The Stitch & Chatter group received a $250 donation from the Women’s Service Organization (WSO).
By Rich Wicks | Times Vedette
People often say they wish to do something to “make a difference.” A group in Panora has found a fun and sociable way to do just that.
The Stitch and Chatter group meets regularly on Tuesday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at First Christian Church, 102 E. Church St. in Panora. Ellen Campbell is a member of the group, and she explained that the group sews and quilts items to donate to a variety of worthy causes in the area. An area in the church basement has the various projects that are in the works so that when members show up, they can pick up right where they left off.
The Stitch and Chatter group not only makes quilts but also wheelchair bags, baby blankets, stocking caps, doll dresses and other items. The group generally donates about 100 quilts annually to the local 3Cs organization.
Campbell said usually six or seven members show up on any particular day, but everyone is free to attend as often or as seldom as they choose. She also noted that the group is not limited to members of the church.
“I’m here at least two days a week, because it makes you get out of bed and be happy and get going,” Campbell said. “We have had fun with it, and it’s been very good therapy.”
Campbell talked of the high costs of fabric and other items needed to create and donate the many items the group creates. She said if anyone has extra or unneeded fabric or batting, the group would greatly appreciate any such donations.
“Sometimes a person’s mom or grandmother isn’t quilting anymore, and maybe they’d be willing to donate to our cause,” Campbell said. “A roll of batting costs us about $200 now, and you only get about 20 to 25 quilts out of that. Every little bit helps.”
Campbell said anyone interested in coming to see what Stitch and Chatter is all about is welcome to call the church or simply contact her at 641-431-0280.
“Anybody that wants to come sew with us. Or if someone wants to come have coffee with us at 10 o’clock on Tuesday and Wednesday,” Campbell said. “We do have a good time, and everyone is welcome. It’s a gathering.”