Attention all quilters! If you are a beginning quilter (or out of the quilting loop) you will want to know this juicy tidbit. Every spring thousands of quilters from around the world flock to Western Kentucky-Paducah, KY to be exact-for the Annual Quilt Show and Contest.
Guests flood this river town from as far away as Japan and as near as one block over! Admission is $10 a day in advance or $11 at the door. Members of the American Quilter’s Society get a $2 discount and week-long passes can be attained at a reduced price.
For the shoppers out there, be aware that it’s not just quilters coming to the show! There are dozens of vendors that line the streets with items to inspire, entice, and educate you.
For those seeking a more effectual experience, there are classes and workshops which provide not only a learning opportunity but also the sewing machines to complete the lessons. (Make sure to sign up for these workshops in advance!) These classes may even be used as college credit for someone seeking a certificate in quilting.
The host of the show-The American Quilter’s Society-also provides appraisers for those persons interested in knowing and establishing the monetary value of their quilts.
And don’t forget the contests! Enter as a participant or treat your eyes to a feast of creativity poured forth from the hands of skillful artisans from around the globe.
After witnessing so much talent one must wonder where the finished products end up! Fortunately for the citizens of Paducah, each year the Museum of the American Quilter’s Society acquires or receives a donation from either the contest winners or participants in the show and contests. So make sure to stroll over to this house of impressive handiwork. As someone who has never quilted, I must say meandering through this museum could cure anyone of their quilt-apathy.
With so much going on at the show to capture your attention it could be easy to miss the fantastic town of Paducah. But as a new resident to this cozy little southern city on the river, I couldn’t let you do that! There are several museums to roam through that delve into the rich history of the area. The River Heritage Museum shows off several intricate model riverboats as well as information on life within the river. The Market House Museum gives a more detailed history of the life that has transpired throughout the years on these priceless cobblestone streets. Don’t forget the Ohio River is just around the corner, so make sure to mosey on down and rest on its shoulders.
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