Growing up in a small town, Cathy Recinos’ mother wanted her daughters to stay out of trouble and avoid boredom, so she kept them busy with various crafts. She taught them how to sew, paint, crochet, and knit. Her family exemplified how creativity can run in a family. Her father crafted wooden boxes with inlaid designs, her mother was a talented painter among other skills, and her sister made clothing, starting with the wool harvested from sheep.
Cathy’s quilting journey began when her son received his seventh afghan blanket. He told her he no longer needed any more afghans, prompting her to take up quilting. With over 40 years of quilt-making experience, she has a collection of 25 quilts and has gifted numerous others to friends and family. Cathy doesn’t have a favorite pattern, and no two quilts she has made are alike. To her, each quilt is like a grandchild, as she has none of her own. Each finished quilt holds a special place in her heart and carries a small piece of her spirit. Although her son has received 17 ocean-themed quilts from her, he expressed a desire to inherit her quilt collection, which brings Cathy great joy.
Over the years, quilts and quilting friends have played an important part in her life. When she discovered the quilting ministry at Desert Hills Lutheran Church, she felt she had found her true home. When asked what advice she would give someone starting their quilting journey, she shared the importance of being extremely patient, taking one’s time, and being willing to rip out seams and corners to ensure the quilt looks beautiful.
Cathy’s quilts, including her very first one and another featuring family photos, are displayed for everyone to admire in the church hallways.