KCRQF: LIVE and In-person!

The fourth bi-ennual Kansas City Regional Quilt Festival took place June 17-19, 2021. It was a momentous event for multiple reasons, primarily because it is the first major quilt show that took place in person in over a year, instead of virtually. It is also remarkable because it is organized and run by 13-16 quilt guilds working together (depending on the year.) Quilters seemed ecstatic to be re-connecting with each other in person, talking to friends, walking the vendor mall, and of course looking at lots of quilts.

In the judged portion of the show, the perennial favorite Janet Stone won best of show, 1st place in applique with her quilt “Crazy for Ewe.” Janet Stone is a super talented quilter who has won just about every show in the nation, so it is appropriate for her to win her “hometown” show. If you haven’t already seen the best of show winners, here is a link. There were other “regular” winners that took home ribbons too such as, Margaret Solomon Gunn, Elsie Campbell, and Robyn Gragg.

However, another momentous event (at least for one person) occurred. I decided to enter a judged portion of the quilt show for the first time. I have exhibited my quilts and had them published in books, but never entered the judged portion. It is a scary proposition because I completely realize that I’m not a technical talent. However, I was so pleased to win a second-place ribbon. It is a joy to write about! After reading the judge’s comments, I plan to work on improving and hope I can win again.