Quilt contest showcases talent, promotes businesses
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First place was given to Julia Howlett for her "One Block Wonder" quilt which was quilted by Peggy Olson.
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second place was awarded in a three-way tie to Bea Radermacher for her "Garden Party" quilt which was quilted by Susan Gorder.
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second place also went to Pat Pool for her "40 Fabulous Years" quilt which was quilted by Susan Gorder.
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a final second place was given to Lynette Rundell for her "Bordered Diamonds" quilt which was quilted by Marcy Watson.
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POLSON – Bright fabric in intricate patterns festooned the windows of Polson businesses for two weeks, showcasing the handiwork of local quilters. From Feb. 10 to Feb. 24, the quilts were displayed for the 19th annual Quilt Walk Around Polson. Polson’s quilting shop All In Stitches sponsored the event.
Store manager Susan Hartman said the event brightens downtown Polson.
“It’s a way to feature some work of our quilters during the winter when things are a little dreary and gloomy,” she said.
Community members perused the quilts around town and voted for their favorites at All in Stitches. Eight businesses, from Caras Property Management to Crow’s Nest Gallery displayed the quilts in their windows.
More than 50 members of the community cast their votes for the best quilt of the 23 entered in the event. Nineteen quilters participated, some entering multiple quilts in the contest. According to Hartman, a wide variety of techniques and styles were displayed in this year’s contest.
Hartman said displaying quilts in businesses draws customers into downtown shops they may not visit otherwise. The placement of quilts around town allows residents who might not seek out a quilt show to enjoy the beauty of the quilts. “It excites people to see the work others are doing and it might even inspire them to start quilting themselves,” Hartman said.
All In Stitches bills itself as “more than a quilt store,” according to its Facebook page. The store sells fabric and sewing supplies, but also offers sewing classes and events to unite the crafting community.
First place in the contest was awarded to Julia Howlett for her quilt entitled “One Black Wonder.” Bea Radermacher’s creation called “Garden Party” was one of three entries that tied for second place. “Bordered Diamond” by Lynette Rundell and “Forty Fabulous Years,” quilted by Pat Pool, were also awarded second place. All In Stitches awarded each winner a gift certificate to the store.
The quilts were returned to their owners after the contest. The prize-winning pieces will keep a lucky few warm and cheerful through the last cold months of winter. a
