Originally Posted by CorgiNole
I take classes periodically to meet new people.
Don't rule out the guild option just because of the horror stories.
You could also start a quilting bee of your own once you find people who share your interests.
Cheers, K
I agree with K!
I've belonged to our local guild for maybe 3 years, and still feel like a newcomer when I walk in the door to the meetings. These women have sewing circles that meet outside of the regular guild meetings, so they tend to gravitate to those same little groups at the guild meetings. Sure, they'd say "hi" to me, but I've felt like an outsider. But, I was at our LQS recently and one of those sewing circles was meeting in the back room. I did know a number of the ladies in the group, and now they've invited me to join the group.
But, I always try to be on the lookout for new people at the guild meetings and try to make them feel welcome by sitting with them, answering questions etc.
There are days when I think just staying home and quilting is a better use of my time instead of going to the meetings (I work fulltime, so each spare hour is precious), but there is so much I enjoy about the guild: show and tell, guest speakers, featured quilters, making charity quilts together....and new friendships!