The Superior Express -

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If you ever wonder why the same vehicles are parked near the Nelson Community Center on Monday afternoons, just ask someone in town. He or she will most likely know that it is the quilting women who meet there on Mondays, even holidays! However, if Christmas falls on a Monday that is the exception!

There is no rule that says if you are a member of this Lost Needle Quilters group you must attend every Monday, but most of the women are just that dedicated if "life" doesn't interfere! They find they can be productive and share their joys and woes, learn new things from each other, and have a good laugh all while enjoying the old, old craft of hand quilting!

At the present time there are nine quilters plus one snow bird who returns in April. Quilting has been a group pastime of Nelson area women for at least 40 years as near as this member can recall. As the years go by the membership changes, as does all things. The quilters moved into the Community Center in February or March of 2009, using the room that was built for that purpose. Prior to that time, they used the Senior Citizens Center, which was bought and dedicated for Senior Citizen activities in 1978. Though presently vacant, that building is located in the block west of Main Street on Fourth Street.

Each day when they put their needles away, the quilts in frames would be taken off the supports and leaned against the wall, so other activities could use the building. Now, in the Community Center, the quilters often have two quilts in frames being quilted at the same time. With the special room they can leave them set up, plus have storage for their supplies. At the present time they have two in frames, three more quilts waiting and the promise of several more! However, if you or someone you know would like a quilt hand quilted, they will be happy to work those into their schedule!

The time and price charged varies, depending on whether it is marked for quilting or whether they need to do that, the size, and the complexity of the design. Just to get a quilt properly placed in the quilt frames often takes three or four people a couple hours or more. But they always have a good time!

The quilters have used their funds to help support the library, the fire and rescue squads, and the Community Center, as well as buying the supplies needed. The quilters have organized and served the annual community Thanksgiving Dinner for several years. They have also helped piece and then hand quilted several Quilts of Valor.

They welcome anyone to stop in on a Monday afternoon and see the beautiful quilts, and watch this age old handwork being performed and enjoyed by the Lost Needle Quilters!