Pioneer Valley Quilters' Guild Show
by Patricia Cummings
The weather was with us as we headed south toward Massachusetts, in the month of March, known for its chilling winds and erratic moods, here in northern New England. Our mission on that particular Friday was two-fold: shopping and quilt viewing. We felt the need for a day out after having been cooped up all winter. We thought that a stop at Wright's Factory Outlet in Sturbridge, as well as to the Fabric Stash in Charlton, MA would be the sure cure for cabin fever. We had planned to meet several of our good Massachusetts quilting buddies in Sturbridge, one of whom brought along her wonderful pink and burgundy Bargello quilt that she had just finished, so that we could ooh and aah. Our primary goal for this journey was for the four of us to go to the Pioneer Valley Quilters quilt show in Agawam, MA. Don't you just love these Indian names found in New England?
While we were waiting for our friends to show up in the parking lot of Wright's, Jim snapped the photo shown below, right behind the store. There is something about the sound of running water outdoors that is alluring, especially to boys and men, and he had his trusty camera ready for action. When everyone was present, we looked around the store. Jam-packed full of bolts of fabrics, notions, ribbon, appliqués, laces, patterns and trims, the store removed my last vestige of will power not to spend much money. I found just the fabrics I had been seeking and also, could not resist an iron-on beaver appliqué that was just too cute.
The waterfall behind Wright's
Then, after a quick stop at one of our friends for a show and tell of more quilt projects and a cup of hot chocolate, we were off to enjoy the show which would begin at 5 p.m. We had to wind our way through heavy traffic in Springfield to reach The Oaks hotel. Upon entering, friendly faces greeted us from behind the raffle quilts and door prize tables. Then as we got closer to the exhibition space, we were pleased to see a small but effective exhibit of beautiful antique quilts with props of old sewing machines, dolls, and other items. The Dresden Plate quilt seems particularly and surprisingly long. All of them were fun to see.
Some antiques at the show
Quilts in the show were many, and in a large variety of styles and sizes. Mostly, it seemed that large wall hangings were predominant, with the majority of them having been finished by machine quilting, and quite a few machine appliquéd. One of my favorites in the show was one (of four) Loggerhead Turtle quilts. I was amazed at how the pattern was accomplished by altering slightly the basic block of Drunkard's Path. I love turtles anyhow, and this pattern was a delight! I also admired a miniature quilt of a Puffin. The quilt was stunning as only black and white quilts can sometimes be, and it included a lot of beading.
The show looked as though every quilter in the guild has put forth her best effort. I also noticed how everyone seemed to be cheerful and helping each other with white glove duties. They were proud of their work and having a good time.
Last but not least, are the vendors, those hard-working souls who pile their fabrics and books and stands and threads and so much more into vans to bring them to shows to dutifully set up "shop." They were doing a brisk business. My favorite vendor of the show was Thimbleworks, a shop in Longmeadow, MA. The gal running the booth was so friendly, I thought to myself that I will have to make a mental note to visit the shop sometime when I am in the area. A smiling face is always a welcome sight!
We had a wonderful time and would like to thank the one hundred severty five members and all others associated with making this a most enjoyable time for all of us. We were so glad we attended, even though we did not arrive home until 10 p.m. that evening.
©Copyright 2002. Patricia Cummings.