Determining whether quilting is suitable for someone depends on various factors such as personal interests, patience, and creative inclinations. However, research shows that partaking in creative outlets like quilting creates stronger social relationships, reduces stress, and allows us to develop a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

Here are 8 reasons why you should start quilting today:

Photo credits to Montika Allen-Atkinson during our previous Quilt Africa Summit.

1. Quilting Strengthens Our Social Bonds

   The act of quilting often brings people together, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. It allows like-minded individuals to discuss existing techniques and new trends and collaborate on projects allowing every craft and every quilter to develop and grow.

   “Quilting is not just about creating something beautiful; it’s about connecting with others and building a community.” - Unknown

2. Quilting is a Stress-Reliever

   The soothing rhythm of stitching and the tactile experience of fabric can help to alleviate the pressures of daily life. The repetitive cutting of fabrics and putting each piece together divert our attention to the present moment, create a mindful focus towards our actions, and promote relaxation.

   “Quilting is my therapy, my stress relief, my happy place.” – Unknown

3. Quilting Cultivates Gratitude

   When we create something beautiful, we develop a deeper appreciation for the world around us. The effort, time, and resources we invest in finishing the project become more valuable. More than anything, we become thankful for the life and talent that enable us to finish every masterpiece!

4. Quilting is a Form of Self-Expression

   Through our choice of colors, patterns, and designs, we are able to express our individuality and creativity. Every quilt is unique and like no other. It embodies the very self of its author, encompassing all feelings, reason, taste, and style.

   “Quilting is like a language, each stitch tells a story.” – Unknown

5. Quilting Preserves Family Traditions

   Many of us have fond memories of learning to quilt from our elders, and passing on this tradition keeps our heritage alive. Through quilting, we enable ourselves to create a lasting legacy. Every technique and stitch we teach our children and grandchildren is a piece of ourselves being passed on from one generation to another.

6. Quilting Brings Joy to Others

   The act of gifting a quilt to a loved one, filled with memories and love, is a powerful way to connect and show our appreciation. Quilters invest so much time, effort, and resource to make one project. It is a product of love that offers so much comfort and love.

7. Quilting Fosters a Sense of Accomplishment

   Completing a quilt, especially a challenging or intricate one, can instill a deep sense of pride and achievement. While it may be true that talent is a gift, quilting is a skill that can be developed over time. We believe that every quilter, novice or pro, has the potential to create a masterpiece that one can be proud of.

   “Quilting is like love. It takes time, patience, and perseverance to create something beautiful.” - Unknown

8. Quilting Nurtures Our Creativity

   Last but not least, quilting serves as an outlet for our creative energies, allowing us to explore new ideas and experiment with different techniques.

   “Quilting is the perfect metaphor for life. You take little pieces, some beautiful, some plain, and stitch them together into a beautiful masterpiece.” – Unknown

Quilting can be overwhelming, but it is a haven for every quilter -- an avenue of expression and a source of joy. And every quilter has his own story to share. What is your quilting story?

Feel free to share your insights, experiences, or favorite quilting memories on your social media pages and tag us:

Facebook: @quiltafricafabrics

Instagram: @miriam_quiltafricafabrics

Thumbnail photo reference: https://www.nga.gov/stories/quilts-embody-legacy-black-america.html

Just starting your quilting journey? We got you!

The start has always been the most difficult. You may find yourself confused and lost, especially when starting a project. Trust us, we've all been there. With the Quilt Africa Journal, you don't have to be alone in your quilting journey. This journal is specially curated for quilters allowing you to document every project and track your progress. We have also allocated spaces for your thoughts, reflections, and learnings as well as graphs to allow you doodle and play with layout and colour and tape pictures of your finished quilts!

Special thanks to Lisa Moore for sharing her quilting journey with our Quilt Africa Journal.

Through the Quilt Africa Journal, we are hopeful to inspire and motivate quilters to take on projects and put quilting as center of their lives.

Get yours today! Visit https://www.quiltafricafabrics.com/products/quilting-journal