If you’re looking for a story that shows the power of quilting, The Quilters, a new release from Netflix fills the bill.
The documentary debuts today (May 16, 2025) amid very good reviews.
In this 33-minute film, nine men in a maximum-security prison design and sew beautiful, personalized quilts. The prison is in a small town, two hours south of St. Louis, Missouri.
The story revolves around how they consider the creative process as a form of therapy. As a result, we see beyond the ‘tough guy’ acts that they use as a front so that other prisoners don’t messes with them.
“Around here, anybody can get into trouble,” one of the men says in the movie trailer.
“I may not be going home,” adds another.
One of the other participants describes the one-room sewing space as “organized chaos.” (Doesn’t every quilter live in this state?)
Here is how Netflix summarizes it:
“From design to completion, the men reveal their struggles, triumphs, and sense of pride in creating something beautiful in this windowless, sacred space deep within the prison walls.”
The film was produced and directed by Jenifer McShane.
The Centre for Independent Documentary describes her as an independent filmmaker committed to using film to bridge understanding in situations where structural, cultural or religious divisions typically keep people apart.
In this case, the prison walls certainly serve as a barrier. Yet, their quilting provides a therapeutic outlet for the prisoners as they await sentencing.
What do the reviews say?
“Even though I don’t know any of these men, I was literally crying with pride for these guys,” one viewer wrote. “They should be proud of themselves they are putting good into the world.”
“I’ve been in situations myself where I relied on the charity of others and I can say receiving something you know someone out work, effort and care into really is heart warming,” this person continued.
“I know the kids receiving these quilts would be absolutely loving them. It was so touching too that weighted quilts were being made also for autistic children.
“Overall, it was a lovely documentary. I wish there were more episodes to watch.”
“The film is a lovely and caring portrait of the quiet side of prison life and the therapeutic nature on the soft side behind bars,” wrote reviewer Richard Schertzer.
He describes The Quilters as a refreshing way to challenge the status quo and work hard at being something greater than the rest.
“The true energy of the film comes from McShane’s work behind the camera,” he adds. “She delves deep into an emotionally sensitive side of prison that most people would not think of behind bars. It is done with such love and care that audiences can’t help but look on at the subtle drama.”
He agrees with the other reviews so far that give the film 7.5 stars out of 10.
“All in all, the film has a charm that can easily be found in its simplicity and it cultivates that simplicity through its premise.”
Who has watched it and what did you think of it? I welcome your messages at Lois.Tuffin@CanadianQuilterAdministration.com.
