The Quilters & Patchworkers of New England (QPNE) will once again be hosting their annual Quilting and Needlework exhibition in Legacy House this weekend March 23 and 24.
National award winning embroiderer Judy Wilford will open the exhibition on Friday March 22 at 7pm. The exhibition will be open from 9am until 5pm on Saturday and 9am to 4pm on Sunday. The raffle quilt draw will take place on Sunday afternoon with all proceeds going to Legacy.
The theme this year for the exhibition is ‘Seasons’ and president of the QPNE Robyn Wood and her colleagues have been preparing a stunning entrance quilt that embraces Armidale as the city of all seasons.
“This quilt is going to be stunning,” said Robyn.
“It will be the first quilt that people will see as you walk into the exhibition.”
There are over 100 entries with dolls, bears, embroidery, wall hangings and paintings, as well as patchwork and quilts will be on display, with most of the local handiwork for sale.
President of the Quilters & Patchworkers of New England, Robyn Wood said the membership of the local group is strong, with over 50 members and new members always welcome.
The organisation consists of two groups; a night group, which meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month; and a day group, which meets on the first and third Thursday of the month. “Both groups meet at the Uniting Church Hall, where there are plenty of lights for the night group. We bring our machines when needed and we have workshops to develop skills and techniques,” she said. “We have a huge amount of talent among our members.”
According to Mrs. Wood, it is important that the public make the effort to visit the exhibition. “People can see how our members have been thinking and stitching outside the square, as well as take the opportunity to purchase something truly unique,” she said. “The girls put a lot of themselves into their work. One of our members, Beryl, has helped them do that literally, by drawing or painting the faces.”
“It is wonderful to really create something with your hands. From my point-of-view, it is also a sanity thing; I like to go and lose myself in my patchwork,” she said.
Entry for adults is $5 (includes tea and coffee) children under 15 free. Sandwiches and slice will be available for a small fee.
