bags, North Park’s depth of talent was well portrayed at the 6th Annual show, held in the Rebekah’s Lodge on Main Street of Walden. The iconic setting, complete with original tin ceiling tiles and antique furniture was decorated like a magazine photo to showcase the 54 quilts that were on display.
Not all quilts were made locally, but shared a common bond of their love and interest in North Park. The theme of the show was Two-Color Designs, but there was an ample variety of quilts shared that were not a part of the theme. A personal favorite of mine in the themed category was an incredible purple and white cathedral window design made by Toni Neri. Toni is one of the co-organizers of the event, along with Pat Drinkwine, Reeva Woods, Verna Bourbeau and Judith Dixon. Another stunning design that offered a different view of quilting was in a landscape portrait quilt that was intricately pieced to match the colors and textures of a landscape within a picture frame, by quilt artist Sue Douthit of Berthoud, CO.
The variety and styles were so numerous it was difficult to vote for a favorite. I am mesmerized by the beauty and arduous work that goes into creating such amazing works of art. As you first entered the vintage setting, a masterpiece of work, made by Judith Schaffer greeted me at the door. I am in awe of the detail she put into the stitches and pieces of work in her secret garden design. The United Methodist Women (UMW) also had on display their quilt they are raffling off in November at the Harvest Craft Fair. The beautiful colors and joyful design brought a smile to many that saw it and hopefully purchased tickets.
The Never Summer Quilt Show is privately operated and not part of a formal club event. There was no cover charge to attend the show, but donations were welcomed to assist in putting on the event. The organizers have a passion for quilting and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with the stitching habit. Locally, the UMW gathers the third Thursday of the month to work on quilts together, while the Senior Center also offers an opportunity on some Wednesdays to enjoy the hobby work. This isn’t just a hobby for one to enjoy in retirement though. A young lady from Grand County also had her first quilt on display.
This annual event is held in conjunction with the Sky’s The Limit Balloon Festival and challenges quilting enthusiasts to a new design style each year. The 2018 challenge is “Civil War Reproduction.” If you are a quilter, I hope the attached video inspires you to start on a Civil War quilt piece today. If you don’t quilt, I encourage you to mark your calendar and attend next year’s spectacular event.
Watch this years Never Summer Quilt show video here:
