Mini-Groups

In addition to larger group activities, guild members have formed several groups that meet regularly to focus on particular topics or just get together to stitch and for companionship. These mini groups of GVQG members meet in private homes or a public space that is agreed upon by the group. There is more detail about current GVQG mini-groups, and offerings at Runs with Scissors & Swifty’s, in the Members ONLY area of this Website.

We believe that small quilting groups are important.  It’s a way to come together with other members and forging friendships and they enhance the quilting experience of those involved.  One does not need to be an expert on anything, we often learn from each other. BEGINNERS ARE ENCOURAGED! We have several thriving small groups within the guild and we have room for more groups. 

Mini groups are open to all GVQG members. If you are new to the guild or even if you are a long time member, and have been thinking that now is a good time to join a Mini Group, we’d love to help you connect.
  • What is the best time for you to meet?
  • Tell a little bit about your quilting experience.
  • What would you enjoy as a member of a group? Sewing, hand work & chatting?
  • Are you interested in starting your own mini group?
  • Do you have an idea for a new group?
  • please provide your contact information in your email.
Note, these groups are not monitored or organized by the GVQG board, we are only providing a way for members to organize these groups among themselves.

Guidelines for Mini-Groups

It is easy to get lost in the crowd when you belong to something as large as a quilt guild. Belonging to a small group is a blessing. Strong friendships are made, and the participants learn more and at a faster pace. But how to start a small group and where to begin? The first thing is to set a goal or purpose. It can be as simple as wanting to sew together. The second consideration is limits. If the group plans to meet in someone’s home, how many can the home comfortably hold? Maybe the members will take turns hosting the group and some of the homes are smaller than others. If you want to keep the group “open” then it might be wise to find a church or meeting room so that you can easily grow. There might be natural limits, i.e. a traditional quilter would not be happy in an art group.

FOOD! Some quilters are nervous about food around their quilts. Does your group want to include lunch or dinner into their meeting time? If the members know the limits and rules (and they may be made as the group progresses), then everyone is happier and more secure in the group and will help eliminate hurt feelings.

The next thing the group should consider is a time line. Will you be meeting in the evenings? Mornings? Half the day? Once a month? Every other week?  These are all decisions. Even though the guild will have projects and programs, a mini group setting is easier to plan and execute projects. Suppose everyone in the small group is fairly new to quilting and they need to build a stash. One of their simple projects could be a fat ¼ exchange. Suppose the purpose of the group is to meet with fellow “scrap” quilters. Then a fun project would be a 6-inch fabric trade.  

These guidelines are just that, GUIDELINES. They are only suggestions to help you get started and reap the benefits of a small group. As the group grows and progresses, then new rules or rules that do not work can be modified.

Hopefully, you will consider starting a small group and the guild is here to help you in any way we can.


RapidWeaver Icon

Made in RapidWeaver