The Wimberley Valley Quilt Guild has something to celebrate this year. For thirty years members have been meeting each month to work on projects, many of which they donate to good causes such as The Senior Center, Emily-Ann Gardens and Theatre, Wimberley Institute of Cultures, the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center, Habitat for Humanity and others.
They first met on June 1, 1994 when Pat Kakos invited five friends over to her home to quilt together. They decided to meet every other Wednesday to learn and to teach each other the craft. Membership dues of $12 were established and a second meeting each month was chosen to work on personal projects or projects for charities, or to attend a workshop provided by one of the members.
Over time, the practical craft grew into an art form. Each month new members would join and soon the Guild established a mission to provide quilts to the community of Wimberley and beyond, thereby sharing their love of the art form.
In May 1996, the Guild moved to the original Senior Center building where they were able to set up quilts in a frame so that members could stitch them by hand. Those quilts were given away to other organizations so that they could raise money from their sales.
In 2003, they were offered a table at the Presbyterian Church’s Alternative Christmas Market where they sold children’s quilts. In 2006, they moved to the original First Baptist Church, but returned to the Wimberley Presbyterian Church in 2008, where they currently meet.
As the years progressed, they provided quilts for Central Texas Medical Center infants, Operation Homefront, a military aid organization, Little Dresses for Africa, Christmas Stockings for Soldiers and others.
The Guild’s longest participating member is Bert Nickelson. At 27 years, she serves as the organization’s memory, recalling their many activities, moves, projects and friendships. On the occasion of the 30th anniversary, members presented her with a “Golden Thimble,” to honor her extraordinary commitment. “When I joined this small guild of 14 members, I began my quilting journey,” said Nickelson. “I treasure the memories of those special quilters and continue to enjoy the good friends we have here in the guild. I hope to continue those friendships long after this anniversary. Quilters are special people.”
