As the winter months pass and we catch a glimpse of snow, I’m reminded how truly blessed we are to live in such a beautiful area, surrounded by nature and all the wonders it provides. There is something especially magical about the landscape with a light dusting of snow. I hope our members enjoyed a few days of winter scenery—perfect weather for staying home and quilting.
In February, members who attended had the opportunity to preview a sampling of P.I.G.s (Projects in Grocery Bags) from fellow quilters—projects we hope to see finished before next year. I know what my personal challenge is: one project that’s been eight years in the making! The bigger goal, however, is for everyone to go home, review their unfinished projects, and select just one to complete and bring to Show and Tell in the coming months. I’m sure we all have them—I know I have at least 19! It may be time to ask ourselves: Do I really want to finish this, or should I pass it on to another quilter? And that leads me to the next point…
Ways and Means
Our Silent Auction in February was a great success, with many wonderful treasures found and purchased to help financially support the Guild. It’s never too early to start sorting through your own “lost treasures”—projects or materials that you or someone else might enjoy finishing. Set them aside for next year’s Silent Auction. As my mom always said, “One person’s trash is another person’s treasure.”
A big round of applause for Gerry Carr, Carol Grimes, and Lydia Figueroa for gathering, sorting, and beautifully presenting the auction items. These hardworking ladies have been going above and beyond to bring creative fundraising opportunities to the Guild. Please introduce yourself, thank them personally, and stay tuned—there’s more great stuff coming!
March Program & Workshop
It is our great pleasure to welcome Cindy Lohbeck at our March 9th meeting. Her colorful contributions to the quilting community include an extensive line of fabric dyeing kits and innovative techniques. Cindy brings a deep, engaging, and often humorous knowledge of color, dye, and textiles, and her passion for teaching truly shines.
Quilters—don’t miss her workshop on Tuesday! This is sure to be an unforgettable learning experience.
Quilt Camp and Retreat Lite
Now is the perfect time to sign up for Quilt Camp, happening March 23–26. Quilt Camp is a wonderful opportunity to start or finish projects while enjoying time with fellow quilting friends. See Cathy Day to sign up. At just $125, it’s an incredible value—food, prizes, and fellowship included!
Retreat Lite sign-ups will begin in April and May.
Company Store
The Company Store returns in March! If you are able to assist with loading or unloading boxes from storage, please contact Pat Noel or Pam Jones before March 6th. We truly need the help—it doesn’t take long, and it’s a wonderful way to support the Guild. The storage unit is located in Prescott, and as always, many hands make light work.
Opportunity Quilt Committee
Soon we will be unveiling the 2026–2027 Opportunity Quilt, a stunning design called “Victory Gardens” by Wing and a Prayer. This beautiful quilt reflects our red, white, and blue spirit, accented with a splash of gold.
Final assembly is currently in progress, and we are still in need of a longarm quilter to help complete this project. Please contact me if you are able to assist.
In Closing
The Executive Committee welcomes all members to attend our Executive Meeting, held on the first Monday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at Coco’s Prescott Quilt Works. These meetings are open to any member interested in learning more about the Guild’s operations and leadership process.
Thank you for being such supportive, generous, and engaged members of the Thumb Butte Quilters Guild. We truly appreciate each and every one of you.
Jamie Davis, President
MEMBERSHIP
The Thumb Butte Quilters’Guild extends a heartfelt welcome to our newest members — Janyce Waldbaum, Angela Denis, Debbie Cavarretta, Deb Alvarez, Carol Goldsmith, Karen Kohl, and Sheila Gillespie. We’re so delighted you’ve joined our creative community!
Each of you brings your own spark, experience, and love of quilting to the mix, and we can’t wait to see your artistry come to life. Whether you’re piecing your first quilt or designing your next masterpiece, you’ll find friendship, laughter, and inspiration here at every meeting.
We look forward to sewing, learning, and sharing together — welcome to the Thumb Butte Quiltiers’ Guild family!
Alicia, Dawnell & Shelli – Membership Team
HOSTESSES
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early to set up and stay late for clean up.
March hostesses are Jeanie Braheme, Jessica Brothers, Carol Brownlow, Phyllis Byrnes, Pam Calhoon, Gerry Carr, Debby Casali, Carrie Casto, Faith Chaney, David & Trish Charity, and Marylou Clemmons.
birthdays
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy March Birthdays to Deb Johnson, Barb Saia, Barbara Krit, Nan DeChant, Rose Bliss, Pam Miller, Sandra Turczak, Mary Ellen Coe, Norma Enfiels, Pam Calhoon, and Kay Donald.
community service
Handmade Hugs
In February the following donations have been made:
PV Nursing and Rehab Center (10 quilts)
The next meeting of Handmade Hugs will be on March 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM at the Stoneridge Community Center.
Sheryl Goddard , Community Service Co-Chair
Adult Center Quilt Display
The Adult Center is featuring our new display of quilts. The members who have volunteered their beautiful quilts are: Michelle Anderson, Toni Castle-Buss, Alicia Czuzak, Suzy Davidson,N an DeChant, Carol Grimes, Judi Kimbrell and Patty McClearn. Once again, the quilts feature a variety of quilting techniques and are truly admired by members of the Prescott-area community. If you happen to be in the area, please stop by the Prescott Adult Center on Rosser St. and enjoy our mini quilt show in the lobby.
Maryann Conner
“Lone Star” by Carol Grimes
Carol learned that the Texas Lone Star quilt originated from earlier patterns like the “Star of Bethlehem” or
“Mathematical Star” that gained in popularity in the US in the 19 th century. It was adopted by Texas quilters in the
mid-19 th to early 20 th century who named it “Lone Star” to reflect the Texas state flag’s symbol.
“Dandelions at Dusk” by Michelle Anderson
Michelle saw this quilt in the window of a quilt shop in Peoria and knew she wanted to make it. So she bought the kit
and enjoys the result as I am sure you will too!
“Scrappy Lanterns” by Alicia Czuzak
This quilt was made in a 5-day workshop in California. It was designed by Kathy Doughty and is call “Soul
Searching.” It provided an opportunity to go though scraps to show color relationships, using multi-colored scraps
as well as neutrals while trading scraps with new-found friends and neighbors.
“Saguaro” by Nan DeChant
As soon as Nan saw this pattern, she knew she had to make it. There are hundreds of pieces of fabric ranging in
size from 2” to 30” which resulted in a mind-boggling process of cutting each piece and clipping them together
while waiting to be incorporated. The quilt is assembled in 6 pieces and was enjoyable to make.
“Tiger Tiger Burning Bright!” by Suzy Davidson
Nationally known quilter, Ron Appell, has created a series of quilt patterns called Endangered Species. This quilt
was made from many small pieces. The collage effect is amazing when viewed from a distance.
“Mother’s Return to Sea” by Patty McClearn
This is another pattern from Ron Appell in his Endangered Species series. It is raw-edge appliquéd and the quilting
is free motion. When Patty asked Ron why the turtle had red and orange on it, he explained that this quilt was
designed from a picture he took while swimming with sea turtles in Hawaii. The red and orange are actually algae
growing on the turtles.
“Desert Sunrise“ by Toni Castle-Buss
Toni made this for her husband, Dennis for their 12 th anniversary. This was her first panel quilt and with five
borders, it gave her ample opportunity to work on mitered corners. The pattern was designed by Terry Alberts.
