The Nutmeg Quilters Guild began in 1980 with a small group of women wanting to share their interest in a love of quilting. In the years since its creation, it has grown into a nonprofit organization of over 140 members. In 1993 the Guild incorporated, and acquired Federal not-for-profit status. Members of the Guild reside in the Fairfield, Litchfield and New Haven counties of Connecticut, in addition to Westchester and Putnam counties of New York state.

As stated in the Guild's by-laws, its purpose is to:
1. Promote the knowledge of quilting and quilting skills and techniques
2. Provide an atmosphere of friendship and growth in which quilters may expand their knowledge of this art
3. Present exhibits of quilts periodically
4. Hold seminars for the purpose of exchanging ideas
5. Encourage historical research
6. Promote the publishing of articles and booklets about quilting.

The Guild offers year-round instructional opportunities to its members. Many meetings feature a nationally known quilter as speaker, and are often followed by daytime workshops by the speaker. Other Guild meetings are "hands-on" where quilts and quilted items are made for use by charitable organizations. Six times a year members receive DisPatch, a newsletter offering information about the coming meetings agenda, upcoming quilt shows within driving distance, quilting and sewing tips, and feature articles. The Guild organizes trips for members to quilt shows in New England, New York and Pennsylvania, as well as to major quilting events elsewhere in the United States.

As quilting has become more international in recent years, so has the Guild, which has participated in exchange "challenges" with groups in Japan and the UK. Following the challenger's rules, which might include the need to use certain fabrics or to base the piece on a particular theme, members design and create small pieces. The collected pieces made by both Nutmeg members and the challenger are displayed together in both locations.

Each year a quilt designed, pieced and quilted by Guild members is raffled. The proceeds from the Raffle are the major source of funding for Guild projects and programs throughout the year.

Membership dues are $30.00 for the fiscal year (October 1 to September 30); guests are welcome, and for a $5.00 guest fee receive the next issue of DisPatch. Meetings are open to all who share a love of quilt-making regardless of knowledge or skills.

For more information about activities and membership, write to:
Nutmeg Quilters Guild, Inc.
PO Box 2341
Danbury, CT 06813