Houghton Regis Library and Community Centre

August - 2000 & 2001

This project used recycled blankets, dyed by me in advance. Drawings were done by children of their chosen nursery rhyme characters; these were then used as templates for cutting the pieces of blanket. Some children stitched their own pieces; others were helped by adults, particularly at the event for National Playday.

Over the following months more people were involved, ladies at the Over 60's club held at The Community Centre helped to blanket stitch the pieces onto the backing. I worked in Houghton Regis Library on the quilt and children were invited to contribute more drawings.

The quilt was completed for August 2001, and presented to the library where the groups of adults and children met in person for the first time.

This project grew very organically and gradually. Those involved had time to chat and share experiences. Even before the children and adults met there was a link and an enjoyment of remembering rhymes, some were new to the children and some had been introduced more recently and the older adults didn't know them.

For more details about this residency please contact Arts Development Officer, South Bedfordshire District Council