Quilting Fun in Iron River

Lakeland Baptist in Iron River, MI is a small church pastored by Paul and his sweet wife Joann. Joann attended my talk at a Christian women’s retreat 2 years ago (click here for a post about it) and she felt that my talk would be a good outreach to the quilters in her area. There is an old high school building in Iron River that has been repurposed for a number of interesting uses and the church rented the “cafeteria” for our gathering because of the large space and good lighting. It was perfect ~ and of course I forgot to take any photos of the talk 😞. But here’s the building we were in.

We had a nice sized group and they were all so kind and interested. The attendees took many of my Mom’s tracts afterwards, and I actually sold quite a few books too ~ an unexpected bonus! Joann said that very few speakers and teachers are willing to make the long drive up to the U.P. because of the distance. I think they’re missing out. The trip up was beautiful and the people were so welcoming. What a blessing!

After speaking and then chatting with everyone, another Joanne engaged me in a conversation about the quilt guild that met in the same building. Part of the Windsor Center is an art and entertainment venue, but other areas are rented out to various businesses and groups. What a great idea! So many of these old buildings are torn down, but this one lives on. There were an eclectic mix of rentees, but my favorite by far was the Carrie Jacobs-Bond Quilters. They rent 3 “science” rooms ~ and what a perfect fit! Here’s their front entrance, lockers and all!

Joanne told me that she wanted to hang the spool quilt she made for the group (on the left) out in the hall, but some of the members thought it might be “taken”. So she painted it on the wall. After a while she couldn’t stand the emptiness around it and began to bring in other items. They’ve never been bothered. What a sweet entryway!

In the first room each member has their own table and machine that they are able to leave set up and ready to go year round! Joanne and Michaeline were pleased to give me the grand tour.

Just look at those gorgeous oak cabinets in each room ~ perfect for storing fabric and quilting supplies.

Daniel, one of their members, was at my talk. He was very interested in some of the techniques I use and asked great questions. I found out later that quilting isn’t his only talent. He made the cutting tables for the guild.

The third room not only has another of Daniel’s tables, but a long arm for the members to use!

And did you notice the roll of batting at the end of the cutting table? Yup ~ They’ve made cutting large batting pieces easy. Brilliant! Wish I had room for that in my studio.

The ladies told me that their rent is very reasonable and is covered by the guild member dues. With the long winters they have up in the UP I can see that this space would be heavenly for each and every member.

Thank you to everyone at Lakeland Baptist Church, and to all who came and made that day so special. I actually will be heading back up to Michigan, Iron Mountain this time, to teach at a quilt show in October. I can’t wait!

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And one more thing…

A few days after my visit to the UP, I was heading north again to lecture and teach for the Evergreen Quilters in Green Bay. What a fun group. I presented my Tradition With a Twist lecture on a Tuesday evening, and the next day my Seminole Sampler workshop. The class was a joy and I did get a few photos this time.

I think it’s safe to say that a good time was had by all! Thanks ladies!

And a special thank you to Kathy who hosted me in her beautiful “quilt filled” home.