“Flower Power” by Suzy Davidson
This should be an inspiration to any “wanna-be” quilter since it is one of Suzy’s first quilts. The fabric flowers were
designed by Stephanie Brandenburg. Suzy loves her flowers and has used them in several projects. This quilt has 9
flowers quilted separately and then combined.
“Radiance” by Judi Kimbrell
This is a pattern by Kaye England and was an 8-month Block of the Month. Astonishingly, this is Judi’s first quilt
and should also be an inspiration to anyone thinking about taking up the hobby of quilting.
“Beads on a String” by Nan DeChant
This quilt was designed by Dora Cary and is a great pattern for using scraps. The “beads” are paper pieced.
America’s Semiquincentennial
250 ~ It’s a Big Deal!
I heard Tammie Earnest’s blog last week…and that’s what she said: 250 ~ It’s a Big Deal!
This summer the USA celebrates 250 years since its founding. Tammie says: all of us quilters need to be making a quilt to commemorate the event. And the label should tell the quiltmaker’s story: Who you are, how long you’ve been quilting, who taught you to quilt, your favorite technique, what you love about quilting!
I’m currently working on a red/white/blue quilt and plan to have it done in time! I’m calling it “America 250”!! Join me in celebrating our semiquincentennial!
Bring your quilts to the June general meeting. They will be hung at the Adult Center.
Life certainly has a way of speeding by. The holidays are already behind us, and we are creeping into Valentine’s Day. Before you know it, winter will be over and we’ll be wishing for cooler weather again. Now is a great time to finish up projects and think about pulling out those unfinished ones to share as a P.I.G. (Projects in Grocery Bags). Please contact Kathleen Bond if you have an unfinished project you’d like to complete.
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February Program
February brings us the Silent Auction and a preview of the P.I.G. projects. Remember to bring your checkbook or cash to purchase items from the auction. I’ve had a sneak peek at some of the extraordinary items donated to help raise funds for the guild. These funds help support our ongoing efforts to bring outstanding speakers—many of whom travel to the Prescott area from afar.
Please note: There will be no Company Store in February.
A special thank-you to Jeff Warner, our January presenter, for his incredible display of Bargello quilts and engaging PowerPoint presentation that brought many “oohs” and “ahs” from the audience. His Tuesday class was a great success, with many beautifully finished Star Bargello table toppers.
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Please Help Your Fellow Quilters Hear
Several members have asked that we remind everyone to be mindful of side conversations during presentations. Our meeting room can be difficult to hear in, and many members already struggle with hearing. Please be respectful of our guest speakers and fellow quilters by saving conversations for before the meeting, after the program, or during breaks. Thank you for your consideration!
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Quilt Camp and Retreat Lite
Now is a great time to sign up for Quilt Camp, which will be held March 23–26. Quilt Camp is a wonderful opportunity to start or finish projects while enjoying time with fellow quilting friends. See Cathy Day to sign up. At just $125, it’s a fantastic value—food, prizes, and fellowship included!
Retreat Lite sign-ups will begin in April and May.
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Opportunity Quilt Committee
A round of applause to everyone who has stepped forward to take blocks to sew—thank you! The committee is still looking for help with the final assembly and for a longarm quilter to finish this stunning quilt, “Victory Gardens” by Wing and a Prayer. Who can resist a red, white, and blue quilt in celebration of the 250th Anniversary of our great nation.
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In Closing
Your Executive Committee looks forward to seeing everyone in February. Thank you for your participation, creativity, generosity, and the wonderfful friendships we share as we quilt and sew together.
Jamie Davis, President
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early to set up and stay late for clean up.
February hostesses are CoCo Alaniz, Michelle Anderson, Diana Atkins, Ellen Baker, Rose Bliss, Jessica Bodnicki, Mike Boyle, and Shelli Leffert.
birthdays
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy January Birthday to Dianna Dunn, Dani Lerberg, Cheryl Giovenco, Fran Leslie, Betty Foley, Pat Noel, Karen Pizzuto, Martie Winkelman, Sally Thomas, Sue McIlwain, Barbara Sweeney, Mike Boyle, Jeanne Corrigan, Kathy Oppelt, Susan Lewis, Maryann Conner, and Carol Brownlow.
community service
Handmade Hugs
In January 2026, the following donations have been made:
PV Nursing newcomersRehab Center (10 quilts)
The next meeting of Handmade Hugs will be on February 7, 2026 at 9:00 AM at the Stoneridge Community Center.
Sheryl Goddard, Community Service Co-Chair
newcomers
We had a great time at the January Gathering, with 13 of us there, making and teaching the Project Bags. Carolyn Edwards also joined us to review Friendship Groups and for Show-and-Tell!
The February Gathering is with Handmade Hugs on Saturday, February 7 at the Stoneridge Community Center (from 9 to noon). The March Gathering will be a Road Trip to Phoenix Quilt Shops on Friday, March 13th. A few shops and a stop for lunch!
Wishing You a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year!
Can you believe we are already in another year? I have no idea where 2025 went! With so many outstanding speakers and workshops, the year truly flew by. We welcomed many new friends and members and enjoyed a fabulous, successful Quilt Show in June. For me, it’s been a wonderful union of talented quilters and sewists here in the Quad Cities.
Christmas Party
A special thank-you to Deb Johnson, our Vice President, and her committee of talented soup and bread makers. It was the perfect day for our holiday celebration, complete with a fun gift exchange inspired by “The Night Before Christmas.” If you’re still in need of one of those delicious soups, please check with the committee.
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Storage Locks Changed
If you are trying to access the storage unit and your key does not work, please contact Pat Noel. The lock was changed in December for security reasons.
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Workshops, Quilt Camps, and Retreat Lite
If you haven’t taken a class, attended Quilt Camp, or participated in Retreat Lite, 2026 is the year! A tremendous amount of effort goes into planning these events and securing outstanding speakers and trunk shows. Please take advantage of them.
As you know, much of our budget is devoted to speakers and classes—this is what your dues support. These opportunities are an incredible value, so don’t miss out!
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January Program and Class
We are excited to welcome Jeff Warner, who will present “The Shape of Bargello” and share his quilting journey. On Tuesday, he will teach the Bargello Star workshop—a fantastic class with a great project to take home.
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Opportunity Quilt Committee
The committee—Dede Erceg, Karen Pizzuto, Arleen Morris, Pat Noel, and myself—met at Dede’s home, where we prepared all the pieces for the 2026–2027 Opportunity Quilt. The fabrics are cut and ready for volunteers to sew this stunning quilt.
The quilt, titled “Victory Gardens” by Wing and a Prayer, features reds, whites, and blues. A heartfelt thank-you to Dede for opening her home for cutting and organization. Did you know she has an impressive quilt room—one might even call it a quilt shop in her basement!
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In Closing
The Executive Committee and all who serve the guild look forward to seeing everyone throughout the year. Thank you for your participation, creativity, generosity, and the wonderful friendships we share as we quilt together.
Jamie Davis, President
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early to set up and stay late for clean up.
January hostesses are Dana Swain, Joy Swartz, Susan Sweet, Sheryl Townsend, Linda Trudeau, Sandra Turczak, Karen Varela, Maria Williams, and Martie Winkelman.
birthdays
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy January Birthday to Yvonne Blitch, Deena Knight, Kathleen Bond, Jamie Davis, Pam Jones, Karen Eads, Kate Browne, Shirley Kelliher, Claire Bell, Sharon Harris, Sue Weisshaupt, Ellen Baker, Dawn Davidson, Toni Castle-Buss, and Judy Sloan.
community service
Handmade Hugs
In December 2025, the following donations have been made:
Yavapai Birthing Center (36 burp cloths, 8 receiving blankets)
PV Nursing and Rehab Center (14 quilts)
The next meeting of Handmade Hugs will be on January 3, 2026 at 9:00 AM at the Stoneridge Community Center.
