Research Rave 2026
$395.00
Discover more about antique quilts!
The Research Rave Syndicate is a membership-based collective founded by quilt historians Lisa Erlandson and Tara Miller, designed to support your journey into quilt history research.
As a member, you’ll gain access to a unique set of benefits, including the Research Rave—a 3½-day, hands-on intensive workshop in Denver Colorado, August 18-22, 2026. You’ll also enjoy a private online community, a pre-event orientation, and follow-up Zoom sessions to help you continue your research long after the Rave ends.
Together, we’ll explore how to trace quiltmakers through census records, newspapers, and other archives—always in a supportive, welcoming environment.
Includes:
- Admission to the in-person, 3½-day Research Rave workshop August 18-22, 2026 in Denver (Aurora), Colorado
- Pre-event Zoom orientation to connect and set research goals
- Two post-event Zoom sessions for follow-up, support, and celebration
- Ongoing access to a private members-only email group
- Guidance and encouragement from Lisa, Tara, and fellow members
We believe research isn’t just an academic exercise—it’s a personal journey. And it’s better when shared.
See our Research Rave page for more information about our purpose.
See the Description section below for information about what’s included, what to bring, and what to expect.
In stock
Research Rave: Denver 2026
August 18–22, 2026
Hosted by Lisa Erlandson & Tara Miller
Denver, Colorado
Discover the Stories Behind the Quilts
Do you want to research a quilt in your collection, but need a little help getting started? Have you been itching to learn more about quilt history and quilt study? Whether you’ve never opened a census record or you’re deep in the archives, Research Rave is for you.
Join quilt historians Lisa Erlandson and Tara Miller for a three-and-a-half-day, hands-on workshop in Denver, Colorado! We’ll guide you step by step as you explore the history of your quilt and its maker(s), using accessible tools like census records, newspapers, maps, and more. You’ll work alongside fellow researchers in a supportive, focused, and inspiring environment—one filled with encouragement, curiosity, and community.
What to Expect at the Rave
This workshop is designed to give you time, space, and expert guidance to dive into your research—without distractions and without doing it alone.
Itinerary:
- Tuesday, August 18: Optional Welcome Dinner with Lisa & Tara (meals not included, but we’d love to share a table with you!)
- Wednesday–Friday, August 19–21: Full research days at our hotel, with personalized guidance from Lisa and Tara.
- Saturday Morning, August 22: Group gathering to share progress, discoveries, and celebrate our work together
Where It’s Happening
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Denver Aurora/Parker
24192 East Prospect Avenue, Aurora, Colorado, USA, 80016
Hotel Accommodations
Also at Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Denver Aurora/Parker. Click HERE to book with our group rate!
What to Bring
A laptop or tablet that can access the internet.
The quilt, if you have it. If you can’t travel with the quilt itself, bring high-quality printed photos or digital versions you can view on your device.
- One full, flat photo of the front of the quilt
- One full, flat photo of the back of the quilt
- At least three close-ups of different areas of the quilt strongly encouraged
- One close-up of the binding
- Any other photos or documentation you have
- Any information you’ve already collected about the quilt
- Whether your quilt is a family heirloom or a mystery find, we’ll help you begin tracing its story—with care, accuracy, and community.
Come Rave With Us
This is more than a workshop. It’s a movement, a gathering, and a home for those who believe that quilts hold stories worth discovering—and sharing.
Join us. We can’t wait to see what you uncover.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel by July 1, 2026 for a full refund.
Cancel between July 2 and August 1 for a 50% refund.
Cancellations on or after August 2 are not eligible for a refund.
Questions?
Email us at researchravesyndicate@gmail.com
