HISTORY OF THE GWINNETT QUILTERS’ GUILD

In 1979, Barbara Swenson, who had recently moved to Lilburn from Kansas, approached Liz Parham, owner of the Sew Easy Fabric Shop at Lilburn Crossing; about the possibility of teaching sampler quilt classes in the shop. These classes brought together many people interested in quilting. A desire grew for an organization where the interest in quilting could continue to be shared after classes were finished. The Gwinnett QuiIters’ Guild is the result of that desire.

Barbara Swenson was bestowed a lifetime membership in recognition and appreciation for her efforts in the formation of the group.

During the first year the logo Hands All Around block was selected in a contest won by Chick Clark since hers was the only entry. The first year also brought the first fund raising project. A quilt was raffled at Lilburn Daze earning $630 and started a long tradition. By the end of the year there were 15 members.

The second year brought the first Christmas luncheon and birthday party. By the end of the year there were 35 members.

In the third year the membership reached 50 and was capped off. A waiting list began. During this year the by-laws were adopted. The Guild printed a collection of recipes gathered from the members. This cookbook was sold to members.

In the fourth year the membership was opened and reached 54 members. The Guild had its first workshop taught by someone of a national reputation. Mildred Locke of Bell Buckle taught a trapunto workshop.

In September of 2000, the Gwinnett Quilters’ Guild moved its meeting place to Cannon Methodist Church. In 2001 the Guild published their third cookbook including recipes not only of guild members but also of nationally known Quilters.