The Sustainability Challenge

ABOVE: Bed quilt made by Cindy Connell, CQA/ACC Director of Communications, using repurposed denim and the June Taylor Charming Circles Ruler.

Ready for a repurposeful winter project?

Canadian Quilter is looking for photos of your quilts and quilted objects made from repurposed materials, such as used clothing, bedding, table linens, etc., that would otherwise go to the landfill.

The quilt top must be made from at least 50% used materials, with unused fabric scraps (stash) making up the remainder of the quilt. Same rule for the back…bed sheets make great backing!

Another way to think about it: If you have to purchase any fabric for this project, it should come from a thrift shop, garage sale, etc.

The objectives are to:

save household textiles from going to the landfill;
use found materials to create a work of art; and,
share your values regarding environmental responsibility.

Quilt made from men’s shirts by CQA/ACC President Irene Lafleche.

We count on you to be resourceful, and stick to the 50% rule, as we have no way of checking.

The quilt can be any size you like. It can also be a wearable, or a quilted object, including a bag, wall hanging, etc. Please share all of your great ideas for repurposing fabric that would otherwise go to waste.

Some ideas for inspiration:

memory quilt made from repurposed clothing
rag quilt made from cotton and flannel
stuffed toys
placemats made from repurposed linens
clothing made from repurposed quilts
tote bags and travel bags

Quilt made from baby clothes for a 5th birthday present by CQA/ACC Past President Jane Cramer.

Deadline for photos:
March 18, 2023 (Global Recycling Day)

To enter the challenge, send two high-resolution photos (one of the whole quilt, one detail image) to editor@canadianquilter.com by March 18, 2023 – Global Recycling Day. Please include a list of textiles used and where you found them, as well as your full name and home province.

All quilt images will be displayed in an online gallery at canadianquilter.com starting April 22, 2023 – Earth Day, and a smaller selection will also be featured in the Summer 2023 issue of Canadian Quilter magazine.

We can’t wait to see what you do!

PLEASE NOTE: By entering this challenge, you are providing permission to CQA/ACC to use your image(s), your first name and surname initial (e.g. Susan B.), and home province in the online gallery, in Canadian Quilter magazine, and on CQA/ACC social media.