In an effort to encourage new quilters and to also provide a space for veteran artists to display their collections, Kaua‘i Museum is converting their mezzanine gallery on the second floor into a quilting workshop and display space December 1.
In an effort to encourage new quilters and to also provide a space for veteran artists to display their collections, Kaua‘i Museum is converting their mezzanine gallery on the second floor into a quilting workshop and display space December 1.
“The dream is to have quilters past, present and future make this their home,” said museum sales associate and quilting teacher, Sylvia Akana.
Presently Akana teaches quilting from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fridays in the main gallery. Those with no experience or those who have unfinished projects tucked away in drawers are invited to join the group.
Six weeks ago Arlecia Booth heard about the class and came with a quilt she’d begun 12 years ago.
“When I was laid off from work I thought, now I have time to finish all these projects,” Booth said. “Sylvia brought me back on track.”
Akana said every quilt tells a story, “Whether it’s a secret story or a love story.”
Booth’s first quilt telling the story of her marriage she made for her husband on their silver anniversary in 1978.
“It took nine months to make,” she said. “I have a few unfinished quilts at home and now plan to finish them by Christmas.”
The museum is beginning a quilt pattern library and sells starter kits that include the top and bottom fabric, a choice of pattern and instructions.
“People who have unfinished quilts need to come so we can finish the journey of that quilt,” Akana said.
Lyah Kama-Drake, education coordinator for Kaua‘i Museum is inviting master quilters to come in on Fridays to lead a workshop of their choice as well as consider displaying their quilts and share the stories behind them.
“Quilting is a way to sit quietly, to pray and reflect,” Akana said. “As women we owe ourselves at least two hours a week for ourselves.”
For more information call Sylvia, 246-2470.