Sheryl Goddard, Community Service Co-Chair
company store
Happy New Year to all! Before you all attend the January TBQ meeting on January 12, I wanted you all to be reminded that we are having our $5 BAG SALE on that day! WAHOO!!! We hope you can each fill a bag to give yourself post-Christmas stocking stuffers!
THANK YOU to all of you who have purchased or will be purchasing items from our TBQ Company Store!! It is a win-win situation… You get special goodies, and the money goes towards our beloved TBQ guild! Yippee!!!
I look forward to seeing all of you shoppers on January 12
I can feel a chill in the air—fall is almost over and winter is settling in around us. The recent rain was a wonderful segue into the colder season, and some of us even experienced a dusting of hail. The stores are already full of holiday spirit, and Christmas music seems to be everywhere. Get ready for a fun December party! Be sure to bring your appetite for soup and bread, along with your gift exchange item.
While many of us are busy sewing seasonal projects and baking treats, this time of year also reminds us how easy it is to get overwhelmed and forget to be thankful for all the blessings we enjoy. Take a deep breath and appreciate the abundance of beauty that surrounds us.
A special thanks to Joy Swartz for her wonderful display of antique patriotic quilts and the historical insights she shared during her Veterans Day presentation.
If you missed the Chandelier Quilt class with Shirley Smith, it was a great way to use up scraps and enjoy a day of sewing together. I try to learn something new in every class I take, and this one taught me a great new technique for pressing on the bias.
January Program and Class
We are excited to welcome Jeff Warner, who will present “The Shape of Bargello” and share his quilting journey. On Tuesday, he will be teaching the Bargello Star workshop.
Opportunity Quilt Committee
The committee—Dede Erceg, Karen Pizzuto, Arleen Morris, Pat Noel, and Carol Grimes—met after the November Guild Meeting and selected two beautiful patterns for consideration. The Executive Committee will review them soon, and a final decision will be made. Once chosen, we will be looking for volunteers to help sew blocks for this lovely quilt.
Ways and Means Committee
Hats off to Carol, Gerry, and Lydia for the creative spray bottle fundraiser! A few bottles are still available for purchase—what a fun way to raise funds for the Guild.
Our Silent Auction is coming up soon. Remember, one quilter’s stash is another quilter’s opportunity!
Recognizing Our Membership Committee
Have you ever wondered who greets everyone at the door? That would be our hardworking Membership Committee: Dawnel Muecke, Alicia Czuzak, and Shelli Leffert. These three ladies have been faithfully handling front-desk duties for several years, and we owe them a big “Thank You!”
Their responsibilities include:
Arriving early to set up
Maintaining the guest book
Collecting dues
Ordering name tags and replacements
Preparing and printing the Membership Directory
Taking photos of new members
Sending out updates as new members join
If you’re interested in mentoring or being part of welcoming new members, please speak to them—they would love to show you what’s needed to be a successful team leader.
In Closing
Thank you all for your participation, creativity, generosity, and the wonderful friendships we share as we quilt together.
Jamie Davis, President
membership
The TBQ quilting community continues to grow, and we are thrilled to introduce several new faces who have joined our guild. Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Debbie Bronson, Stephanie Lowell, Cindy Stone, Sue Greene and Renee Hromish.
Each brings their own creativity, enthusiasm, and love for quilting to our circle. Whether it’s piecing intricate patterns, experimenting with bold colors, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of fellow quilters, we know their talents and energy will enrich our guild.
We look forward to seeing their work, sharing ideas, and building lasting friendships together. Let’s make sure they feel right at home as we stitch, learn, and celebrate the art of quilting side by side.
Membership team – Dawnell Muecke, Alicia Czuzak, Shelli Leffert
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early to set up and stay late for clean up.
December hostesses are Carol Grimes, Denise Manley, Chris Sommerfelt, Kathleen Spry, Barbara Stein, Nancy Stewart, Laura Stone, Erin Sullivan, Sally Thomas, Sue Weisshaupt, and Kristine White.
birthdays
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy December Birthday to Marylou Clemmons, Shirley Fox, Shelli Leffert, Karen Adams, David Charity, Phyllis Byrnes, Jessica Brothers, Wendy Morring, Carol Wright, Barbara Stein, CoCo Alaniz, Maureen Romana, Ann Ramsey, and Deborah Salazar.
community service
Handmade Hugs
In November the following donations have been made:
Yavapai Birthing Center (84 burp cloths, 30 receiving blankets)
PV Nursing and Rehab Center (13 quilts)
39 no sew blankets made along with Prescott High School National Honor Society to be donated to Hope House in Prescott.
The next meeting of Handmade Hugs will be on December 6, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Stoneridge Community Center.
Sheryl Goddard, Community Service Co-Chair
Adult Center Quilt Display
The Prescott Adult Center is brimming with Christmas cheer and our delightful quilt display is a welcomed addition. A big thank you to the members who were so willing to share their beautiful quilts with the Prescott area community during this wonderful holiday season—Maryann Conner, Nan De Chant, Sheryl Goddard, Arleen Morris, Dawnell Muecke, Lorraine Owen, Kathy Spry and Barbara Stein.
This is such a great way to share our love of quilting with our neighbors. So, add a visit to the Adult Center to your Christmas to-do list and bring your family and friends with you!
Maryann Conner, Adult Center Chair
“Christmas Joy” by Kathy Spry
Kathy’s quilt was made over several months in 2022. She participated in The Quilted Goose Quilt Along by Linda
Thielfoldt on Facebook. It was a fun project and she enjoys pulling it out at Christmas time. It was also quilted by
Kathy.
“Christmas Twilight” by Lorraine Owen
As soon as Lorraine saw this pattern, she loved it from the start. She bought the kit because she loves Christmas
and thought this was a nice addition to her Christmas quilts. She added rhinestones for embellishment and it just
sparkles.
“Berry Christmas” from Nan De Chant
Nan won this quilt at the TBQ Quilt Show Auction and was happy to show it off in this display.
“Christmas Stroll” by Sheryl Goddard
This quilt was purchased as a kit during the Fall 2022 Southeast Michigan Pumpkin Patch Shop Hop. The shop that
carried the pattern and kit is The Quilt Patch in Tecumseh, Michigan. It was Sheryl’s first row-by-row quilt and
she enjoyed combining the different rows of blocks into one cohesive quilt.
“Christmas Log Cabin” by Nan De Chant
Nan saw this quilt in a Hallmark Christmas movie about 10 years ago. By the time the movie ended, she found the
pattern through Google. It’s in a book called “Christmas with Possibilities.”
“Modern Christmas Tree” by Maryann Conner
When given a TBQ President’s challenge in 2014, Maryann decided to design her Christmas tree with a modern art
style.
“Christmas Time is Here” by Maryann Conner
When she saw this red truck panel, she knew it would be perfect for her first One Block Wonder quilt. It was quite
a challenge piecing the hexagons and placing them strategically around the panel. But she loves the result.
“Deer Christmas” by Dawnell Muecke
This is a free pattern from Moda Fabrics. The deer was cut from a panel and machine appliqued to the background.
“Medallion Quilt” by Barbara Stein
The pattern for this quilt was created at the Round Bobbin Quilt Shop in Horsham, PA, by Peggy Beerer. It was a
custom design for a class Peggy taught at the shop.
