A stitch in time brings women together

Last month, the Mount Walker Church of Christ hall was filled with chatter, laughter and the hum of sewing machines as the Havachat Ladies Group hosted its first quilting workshop. 

Generously supported by local sponsors and guided by experienced sewists, the event saw more than 25 women coming together for a morning of crafty fun. Among those attending were five first-time quilters, while one enthusiastic participant journeyed more than 87 kilometres to join the gathering. 

Day one focused on mastering the basics with each participant sewing a tote bag. On day two, their growing confidence shone through as they crafted table runners, each stitch bringing a splash of colour and creativity to the space. 

Morning tea and lunch provided more than just a chance to refuel. They became moments of connection, where conversations flowed easily and new friendships started to take shape. 

Formed in 2021, Havachat has grown from a community of five into a gathering of more than 35 women from near and far. With coffee in hand and plenty of conversation to share, women from different stages of their faith journey come together in a warm and welcoming environment where friendships flourish.

The quilting workshop was one of several Havachat initiatives aimed at bringing people together around a shared interest. More than a quilting workshop, it was a place where confidence grew, skills flourished and moments of laughter and fellowship were shared. 

For many women in rural and semi-rural areas, chances for regular social connection can be few and far between, which is what makes Havachat so special: a place to turn up, be yourself and find community. 

While the creations taking shape under the sewing machines were impressive, the benefits of quilting reached far beyond the finished products. Each carefully placed stitch helped sharpen concentration, nurture creativity and build confidence as participants watched their skills grow throughout the workshop. There was a real sense of achievement in transforming a piece of fabric into something both beautiful and practical, and plenty of pride as projects came to life. 

For many, quilting offered a chance to slow down, be present in the moment and enjoy the satisfaction that comes from learning something new. Combined with the encouragement of fellow participants, the experience created a positive and uplifting environment where women could challenge themselves, gain confidence and discover new talents. 

The Havachat Ladies Group will host more workshops in the future, continuing to create welcoming spaces where women can learn, create and connect. For more information about Havachat, please email [email protected].