Being a younger quilter can feel a bit like navigating a world where you don’t quite fit the mold. The average age of quilters is around 65, and being someone who loves quilting under 45 definitely raises some eyebrows. However, it also opens up a unique space filled with excitement, community, and the joy of creativity.
Break the Mold
When I tell other women that I quilt, the reaction is usually one of excitement and curiosity. They see it as a refreshing twist, a younger person embracing a craft traditionally associated with older generations. But the response from men can be quite different. I’ve had older men question my choice, sometimes with comments like, “Are you sure you want to admit that?” It’s clear that many still view quilting as an older, female-dominated hobby. I honestly like to break the mold and I use it as an opportunity to teach people more about it.
The Power of Social Media
Social media has been a game-changer for younger quilters like myself. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook have quilting communities that are vibrant and diverse. These online spaces allow us to connect, share our projects, and find inspiration from quilters of all ages and backgrounds. It’s amazing to see how many younger quilters are out there, breaking the mold and bringing fresh perspectives to the craft.
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Relating Across Generations
One of the most beautiful aspects of quilting is its ability to bridge generational gaps. Despite the age differences, the shared love for quilting creates an instant connection. I’ve met plenty of older quilters who are as modern in their designs and approaches as any younger quilter. Events like QuiltCon, my favorite quilt show, attract a wide range of quilters, proving that quilting can be a contemporary and dynamic art form.
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Spreading the Craft
To encourage more young people to take up quilting, I’ve started teaching free quilting classes. Seeing a new generation of crafters discover the joy of quilting is incredibly rewarding. It’s not just about preserving a tradition; it’s about evolving it and making it accessible to everyone.
Embracing the Fun
At its core, quilting is a fun and fulfilling craft. It’s a way to express creativity, connect with others, and create something beautiful and lasting. Whether you’re 25 or 75, quilting offers a unique satisfaction that transcends age.
Quilting under 45 may be unconventional, but it’s also incredibly enriching. Breaking through age and gender stereotypes allows us to redefine what it means to be a quilter. With the help of social media and a willingness to share and learn, we can build a diverse and inclusive quilting community. So, let’s embrace our passion for quilting, inspire others, and show that creativity has no age limit.
It is rare to find younger quilters, but the craft has to evolve into our generation (the older millennials) or eventually all the knowledge and skills the older quilters have will be lost. For example, only maybe a half dozen members of our guild of over 100 people are under retirement age, and people like myself with small children can’t shoulder the needs of a guild as well as others with less demanding schedules. I am curious to see how the craft continues to change and – hopefully – grow over the next 20 or so years.
I completely agree! There needs to be a much bigger push into passing the torch on to our generation.
So right. My grands SONS started sewing when they are about 4. It’s not a huge deal for them, but they love anything with a motor – and anything I Itell them “Don’t Touch!” My machine is not fancy, but I gave them 6 inch squares and let them make long rows of the fancy stitching. Now they have a small pile and are going to use them for a quilt for their dog. The youger one actually stitched up a tear in his pants. MOMS Go for it!!!!!