A Community Woven Together Through Generosity
Contributed by Carly Potgieter
As the Valley Quilters Guild prepares for its upcoming Quilt Camp, local quilt shops across the Mat-Su and Anchorage areas are stepping forward in support, each contributing thoughtfully curated baskets that will help shape the experience for participants.
The annual camp, which brings together quilters of all skill levels, is designed to foster creativity, connection, and learning. This year, organizers say, the involvement of local shops will add a transformative impact of inspiration and community spirit.
“Quilt Camp is about more than projects,” camp committee member Susan Westlund shared. “It’s about gathering, sharing knowledge, and building relationships. The support from these shops reflects the strength of the quilting community as a whole.”
Each participating shop brings its own distinct character and creative voice to the event. In Palmer, A Stitch in Time, owned by Karen, offers a highly curated selection of modern fabrics, local Alaskan-themed quilt kits, yarn, and rotating sewing or knitting classes. Also in Palmer, ThreadLines Quilt Shop, owned by Tammy, offers a more intimate, locally rooted experience. Known for its curated fabric selections and seasonal quilting patterns, the shop reflects a personal, community-centered approach that resonates with many area quilters.
In Wasilla, Two Friends Quilting, owned by Vicky, offers fabrics including Alaska-themed, quilting supplies, long-arm quilting services, and classes. Also serving the Palmer area, Luna’s Magic Quilts, owned by Cindy, provides quilting services alongside its retail offerings. As a woman-owned business, it has become a supportive space for local makers, offering both technical expertise and encouragement to those developing their craft.
From Eagle River, Twisted Sister Quilts, owned by Katy, is known for its focus on natural fiber fabrics, hands-on classes, and strong sense of community. With a dedicated classroom space and knowledgeable staff, the shop continues to play an active role in educating and connecting quilters across the region.
Anchorage-based shops are also lending their support. Winter Solstice Quilting, owned by Dawn and Marnie, offers a wide-ranging inventory that includes quilting cottons, garment fabrics such as linen and wool, and Alaska-themed materials. The shop’s broad selection reflects the diversity of the quilting community it serves. Also in Anchorage, Cabin Fever Quilts, owned by Ivy, brings a distinctly local perspective, featuring Alaska-inspired batiks, patterns for traditional garments such as kuspuks, and a variety of locally designed gifts. The shop’s offerings highlight the intersection of quilting and regional identity.
The camp committee says the contributions from these businesses will help create an atmosphere that reflects both creativity and generosity. “The care and thought that each shop is putting into these baskets speaks to who they are,” Susan noted. “It’s not just about what they give, it’s about the spirit behind it.”
As Quilt Camp approaches, the Guild sees this collaboration as a reflection of something larger, how small businesses and creative communities continue to show up for one another in meaningful ways.
In many ways, these shops represent the best of what Alaska communities are known for: generosity, connection, and a willingness to care for others. Their participation is not just support for an event, but a reminder of the strength and spirit that exists when people come together. Each shop adds its own stitch to the fabric of the community, something participants will experience not only during camp, but whenever they walk through the doors of these local businesses.