Quilt a) — the happy scrappy
Quilt b) — the vintage sheet quilt.
I think by now almost everybody overseas has heard the tragic stories of Victoria’s bushfires. Even in the outer suburbs of this city, people are losing their homes and their lives. I’m not sure I can write a lot more about this. I’m not eloquent enough. What frightens me most is that they’re not finished yet. Summer just isn’t done.
We’ve all been doing what we can. Giving blood, giving goods, giving time… I hear the most humbling stories from the firefront of people who’ve lost their houses and their whole families, and still help others. But what’s needed most now is money to help these families get back on their feet, independent of relief stations and gifts of packaged foods.
I’m a student in part time work, engaged to a full time student. I just don’t have that much money to give. What I do have is a big stash of fabric, some time, and a knack with the Janome. So I’m proposing that we (you and I, readers) make a deal. I will make someone one quilt — either twin (single) or cot or lap size — in one of the two designs above. It can be quilted or handsomely tied, your choice. If you like the happy scrappy, I can personalise it for you with favourite colours or appliqued names — a perfect gift. You can make a bid in the comments below. Every cent that the winner pays will go to the Red Cross, who are getting families back together, coordinating tent cities, and making plans to get people into housing they can call their own. The sale can be made by Paypal, or alternatively I’ll set up an uber-safe Etsy sale for which you can use your credit card. I will pay to post the quilt, wherever you are. It will be finished and sent no more than four weeks after bids close.
Bids should be made in Australian dollars. As a rough guide, one Australian dollar costs 65 US cents right now, or 46 pence. What a bargain for my overseas readers!
Bidding starts at 100 Australian dollars and will close at midnight, February 28, Melbourne Time.
Please tell any friends and family who might like to own a quilt and/or would like to help. Link to this post in Facebook or on your own blog. Send around some emails — please.
NB we don’t acually own the lovely cat pictured above, so your allergies are safe. Our dog is a Schnauzer and doesn’t shed hair.
February 13, 2009 at 12:42 pm
Anne, I bid A$100 for a happy scrappy quilt. Looks like the perfect winter accessory for any writer to keep snuggly.
February 13, 2009 at 3:25 pm
I will raise you $10, so that’s $110 for the happy snappy hopefully less colourful scrappy quilt. Pastel tones please.
February 13, 2009 at 4:04 pm
How incredibly tempting – $150.00
February 13, 2009 at 4:43 pm
Oh, my gosh. You guys are all amazing.
February 13, 2009 at 4:44 pm
What a great idea. $200.00
February 13, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Ahh the bidding begins!!
$250.00
Though can I ask… for the ignorant (me!)- what are the rough measurements of the lap and cot sizes
February 14, 2009 at 12:20 am
A lap or cot quilt comes as big or small as you like — there are standard sizes but the usual practice is to fit them to your own cot/lap/comfy chair. And I can absolutely do this, or suggest a standard. They’re not as big as a single quilt, and they’re often square.
$250 already. My stars.
February 14, 2009 at 9:40 pm
hi anne, i put a link on my site, as well as your photos of the quilts. hope this is ok. good luck!
February 14, 2009 at 10:12 pm
Hi Anne,
How utterly brilliant! You’re a doll for doing this. A wonderful idea!
Hugs
Serena
xx
February 15, 2009 at 1:48 pm
Hi Anne,
I’d like to bid $A300, please. This is a great idea.
cheers, Jenna
February 15, 2009 at 8:20 pm
Bee-utiful. Afraid I can’t stitch a bit but so love the idea. Ian and I will share $175 each. Happy to send $350.
xx Fi
February 17, 2009 at 12:36 pm
I think this would make a gorgeous birthday present to myself. I’d like to bid $380, plus I’d like to reimburse you for the postage – your talent is enough contribution!
March 1, 2009 at 12:00 am
Aaaand…. congratulations Nettie! I’ll be in contact tomorrow when I’m less knackered 😉
March 1, 2009 at 1:53 pm
Congratulations And Well Done to both Anne and Nettie.
A Very Happy Birthday to Nettie! It’ll be like a birthday everyday with your Anne original quilt.
March 1, 2009 at 4:03 pm
Yay!! I’m so excited. What a great birthday present!
March 2, 2009 at 4:54 pm
Well done Anne – what a wonderful way to raise money!