Craft group's quilts to go on display in Braunton

Quilts made by a craft group will go on show to the public in Braunton.

The exhibition will be at the Parish Hall on Challoners Road on May 25 and 26, from 10am to 4pm. Refreshments, a raffle and a tombola will be on offer. Entry is £2 for adults and children can attend for free. 

Money raised by the group, called From a Distance, will be donated to Project Linus UK, a non-profit organisation dedicated to delivering quilts and blankets crafted by volunteers to children who are sick, disabled and disadvantaged. 

Liz Musselwhite, a quilting tutor, set up From a Distance 10 years ago. She forged a career in patchwork  and quilting after leaving her job as an occupational therapist. 

The group has expanded into a quilting community of 15 women based in Braunton. Their name originated during the group’s early stages when mistakes were made during the quilting process. Phrases including “from a distance, it looks fine” and “no one will notice that from a distance” were used to encourage one another.

There will be over 50 quilts at the exhibition. Creations will include bags, wall hangings, Christmas decorations, cushion covers and other sewn items. Quilt sizes will range from smaller wall hangings to king-size bed quilts. Liz’s very own ‘Poppy Quilt’ is one of the pieces to be showcased. She made it for her City and Guilds qualification. 

Creators of the quilts will be at the exhibition to talk to visitors about their craftsmanship. 

Chris Swalles has been part of From a Distance for the last decade and is the organiser of the event. 

She said: “The inspirations behind the quilts are many. Some of these quilts on display will be made as gifts for other people to celebrate moments in their lives e.g. a wedding, new baby, big birthday. Huge amounts of time, effort and money is invested into a quilt, to receive one is very special.”

The exhibition is about more than just honouring the dedication and beautiful craftsmanship of these women. It is about reflecting on the journey the group have been on together and recognising their friendship and experiences.