Quilting developed as a way to turn scraps or bits of damaged clothing into warm, usable bedding. It is likely the isolation endured, particularly by women, as part of life on the frontier lead to the artistry displayed in many of their creations. And the names associated with some of the patterns, such as Road to Oklahoma or Kansas Troubles, reminds anyone who sees those quilts of the difficulty – and joy— that came with that life.
Now, though, quilting is more about the creativity involved. That creativity will be on display during the Cheese Festival Quilt Show, held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the old City Hall at 117 N. Weigle.
This is a display show, so no prizes or awards are presented. About 50 quilts are displayed each year, according to Judy Poarch, a Cheyenne Quilt Guild member. The guild provides racks and both members and residents are welcome to bring in up to three quilts to display. Usually they are those created by the person who brings them in; family pieces are also welcome, but Poarch warns that the quilts are often touched and handled, in spite of signs asking that viewers refrain. That could soil or damage an older, fragile quilt.
Preference is given to quilts that have not been displayed previously, Poarch said.
For those who are up to a challenge, consider the jelly roll race. No, don’t get out your running shoes! A jelly roll is a collection of colorcoordinated strips, which are cut and assembled. The race part comes in when a group of quilters gets together and races to see who can stitch the strips into a finished quilt top the fastest.
There is generally no pattern per se, simply strips sewn end-to-end, then doubled back and stitched side-by-side. In this manner, a queen size top can be finished in about two hours.
The fifth annual jelly roll race will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 9. The registration fee is $50 if you wish to purchase a jelly roll and $25 if you bring your own fabric. Contestants should also bring their sewing machine, several pre-wound bobbins, thread and scissors.
First prize is a new iron, second prize is a wool pressing mat and third place will receive a rotary cutter.
In case you need to purchase supplies, choose a special jelly roll or just look at all the beautiful fabrics and new gadgets, both Big Bobbins and Bonnie’s Fabric Yard will be at the event with their products.