In what has become an annual event, 24 local artisans entered their quilts in the Moapa Valley Quilt Show held Friday and Saturday, Oct. 16-17. This was twice as many participants from last year’s show. Quilts of all sizes, patterns and levels of expertise were displayed throughout the large meeting room and halls of OLSHACS.

There was a special display area for the quilts made for this year’s challenge. The challenge was to make a quilt using a pattern made by Melissa Corry, a well- known quilt pattern designer. Six local quilters participated in the challenge and were entered in a drawing for prizes.

“Mainly, this is not a competition,” said Robin Maughn, OLSHACS director. “It is a place for our local quilting enthusiasts to display the beautiful projects they have worked on for the community to simply see, enjoy and appreciate.”

There were a few items for sale, and Carolyn Marshall was demonstrating how to use an embroidery machine on a project she was working on – an apron that will be available for purchase at her booth at the upcoming Pomegranate Festival. Two of the quilts on display were first-time projects for people new to the quilting hobby.

According to Maughn, “Quilting is an art.” The beginnings of quilting can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where quilts were used for warmth and protection. The technique spread and evolved over time, transitioning from primarily functional to a decorative art form.

The quilts on display showed a variety of techniques. There were traditional quilts primarily used as bedcovers, but also a wide selection of decorative wall hangings, table runners and handbags. Maughn said, “The quilts displayed here are labors of love. Every project is a piece of your heart.”

There were also a number of quilts using the same pattern and technique taught at a class by Maughn. The colors selected for each project made the pattern look very different on each individual quilt. She indicated that she and others teach classes occasionally. Information is usually word of mouth, so if there is interest, she can be contacted at OLSHACS.

The community can look forward to the quilt show next year in October, but the dates are not available yet. The quilt challenge for next year will be a scrapbuster. Participants can make any type of quilt, using any pattern they choose, but it has to be completed using only fabrics they have on hand, commonly referred to as their “stash.” The only new fabric allowed is for background and backing.