“Pinwheeling Christmas” by Arleen Morris
Arleen got a new sewing machine at the time and decided to experiment with some decorative machine stitches and
this was the perfect pattern to try them out. In addition to the decorative stitches, Arleen also hand quilted the
quilt.
Adult Center at Christmas 1
Adult Center at Christmas 2
RETREAT-LITE
FALL 2025 “RETREAT LITE” RECAP
Another GREAT retreat is in the books! Thank you to the sensational gals who congregated this past month at our FALL “RETREAT LITE” program held at the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Prescott. A WONDERFUL time was enjoyed by all. It was truly a time for stitching ~ whether starting, finishing, fixing, changing, rearranging … a LOT was accomplished!
Looking into the future, we’d like to post the following tentative “RETREAT LITE” dates scheduled for 2026. Also, remember to watch for the annual 4-day QUILT CAMP program coming to you in March of 2026.
Spring “RETREAT LITE” – May 25 & 26, 2026
Fall “RETREAT LITE” – October 26 & 27, 2026
Questions? Reach out to members Dana Swain and Jamie Davis.
Here we are at the end of October, quickly approaching Halloween! I hope all your goblin and ghostly projects are ready for the trick-or-treaters.
It was such a pleasure to have “A Man in the Quilt Shop” with us this month. Great Trunk Show by Ken. Ken Casey shared some great quilting tricks and tips during his presentation and Monday afternoon session at Coco’s Prescott Quilt Works and again on Tuesday while teaching his class on Flying Geese. It was a treat to have him in the Prescott area, and we hope he visits again soon!
November Program & Workshop
As things sometimes go in our busy lives, our November speaker is unable to join us. Fortunately, our own Joy Swartz has graciously stepped in to present a wonderful program on Patriotic Quilts from her personal collection — many dating back to the 1800s. You won’t want to miss this incredible display of history and craftsmanship!
For our Tuesday workshop, Shirley Smith will be teaching a full-day class on the Chandelier Quilt pattern. This is a fantastic opportunity to put your scraps to good use and reduce that ever-growing fabric collection.
Opportunity Quilt Committee
I’m pleased to announce that we now have a wonderful group of ladies working together to select the quilt pattern and fabrics for next year’s Quilt Show Opportunity Quilt. Once the final design is chosen, we’ll be asking for additional volunteers to help assemble the blocks.
Thank you all in advance for your help with this important project — it’s one of the key fundraisers that supports our guild and its programs for years to come.
Recognizing Our Ways and Means Team
First and foremost, I’d like to express our sincere appreciation to Liz Hart, our outgoing Ways and Means Chair, for her years of dedicated volunteer service to the guild.
To help share the workload, we now have three energetic new members taking on this important role: Gerry Carr, Carol Grimes, and Lydia Figueroa. They’ll be focusing on fundraising and marketing for our guild and have already started brainstorming creative new ideas!
Please take a moment to stop by and share your own fundraising suggestions with them. If you’ve belonged to other guilds that had successful money-raising activities, we’d love to hear about them. We’ll continue with some of our “tried and true” favorites, but we’re also excited to explore fresh, new opportunities.
And remember — if you have items or projects that no longer bring you JOY, consider donating them to our Silent Auction. One quilter’s stash is another’s treasure, and someone will love finishing it with joy and inspiration.
In Closing
Thank you all for your enthusiasm, creativity, and generosity. It’s what keeps our guild strong and connected.
I look forward to seeing everyone in November — until then, keep quilting, keep creating, and enjoy this beautiful fall season!
Warmly, Jamie Davis, President
membership
Welcome New Members!
We’re excited to extend a warm welcome to four wonderful new members who have joined our quilting community: Marylou Barrows, Dolores Baker, Heather McCafferty, and Rosa Amos!
Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just getting started, we’re so glad to have you with us. Each new member brings fresh energy, creativity, and perspective to our group — and we can’t wait to see what you stitch up!
Be sure to introduce yourself at the next meeting and help make our newest members feel right at home. Welcome, Marylou, Dolores, Heather, and Rosa — we’re thrilled you’re here!
Our guild now has 163 members!
Membership team – Dawnell Muecke, Alicia Czuzak, Shelli Leffert
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early to set up and stay late for clean up.
November hostesses are Georgia Lindsey, Elizabeth Phinder, Judith Ritner, Barb Saia, Deborah Salazar, Pauline Saskowsky, Vickie Sawyer, Kathleen Semerau, Judy Sloan, Angela Smith, Shirlee Smith, Barbara Sweeney, and Carolyn Wright.
birthdays
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy November Birthday to Michelle Anderson, Susan Henry, Mary Quindry, Laura Stone, Erin Sullivan, Shelley Graham, Donna Hickish, Deb Bondi, Marylou Barrows, and Chris McGrew.
community service
Handmade Hugs
In October the following donations have been made: Yavapai Birthing Center (31 burp cloths, 12 receiving blankets) PV Nursing and Rehab Center (10 quilts)
The next meeting of Handmade Hugs will be on November 1, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Stoneridge Community Center. We will be working with the Prescott High School National Honor Society to make no-sew blankets for donation.
It’s hard to believe we’re already leaving the hot summer behind and moving into fall. That means it’s quilting season as we ramp up for the holidays—Halloween, Thanksgiving, and soon Christmas. By now, all those gift projects should be well underway! And if you love snuggling under a quilt, this is the perfect time to bring them out and enjoy their warmth.
A big shout-out to Jennifer Wagner for her inspiring trunk show and two fantastic class presentations. On Monday afternoon she showed us how coloring patterns ahead of time opens up so many layout options—who knew there could be so many! Tuesday’s class was equally amazing, teaching us how to make Mini Moons without visible stitching on the circles. Jennifer, along with her mother Pam, brought a wide variety of patterns and unique shopping items that aren’t always available in our small community. Her enthusiasm was contagious!
I’d also like to remind you about the wonderful lineup of presenters and classes we have planned this year. Please take advantage of them! The cost is so reasonable—many of these same classes would be in the hundreds of dollars elsewhere.
In October, we look forward to Ken Casey’s program, “There is a Man in the Quilt Shop.” He’ll also lead a half-day class on Monday afternoon at Coco’s Prescott Quilt Store, focusing on fabric coordination and color. Then, on Tuesday, he’ll teach “Which Way Did They Go?”—a helpful workshop for anyone who struggles with Flying Geese.
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Recognizing Our Newcomers Team
Did you know it takes a village of dedicated volunteers to keep our guild running smoothly? This month, I’d like to recognize our Newcomers Team. If you’d like to help or volunteer in this area, you’ll find it’s a fun, welcoming place to get involved.
If you’re new to the Thumb Butte Quilters Guild—or even if you’re not but would like to meet new friends—this group is for you. They meet in a smaller, more intimate setting with both new and longtime members, making it easier to feel comfortable before stepping into the larger guild meetings. You’ll share your passion for quilting, enjoy fun projects, and even take field trips to fabric shops outside the area.
Last year, Mary Ellen Coe and Georgia Lindsay took over as leaders. They enjoyed it so much that they’ve returned this year to continue. Both are talented quilters with a genuine passion for welcoming others and helping them connect with the guild. Please give them a warm thank-you for their love and dedication to our Newcomers!
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Opportunity Quilt Committee
Our guild is still in need of a committee for the Opportunity Quilt. One wonderful member from the Newcomers Group has volunteered, but we need several more to help brainstorm ideas, select a pattern, and sew blocks. The Quilt Show is right around the corner, so we need to begin soon in order to complete and market the quilt. This project is one of our largest fundraisers and plays a vital role in supporting the guild’s budget, allowing us to bring in excellent speakers.
