The Sweetwaters Quilting Group
The Sweetwaters project has been sponsored by the Rotary Club of Howick and Hilton in kwaZulu-Natal for the last 5 years. The aims are to develop the skills of the Zulu Group members (both women and men) so that they can support themselves through the sale of their quilts. The Group has the benefits of a dedicated building - the Mzansi Zulu Quilt Centre - and of a resident quilter and manager. The moving forces behind the continuing success of the venture are Elisabeth and Rick Baratta.
In January 2008 15 North American humanitarian volunteers spent 10 days sharing quilting advice and techniques with the Group (as reported in May 2008 edition of “American Quilter” magazine). Like Patricia’s experience with the Berber women in Morocco, the Zulus prove keen and able to learn quickly. Unlike the Berbers, however, the Zulus already have some quilting skills and knowledge of sewing machines and long arm quilting machines. Plus there is no need to teach through an interpreter.
Elisabeth has invited Patricia to help with the continued development of the Group. She has also most kindly (and bravely!) invited Patricia and husband Michael to stay with her from the 10th August 2008 until the Festival in Johannesburg. Details of Patricia’s involvement have yet to be decided and will be reported here as soon as possible. There may also be other workshops in addition to the Sweetwaters project.
Wall Quilts made by members of the Heather Vertuin, resident quilter and manager Sweetwaters Quilting Guild of the Mzansi Quilt Centre, with her Quilt