All the colors of the world ...
Annual quilt show offers something for everyone
BY KELLY GRIFFITH Contributing reporter

This contemporary quilt was made in Japan. Called "Squares and Triangles," it was stitched from more than 62,000 individual pieces, all smaller than a fingernail.

Aunt Lillie's Antiques and Gifts is holding its eighth Annual Quilt Show July 4-5, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. The show is free of charge.

During the quilt show, the historic home will be filled with quilts of all kinds - new and old, cross stitch and appliquéd, as well as baby quilts.

"An important thing is that we never show the same quilt twice ... never ever," said Deborah Burkett, event organizer and store owner.

This year's theme will be "A World of Quilts," inspired by the private collection of Victoria Hoffman of New York. Hoffman has been in the antique fabric and quilt business for over 25 years. She is returning to the quilt show for the fourth consecutive year and is bringing with her quilts from all over the world to be sold.

Featured quilts are from the Congo, Japan, the Philippines, England and Afghanistan.

Deborah Burkett displays a baby's embroidered kitten quilt.

In addition to Hoffman's collection there will be many quilts from local families on display, but not for sale. "Lots of wonderful quilts on loan will drape and cover the house," Burkett said.

Local East Texans, as well as neighbors from Louisiana and Oklahoma, bring their antique quilts, quilt tops and family heirlooms to be showcased.

"By viewing antique quilts one not only begins to learn about fabric and stitching but genealogy as well," Burkett said. "Once again we're showing quilts and compiling stories. I'm pleased that through our annual show, Aunt Lillie's is helping to preserve family histories."

Hoffman is also an antique quilt appraiser and will be appraising quilts every 30 minutes at the show. Appraisals are $30; each quilt owner will receive a certificate of the appraisal for insurance purposes.

Few openings are still available, said Burkett. To schedule a time, call 903-842-1936 in advance and leave a message.