The Community Spirit of the Heritage Quilters Guild

Quilting often involves solitary work, but members of the Heritage Quilters Guild of South Suburbia enjoy coming together for their monthly meetings. Many members highlight the supportive environment as a key benefit of being part of the guild. Chris Deck, the only male member, shares his experience. “I’ve seldom found a place where you leave feeling uplifted. It’s like a warm hug,” he says. The 47-year-old joined the guild over two years ago after creating a quilt for his granddaughter. This venture led him to join both the Heritage Quilters and the Quiltmakers Guild of Kankakee due to their proximity to his home in Monee.

The guild attracts individuals from Chicago’s south suburbs and Northwest Indiana. Julie Olczak, a long-time member, notes the group’s accepting nature. She recounts a personal story where a joke about a misplaced quilt block brought laughter, not criticism. Olczak, who resumed quilting when her grandson was young, now makes quilts for her extended family and values the guild for its constant support.

Marissa Croft, a speaker from the Chicago Historical Costume Society, addressed members in April, discussing World’s Fair fashion. Olczak appreciates such expert presentations and quilting bees for their collaborative spirit. “The guild’s mission is to bring people together to beautify the world. Quilts are full of love and effort,” she explains.

The guild’s roots trace back to 1982, initiated by South Suburban College professor Mary Jane Carlson. Although membership has decreased from 120 in the 1990s to 42 today, new members are welcome. Meetings occur monthly at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in South Holland. A small annual fee of $30 grants members access to business meetings, show-and-tell sessions, and often expert speakers.

Show and tell is a favorite part for Reba Spilis, a guild member for 15 years. This session offers inspiration, as members share their work. She admits, “We support each other creatively.” The guild also contributes to the wider community by turning fabric scraps into dog beds, making duffel bags for foster children, and creating blankets for seriously ill children and veterans.

Other members also speak about their passion for quilting. Margaret Tzitz, influenced by her quilter mother, enjoys hand applique and vibrant colors. Pat Moorehead, a new member, turned to quilting when her husband became disabled, and now teaches the craft at her church and through the Chicago Park District.

Judy Schanck, a 30-year member, shares many items she creates will feature in the Paarlberg Farm Heritage Festival. Here, members will sell a variety of quilted goods. Olczak encourages newcomers with basic sewing skills to explore the guild. “We are open to new members. It’s concerning how crafting is declining,” she remarks. “Our aging members show how enduring quilting can be.” She invites anyone interested to check the guild’s website or visit a meeting.