Quilting is now being recognized as an art form that offers numerous health benefits, both physical and mental. Whether in person or virtually, quilting is a valuable activity that fosters connection and creativity.
It’s Sew Good For You
Studies have shown that quilting and other crafts are linked to lower rates of cognitive decline among older individuals. These benefits can be enjoyed in person or through virtual quilting groups.
Quilt Groups
There are numerous quilting organizations, societies, and guilds worldwide. The Modern Quilt Guild provides opportunities for both beginners and advanced quilters to connect and share tips. To find a nearby guild, visit: https://www.themodernquiltguild.com/about/
For a comprehensive source of quilting information, including guilds, instruction, blogs, shows, and events, visit QuiltingHub.com: https://www.quiltinghub.com/
Quilts that Care
There are various groups that support quilting with a purpose, whether it’s done remotely or in person. Many nonprofits accept donated quilts to distribute to bereaved families or needy children. Some organizations, such as Denver’s Firehouse Quilts, even offer “Sew Days” to collaborate on quilts for donation.
Other groups, like the Heartstrings Quilt Project, allow quilters to gather online or in real life to create quilts for donation. Quilts from Caring Hands make and distribute quilts to those in need in several Oregon counties.
Meeting Virtually
Virtual quilting groups can attract participants from around the world. Joining a group such as this can provide an enriching experience, as described by senior quilter Lauren Kingsland in a Senior Planet Q&A.
Quilting as an Art Form
The growing recognition of quilts as an art form is evidenced by recent quilt exhibitions at institutions such as the American Folk Art Museum and the Texas Quilt Museum. The Texas Quilt Museum, located in La Grange, is dedicated entirely to quilts and offers virtual and in-person visits.
Photo by Dinh Pham on Unsplash
Nona Aguilar is an award-winning writer of numerous magazine articles and two books. She has also edited four specialty business newsletter publications. Her work has appeared in Ladies Home Journal, Redbook, Family Circle, Cosmopolitan, and in The Business Owner.
