Where Are My Male Sewists At?

Recently, you have probably heard me talking on social media about bringing more attention to male quilters. It’s very infrequent that I hear people talking about men quilters. Ironically, The Guardian magazine was also thinking about it too. Check out this article about “Sew Bros” and read about famous male quilters.

In any case, sewing is cool. Really freakin’ cool if you ask me. It’s time to bring some well-deserved attention to all the awesome male quilters out there because there are loads.

Personally, I find myself, more often than not, surrounded by lovely women quilters. That isn’t a bad thing as what man doesn’t like to be surrounded by smart, creative and talented women?

Prior to Covid, when I would go speak at guilds or quilt shops, this is what I would do. Right when I opened up the evening, the first thing I would do is ask all the men to stand up.

After they stand up, I ask them a few questions. For the most part, the men at these events are chaperoning their wives. A few men I have met were quilters. After a little chit chat, I then award every man a bundle of fabric. They are always so surprised and the women love it and they love to hear me say, “We men need to stick together.” Here comes the good part!

After I give the men their fabric gifts, I then tell them that they are dismissed and that I need to be alone with the women. It’s always a nice way to start the evening and everyone gets a kick out of it. And NO!, I don’t really make the men leave. I would never.

Back to the blog at hand, I am seeking what is called “Strong Arm Quilters” aka male quilters. If you are a male quilter or know of someone who is, I would like to see your/their work and share it with my peeps on social media.

The way to reach me and get involved is by tagging me on Facebook @jaftexpresident or on Instagram @scott_fortunoff with awesome male created fabric projects. Make sure to include the following details:

• Name?
• Fabric used, techniques, project inspiration, etc.?
• How long you have been quilting?
• How did you get into quilting?

If I get a good turnout on this, I will even consider letting some of these male quilters do a page takeover on one of my social media pages for the day. Or, I can figure out another way to honor male quilters and bring attention to their works.

With that, I kindly ask for your help to send all the male quilters you know my way so that I can shine a bright light on them as many of them have been neglected for way too long. Bring it on!

Have a great week everyone!