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Food for Thought
I’ll leave you with a short story:
“That’s Not My Job” – Author Unknown
This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody, and Nobody. There was an important job to be done, and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did. Somebody got upset because it was Everybody’s job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn’t. In the end, Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have done.
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As we look forward, let’s approach our Opportunity Quilt with gratitude and appreciation for the volunteers who make it possible. Let’s make sure it doesn’t become a case of “That’s Not My Job.” Please join me in forming a small, dedicated group of quilters to bring this project to life.
Happy sewing–and happy gifting!
Jamie Davis, President
membership
Welcome New Members! The Thumb Butte Quilters Guild is thrilled to extend a heartfelt welcome to our newest members: Terri Cause, Dede Erceg, Deb Bondi, Patty Brown, Genny Kerutis, and Chris McGrew. We’re so excited to have you join our creative community and look forward to the inspiration and energy you’ll bring to our guild!
Our September meeting was buzzing with activity, as we proudly hosted 11 visitors and celebrated reaching a total of 159 members. The quilting spirit is alive and thriving—thank you all for being part of it!
Alicia, Shelli & Dawnell, Membership Team
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early to set up and stay late for clean up.
October hostesses are: Kristy Nichols, Sally Plummer, Joan Powers, Mary Quindry, Annette Raithel, Ann Ramsey, Lynda Royce and Carol Wright.
BIRTHDAYS
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy October Birthday to Sandy Mitchell, Martha Ferriera, Anne Marston, Sheryl McLain, Debby Casali, Stephanie Fullerton, Judith Dobke, Faith Chaney, Arleen Morris, Lorraine Owen, Mary Vaughan, Janet Friedrich, C0nnie Sieh, Gerry Carr, Carolyn Edwards and Sally Plummer.
community service
Adult Center Display
The new display of quilts has been hung at the Adult Center. They feature two of our talented members, Mary Ellen Coe and Olivia Turnham. These beautiful quilts are featuring several different quilting techniques including appliqué, paper piecing, thread painting, stained glass, scraps, hand and machine appliqué. This is a pleasing way to share the wonderful world of quilting with the Prescott-area community. While I was taking the pictures for the website, several people stopped me to ask questions about them. Maybe when you visit, you can answer some questions too!
Maryann Conner, Chair
“Blue Geometric” by Mary Ellen Coe
Although looking complicated, this quilt is a group of panels designed by the amazing Angela Walters. The key to
this is the dense and fun quilting. Mary Ellen joined an online quilting challenge and learned so much.
“Civil War” by Olivia Turnham
This pattern was found in the book “Civil War Sampler.” Famous women of the time designed the blocks.
“Red & White” by Olivia Turnham
This quilt was made with scraps from holiday tree skirts.
“Sail Away Albatross” by Mary Ellen Coe
This was Mary Ellen’s first foray into paper piecing. She picked her favorite Legit Kit design. She added the
albatross because…well, who doesn’t love a bird that sails the skies for 2 years at a time and mates for life”
“Hummingbird Stained Glass” by Mary Ellen Coe
Mary Ellen always loved Stained Glass, probably starting as a child in church, watching the sun stream through the
glorious colors. She taught a class on making a stained glass quilt and with some demo leftovers, she designed this
fun quilt with a hummingbird as the center focus—hummingbirds, with their own glorious colors!
“Poppies” by Mary Ellen Coe
Although in Vietnam (not WWII) Mary Ellen’s dad was a POW for almost 7 years. She always loved poppies and the
representation of our remembrance of those who so selflessly served. She found the background in a fat quarter
bundle and it was just perfect. She tried her hand at ‘thread painting’ with this, as well as 3-dimensional poppy
flowers. It typically hangs in her quilt studio.
“Sun Bonnet Sue” by Olivia Turnham
The blocks in this quilt were made by Olivia’s mother-in-law more than 50 years ago. Olivia put them together in
this wonderful heirloom quilt.
“Dinosaur” by Olivia Turnham
Olivia saw this quilt in the Quiltique quilt shop in Las Vegas. She knew then that she just had to make it.
“Lone Star” by Olivia Turnham
Olivia made this quilt for her brother in 1993. Unfortunately, he passed away before it was gifted. This is one of
Olivia’s earlier quilts.
“Orange Onion” by Mary Ellen Coe
This was from a pattern by Karla Alexander called “Blue Onion” and might be an all-time favorite pattern. She has
made it in several color/pattern motifs. It combines two fabric lines and features a flange (a small strip of fabric
inserted between two pieces) stitched into most of the blocks.
Handmade Hugs
September 2025
In September the following donations have been made:
Yavapai Birthing Center (60 burp cloths, 31 receiving blankets)
Prescott Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (4 lap blankets)
The next meeting of Handmade Hugs will be on October 4, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Stoneridge Community Center.
Photos from the September workshop:
Sheryl Goddard, Handmade Hugs Co-Chair
company store
BOO!! Happy Fall to Thumb Butte Quilters’ Guild!! I wanted you all to be aware that all fabric being sold at The Company Store is $2 per yard which means fat quarters are $.50 and ½ yards are $1.00 and all other measurements accordingly. Also, January will be the next time we have a $5 bag sale and I will be announcing that again as January draws closer.
THANK YOU SO SO MUCH for giving so very much to The Company Store!!! Your participation does NOT go unnoticed and we are so very grateful for each and every purchase!!!
You are all supporting TBQ in a grand way every single month!!!!
Pam Jones, Chair
RETREAT-LITE
RETREAT LITE IS FULL ~ WAITLIST STILL AVAILABLE!
Wow! What a terrific response to sign-ups this past month for our upcoming RETREAT LITE scheduled for Monday, October 20th and Tuesday, October 21st. We filled all 24 openings in one meeting’s time!! We always like to have a few extra names on the waitlist however, as things do come up from time to time and maybe an opening will come about. If you’d like to be on the waitlist for the retreat, please see Dana Swain at the Secretary Table at the October general meeting. If you have any questions, please get in touch with Dana Swain.
For those of you who were successful in signing up, watch for an email coming from me in October with the nitty-gritty details for this retreat.
Dana Swain, Co-Chair
NEWCOMERS
welve members attended our September gathering. We made Badge Holders and had a blast. We will meet in October at Coco’s Prescott Quilt Works again!
October Gathering Tuesday, October 21 9 am to Noon Origami Bag (requirements below)
Mark your calendars and let us know if you will be there.
Please bring a show-n-tell, Membership Dictionary, 8-1/2” blocks for this year’s small quilt, sewing machines and related items, fabric, ribbon/cording, and your wondrous selves!
Requirements: Sewing Machine, ready to run Pins, Scissors, Ruler Rotary
Two complimentary Fat Quarters (Can be holiday-themed, general gift, birthday, child-themed, etc)
You might want to bring 4 FQ’s and make one for you, one for the Marketplace!
Ribbon or cording that compliments the FQ’s you have chosen
This year’s “Small Quilt Auction” Quilt:
We are making a 56-block quilt that will be in a color-wash layout. The blocks are 8-1/2” (unfinished), with a center stripe-set that is 4-1/2” x 8-1/2” with black strips on both sides (2-1/2” x 8-1/2”). We will provide the black strips. If you would like to participate, please let us know. The more, the merrier!
I am delighted to serve as the new President of the Thumb Butte Quilters Guild. Since the baton was passed to me by our multi-talented Coco, I knew I would have a tough act to follow.
