The Brightside: Quilters by the Sea

OCEAN PINES, Md. – Some say a quilt will warm your body and comfort your soul, and the Quilters by the Sea Guild of Ocean Pines would definitely agree.

Almost 40 years ago, a group of women with a love for quilting put their needles and thread together to find a greater purpose for their hobby. Since then, members tell us it’s blossomed beyond their imagination.

This group also creates special projects such as seat belt pillows for women battling breast cancer, dignity bibs for those in nursing homes, and even fabric book cases.

Beyond helping the community, we’re told the group is dedicated to keeping the art of quilting alive.

Debbie Bowman says this hobby means so much more to her, as it’s been an avenue for her to be quickly acquainted here on the Eastern Shore.

“It’s really hard to get connected to the shore when you’re an outsider when you’re not a local and I’ll never be a local but I have found my tribe.”

Originally from across the bridge in western Maryland, Debbie tells us she’s been sewing and quilting since the 80s. But after she moved here and eventually found her tribe, she too sees the greater purpose this group is seeking.

“I’ve been here ever since helping with all kinds of things like the quilt show, which is open to the public for free, volunteer day, I’m now in charge of the programs. We try to do something that’s social as well as educational – and we want to educate the public about what we do and the contributions we make.”

More information can be found online.