ELKINS — Quilters throughout the area are invited to take part in one of the Mountain State Forest Festival’s most artistic traditions.

The Festival has long been a celebration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, including the Queen’s Quilt Challenge, a community-driven event that brings together quilters of all skill levels to create a masterpiece presented to Queen Silvia during the festival’s closing ceremony.

Organized by the Elkins Sewing Center in cooperation with the MSFF, the 2025 Queen’s Quilt Challenge invites participants to design and submit quilt blocks that will be assembled into a quilt for the queen.

Each participant is required to purchase a challenge packet, which contains six carefully selected fabrics. To ensure consistency and unity in the final quilt, at least two of these fabrics must be used in each block. The use of additional fabrics, paints, or trims is not permitted, maintaining the integrity of the challenge’s guidelines.

The Elkins Sewing Center provides block guidelines with each kit, encouraging participants to explore various techniques such as piecing, appliqué, or embroidery. While fall-themed designs are preferred, quilters are welcome to express their creativity within the provided parameters. All completed blocks must be returned to the Elkins Sewing Center by Thursday, June 30.

Once all entries are submitted, the public is invited to view and vote for their favorite blocks between July 1 and July 16. The winners will be announced on July 18, and will receive gift cards redeemable at the Elkins Sewing Center. The final quilt, composed of the winning blocks, will be presented to Queen Silvia during the MSFF Closing Ceremony on Sunday, Oct 5.

This annual event not only showcases the quilting talents of the community but also fosters a sense of unity and pride among participants. For more quilt block information or to purchase a challenge packet, visit the Elkins Sewing Center at 300 Davis Avenue, Elkins, WV 26241, or call 304-636-9480. Whether you’re an experienced quilter or a novice eager to learn, the 2025 Queen’s Quilt Challenge offers a wonderful opportunity to contribute to a cherished community tradition.

The 87th edition of the Mountain State Forest Festival — with the theme “Embrace Nature’s Charm” — will take place Sept. 27-Oct. 5. More information is available online at www.forestfestival.com, or calling the festival office at 304-636-1824.