A special thanks goes out to Shirlee Smith, a very talented TBQG member who shared her amazing quilts with us last month in August. What a wonderful beginning to our 2025-2026 year.
I want to extend my gratitude to those who have volunteered for Executive positions two years in a row:Deb Johnson, Vice President, andDana Swain, Secretary. I also warmly welcome our new Executive Committee members:Judith Dobke, Treasurer, andJeanne Corrigan, Co-Secretary.
Of course, our committee leadership extends far beyond these positions:
Community Service: Sheryl Goddard (1st year as Chair) and Kristine White (2nd year as Co-Chair) will be leading ourHandmade Hugs program.
Membership/Hospitality: Continuing their dedicated service are Dawnell Muecke, Alicia Czuzak, and Shelli Leffert.
Ways and Means: We are excited to welcome new volunteers Gerry Carr, Carol Grimes, and Lydia Figueroa, who will focus on fundraising in this non–Quilt Show year.
Web Team: Carol Wright and Yvonne Blitch, who have given many years of service, keep our website current, maintain our history, and send out reminders and communications.
Workshops: Kathleen Bond has worked tirelessly for many years to ensure affordable, high-quality workshops are available for our members (and sometimes neighboring guilds). Workshops remain only $35—an incredible value. I encourage everyone to take advantage of these opportunities.
How do we begin to thank those who give of themselves so freely? Sometimes a simplehello andthank you go a long way. I truly believe in the power of “Paying It Forward.” And giving generously of your time to make this a fabulous Guild.
As the year progresses, I will be highlighting the many positions that keep Thumb Butte Quilters Guild running smoothly. This month, I’d like to shine a light on ourCompany Store.
Company Store.
The Company Store is a wonderful example of teamwork behind the scenes. A dedicated group of volunteers works together to provide members with an affordable shopping experience.
All items—fabrics, notions, and more—are donated by members and friends who no longer need them or whose “stash” has simply grown too large. (Please remember that donations must be clean and stored in a clean environment before they are given to the store.)
Donated items are sorted by color, theme, or uniqueness, then priced and stored. Some items are passed along to the Marketplace to be crafted into items for sale, while others go to Handmade Hugs to become burp cloths, receiving blankets, or lap quilts. Also, items are contributed to Birthday Raffle, Quilt Retreat and small Quilt Auction. Most, however, are offered directly to our members at drastically reduced prices, helping us all enhance our God-given talents in quilting, sewing, and crafting.
It starts a day or two before our meeting. Vehicles are loaded up from storage into vehicles in preparation for our meeting. Around 8:15-8:30 a.m. on Guild meeting mornings the truck, trailer, and SUV’s pull into the Elks parking lot. The Company Store team is usually among the first to arrive. They unload boxes, organize items, and set up displays to make shopping enjoyable for everyone. Lending a hand unloading would be most appreciated, one simple way is to carry a box to the back tables as you sign in—it makes setup much quicker and allows shopping to begin sooner! At the end of the meeting, if you could help take a box or two back to the vehicles parked out front, it would be greatly appreciated too. Many hands make light work!
Special thanks to Our Company Store volunteers
Pam Jones – Since 1999 Pam has volunteered with company store, minus a few years as Newcomers Lead, Vice President 2000-2001.
Carol Brownlow – over many years
Lorraine Owens – Has volunteered about 10 years in Company Store, Lorraine has also been a Lady in Waiting and always volunteered in many capacities.
Cathy Day – serving since 2018, a major role player in Marketplace at the Quilt Show and now in her 2nd year at volunteering in the store
Pat Noel–Has been hauling boxes in her truck for at least 5 years, volunteered in Ways and Means for 1 years, Show and Tell for 2 years and was Chair for Quilt show in 2025.
If you would like to join this group of amazing volunteers—or if you’d like to be mentored for a role in 2026–2027—please contact one of the committee members or let me know directly.
Let’s make this a year ofcommunity service, creativity, and connection.
Happy sewing—and thank you for giving a part of yourself to others!
Warmly, Jamie Davis, President
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early to set up and stay late for clean up.
September hostesses are Karen Adams, Claire Bell, Yvonne Blitch, Kathleen Bond, Donna Hickish, Wendy Morring, Arlene Morris, Linda Morriston, Dawnell Muecke, Pat Noel, Kathy Oppelt, Lorraine Owens, Sue Parks, and Kare Parsons.
BIRTHDAYS
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy September Birthday to Nancy Lande, Trish Charity, Barbara Merkel, Chris Sommerfelt, Linda Royce, Terry Grenier, Kristine White, Jessica Bodnick, Sheryl Goddard, and Liz Hart.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Handmade Hugs
In August the following donations have been made:
Yavapai Birthing Center (25 burp cloths, 12 receiving blankets)
PV Rehab Center (8 quilts)
Walking with Moms in Need (1 baby quilt)
The next meeting of Handmade Hugs will be on September 6, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Stoneridge Community Center.
Sheryl Goddard, Co-Chair
retreat-lite
It’s Time to Retreat Again!
If gathering to work on your quilting projects with other Guild members in a smaller setting is what you’d like to do, don’t miss your chance to sign up for our upcoming “RETREAT LITE” program at the September and October General Membership meetings. Registrations will be collected on a first come (paid), first served basis. We have space for twenty-four sewists, so come prepared with your check payable to TBQG for $15.00. Here are the nitty-gritty details:
WHO: All members of TBQ guild are invited to sit-and-sew together.
WHAT: Two days of sewing, creating, starting, finishing, and sharing in a retreat setting.
WHEN: Monday, October 20th from 8:00 to 5:00 and Tuesday, October 21st, from 8:00 to 4:00.
WHERE: Trinity Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall located at 630 Park Avenue in Prescott.
WHY: Just an opportunity to get together and work on projects, build or start new friendships, and generally enjoy our shared craft.
HOW: This is a “LITE” RETREAT which means that we will provide you with a place to sew with your fellow guild members. Each table seats two sewists and has a surge protector for your machines. We will provide centralized cutting tables with tools as well as ironing stations with irons and spray starch. All attendees will need to provide their own meal and drink for the two days. There is a full kitchen in our workspace for your convenience. We encourage you to bring a snack to share.
Jamie is traveling out of the country, so there will be no President’s Message this time. Thanks for understanding.
membership
Hi everyone!
We are off to the new year and have 4 new members who joined in July. Please welcome, Julie McMammon, Jennifer Mees, Juliann Rogers and Karen Halverson to TBQ.
I hope everyone who attended the meeting was able to collect their new directory. Please take a few minutes to look at your information to be sure it’s correct. If not, just come see Membership at the next meeting to correct it by filling out a change form. In addition, you will see that in most cases your hostess month has been bumped up by one month. This means if you had hostess duty in May, you will now be in June. I wanted to be sure any party hostess has 5 years before being ‘elected’ to be on party duty! (You’re welcome!)
If you have not yet picked up your directory, please do so at one of the next few meetings.
We currently have 145 members!
See you in August!!
Dawnell, Alicia and Shelli – Membership Team
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to be a hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early for setup and stay late for cleanup.
