ORIGINS OF QUILTING

Quilting is as old as the hills, and for many, has that wonderful combination of domestic necessity, social cohesion, and craftwork and commemoration.

Quilting methods do not vary enormously throughout the world, but the designs are largely specific to a country, or a society, although the traditional American patchwork designs have become loved worldwide.

It is wonderful to have such a craft, which is a means of handing down traditions amongst womenfolk mainly, and which has an end product that can both look beautiful, and keep you warm at night.

In colder climates, the quilting circle was an opportunity for the women to come together, to talk over the major matters of the day and to provide invaluable support for each other.

When societies became more established and there was money and time available, the quilting circle would make quilts to commemorate certain events, and together produce large quilts that would adorn the walls of the buildings that served as community centers.

In addition, of course, the social network was invaluable.  The older women would pass on their skills as needlewomen, and designers of quilts and other crafts.  More importantly, they would pass on the invaluable knowledge about family life.  Childbirth, medicines for common ailments, cooking and how to grow herbs and vegetables – this was the sub-text, and the very important function of the quilting circle.

Clearly, in different times, and different places, the women would have different topics that would dominate the quilting circles’ conversations.

The quilting circle was commonplace.  It was necessary, it was helpful and social, and it produced wonderful pieces of work for individuals and for communities.

These days, many women live in relative social isolation.  Perhaps more so within the much more heavily populated urban environments where most of us live.

Maybe we should rekindle the spark – and start new quilting circles – everywhere!