In a combined effort, all 90 students in the class participated and depending on their level of skill, and how comfortable they were with the sewing machines, resulted in how much machine sewing they each did for the project.
In total, the students completed 24 lap quilts that they are distributing during the Christmas Season to residents of care homes, or to clients that attend a day wellness program provided through the Yorkton and District Care Home.
Each quilt consists of 36, 6-inch squares of assorted texture, patterns and colours.
Bright colours make the quilts lively, but the varied textures and patterns are the most important factors in the quilts.
“Colours, patterns and textures elicit memories for those that use the quilts as they rest on their laps,” explained YRHS Vice-Principal Johnna McBride. “They are meant to evoke fond memories of days gone by.
“A piece of fabric that resembles fur may remind someone of their childhood pet.
“An upholstery type heavy fabric may remind them of a piece of furniture they once had.
“A patterned piece of gingham may remind them of their kitchen curtains from long ago.
“Regardless, each quilt is unique, made with caring hands of Grade 9 students from the Yorkton Regional High School.
McBride had her mom, Donna Brown who is in her 80’s, put all the edge work around each of the 24 quilts.
It is interesting to note Donna Brown was the Home Economics Teacher at the YRHS in the late 1970’s when sewing was offered as a credit class in Grade 10, 11 and 12.
“It is our hope that the quilts will keep the recipients warm while triggering some very fond memories,” offered McBride.
Along with each gift bag holding the quilt, recipients will find a card that has also been touched by the hands of our Grade 12 Art students, under Mr. McDowell’s instruction.
“Each card has been inserted into an envelope that has been decorated by some students from our Alternative Education Program under the direction of Mr. Sapara and Mrs. Szabo,” said McBride.
“This has been a fun project and we hope our elderly have an enjoyable and healthy holiday season.”