August 2025 hostesses are Dianna Dunn, Dani Lerberg, Fran Leslie, Susan Lewis, Anne Marston, Patty McClearn, Sheryl McLain, Barbara Merkel, Pam Miller, Sandy Mitchell, Holly Purdom, and Mary Vaughan.
birthdays
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy August birthdays to Kathleen Semerau, Shirlee Smith, Lola Dyroy, Nancy Stewart, Dana Swain, Carolyn Wright, Linda Morriston, Lorin Franco, Molly Haney-Burleigh, Vickie Sawyer, Joy Swartz, Georgia Lindsey, Kristy Nichols, Maria Williams, Holly Purdom, Jeanie Braheme, Joan Powers, and Patty McClearn.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Adult Center Quilt Display
The theme for our display of quilts at the Adult Center is Encore since they were all part of the wonderful TBQ Quilt Show. The show this year was stunning–so many beautiful quilts with all kinds of techniques on display.
The talented members whose quilts are on display are: Carrie Casto, Martha Ferreira, Shirley Fox, Carol Grimes, Sheryl McLean, Lorraine Owen, Elizabeth Phinder, Barbara Stein and Sheryl Townsend. A big thank you to these ladies for sharing their quilts with the Prescott area community.
If you have time, stop by the Prescott Adult Center on Rosser St. and bring family and friends to see our mini quilt show in the main lobby.
Maryann Conner, Adult Center Chair
“Star of the West” by Shirley Fox
Shirley made this quilt for her western Prescott home. The choice of colors makes this quilt stunning.
“Star Bright” by Sheryl Townsend
This was Sheryl’s first and last paper-pieced pattern which started in a class she took. She finished it
about 3 years later after moving across the country to a new state.
“Pin Cushion Collage” by Sheryl McLean
Sheryl adapted this quilt collage from a Laura Heine pattern and used Kaffe Fasset fabric flowers and
colorful details.
“Exploding Star” by Martha Ferreira
Martha fell in love with this star. The quilt is paper-pieced using the freezer paper method.
“Mariachi Dancers” by Lorraine Owen
The dancers on the interior of the quilt were done with reverse appliqué. The border is a wonderful
display of appliqué using batik fabrics. Hand beading was also used to further enhance the quilt.
“Twirling Batiks” by Elizabeth Phinder
This quilt was designed for the Henry Glass fabric company for their booth at the International Quilt
Market. It was there to showcase a new fabric line.
“My Heart is in Arizona” by Carrie Casto
Carrie designed this quilt with the help of her kids for their wedding quilt based on a Sew Kind of
Wonderful Saguaro.
“Dragonflies” by Carol Grimes
These wonderful dragonflies are from a JoAnn Hoffman pattern called Dance of the Dragonflies.
“Queen of Diamonds” by Barbara Stein
Pink Door Fabrics created this English paper-pieced pattern using fabrics designed by Tula Pink. This
was a 12-month Block of the Month started in 2023 and finish in 2024
“Duck, Duck, Goose” by Babara Merkel
Barbara loves making children’s quilts. This pattern made her smile and she just had to make it.
COMPANY STORE
If you are planning on attending the TBQ August 11th meeting, come prepared to shop at The Company Store!! We have a swath of brand new donations that are ready for you to feast your eyes on and comb through so you can find that pile of material and/or those quilting items you’ve been looking for or not even knew you were looking for! The prices will amaze you, as always, and we look forward to seeing you have fun as you shop to your heart’s delight! See you August 11!!! Pam Jones, Chair
RETREAT-LITE summer session
Thank you to all twenty-four ladies who participated in our summer RETREAT LITE held June 30th and July 1st. A productive two days were spent together completing projects, building skills, sharing ideas/patterns, and munching on healthy and not-so-healthy snacks!
This RETREAT LITE program was designed to give our members an opportunity to come together and sew, stitch, and share. SAVE THE DATE! Our next retreat will be in the fall on Monday, October 20th and Tuesday, October 21st. We will meet once again at the Trinity Presbyterian Church in Prescott. SIGN UPS WILL TAKE PLACE AT OUR SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER GENERAL MEETINGS. Watch for details in future website updates. The cost remains $15.00 for the two day retreat.
As my time as President of the Thumb Butte Quilters’ Guild comes to a close, I want to say what a true honor and delight it’s been to serve this vibrant, creative, and generous group of quilters. From our monthly meetings to our workshops, outreach, and stitch-filled laughter, each one of you has left a special stitch in the quilt of my heart. I’ve grown as a quilter and as a person thanks to your encouragement, spirit, and boundless creativity.
Now, it’s time to pass the baton — or should I say, the rotary cutter — to our new President, Jamie Davis! Jamie brings not only talent and leadership, but also a bright energy that’s going to guide our Guild into an exciting new chapter. With her awesome board by her side, I know the Guild will continue to thrive, stitch by stitch, project by project. You’re in fantastic hands, and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Before I go, a huge round of applause for the amazing team effort that made this year’s Quilt Show such a smashing success! From setup to takedown, raffle tickets to ribbon placements, every single person helped create a celebration of quilting that made our whole community proud. Thank you for trusting me with this role — and for making it so joyful. I’ll still be around, just with a little less paperwork and a little more sewing time!
Coco Alaniz, Past President
incoming president’s message
I am extremely blessed…
for all the friendship and support I have received since I became a member of ths enthusiastic guild. When I think back on how I first met several members outside selling water, on a hot day, in June 2021 during the outside/inside Covid Quilt Show on the Courtyard, I had no idea how rewarded personally one could be. At that brief informal encounter, I knew Thumb Butte Quilt Guild was the guild for me. I joined in August 2021. From starting the Accuquilt Group, to being Chair for Community Service, volunteering, and assisting with the Quilt Shows the rewards that have come from being of service have been unmeasurable.
The talent and friendship are only part of why this quilt guild surpasses the groups I had in many other states I have lived in.
With a fantastic group of gals on the Executive Board and wonderful Committee Members there is no doubt this will be an outstanding year. It will be a year to enjoy friendship groups, help with community service, create beautiful quilts to share at show and tell and start thinking and prepping for the quilt show in 2027. The benefits of being a member or a guest is a privilege to an array of creative, talented and enjoyable speakers at our monthly meetings. It’s never too late to start learning something new.
I look forward to serving as your President and excited to see you all at the August meeting.
Jamie Davis, President 2025-2026
MEMBERSHIP
Thank you to everyone who paid their dues by the due date of June 15th! You really helped out the membership team to get our 2025/2026 membership directory updated and off to the printer! Cross your fingers that they will be printed by our next meeting.
If you didn’t get a chance to pay your dues, no worries. Just drop it off at the membership table at the next meeting and we will be sending out monthly directory updates to get you included.
We had 2 members join at our June meeting. Give a friendly hello to Judi Kimbrell and Joan Fedirko at our next meeting!! Welcome new members!
Dawnell, Alicia and Shelli – Membership Team
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to be a hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early for setup and stay for cleanup.
July hostesses are Nancy Lefler, Dani Lerberg, Fran Leslie, Susan Lewis, Anne Marston, Patty McClearn, Joan McGivern, Sheryl McLain, Barbara Merkel and Sandy Mitchell.
birthdays
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy July birthdays to Patty Gerlitz, Cheryl Peterman, Melanie Korzep, Kim Keogh, Sue Parks, Gretchen Delaney, and Karen Varela.
community service
Handmade Hugs
For the 2024-2025 fiscal year, a total of 805 items were donated to the following organizations:
1. Yavapai Birthing Center – 350 burp cloths and 178 receiving blankets
2. Gentiva Hospice Center – 13 quilts
3. Prescott Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center – 130 quilts|
4. LA Fire Victims – 12 quilts
5. Prescott HS National Honor Society – 32 blankets
6. Blankets 4 Kids – 45 quilts
7. TBQ Marketplace & Quilt Show – 45 quilts
The next meeting of the Handmade Hugs group will be on August 2, 2025 at 9:00 AM at the Stoneridge Community Center.
