NQA Chapter Showcase

All year in 2010, the members of Ocean Waves NQA Chapter #296 have been celebrating twenty five years of quilting fellowship. Initially founded in January 1985 by 90 quilters and quilt enthusiasts in the South Miami, Florida area, the guild became chartered as NQA Chapter #296 on April 30, 1985. Ten of the original charter members still are part of the current 125 strong membership. Ocean Waves Chapter goals are to promote interest in all aspects of quilt making, to allow members to develop skills, and to display their creations.

At the monthly general meeting, members browse the guild library of over 1000 inspiring books, hold a business meeting, participate in show and help sessions, receive updates on other local, state and national quilting activities, and participate in ongoing round robins and fabric exchanges. Classes from local, national, and even international teachers promote continued learning and improvement of quilting skills. Periodic challenges offer members the chance to stretch their skills in new directions. A monthly newsletter keeps all members informed of guild activities.

Small groups within the guild cater to varied interests – from beginning quilters to experienced quilters to art quilters. Hundreds of quilts, on behalf of small groups and the entire guild, have been given over the years to those in our community who need the comfort and beauty that quilts bring – women and children in shelters, disabled and ill persons of all ages, at-risk students making positive life changes, and members of the U.S. armed services.

Ocean Wave members exhibit their quilts – in guild organized shows, at national shows, at community art festivals and events, in art galleries – to promote greater awareness and interest in quilting. Members have contributed to reproducing quilts of historical significance for local museums.

It is the past and continued participation of all Ocean Waves members - founding, long time, new – that has enabled the guild to endure for twenty five years, and that keeps it going strong today. Learn more about us, including when and where to visit us if you are in the South Miami, Florida area, at our website http://www.oceanwavesquilters.com or by mail at Ocean Waves Chapter 296, NQA, P.O. Box 43-1673, South Miami, FL 33143-1673.

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