Are you passionate about quilting and looking for a community of like-minded individuals to share your love of this craft with? Then your local Modern Quilting Guild or Sewing Community might be the perfect fit for you!

QuiltCon 2023, Denver Metro MQG members in front of our Community Outreach Quilt, Cabin View

Settle in as I delve into this vulnerable story. At the end of 2021, I was overwhelmed, frustrated, anxious, and, most of all, tired. I was consumed with building my business and fighting social media, specifically Instagram. Finally, I told myself, enough! There is way more to quilting than trying to figure out the Instagram algorithms, and I was going to find it!

Let me back up some; I joined my local guild, Denver Metro, in June 2021, but only on paper. I honestly joined for the QuiltCon discount as I was planning to attend my first in 2022 (Phoenix) with all intentions to meet the group. I would put the monthly meeting on my calendar when the group was still meeting via zoom and watch the time come and go. Month after month. I remember they got together in person to share their Color of Connections quilts from the quilt along. I also participated in this quilt along and thought, “Oh, this would be the perfect time to jump in,” but nope. I watched the time come and go.

Then it was February 2022, and I was off to my first QuiltCon. I was so nervous, and my walls were up, partly due to coming out of COVID; the other part is just who I am. As a safety net, I packed my schedule tight. I signed up for six classes, volunteered a day, and dragged my husband to town. I designed and brought stickers as my business card and had all intentions of passing them out while I networked some, but I still had plenty to do!

I don’t remember how many stickers I passed out, but let’s say I came back home with most of them. I couldn’t do it; I struggled to put myself out there as a businesswoman or a fellow quilter. I didn’t even introduce myself to HollyAnne of String & Story, who, at the time, I had never talked to but now is a very dear friend of mine.

Between my feelings at the end of 2021 and coming home from QuiltCon 2022, I was ready and eager to find quilting outside social media. I wanted to find what makes me happy again and the root of why I started Zahm Co. I finally joined my first Denver Metro MQG meeting via Zoom because I am still me at my core. :) We were starting to make the quilt you see above, Cabin View. It was my first community quilt, and I loved it! Every time I see this quilt, it reminds me of my journey to finding a community that talks about what I love.

This brings me to today, returning from my second QuiltCon, the complete opposite of my first. What a ride! If you have never been, I suggest putting it on your wishlist. It is incredible, vibrant, educational, artistic, and exhausting. One of the best parts was being a part of my local guild while connecting with all my IG friends. Denver Metro Guild has made the biggest impact on my life over the last year. I only regret not joining sooner. Still on the fence? Keep reading.

5 Reasons to Join Your Local Guild

1. Connect with other quilters

One of the best things about the MQG is the opportunity to connect with other quilters. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced quilter, you'll find a community of supportive individuals passionate about quilting and eager to share their knowledge and expertise.

2. Learn new techniques and skills

Quilting is an art form that requires a wide range of skills, from cutting and piecing to quilting and binding. The MQG offers a variety of resources and educational opportunities to help members learn new techniques and improve their quilting skills. From workshops and classes to online tutorials and webinars, there are plenty of opportunities to expand your knowledge and take your quilting to the next level.

3. Participate in challenges and swaps

Members can participate in quilt challenges that encourage them to experiment with new techniques and styles, while swaps allow members to exchange quilt blocks or other handmade items with each other. These activities are a great way to stretch your creativity and connect with other quilters.

4. Contribute to your community

The MQG is committed to giving back to the community through various charitable projects. Members can participate in quilt drives that provide quilts to individuals and organizations in need, as well as other community service projects.

5. Access to resources and discounts

As a member of the MQG, you'll have access to a variety of resources and discounts. Members can access exclusive patterns and tutorials, as well as discounts on quilting supplies and services.

Denver Metro MQG is a welcoming community of quilters passionate about modern quilting. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced quilter, there's something for everyone in this vibrant community.