Artesian Quilting Queens: Global and Local Impact Through Sewing
In the heart of Artesian, South Dakota, a group of dedicated women known as the Artesian Area Quilting Queens are making a significant impact both locally and globally.
Founded by Judy Wormstadt, this group has been stitching together quilts and other essential items for over a decade, providing warmth, comfort, and a sense of community to those in need.
Their efforts have reached far beyond their local community, touching lives across the globe through their partnership with Lutheran World Relief and various local organizations.
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The Birth of the Artesian Area Quilting Queens
Founded 12 years ago by Judy Wormstadt, the Artesian Area Quilting Queens began as a personal hobby for Wormstadt. She soon realized that her quilting skills could be used for a greater purpose.
With a vision to help those in need, she invited others to join her mission. This marked the beginning of a journey that would see the group grow and expand its reach both globally and locally.
Global Outreach: Partnering with Lutheran World Relief
The Quilting Queens initially focused on global outreach by partnering with Lutheran World Relief. This organization distributes quilts to regions affected by war, natural disasters, and extreme poverty.
The quilts made by the group are not just blankets; they are symbols of care, compassion, and hope for people in very difficult situations.
Each year, the Quilting Queens send multiple shipments of quilts to Lutheran World Relief. These quilts find their way to communities in Africa, Latin America, and Asia, where the need for warmth, shelter, and community support is critical.
The group’s dedication to this cause has made a significant impact, providing comfort to countless individuals around the world.
Local Impact: Supporting the Community
While the Quilting Queens started with a global focus, their mission naturally expanded to meet local needs. They began collaborating with several organizations that support individuals and families within their community.
These partnerships have allowed the group to make a tangible difference in the lives of their neighbors.
Collaborating with Local Organizations
Some of the local partners include:
- Plus One Project in Huron
- Mitchell Area Safehouse
- Mitchell Abbott House
- Sleep in Heavenly Peace
One of the most meaningful projects for the Quilting Queens is their work with Sleep in Heavenly Peace. This organization builds beds for children in need, and the Quilting Queens provide quilts for these beds.
These quilts are often made in vibrant colors and fun prints, designed to bring joy and warmth to children who may not have had much before.
Beyond Quilts: Expanding Their Contributions
In addition to quilts, the Quilting Queens donate other essential items such as baby care kits, personal care kits, and school supply kits. These resources are invaluable to local children and families.
The group also participates in the Little Dresses in Africa program, sewing pillowcase dresses for girls in underserved communities, and the Dignity Project, which provides reusable menstrual hygiene products to girls and women in impoverished areas.
The Quilting Process: A Community Effort
The Quilting Queens meet on the second Monday of each month at First Lutheran Church. A small group of about eight women gather to quilt and enjoy each other’s company.
The tasks are divided according to each member’s skills and preferences, with some working on cutting fabric, others pinning, sewing, or tying knots.
Most of the actual quilting is done at home, allowing members to contribute in whatever way they can.
Repurposing Materials: Creativity and Sustainability
Creativity and sustainability are at the core of the Quilting Queens’ work. They repurpose old motel sheets by dyeing them in bright colors, transforming them into quilt squares or backs.
This not only reduces waste but also adds a unique touch to each quilt. The group’s ability to find new uses for materials that would otherwise be discarded is a testament to their resourcefulness and commitment to their mission.
Building Relationships and Community
While sewing is at the core of what they do, the Quilting Queens are just as much about community as they are about quilting. The group fosters a sense of belonging and connection among its members.
They share stories, laughter, and friendship while working together on their projects. This camaraderie is a vital part of what makes the group so special.
Impact and Accomplishments
Since its founding in 2012, the Quilting Queens have made a total of 872 quilts. In 2024 alone, they crafted 72 regular-sized quilts, 19 youth-sized quilts, and 47 baby quilts.
They also assembled 28 personal care kits, 91 baby care kits, 105 school kits, 65 pillowcase dresses, and 60 dignity project bundles. Additionally, they sent quilts to flood victims in Rock Valley, Iowa.
While the tangible items they create are important, the true impact of the Quilting Queens’ work lies in the sense of community and connection they foster. Their efforts have brought warmth and comfort to people in need, both near and far.
Join the Quilting Queens
The Quilting Queens are always open to new members. You don’t have to be a seamstress to join. All you need is a willingness to help.
There’s always something for everyone to do. Whether it’s cutting fabric, pinning, sewing, or simply providing support and encouragement to the group.
To learn more about the Artesian Area Quilting Queens and their incredible work, visit their story on Mitchell Republic. Their dedication to making a difference, one stitch at a time, is truly inspiring.