Sheryl Goddard – Community Service Co-Chair
quilt show
First of all I want to THANK all of the Committee Chairs everyone did a spectacular job!
Next I want to thank all of the members who took extra time to help at the show. And provided their beautiful quilts.
I want a special thanks to the husbands and son who supported TBQ by hauling all of the equipment to and from the show. Then helped build and tear down the show.
Because of our membership, this show was a GREAT SUCCESS! This show will provide the resources to hire educational presenters in the coming year.
Thanks again to all.
Wow — what an amazing meeting we had! A huge THANK YOU to everyone who attended and for your patience as we navigated through Rob Appell’s energetic, inspirational whirlwind of a presentation! He was on fire and honestly, I couldn’t bring myself to stop him after an hour — my apologies for going over time , but let’s be real — HE WAS WORTH IT!
His classes were just as fun and empowering! We all left feeling like “Yes, we CAN do it!”
Looking ahead… mark your calendars!
Our Quilt Show is coming up June 13 & 14 at Prescott High School — it’s going to be amazing, and we need everyone’s help to make it shine!
Quilt Registration Extended!
Thanks to the fabulous Carrie Casto (not Castro! ), we’ve extended quilt registration by TWO MORE WEEKS! So let’s get ‘er done!
It’s also time to vote for your incoming guild officers! Please join us in supporting:
Jamie Davis – President
Deb Johnson – VP
Judith Dobke – Treasurer
Dana Swain & Holly Purdom – Sharing Secretary duties
Also, a bittersweet note — our beloved and hardworking Sharla Peterson will be stepping down from her role in Marketplace. We are SO grateful for everything she’s done! If you or someone you know can fill her shoes (size: FABULOUS ), please reach out!
Presidential Challenge Quilts
Reminder: these need to be registered in order to be displayed at the show! If you handed them off to me and they haven’t been registered yet, swing by the shop and we’ll do it together!
Let’s keep the energy high and the stitches strong — can’t wait to see all your beautiful quilts and smiling faces!
Happy sewing, Coco Alaniz, President
membership
Wow! What a great meeting in May with lots of members showing up to hear Rob Appell’s inspiring quilt journey. We had 14 guests and 6 people join.
Make sure to welcome our new members at the next meeting!
Sue McIlwain, Maureen Romano, Toni Castle-Buss, Karen Pizzuto, Connie Sieh(rejoin) and Kay Donald.
We currently have 172 members and 112 have paid their dues for next year. Paying early really helps us get the directory complete and out on time, so if you have not had a chance to pay please plan on dropping off your $35 check at the next meeting. If you can’t make it, just drop it in the mail and send to:
Thumb Butte Quilters Guild
PO Box 3457
Prescott, AZ 86302
See you in June! Dawnell, Shelli and Alicia – Membership Team
hostesses
If you cannot attend the meeting when it is your turn to be a hostess by bringing a treat, please arrange to trade with someone. Plan to arrive early for setup and stay for cleanup.
June hostesses are Gretchen Delaney, Cathy Horneman, Sherri Hubbs, Debbie James, Deb Johnson, Pam Jones, Shirley Kelliher, Kim Keogh, Jenne Kern, Raene Kinion, Deena Knight, Melanie Korzep, Barbara Krit, Iris Lacey, Nancy Lande, and Gayle Lee.
birthdays
celebrants – When it’s your birthday month, bring a wrapped gift suitable for a quilter, something you would like to receive, with a value of at least $10
Happy June birthdays to Cynthia Falzone, Kate Parsons, Dawnell Muecke, Alicia Czuzak, Kay Wentworth, Gayle Lee, Pauline Saskowsky, Cathy Day, Debbie James, and Carrie Casto.
retreat lite returns
Thank you all for your enthusiastic enrollment in our upcoming two-day sewing retreat. We have 24 seats to fill and I took 22 reservations at our May general meeting. If you would like to get your name on the roster, please contact Dana Swain. I will also take sign-ups at the June general meeting should there be any further openings left at that time. This retreat is a “sew-in” of sorts ~ we meet at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Prescott on June 30 and July 1 for the opportunity to work on sewing projects, share ideas, techniques, stories, and general silliness! The time each day is 8:00 to 5:00 and the cost is $15.00. The guild provides the space to sew, ironing and cutting stations, design walls, and some tools. You will need to provide your own sewing machines, some of your favorite tools, your own projects, and your own lunch and drinks. Participants are encouraged to bring a snack to share as well.
Questions? Call or email Dana Swain
QUILT SHOW 2025
Last Minute Quilt Show Reminders..
When and where is the 2025 TBQ Quilt Show? Friday and Saturday, June 13-14 at Prescott High School Gym,1050 Ruth Street
What are the show hours? Friday 9-5:00 and Saturday 9-4:00
Do I have to pay to attend the quilt show? Yes…$5 entry fee is good for both days and a raffle ticket for a vendor prize which are given each hour
What time does set up happen? 7:00 Thursday at the Ponderosa Mini Storage, 555 6th Street, for trucks and trailers and set up begins at the high school at 8:30
What time does tear down happen? 4:00 on Saturday…not a minute earlier
Do I have to label/sleeve my quilts? Yes please…see the instructions in the envelope you receive from registration for the details and there is sleeve info on the TBQ website
When/where do I submit in my quilt? Bring your quilt to the high school gym, labeled and sleeved…ready to go…on Thursday between 8:30-Noon…registration is directly to your right thru the main gym doors…please follow all instructions in your registration envelope
When/where do I pick up my quilt? Between 4:30-6:00 on Saturday in the registration area…please don’t take down your quilt from the show area…there are people for that task
Is there an activity for kids to do at the quilt show? YES! There will be an “I SPY” game for younger children…they can pick up the game at the admissions desk and receive a prize when they finish
What do I wear to the quilt show? Wear your quilt show t-shirt (if you have one) quilt show pin, name tag, and apron…there will be t-shirts for sale at the admission desk
Do I have to bring an apron? You can bring your own or Pat made aprons you can pick up at the admissions table…a great place to keep your phone, white gloves and all the $$$ you’ll spend at the show:)
Do I have to carry white gloves? Yes, please…this way if a guest would like to see the back of a quilt you can turn it over for them to see
Will there be food trucks? Yes
What time can I shop at the marketplace? The marketplace will open on Friday at 9:00 for EVERYONE. They will not be equipped for early sales or lay-away prior to Friday at 9AM.
Will there be prizes for the favorite quilts? Each guest will receive a VIEWER’S Choice ballot to vote for their 3 favorite quilts…ribbons for the top 10 quilts will be presented at the July general meeting
What day and time is the small quilt silent auction? Friday the auction closes at 3:00 and the 2nd auction is on Saturday and closes at 3:00
What time does the Gift Basket raffle end? Saturday at 3:15
What time will the winner of the Opportunity Quilt be drawn? Drum roll please…Saturday at 3:30!
Does everyone have to volunteer for at the show? Oh YES please…many hands make light work and being a volunteer is a GREAT way to learn about the show and meet or get to better know your fellow guild members! Whether you donate items for the marketplace or donate your time at the show, we hope everyone participates in some shape or form.
WAHOO!!! We hope you can each fill a bag to give yourself post-Christmas stocking stuffers!
Origami Bag (requirements below)
Block Example 
General layout example
A Farewell with Gratitude and Joy
