Advertisement Coincidentally, an interest in the quilting process piqued during a conversation with Judy Hoffman, a member of the Holmen (Wis.) Lutheran Church quilting group. The next morning the group was going to finish its quilting season, she said, and would not resume its work until early fall. Could I observe how this craft comes together? I was welcomed.
But if I would be writing about her church’s quilters, Judy wanted me to understand that most Evangelical Lutheran Church of America churches have these groups — as do many other denominations — as well as community organizations. Judy wants credit given to all where credit is due.
When I arrived at the church, it was another busy Tuesday forenoon for the quilters. Seven ladies, ages 69 to 85, were at their stations turning out comfort and warmth for those less fortunate. At the assembly table were Garnet Bratberg, Norma Burton and Bernice Lee. At another table working the ties on a patchwork creation were Rose Bjerke, Carol Rindahl and Shirley Sather. Handling the Singer was seamstress Judy.
Most of us have a grasp of quilt makeup to know they usually have one rather plain side and one patchwork side. Quilters use their good judgment to match up both sides with complementary colors. Patches (also called squares) are sewn together to become one large piece. This is usually done by someone at home and then brought to the church.
Here’s what I observed: Garnet, Norma and Bernice chose the bottom fabric and cut it to measure 64 inches by 84 inches (Lutheran World Relief’s requirement) and put it right side down on the table. On this material they placed filler cloth (60 inches by 80 inches) to give the quilt a bit of cushion and add to its warming quality. Soon Rose, Carol and Shirley placed the top (patchwork) layer (also 60 inches by 80 inches) on top of the two layers. Next they selected the yarn to tie the layers together at certain points in the patchwork. Finished with this, they brought the edges of the 64-by-84-inch piece over the top for pinning. After this, the quilt was brought to Judy for the final step — to machine-stitch the hem.
It is an interesting process skillfully done. The Holmen ladies have turned out more than 100 quilts the past season at a rate of four or five in 2˝ hours each week.
It was obvious that the quilters were having fun. But I had to ask: “Why do you do this?” First, they enjoy sewing, and quilting brings them together for fellowship. Second, it’s for a good cause. “There is a need for this,” said Garnet. Judy offered that quilts go to many countries on all continents where women, children and men appreciate the gift of comfort.
Holmen Lutheran has a storeroom abundant with leftover cloth materials and clothing no longer worn. These come from members of the congregation or their relatives. “We are thankful for the support,” said Judy.
During the morning, I was introduced to Evelyn Olson, among Holmen Lutheran ladies who prefer to turn out quilts in their homes. Arriving with completed quilts hiding her arms, she explained: “I take material home and make a quilt a week. I like the quiet ... being able to close the door and really get to work.”
Interesting, too, is that Carol, just back from wintering in New Braunsfel, Texas, continued her work with a quilting group there. It is her work with squares shown in the accompanying group photo.
During the summer, these ladies miss each other’s company. But in the fall they are back together gratified knowing that their work has been added to a Minneapolis boxcar filled with quilts soon to be transported globally for world relief.
I appreciated being able to learn from my visit to Holmen Lutheran. While there remained a hunger for more quilting knowledge, I didn’t go away hungry. I was invited to an interesting work break over coffee, tea, cookies and cake.
Contact Larry Olson at larry.olson@lacrossetribune.com or La Crosse Tribune, 401 N. Third St., La Crosse, WI 54601.
