COLUSA, CA (MPG) — The rhythmic hum of sewing machines and friendly conversation fill the Colusa Masonic Lodge each month when the Pacific Flyway Quilters gather to share ideas, techniques, and stories stitched in fabric.
Formed more than 30 years ago in the back of the former Fabric Fair, the guild began as a small circle of local quilters and soon grew into a thriving creative group.
“It started with about two dozen charter members and grew up to 52 members at its height,” said Arlene Arnold, the guild’s secretary. “Today there are about 19 of us.”
As membership numbers have shifted over the years, the guild is opening its doors to anyone interested in quilting or simply enjoying the art form. The group meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Colusa Masonic Lodge, 311 Fifth St. in Colusa.
“You don’t have to be a quilter,” Arnold said. “If someone doesn’t know how to quilt and wants to learn, we can teach them. We can also connect them with the beginner’s quilting class and the Friends Around the Block quilt store.”
Annual membership dues are $30, which include access to monthly meetings, guild resources, and a newsletter that keeps members up to date on upcoming programs and events.
Beyond their regular meetings, the Pacific Flyway Quilters host quilting retreats throughout the year. The events give participants a chance to sew, learn from one another, and take a break from daily routines.
“During the retreats, we also make our way downtown,” Arnold said. “We’ll grab lunch at Crave, stop by the quilt shop, spend all our money, and pick up a refreshment before heading back to quilting.”
The group also invites guest speakers and master quilters to share their expertise. At the October meeting, Master Quilter Karen Odabani of Redding presented a trunk show highlighting her work across multiple quilting styles, from appliqué to traditional piecing. Odabani also served as the quilting exhibition judge at the 2025 Colusa County Fair.
Through their gatherings and community involvement, members say the guild provides more than technical skill. It offers friendship, creativity, and connection.
“It’s more than sewing,” Arnold said. “It’s friendship and creativity.”
Anyone interested in learning more is welcome to attend a meeting and see what the guild is all about.