The group recently won the big “A” Prison art Community Award. Judges described this as “an excellent grassroots initiative”, calling quilting a “perfect activity for community engagement” They were awarded their prize Bernina sewing machine in Wellington by Dr Pita Sharples.
Each year, approximately 50 women take part in the programme. The skills taught include sewing, measuring, designing and embellishing their quilts. Learning to use a sewing machine is an option. The prisoners start small, learning to use a needle and thread before progressing to cushions, wall hangings and making quilts for sick babies at Middlemore Hospital. In the process, the volunteers foster self-esteem, numeracy and literacy among the women, and model acceptable social behaviour.Two Rotary Clubs initially supplied money for materials and instruments, and now people from all over New Zealand, including members of the Quilters Guild, donate fabric, thread and quilt blocks.
