San Diego Qult Show

The San Diego Quilt Show (SDQS) is one of the favorite quilt shows among quilters in Southern California. It is also a popular reason, for those that do not live in Southern California, to come vacation in Southern California.

From my perspective, whether you live in Southern California or you live far away, this is a delightful quilt show that you'll not want to miss.




























Plus, there is so much going on in the quilting world in Southern California, during the SDQS, that this is a show you'll not want to miss. Many local quilt stores hold specials during the SDQS, and there is so much to do for the entire family, that this is really a great place to visit.


This delightful show will be held at the San Diego Convention Center, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, September 17th - 19th, 2009.

San Diego Convention Center, 111 West Harbor Drive Hall A
Thursday & Friday 10am-6pm; Saturday: 10am to 5pm
Admission: 11 years old & up: Single day pass $8
Three day pass $12 4-10 years old: $5

The Guest Artist this year is Shirley Greenhoe.















Shirley was actually the first machine quilter in San Diego, back in 1986. She is a professional Machine Quilter that is originally from San Diego (born & raised). But she moved around the country, to support her husband Greg's work with The Forstry Service. While Greg is now retired, they call Missoula, Montana their home. Over the years, Shirley has gained a vast amount of experience and created a unique style. At the upcoming SDQS some of Shirley's early work, as well as her current work, will be on display.

Shirley will also be available during the Charity Preview, as well as during show hours to meet and greet show attendees to discuss her methods and techniques.

This year's show includes special exhibits and over 400 quilts on display.




















Special exhibits include the 2009 SDQS Fashion Chalenge, Quilting Bee, IOLCC (Cloth Doll Exhibit), Opportunity Quilts, and a Charity Auction benefiting Michaelle House.

I highly recommend attending the Preview Party, which benefits Michaelle House.




















This event allows a limited number of participants to have a first look at the quilts and purchase from vendors before opening day. The Preview Party provides an a less crowded environment, plus the ticket prices is 100% tax deductible as all proceeds raised from the Preview Party go to help the Michaelle House.

The Michaelle House is a program that runs several houses for people who are suffering from life threatening illness and have no place to go. Years ago, when the houses were firsst established, almost all of the residents spent their final moments on earth being cared for here. Now, with advances in medical treatments and great care, many residents are restored to independant living and re-enter society to become productive citizens once again.

Michaelle House is operated by Fraternity House Inc. The mission of Fraternity House Inc. is to provide a warm and carying home where men and women disabled by HIV/AIDS can receive comprehensive care and services in order to rebuild their health and return to independent living, or where their last days in comfort and dignity. '

To clarify, the pre-view party will be held on Wed., September 16th from 6-9pm. Prepaid tickets are $25, $35 at the door, if tickets are still available.





















Last year SDQS was able to donate $17,000 to The Center for Community20Slutions, which helps domestic violence victims.

SDQS is also an all volunteer, non-profit coproration. Volunteers are still needed to help with this event, as well as help plan future shows. The volunteer form is on the website, or volunteers can leave name and email and phone number on the SDQS voice mail line: 619-443-2706, or email to sdqs2002@hotmail.com

For those coming from out of town, here are some recommendations for places to stay:

* San Diego Mariott Hotel & Marina{next to the Convention Center & on San Diego Bay}

* Catamaran Resort Hotel {in Pacific Beach, close to Sea World}

* Hilton Hotel {on Mission Bay, near Sea World}

* Paradise Point Resort & Spa {on Mission Bay, near Sea World}

I hope you will come to this great show and take some time to enjoy beautiful San Diego.

I also hope that you'll consider entering a quilt for future SDQS. Entry forms for 2010 will be available at this 2009 SDQS, enabling those interested to plan a year in advance. The SDQS is open to all quiltmakers who meet the deadlines and fill out the entyr form. The SDQS is not a judge or juried show. General display has Viewers Choice Awards in several categories: Quilts & Fashions. Cash and Ribbons are awarded. For 2010 there will also be a Quilt Challenge and fabric packets will be available at the SDQS booth, at the entrance to the show. Rules & guidelines are also provided in these packets.


Note: Photographs of quilts shown in this article were taken during prior San Diego Quilt Shows.