Article by Laurie Voss,
WCPL Circulation Supervisor

Do you know the history of quilts? According to the website, the history of the quilt started long before European settlers landed in the New World. At that time, it was just utilitarian, a necessity to use pieces of fabric to patch worn and frayed clothing and blankets.

Because of the expense of fabrics, most blankets were purchased, and patched many times over to ensure warmth during the cold winters. It wasn’t until the years 1750 to 1850, that material became affordable enough, that structured quilting took off. In the early 1700’s, as the Amish settled in the Midwest, born of necessity, and through their interaction with outsiders, they began creating quilts. The Amish quilts have long been the sign of great craftsmanship.

During World War II, Signature quilts were made, in which business owners and citizens would pay a small fee to have their name embroidered on a quilt. The quilts were then raffled off with proceeds going to the Red Cross. These quilts have become community treasures.

Now, in the 2,000’s, quilting is a popular pastime again, but now it is an artistic endeavor by most, and the new patterns being created are unlike anything our ancestors ever thought of.

On Monday, Sept. 12, the Warsaw Community Public Library will be hosting a Quilt Club, which will meet from 9 am to noon. On Thursday, Sept. 18, an intro Into quilting program will be offered and then, on Thursday, Sept. 25, part two of the intro into quilting will be offered.

At your Warsaw Community Public Library, we have a very large selection of quilt pattern books, featuring the designs of the past as well as new designs by quilt artists. Stop in and see what we have to offer, and don’t forget to inquire about the upcoming quilting classes.