Quilting, long associated with resourceful grandmothers and county fair competitions, is having a modern moment. The hobby is trending on social media along with doilies, pleated lampshades, and other vintage gems, bringing the craft to new generations faster than you can sew a square.
While the average age of quilters is still around 63, Millennials and Gen Z now comprise almost a quarter of beginner quilters. Men and crafters from diverse cultures are joining increasingly inclusive circles too, making quilting a hobby everyone can enjoy.
What’s driving the rise in popularity? Those who embrace a flourishing “grandmillenial” style are turning to the craft, adding their own modern touches along the way and turning finished pieces into accessories, art, and even clothing items.
As sustainability becomes more popular with younger generations, quilters are using leftover fabric scraps and discarded items to create longlasting treasures.
But there is also a mental health element to quilting that’s attracting new crafters. Seen as an antidote to a screen-driven life, quilting’s easy, repetitive movements can help relieve stress. The American Psychological Association suggests that creative activities such as sewing and quilting increase serotonin and other “feelgood” neurotransmitters like dopamine. Quilting can be calming and meditative, helping to soothe an anxious mind. For older adults, it can improve cognitive function and motor skills, as well as provide opportunities for social engagement.
The benefits of quilting are no secret at Maury River Senior Services (MRSS), where a group gathers on Wednesdays from 1 to 2 p.m. to create projects and enjoy the companionship of fellow quilters. Mary Ann Ertel, the veteran crafter of the group, has been quilting at MRSS for 15 years. She and others in the quilting group display their finished work throughout the center and are always welcoming new members to join them. Most of the materials the group uses to create their projects are donated to the center, making it a costeffective way to try a new hobby or pick it up again.
To learn more about the quilting group, as well as other recreational opportunities at Maury River Senior Services, contact Laynee Knick at (540) 2617474.
