Quilting and Patchwork

Quilting Bees

by Mary Emma Allen on July 18th, 2005

As I compiled my book, The Magic of Patchwork, I wrote of the pleasure quilters experienced at those social gatherings called quilting bees. Here is an excerpt:

“One of the enjoyable aspects of quiltmaking in days ago was the quilting bee. The ladies met to put a quilt together after the top had been pieced or appliquéd. This was one of the social activities in pioneer times.

“They arrived at the hostess’ home in the morning, bringing their needles and thread. They spent the day chatting and quilting. Often they exchanged quilt patterns and displayed samples of a quilt they were working on.

“Sometimes the ladies brought pies or cakes and the hostess prepared a meal. Frequently in the evening, the menfolk joined them. There would be a supper, perhaps some games and dancing. This was a way new people in the area became acquainted and long time residents socialized.”

Contemporary quilters still enjoy preparing foods for get togethers and sharing their recipes as they quilt.

©2005

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