End of Life quilts for Indigenous People in Hospitals in ACT
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
On the 14th of March Joyce came to talk to us at our Sew & Chat day to tell us about the End of Life quilts she makes for Indigenous People who are in Canberra Hospital, North Canberra Hospital (formerly Calvery) and Clare Holland House.
She brought a variety of quilts which she showed us and explained the patterns used for the construction.
Lines/stripes are used for quilts for males as linked to initiation ceremonies, there is scarification of lines. Using mostly dark colours.
Half square triangles and lighter colours are used for female quilts.
Quilt for children are squares.
Quilts are also made for babies in a 9-patch. Two are made so that they can be given to either parents or parent and grandparents after end of life.
The project is designed to make Indigenous People comfortable at their end of life stage, as they are unable to be at home or on country. The quilts are then kept by the family.
The prints used are mostly Indigenous prints, with some batik and homespun plains.
Joyce has asked if any of our members would be able to assist in making the tops as currently she is the one sewing them, there are approximately 30 each year that are given.
The Canberra Hospital Foundation funds the materials, batting and quilting. Volunteers are sort to make the tops. Joyce will prepare packs of fabric for people who can assist in the sewing. She said that whilst there are the specific designs which are illustrated below. She is okay with some modifications based on the maker.
