As 2025 comes to a close, I wanted to share three quilt stories that made this year shine. They’re not “favorites” (because choosing favorites feels impossible!), but each one represents something special that happened in the Quilt Alliance world this year—joyful quilt guild visits, thoughtful storytelling, and exciting new steps forward for QSOS. These videos reminded me again and again telling your quilt story matters!
–Emma Parker, QA Project Manager
1. KC Shortes — “Go Tell It!” at the Austin Modern Quilt Guild This “Go Tell It!” was recorded at a meeting of the Austin Modern Quilt Guild, where KC Shortes volunteered (or maybe was volun-told!) to share an example ahead of a full documentation day later that week. Several guild members mentioned how meaningful their collaborative Exquisite Corpse project was for them; here’s another example from Nelia Box Karimi. If anyone claims quilting is a fading art form, the stories I heard from guilds this year—and the joy in this room—prove just how vibrant and creative today’s quilting communities truly are!
2. Go Tell It! interview with Helen Smith Stone This “Go Tell It!” from Helen Smith Stone not only features a beautiful quilt and a touching story about her relationship with her husband—it also celebrates how simple and empowering it can be to record your own quilt story. Helen filmed and submitted this herself using the DIY guidelines:see them here. It’s wonderful reminder that anyone can document their quilt and add their voice to the collection!
3. QSOS interview: Kimber Van Heukelom interviewed by Meredith Ahmed
This QSOS interview recorded in February, 2025 is one of the first recorded using our updated QSOS protocols, and interviewer Meredith Ahmed (who also helps index and transcribe QSOS interviews) truly knocked it out of the park. Kimber shares her passion for historical quilts and her joy in making quilts today with her guild. Their conversation is a perfect example of how QSOS connects quiltmaking traditions with today’s quiltmaking world.