Established in 1982 with about 25 members, the non-profit 501(c)(3) organization grew to over 200. Just as its numbers have grown, so has its focus evolved. Like the quilting community nation-wide, many FIQ members have found their artistic niches in wearable and fiber art. The tradition of making quilts for the tactile comfort and warmth of loved ones is still strong, however. The activity that gives FIQ non-profit recognition is Community Quilts. Throughout the year guild members hand-make child-sized quilts for donation to the Skagit Domestic Violence Center. Each child that leaves the Center chooses a special quilt to take home as a reminder that someone cares. When the needs are met at the Center, extra quilts have gone to Project Linus, Seattle Children's Hospital, the Anacortes Family Center, and other organizations that support and protect vulnerable children. Additional FIQ activities include guest lectures, workshops and classes taught by nationally-known instructors, retreats, the Art Quilters group, the Wearable Divas group, and a variety of collaborative projects typical of quilt guilds. Many members sew for Quilts of Valor and the American Hero Quilts Foundation. Fidalgo Island Quilters sponsor a major Quilt Show every two years and a Quilt Walk in downtown Anacortes every year in April, coinciding with the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. FIQ meets the first Monday of the month, year round, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1300 – 9th Street, in Anacortes. There is a handwork social at 10:30. We break for lunch at 12:00. At 1:00 our meeting will start. Visitors are always welcome, and no quilting experience is needed!
