Patchwork Warms Hearts – Ripley Stitchers

Ripley Quilters Informational Handout

In 2006, women from the Ripley  United Church of Christ came together  to construct quilts for charities and programs serving individuals in need of  support in Traer and the surrounding  communities. Meeting once a week –  they have met many
challenges, but the one thing that remains  after 20 years,  is their desire  to stay strong  in their mission  to provide warmth to
those in need  through patchwork.

Today, the group meets most Thursdays in Fellowship Hall at the church gathering at 9:00am. Fellowship over a sack lunch is also a highlight of their day. Women and men gather
together with no experience necessary, for a variety of quilting tasks including:  cutting, piecing and sewing material;  layering tops, batting and backing; tying knots; sorting and folding for delivery. They share many stories while plans are made, and the mission continues.

In 2023, Soul Stitching Saturday was  introduced. When it was noted that  those who work could not attend, it was  determined that one Saturday a month would be designated as Soul Stitching  Saturday.   The nucleus of those who Soul Stitch  also stitch on Thursdays. Friends and  family members drop in to help tie and to learn more about the mission.
Open to all, Soul Stitching provides the  feeling of the good ‘ole fashioned quilting  bees. Fellowship is enjoyed over potluck  lunches and sometimes special occasions  are celebrated as well!

Over 300 quilts are constructed a year and  given to those in need.  Baby quilts – twin and  double sizes. The group  also makes burp clothes,  dog beds and wheel chair caddies. They do their best to use all supplies donated and  are always thankful for those who think  of them and their mission.

Mission charities and programs that  have benefited from the quilts made by  the Ripley stitchers include:

• Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Ames Chapter
• Marshalltown Veterans Home

*Tama County Maternal Health and Wellness
• Christian Hands Across Traer, better known as C.H.A.T.
• Cedar Valley Hospice
• Americans for Independent Living
• Salvation Army
• and many more!

 Donations: The Ripley Stitchers Makers of Quilts, could not continue without the support of the community. For those needing to downsize or simply re-evaluate their sewing supplies, the  group is grateful for any financial or  material donations. For those who  experience the loss of a loved one,  cleaning out their estate may be painful. The Stitchers can help make sad times  become lovely memories as they take  fabric chosen with care, and create  colorful quilts with a new purpose.

Contact Jane Knoop at 319-478-8156 or
janekoop13@gmail.com to make
arrangements.