A fascinating array of quilts filled the exhibition hall at the Branson Convention Center downtown from March 13–16, as the American Quilter’s Society returned to Branson for one of their nationally-recognized Quilt Week events for 2024. Quilters from across the U.S. gather at the shows to display their work; browse vendors of fabrics, equipment and supplies; and hear educational presentations about the historic craft.
Six members of Discovery Quilters of Shell Knob were among those bringing quilts to show. Clara Cartwright and Carolyn Coonrod led other group members, including Michelle Chauncey, Bettylynne Gregg, Gana Honn and Mary Ryder, in learning techniques to create Show Me Sampler quilts, featuring Missouri-themed blocks in tribute to our state. Designs included traditional Missouri patterns plus some original ones by Cartwright, and the backing was a collage map of southwest Missouri where the group members live.
Discovery Quilters meet the fourth Monday of each month at Central Christian United Methodist Church on Hwy. YY in Shell Knob; meetings are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with sewing in the mornings, lunch on site, and concluding with a business meeting.
Several other opportunities are available for southwest Missouri quilters to enjoy fellowship and crafting their unique creations, including some groups whose purpose is to serve veterans, first responders and others, by coordinating with local veterans and Wellness for Warriors. Check out these groups:
· Ozark Country Quilters – Meet first Tuesday and third Thursday monthly at Show Me Plaza, Cassville.
· Calico Cut-Ups – Meet in Forsyth; contact Kris Pedicord, 417-332-5249.
· Table Rock Quilt Guild – Meet third Monday of the month at Kimberling Area Library on Kimberling Blvd. in Kimberling City; meetings begin at 9:30 followed by an afternoon workshop or sew-in.
· Kimberling Area Senior Center Quilting Group – Meets at the Senior Center on Kimberling Blvd., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 12 noon; call 417-739-5242 for information.
· Quilts of Valor of the Ozarks – Meet first Monday of each month at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 30 James River Rd. in Kimberling City; meetings are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with morning sew-in, sack lunch, and 1 p.m. meeting; contact 319-931-2216.
· Table Rock Quilts of Honor – Meet first Monday of each month at New Testament Christian Church, Hwy. 76 and 413 in Reeds Spring; meetings are 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Several of the local groups have an active presence on Facebook for more information about their activities and events. Learn more about American Quilter’s Society at www.americanquilter.com and plan to attend one of their educational and inspirational shows.