On March 19, hear and see the story of the state’s 150-year history told through the art of quilting.

The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library’s event, Celebrating 150 Years of Kansas Quilts, is part of the 20th annual National Quilting Day and offers a family-friendly look at this craft, the quilters behind the work and the stories from Kansas’ rich heritage.

National Quilting Day artTwo excellent Kansas authors (and quilters themselves) tie the past to present-day quilting starting at 10:30am in Marvin Auditorium 101BC. Review 150 years of Kansas quilts with Deb Rowden, quilt book editor and author.

“Because Kansas played a part in the Civil War, quilts here were made for soldiers, for political statements, to celebrate statehood, and then just as part of rural and pioneer life,” said Patti Poe, Adult Services Supervisor and quilter.

Then, learn about the brand new Kansas Sampler quilt and book from Linda Frost, quilter and author. In addition, our librarians offer suggestions for other great quilting books to check out.

Also at 10:30am, the Youth Services area hosts Easy Make and Take Crafts where kids hear quilt stories, look at designs and patterns, and have a chance to make their own project with everyday objects to take home.

“I think the common thread between history and quilts is that quilts are artifacts that both show the normal, everyday events that were celebrated, like baby quilts, wedding quilts, burial quilts, and they show the changing culture of America as a whole through colors, fabrics, patterns,” Poe said. “Even the most basic quilts can be works of art and are treasured for their link to our past.”

Attendees can also see demonstrations on how to quilt, including how to do hand applique, English paper piecing, hand quilting and twilling. Bennett’s Sewing Center will have a long-arm quilting machine that you can test drive – plus information on local quilt guilds and upcoming programs.

Bring your questions. There will be quilters to talk to during the day. This program is brought to you in partnership with Bennett’s Sewing Center, members of the Kansas Capital Quilters Guild and Kaw Valley Quilters Guild.

The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library is a 21st-century, landmark library, and features the Alice C. Sabatini Art Gallery, the Millennium Café, Chandler Booktique, meeting rooms, and free computer and Internet access and training.

Library hours are Mon. through Fri. 9 am to 9 pm, Sat. 9 am to 6 pm and Sunday 12 pm to 9 pm.