Every year, on the third Saturday of March, quilters across the world come together to celebrate National Quilting Day—a day dedicated to the love of quilting, the creativity it fosters, and the community it builds. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned quilter, this special day is an opportunity to appreciate the art of quilting and share its joy with others.

One of the most beautiful aspects of quilting is that it truly is for everyone. No matter your background, experience level, or financial situation, there’s always a way to participate in this cherished craft.

The History of National Quilting Day

National Quilting Day was first established in 1991 by the National Quilting Association (NQA). It started as a way to recognize the rich history of quilting in America and beyond, honoring the generations of quilters who have kept the tradition alive. What began as a national celebration quickly grew into a worldwide event, with quilters from all corners of the globe participating.

Over the years, National Quilting Day has become more than just a day to quilt—it’s a day to give back, inspire new quilters, and preserve the craft for future generations. Many quilting groups and guilds celebrate by organizing charity quilt drives, hosting quilting bees, and teaching newcomers how to sew their first blocks.

At GE Designs, we love encouraging people to quilt—no matter their skill level or budget—so we’re sharing some of our free quilt patterns to help you get started!

Quilting on Any Budget: Making Quilting Accessible to Everyone

Some people believe quilting is an expensive hobby, but that’s not the case! Quilting has always been about creativity and resourcefulness, using what’s available to create something beautiful and functional. Here are some ways to enjoy quilting without breaking the bank:

1. Use What You Have

Historically, quilting was a necessity—people used scraps of fabric from worn-out clothing, flour sacks, and household linens to make warm, useful quilts. You can do the same by repurposing old shirts, jeans, or even fabric from thrifted sheets and curtains.

2. Swap and Share

Fabric swaps with friends, quilt guilds, or online communities are a great way to expand your fabric collection without spending extra money. Plus, trading fabric can inspire new ideas!

3. Shop Smart

Look for sales, remnant bins at quilt shops, and second-hand fabric at thrift stores. Sometimes, yard sales or estate sales have hidden treasures of quilting fabric at a fraction of the cost.

4. Take Advantage of Free Patterns

At GE Designs, we believe that quilting should be fun and accessible to all. That’s why we offer free quilt patterns that allow you to create stunning designs without the added cost of expensive templates or kits. Here are some of our favorite free patterns to try this National Quilting Day:

✅ Rainbow Ruth
✅ Diana
✅ Lil' Kim Table Runner

These patterns are perfect for beginners and experienced quilters alike, and they work beautifully with fabric scraps, pre-cuts, or repurposed materials!

5. Join a Quilting Group

Many quilting guilds and community centers offer fabric, tools, and mentorship for new quilters. Some organizations even provide free fabric for charity quilts, giving you an opportunity to learn and give back at the same time.

If you can't join a quilt group in person, there are also several online quilting guilds as well as Facebook groups. Join Gudrun's Quilt Crew on Facebook to ask questions, get inspiration, and show off your creations!

The True Value of Quilting

At its core, quilting is about more than just fabric and thread—it’s about creativity, community, and comfort. A quilt tells a story, preserves memories, and brings warmth to those who receive it. Whether you're making a quilt for yourself, a loved one, or a charitable cause, every stitch is filled with love.

So, this National Quilting Day, celebrate by starting a new project, finishing a work-in-progress, or simply appreciating the beauty of handmade quilts. And remember—quilting is for everyone, and there’s always a way to make it work, no matter your budget!