CHESTERMERE – A group of ladies from the Chestermere Whitecappers group met for the first time last week to get started on a new charity project.
Fabrics of all kind and color were laid out, measured and cut into squares to begin work on a new “rag quilt” project. Rag quilts are quilts that have exposed seams on the front, and finished, traditional seams on the back. They are big and cozy and are perfect for using to curl up with on the couch, but the quilts made by these ladies will be going toward a much better cause.
Their quilts will be donated to the local RCMP and fire department when completed, for use in emergency situations involved children.
Whitecapper Audrey McDonald said that she had heard about other organizations taking on similar charity projects, and decided to bring the idea to Chestermere.
“I’ve known it to happen in other groups, and I just thought it was a great idea,” she said. “We were brainstorming event ideas for the Life Begins at 50 Expo last year and brought it up then.
“So we still have some materials left over that we can use to get going.”
McDonald said that they have a couple experienced quilt artists, but for most of the group, it’s their first time making rag quilts.
“We’re doing it to have some fun and learn how, but also as a community service for young accident victims,” she said. “It feels good to help out, but it’s also nice to get together and socialize and learn something new.”
McDonald said that everyone is anxious to keep working on it, and are looking forward to coming in once a week.
The quilts will be made from all kinds of different fabrics, with a variety of colors and prints.
“They won’t all be the same, in fact each one should be almost unique,” she said. “We will make some for both girls and boys, and make as many as we can until we run out of materials.
“We have enough to make about eight to ten quilts right now.”
McDonald said that anyone who is interested in being a part of the project, whether they are a member of the Whitecappers or not, is encouraged to join them.
“It’s a community thing, so if anyone is interested in participating in this project is more than welcome to join us,” she said. “It’s just a great project, and I think they will look wonderful when they’re done.”
The ladies meet every Thursday morning at the Whitecappers Centre at the Chestermere Recreation Centre.
Anyone interested in learning more about the Whitecappers, participating in this project or donating materials (flannel, good-condition denim and batting are all needed) can contact Audrey at 403-272-9280.
