We conceived the idea of inviting sewing enthusiasts from around the world to help create a special Quilt to mark the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth. Sewing enthusiasts were invited to make a donation to Friends of the Elderly, a charity of which The Queen is Patron, in return for which they received a fabric square, on which they could create any birthday design or message they wishes. Around 100 squares were donated – from the UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand – raising more than £2200 for Friends of the Elderly.
A panel of experts selected the 60 squares that were used to make up the final physical quilt, whilst all squares submitted were used in a virtual online Quilt for a Queen. The virtual Quilt also carries some of the stories behind the individual designs.
In addition to interest in the specialist craft media, Quilt For A Queen attracted significant attention on the Bernina stand at two major exhibitions – Festival of Quilts at the NEC & The Knitting & Stitching Show at Alexandra Palace – as well as generating thousands of views across Bernina UK’s social media platforms.