-Daily Freeman-Journal photo by Hans Madsen Jo Seltz, owner of Tillies Quilts in downtown Fort Dodge, shows off a finished quilt similar in design to one that will be created during a series of quilting sessions at the Fort Museum and Frontier Village. The design dates from the Civil War Era.

FORT DODGE – An upcoming series of quilting classes at the Fort Museum and Frontier Village in Fort Dodge might be just the ticket to keep participants in stitches.

Misty Mackay, with the Fort Museum, said the while the classes offer an opportunity to have some fun, the finished quilt will also benefit the Fort.

“It’s a quilt to be raffled off,” she said. “We’ll hold the drawing on June 8 during Frontier Days.”

The classes are being sponsored by Tillies Quilts, in downtown Fort Dodge and will be taught by owner Jo Seltz. The expert quilt maker will be guiding the participants through the creation of an old design.

“It’s a Civil War-era quilt pattern,” Mackay said. “The design originated during that era.”

The first class is scheduled for Jan. 23. Hours are 5 to 8 p.m. The next class will be on Jan. 30 with the same hours.

In February, the classes will move to Tuesday nights, also with the same hours.

“It should take about five weeks to complete,” she said.

The cost of each class session will be determined by the number of participants. If six or more sign up, it’s $10; if fewer than six, $15.

Of course, there’s a bonus.

“That includes a glass of wine,” she said.

For participants who have them, they are welcome and encouraged to bring their portable sewing machines.

The Fort Museum and Frontier Museum is also hosting the annual Call of the Wild event to benefit Webster County Conservation on Feb. 23. The evening will feature raffles, food and fun. Proceeds are earmarked to help build cabins at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park.