The annual event is hosted by New England Quilters and Patchworkers group at Legacy House to raise money for a local charity.  This year members are raising money for Helping Children and Families Association in Armidale.

HCFA is a volunteer-based organisation connecting families of young children with resources in the community. 

Exhibition convenor Robyn Wood said the group and HCFA have been busy selling raffle tickets. 

“Each year, members of the group make a queen sized quilt to be raffled, with the proceeds going to a local charity,” Ms Wood said. 

“We usually raise between $2000 and $3000. It all depends on the raffle but it is a great cause.

“We love doing it and new members are always welcome. We have a day group and a night group.”

The group spent a weekend hitting the stitching to make the queen sized quilt, that will be raffled.

The exhibition will showcase quilts, cushions, bags, embroideries and knitted toys including bears and dolls. 

A highlight will include the group’s entrance quilt designed by Heather Roobon.

This year’s theme for the exhibition is the toy shop.

Ms Wood encouraged the community to pop in Legacy House over the weekend.

“Everybody is welcome to come along – whether they have any interest in quilts. It will be very interesting for everyone,” Ms Wood said. 

“We usually get between 300 and 500 people through the doors over the weekend.

“It’s a very busy weekend for the town but we are hoping for as many people as possible.”

“There will also be a room at the exhibition for people to buy little bits and pieces.”

Entry is $5 and includes tea and coffee, and there will sandwiches and slices available.

Children under 10 years receive free entry.

The doors at Legacy House will open on Saturday from 9am to 5pm and Sunday from 9am to 4pm.

Raffle tickets will be available at the exhibition and the raffle will be drawn on Sunday.