North Dorset Quilters: 28 Years of Making Together

From mystery quilts to Seminole patchwork, meet the friendly Shaftesbury group bringing another colourful collection of work to this year’s show.

Formed in 1998, North Dorset Quilters celebrates its 28th anniversary this year. Based in Shaftesbury, the group brings together a friendly community of makers with a shared enthusiasm for patchwork, quilting and textile crafts. Their monthly meetings aren’t just about creating larger quilts either. Members regularly turn their hands to smaller sewing projects, learn techniques from one another and enjoy the simple pleasure of making in company. New members and visitors are warmly welcomed, whatever their level of experience.

There’s always something new being explored. In 2023, members embarked on a Mystery Quilt project, receiving new blocks without knowing what the finished design would eventually become. Six of the completed quilts went on display at our Shepton Mallet show in 2024, while their 2025 appearance brought a wonderfully festive collection of Christmas quilts, wall hangings, banners and even a quilted Christmas tree skirt. More recently, the group has worked on sampler quilts introducing a variety of patchwork techniques, while 2026 has seen members experimenting with Seminole patchwork – creating striking patterned bands that are being incorporated into everything from clothing and table mats to finished quilts.

We’re delighted to be welcoming North Dorset Quilters back to Craft4Crafters at the Bath & West Showground this October. Their displays are a lovely reminder of just how varied patchwork and quilting can be, and members will be on hand to talk about their work, techniques and life within the group. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter, just starting out or simply enjoy seeing what can be created from fabric, colour and a little imagination, make sure you stop by and say hello. They’ll be exhibiting with us from Thursday 29th to Saturday 31st October 2026.