“They’re always very appreciative.”

It’s not what you’d expect to see at the Logan County History Center’s Transportation Museum, but if you find yourself knocking on the door on the right day, there they are. Women scattered around the space, most sitting in front of sewing machines, others at ironing boards and some lounging on a couch with needle and thread.

They’re called the Logan County Piecemakers — a local quilting club that meets at the museum quarterly for “piecing together days.” That’s when they gather to finish various quilted items.

“This year our service project —a s well as next year — will be the quilted shawls,” Anita Stanley, secretary of the group, said. The shawls, also known as “quilted hugs,” go over a person’s shoulders and arms, providing often-needed warmth.

Besides the colorful shawls, the group makes lap robes. They then donate finished items to nursing homes. Residents can choose from a variety of designs and fabrics, different colors and themes. Led by Amy McCormick, the Piecemakers focus most of their work on providing for charitable organizations.

Before you can say quilting is a lost art, members are quick to explain it’s actually a multi-billion industry. Not million—billion. Many quilts are far more than a simple bedspread or wall-hanging. Some are considered masterpieces worth thousands of dollars.

“It’s artistic, it’s creative, but it’s also mathematical,” Amy stated in describing the world of quilting. “It applies all of those needs for hobbies, and it’s relaxing.”

Anita added, “It’s a way to unwind. It’s a way to express your creativity.”

If this is something you want to know more about, the group meets the second Monday of every month at the museum. Social time starts at 6:30 p.m. with the meeting following at 7. You can find out more by joining their private Facebook page, Logan Piecemakers.