Small groups were getting together to share their knowledge of patchwork, applique and quilting in the 1980s, and in 1984 they met in Launceston to form a statewide guild, an event which is still remembered by those who attended.

They decided to hold workshops and retreats to learn new skills and work together. Regular quarterly newsletters were produced to keep in touch and share ideas, and exhibitions were held so everyone could see their finished work. This pattern continues to this day.

Representatives were also sent to national quilting seminars, which later became the Australian Council of Quilters, so we could share in the development of standards across our country.

The first exhibition, convened by Kathy Mumford, was held successfully in Launceston in 1985. A double wedding ring quilt was raffled to cover costs, and this has become a tradition.

Five quilts made by students were displayed at the second exhibition in 1987, and in 1997 there was a special primary school section with fabric and paper quilts which attracted lots of entries. The Student Textile competition began in 2007 to encourage students to have fun with needle and thread.

From 2001 to 2015 exhibitions were held annually in conjunction with the Quilt and Craft Fairs, which gave the guild funds to buy the reliable and stable metal modern quilt stands we use today.

Despite these big events, the heart of the guild continues to be the small local groups, and the local shops they support.