March 21

National Quilting Day

A cultural observance on the third Saturday of March celebrating quiltmakers, the art and tradition of quilting, and promoting community events and preservation of quilting heritage.

Yearly Date

Third Saturday in March

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Gather your fabric, thread, and needles and get ready to celebrate National Quilting Day on the third Saturday of March! This special day has been around since 1991, when it was created to recognize the art and skill of quilting. Quilting is an ancient craft that dates back centuries ago and has been used in many cultures throughout history. From making blankets for warmth to creating intricate art pieces, quilting is a great way to express yourself with fabrics and colors. So grab your materials and let’s get quilting!

National Quilting Day Timeline

1800s

Baltimore Album Quilts

Baltimore Album quilts, known for their intricate block designs, became popular in America in the mid-1800s.

1933

Chicago World’s Fair Quilt Contest

The Sears Roebuck & Co. contest at the Chicago World's Fair of 1933 sparked a revival in quilting in the United States.

1971

Whitney Museum's Quilt Exhibition

The Whitney Museum of American Art's exhibition "Abstract Design in American Quilts" became a watershed moment for quilts to be appreciated as art.

1987

AIDS Memorial Quilt Display

The first display of the AIDS Memorial Quilt took place in Washington D.C., showing the power of quilts in conveying messages of sorrow, hope, and remembrance.

1991

Inception of National Quilting Day

The National Quilting Association declared the third Saturday in March as National Quilting Day, celebrating the rich history and the artistry of quilt making.

How to Celebrate National Quilting Day

1 Create a quilt

Gather some fabric, a sewing machine, and design a quilt. Whether you go with a traditional patchwork quilt or something more modern, there are hundreds of designs to choose from.

2 Attend a quilting event

Look for local quilting events in your area. From quilt shows to classes and workshops, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with other quilters and learn about the craft.

3 Host a quilting party

Invite some friends over for an afternoon of quilting. Provide the fabric, tools and snacks, then let everyone take turns working on the project. It's a great way to learn while having fun.

4 Make a donation

Quilting can be an expensive hobby. Consider donating fabric or finished quilts to a charity or organization that supports those in need. It's a great way to give back while celebrating your love of quilting.

5 Visit a quilt museum

There are numerous quilt museums around the world where you can learn about the history of the craft and see some amazing examples of quilting artistry.

Why We Love National Quilting Day

Quilting is therapeutic

The repetitive motion of piecing fabrics together can be calming and relaxing. Whether you’re making a quilt from scratch or working on one that has been passed down for generations, the act of quilting can help you decompress and get away from the stresses of everyday life.

It's creative & fun

When it comes to quilting, there are endless possibilities for creativity. With so many different colors, patterns, and textures, you can let your imagination take over and create something truly unique! Making a quilt also gives you an opportunity to express yourself through design.

It creates lasting memories

Quilting is more than just a hobby - it's a way to create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come. Whether it's a gift for someone special or a keepsake of your own, every quilt tells a story that will live on long after it's made.