Member Spotlight: Pine Needlers Quilt Guild
Does the thought of quilting conjure up sepia-toned scenes of your grandmother sitting around a large frame making tiny stitches and gossiping with her friends? Far from a long lost art, it’s estimated there are between 7-10 million active quilters in the U.S. alone. At least thirty five of them are right here in Groveland. You may have seen their works of art on display during one of their many quilt shows over the years.
As far as quilting being mysterious and intricate hobby, most of feel it is not. Most of today’s quilters grew up around a family member who sewed, whether it be quilts, sewing clothes, or both. Part of the larger world of crafting, quilting can reduce stress and improve mood. Studies have also shown that crafting can ward off cognitive decline to a similar degree as reading, and can help in coping with chronic pain.
Formed in 2004, the Groveland Pine Needlers are a busy group. The Guild does many projects to support groups such as our local military veterans by making them red, white, and blue pillowcases. Humane societies, both local and further afield, get cat beds that fit in crates and get sent home with kitties when they’re adopted. Little girls in Africa get handmade dresses from our Pine Needlers, and the special needs campers at Camp Tuolumne Trails get their very own wilderness-themed pillowcases to take home.
