Bushfire quilt help needed

Dear friends,
Many people across Australia have been deeply moved by the plight of Victorian towns affected by the bushfires in February.

We are among the lucky ones: our towns and homes were not directly impacted and our lives have moved on. For people in towns like Marysville, there are months and years of hard work and recovery ahead before life gets back to normal.

Yet out of the devastation and heartbreak, visions of hope have emerged. The reviving of the bush seems symbolic of the strength and tenacity of bush-loving residents.

If you've been wondering what you could do to help, this might be just the thing.
We are making a commemorative quilt to give to the community of Marysville.
We invite you to participate in this project. If you've never quilted before, don't worry - neither have I! It's easy! With the guidance of our technical support expert, Julie Warren, even us non-quilters can have a go.

Step 1: Choose fabric of your choice, 100% cotton is best. Cut out an 8 by 8 inch square.

Step 2: Measuring in 1 inch from the edge, trace a 6 by 6 inch square

Step 3: Decorate your block any way you like - as long as you stay within the clearly marked 6 inch square, leaving the margin clear for hemming.

You could use embroidery, applique, fabric paint or fabric pens such a 'Pigma' pens.
Julie Warren is available for idea and practical guidance.

The Marysville Quilt Project website is up and running. Check there for for inspiration and practical suggestions, including photos that might prompt ideas for your block design.
Your local quilting store will also be a useful resource.

Step 4: Complete the quilt block and post it to:

The Marysville Quilt Project
P.O. Box 378
Warburton
Victoria 3799
by no later than 30 September 2009!!!

Feel free to forward this email to friends you think might like to join the project.
Thank you for being part of this project.
Kind regards,
Julie Bell
Julie Warren

The Marysville 'Beauty for Ashes' Quilt Project
http://marysvillequilt.blogspot.com/