Bothell group creates more than 17,000 quilts

From 1979 to 2016, the quilters at First Lutheran Church of Bothell made 17,343 quilts. The group continues its efforts this year, meeting every Thursday morning (with the exception of July and August) to create quilts to donate to Lutheran World Relief (LWR), area seniors and Eastside Baby Corner.

“I have a creative energy, and I’ve sewn all my life … since I was 6 years old,” Audrey Fisher, who has been the head quilter for more than 30 years, said. “Plus, it’s something that’s needed … for Lutheran World Relief.”

LWR is the main beneficiary of the quilters’ efforts, as they donate hundreds of quilts to the organization, which distributes them around the world to those in need.

Many members of the quilting group said they keep coming back because they know they’re contributing to a worthy cause.

“The fact that we’re doing something good for someone else (is why I am part of it),” Carlene Russell, who has been a member of the group for 17 years, said.

Camaraderie also plays a big part in the group, as many laughs were shared by Russell, Erika Beers and Charlene Maxfield as they worked on one of the quilts.

“We really enjoy talking to each other,” Beers, who joined the group in 1993, said.

The group is hosting its annual “Quilt-a-thon” from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 24 and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 25 at the church for members of the public to help them make 80 quilts. No experience is needed, and a light meal will be served.

Those interested in joining the quilters as a regular member or for the event can contact Fisher through the church at 425-486-2314.