Quilting Show Comes to South Frontenac

Apr 23, 2025

By Kelli McRobert

The town is abuzz with excitement as May 3rd approaches—mark your calendars, quilters and quilt-lovers alike! At the historic Trinity United Church, a treasure trove of creativity and craftsmanship will be unveiled during the much-anticipated Quilters' Exhibition.

Imagine stepping into a world where fabric becomes art and stitches tell stories. Featuring works from renowned quilters like Jean Clair and Bonnie Brown, this event promises inspiration and awe for all who attend.

For Jean Clair, quilting is storytelling through fabric. Hailing from Verona, Ontario, her celebrated "Row by Row" collection and contributions to the Black History quilt, adorned with the symbolic "Flying Geese" pattern, beautifully capture tales of community and resilience.

Alongside Jean’s artistry, attendees can marvel at Bonnie Brown’s equally stunning creations, showcasing the boundless creativity of this close-knit group.

The quilting group behind this exhibition meets in a cozy community space on the first and third Wednesday of each month.

Members work on various projects for just $6 per session, sharing their skills with new comers and fostering a welcoming learning atmosphere and camaraderie. Each quilter arrives with sewing machines and fabric packed in handy rolling totes. Tables line the walls, and the lively chatter creates an inviting environment alive with creativity.

The group’s history is rich with shared memories. Many members, like Jean Clair, have been part of it for decades. The late Betty Findlay remains fondly remembered for her dedication and resilience, even after losing over 40 quilts when her home flooded in High River.

Her legacy and countless others live on in the stories preserved in neatly organized photo binders—a testament to the group’s enduring bond. Their generosity extends beyond the quilting circle.

Proceeds often support Southern Frontenac Community Services, and the group has comforted many through their quilts. Notable efforts include gifting quilts to McMillan Fire victims and creating pieces to support those struggling. These acts of kindness embody the heart of this in Ontario.

Brought to Canada by Europe an settlers in the 1600s, quilting evolved into a cherished tradition through quilting bees. Innovations like sewing machines have moved quilters away somewhat from a communal bee. Yet it remains a timeless art form of connection and warmth.

At the Quilters’ Show, extraordinary group. Quilting has a long history, with roots tracing centuries in Ontario. Brought to Canada by European settlers in the 1600s, quilting evolved into a cherished tradition through quilting bees. Innova tions like sewing machines have moved quilters away somewhat from a communal bee. Yet it remains a timeless art form of connection and warmth. At the Quilters’ Show, attendees will be immersed in the beauty and emotion woven into each creation.

These pieces tell powerful stories that showcase the profound impact of the craft. One such story is deep ly personal—a quilt gifted to my terminally ill mother became a source of warmth and comfort.