Dulwich Quilters have been going for 34 years and today they have just under thirty active members. Now they are hosting a remarkable exhibition of not only quilts but also other work done by the local community during the lockdown periods – and it is all in aid of charity.
Incubator quilt
Many made “scrubs” for staff at the local hospitals as they were running low on PPEs. Other works on show will be the incubator quilts made for the neo-natal unit at Kings College Hospital. “These bespoke quilts cover the incubators for pre-mature babies and protects them from the harsh lighting on the wards,” says Jenny Strong, one member of the Dulwich Quilters. “Every quilt is different which makes it easier for the parents to find their baby and once they leave the ward the quilt is given to the parents to be used later on as a playmat. Each bespoke quilt saves the hospital three hundred pounds.”
The long lock down periods brought the community together and many produced not only beautiful group quilts but also special bags for the Food Bank, covers for hot water bottles - “ a cheaper way to keep warm than turning up the heating.” A selection of these will be put on show at the exhibition to be held at Bell House in Dulwich Village, 25 and 26 September 10am – 5pm.
On show will be several group quilts, which will be on sale with all proceeds going to charity. There will also be a giftshop with a fine selection of good; bags for life, bespoke face masks, imaginative greeting cards – all done by the Dulwich Quilters. “The long lockdowns really brought us together and many members made quilts just to keep themselves occupied,” says Jenny. One other member admits with a laugh that she managed to do four bed-size quilts during the lockdown.
It promises to be a feast of colours and clever artistry, done by the community for the community. There will be no entrance fee but donations are welcome. After enjoying the exhibition enjoy a refreshing drink in the tea room which serves delicious cakes – again all sold for charity.
EXHIBITION HOSTED BY DULWICH QUILTERS
Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 September
10am-5pm both days
Free entry – cash donations welcome
Venue: Bell House, 27 College Road, Dulwich SE21 7BG
