Guild History

With the U.S. Bicentennial in 1976 came a renewed interest in quilting among the people of the United States.  That was certainly true in Delmar, NY.  People began taking quilting classes and from those classes, quilters began getting together to enjoy their activities.  Thus in 1977 women in the Capital District met and formed what later became Quilters United in Learning Together, Inc. (Q.U.I.L.T., Inc).  A timeline showing some of the highlights and leaders follows below.

The group formed to learn more and share information about quilting.  The members became a group enthusiastic about spreading the joy of quilting, providing education, and providing comfort.  The group often has speakers and workshops to share expertise with those interested in learning new skills.  The guild has also provided workshops for children and others eager to learn the techniques.  The quilt show, first held in 1988 and biennially since 1991, provides a showcase of members’ talents as well as an educational opportunity for anyone interested.
 
The guild was incorporated in 1995 and gained its designation as a 501 c(3) organization, providing education and service.  Service has been a continuing focus of the guild, providing quilts for a variety of organizations, including homeless shelters, battered women shelters, Ronald McDonald House, Habitat for Humanity, to name a few.  Q.U.I.L.T. also provides quilts to organizations which can then raffle them to raise funds for their organization.  The quilt show usually includes a Silent Auction of items donated by guild members, the proceeds of which are donated to a pre-selected non-profit organization.

The guild which started with 47 people has grown to have over 200 members, from many communities in the Capital District.  It continues to grow and provide education and service to the Capital District.