No run of the mill quilt this one

PARTING GIFT: Members of the Far North Quilters presenting their gift to Switzer Residential Care, presented Jackie Simkins and Jenny Kitchen (standing left) and resident Helen Allan (seated).

The Far North Quilters' ladies in Kaitaia are well used to producing quilts for good causes and worthy individuals, but a request from Switzer Residential Care general manager Jackie Simkins some months ago was far from run of the mill.

She and the residents of the Kaitaia rest home were looking to change the way in which those who passed away left the home.

"They agreed it would be nice for people to leave the same way they came in, through the front door," club president Judy Walsh said.

"That would offer them dignity, and give their friends a chance to say goodbye to someone they might have known for some time."

And so a quilt was produced, Jackie receiving the finished article earlier this week. And it was a real work of art, prominently featuring daisies of many hues, along with butterflies and dragonflies, representing the transition from earth to sky.

The quilt, which came in a bag for storage, will be used to drape over the casket as the deceased leaves the home.

"It was a massive project, and one that we are very proud of," Judy added.

"We thought and searched long and hard before we came up with this, and every member of our club participated, from donating fabric to cutting, folding and sewing."

The quilt had even been given a name - Pushing up Daisies - which they, Jackie and Switzer resident Helen Allan agreed was delightful and appropriate.

"I can assure you it will be loved and appreciated," Jackie said.

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The Far North Quilters are always happy to welcome new members, and to offer tutoring in all forms of their art. The people to contact are Judy Walsh (on 946-7900) or Gillian Bond (on (09) 408-7995).