Hands In! regional quilts are taking shape

Since Hands In! launched with quilt-making activities at Scottish Gathering at the end of January, groups across the country have joined in with the regional quilts project, exploring what Woodcraft means to them and celebrating being part of the movement.

Groups have been digging out their craft materials, chopping up colourful patterned fabric and decorating squares with everything from fabric pens, glue and sequins to intricately appliquéd designs. Several groups have already sent in beautiful patches showing their favourite Woodcraft memory, or what being in the Folk means to them.

Some show memories of stargazing and dancing around campfires. Some show their group emblems or local landmarks – such as Edinburgh Castle - to represent the group that made the squares. Others depict favourite aspects of being in Woodcraft Folk – playing parachute games together and going on protests with Woodcraft friends about issues you all care about – and the principles of peace, community and co-operation.

One leader said that the session also gave them the chance to “have fun remembering what is good about Woodcraft” as they shared their ideas through games and group work at the start of the session. As well as discussing their favourite memories, young people have reflected that Woodcraft is a space that’s safe, where you can be yourself and make friends that you might not meet through other parts of your life.

Run the quilt-making activity in your own Woodcraft group!

Once all the squares created by groups have been posted to Folk House, they’ll be stitched together by a team of volunteers and the finished quilts will be unveiled at Annual Gathering in April.

There’s still time to get involved in Hands In!

• Make some squares for the regional quilts at a group night and then send in your contributions by the end of March
• Twin with another group to share some activities or send…
• Complete some of the group night challenges and write a story for the website

For full information on Hands In! go to www.woodcraft.org.uk/hands-in