Quilters have been making quilts together for many years. Beginning with the old-fashioned "quilting bee," where ladies gathered to quilt one another's quilt tops, it has been fun and productive to join together to make a quilt.

Internet devotees began making "Round Robin" quilts several years ago. These quilts began with a central medallion or design. The next person added a border or sashing to surround the center. The following layers could be pieced, appliquéd strips, or colorful, printed fabric. All layers were color-coordinated. These quilters passed their tops from person to person, each adding their own individual touch, working in rings around the center.

Today, "Row Quilts", which are worked in strips, have become popular. After you decide the finished size of your quilt, you begin the first row—it could be a row of "Flying Geese," a row of birdhouses, or a row of sailboats. Then, you pass the first row on to the next quilter. That next person in line adds a row of flowers or other compatible designs. The final result is an interesting, unique combination of patterns. You add the borders and the quilt is ready to be quilted!

The advantages of "Row Quilts" are that you are responsible for only one portion of each quilt. If you are the type of person who gets bored piecing an entire quilt top using the same design, perhaps Row Quilts are for you. Variety is the name of the game! And, if you would like a quilt that has stitching by your friends, try a Row Quilt. These quilts are perfect for a beginner or more advanced quilters, who can add rows that are more complex. "Row Quilts" make perfect wedding or graduation quilts—everyone who participates makes a row for the bride or graduate. The possibilities are endless.

©2003 Hallye Bone

www.thequiltercommunity.com

"Row Quilt" (above) By Lea Brown and her quilting group of twelve members called "Quilting Friends."