West Virginia Quilters Unite for Climate Action with Sierra Club

Quilting is more than just a craft in Appalachian culture—it’s a beloved tradition. It weaves stories, dreams, and visions, all passed down through generations in a way that’s hard to explain if you haven’t seen it firsthand.

In West Virginia, the Sierra Club found a clever way to blend this old tradition with climate advocacy. Their “Quilting for Community” project brings folks together to make a huge community quilt and spark conversations about climate action along the way.

The project kicked off with an event in January and will keep rolling through March. By Earth Day, the quilt should be finished and ready to show off.

Once it’s done, the quilt will travel across the state as a symbol of community and environmental care. It doesn’t matter if you’ve quilted before or you’re brand new—everyone’s welcome to pitch in and add their touch.

The Tradition of Quilting in Appalachia

Quilting runs deep in Appalachian roots. It’s how families share stories and dreams, keeping memories alive from one generation to the next.

Quilting circles aren’t just about sewing. They’re cozy, lively spaces where people gather, chat, and turn scraps into something beautiful.

People in these circles brainstorm, laugh, and plan for future get-togethers. It’s more about connection than perfection, honestly.

Community Building Through Quilting

The Sierra Club, alongside local quilter and member CJ Sews, kicked off “Quilting for Community” to channel this tradition into something bigger. They want to build community and push for climate action at the same time.

Every other week during winter, people gather at the local Retail Lab. The place has plenty of sewing machines and all sorts of quilting materials.

Neighbors cut, piece, and sew together upcycled fabric and leftover scraps. Slowly, a large community quilt takes shape.

The Kick-Off Event

Back in January, the project started with a bang. Fifty-six people braved the chilly weather and showed up at The Co-Op, an art space that buzzed with energy.

There was a social hour packed with chatter and ideas—some wild, some practical—about fighting climate change in joyful, creative ways. Folks watched Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s TED Talk, *How to Find Joy in Climate Action*, and left buzzing with inspiration.

Engaging the Community

That first event was just the start. The group keeps meeting every other week to keep the quilt growing, aiming to wrap it up by Earth Day.

They’re working on a “Log Cabin” style quilt, and once it’s finished, they’ll take it on tour. Schools, libraries, community centers—anywhere people gather, really.

At each stop, they share what they’ve learned and talk about why caring for the planet and West Virginia matters. New pieces get added along the way, so the quilt keeps evolving.

Inspiring Joyful Climate Action

The project hopes to spark joy in the fight against climate change, right here in West Virginia. It’s about coming together—inside or out—with friends, neighbors, or even strangers, and taking action that feels good, not just necessary.

Maybe you’re into sewing, or maybe music, writing, painting, or sculpting is more your thing. There’s room for everyone in this circle, no matter your skill.

Everyone brings something unique to the table in the push to protect our landscapes, public health, and affordable energy. Sometimes, it’s the smallest contribution that makes the whole thing work.

Join the Movement

The Sierra Club’s “Quilting for Community” shows how old crafts can power new causes. If you join in, you’ll help create a real, touchable symbol of community and environmental care.

Quilter or newbie, your effort matters. There’s no such thing as too little help here.

Curious to learn more or want to get involved? Check out the [Sierra Club’s website](https://www.sierraclub.org/articles/2026/02/quilting-community-sierra-club-west-virginia-kicks-arts-project).

Conclusion

The “Quilting for Community” project isn’t just about making quilts. It’s a movement that brings folks together to tackle climate change in a way that’s both joyful and meaningful.

If you join in, you get to help create a beautiful, communal quilt. This quilt stands as a symbol of unity and environmental advocacy—pretty inspiring, honestly.

Doesn’t matter if you’ve quilted for years or have never picked up a needle. There’s a spot for everyone in this community-driven effort.

Curious or ready to jump in? Check out the details at the Sierra Club’s website.