Amanda welcomed members to our first in-person meeting in many years. Introductions were made by those in attendance and on Zoom.
Amanda and Debby lead a program on Finishing Details, asking the questions ‘why didn’t this turn out as good as it looked in my head’, ‘why is this project less attention grabbing than I hoped’, and ‘I like this pattern, but mine feels boring to me, what’s missing?’ Specific techniques were discussed such as pressing, top stitching, thread, durability, non-quilt items, mini quilts, quilts and the final presentation. Photographs showing sample techniques as well as resources such as a nifty sewing machine tension guide were provided.
Amanda reported that dues have been paid to National MQG. Danica noted that the QuiltCon quilts are viewable online through the end of the month via the link provided to members. Congratulations to Diane, Cathy, Glenn, Pam and Laura for their quilt “Ray’s Georgia” which won third place in the Group/Bee category at QuiltCon.
Amanda noted that a new volunteer process is live. Members were reminded to review and sign up for tasks of their interest, including assisting with the Celebrate Quilting Community Event, retreat games coordinator, the Summer Supply Sale and the various community outreach projects.
Amanda reviewed a proposed budget revisions which addresses changes to income due to Amazon Smile ending and estimates for new fundraising. By revising the budget, the added funding will allow for programming, including, (i) one paid speaker for a meeting program; (ii) paying members to put on workshops; and (iii) subsidizing more costly local/regional teachers for workshops. Pam made a motion to accept the proposed budget revisions as discussed; Lisa seconded the motion. The motion passed.
Pam and Debby announced the Nashville Shop Hop Bop on April 22nd. Members are to respond to an interest in participation survey no later than April 15th.
Amanda announced that registration for the 2023 retreat is now open. The retreat will be held Friday, August 11th at 3:00 PM to Sunday, August 13th at 2:00 PM at Place of Grace in Clarkrange, Tennessee. An in-person or at home options are available. Non-member registration opens on April 18th.
Pam announced the Mini Swap with the Pensacola Modern Quilt Guild. Sign ups will be via a survey. Participants are to select a color palette and their swap partner will make a Mini using a modern technique or principle. April 5th is the deadline to respond to the survey; April 14th is the deadline to receive swap partner information; and June 30th is the deadline to mail the Mini to your swap partner.
Amanda announced the Summer Supply Sale, a consignment sale of all things sewing and quilting related. Members are to begin sorting and de-stashing their items. Consigner registration will begin at the April meeting.
Amanda noted that volunteers are needed to help organize the Celebrate Quilting Community Event to be held in September. Tentatively scheduled to be held at the Richard Showers Community Center, volunteers are needed to assist with planning community activities, giveaways, a mini quilt show, and a raffle quilt.
Amanda announced the Potluck Party Challenge, a challenge to make an item for the upcoming Fall Auction. Members are to make an item from the potluck category that corresponds to the first letter of their last name. Categories include: (i) teacher/office gifts; (ii) holiday/seasonal; (iii) travel; (iv) home, and (v) kids. Reveal the creations at the June 20th general meeting.
The 2023 Stitched in Color Sew Along concluded; a drawing will be held next month for those members completing the quilt.
Sew & Tell presentation was shown.
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 PM.