August 13-16, 2025 – Research Rave Retreat – Cincinnati
Discover the Story Behind
Your Quilt!
Join quilt historians Lisa Erlandson and Tara Miller for a 3½-day workshop designed to help you research the history of your quilts. Held at the Cincinnati Public Library, the event includes hands-on sessions, research librarian support, and membership in the Research Rave Syndicate with an online community and follow-up Zoom check-ins to continue your journey.
Learn to trace makers through census records, newspapers, and more—all in a welcoming, supportive environment.
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.
$595.00
In stock
Research Rave: Cincinnati 2025
August 13–16, 2025
Hosted by Lisa Erlandson & Tara Miller
Cincinnati, Ohio
Discover the Story Behind Your Quilt
Do you want to research a quilt in your collection, but need a little help getting started? 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 at the beautiful Cincinnati Public Library. 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 12: Optional Welcome Dinner with Lisa & Tara (meals not included, but we’d love to share a table with you!)
- Wednesday–Friday, August 13–15: Full research days at the Cincinnati Public Library, with personal guidance from Lisa and Tara, plus support from on-site research librarians
- Saturday Morning, August 16: Group gathering to share progress, discoveries, and celebrate our work together
What’s Included in Your Registration
Included:
- The full, in-person 3½-day workshop
- Pre-event orientation Zoom
- Two post-event community Zoom gatherings
- Research guidance and personalized support from Lisa and Tara
- Access to Cincinnati Public Library resources during the workshop
- Membership in the Research Rave Syndicate
- Access to our private, members-only email group
Not Included:
- Airfare and travel expenses
- Lodging or hotel costs (though we've reserved a room block with a special rate for our group)
- Meals
- Transportation during the event
Where It’s Happening
Cincinnati Public Library – Main Branch
Cincinnati, Ohio
Nearest airport: Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
Hotel Accommodations
We've reserved a block of rooms at the beautiful Hampton Inn Downtown. Double queen or king room options available.
Please click here to book your room.
What to Bring
A laptop or tablet that can access the internet.
The Quilt(s). Please bring the quilt or quilts you would like to research. 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.
When You Register, You Become a Member
All attendees become founding members of the Research Rave Syndicate, a community created to extend the support of the workshop long after we leave Cincinnati.
Your membership includes:
- A live Zoom orientation before the event to meet other attendees and begin setting your goals
- Two follow-up Zoom gatherings in the months after the Rave to share updates, troubleshoot roadblocks, and celebrate discoveries
- Access to a private, members-only email group where you can connect with Lisa, Tara, and your fellow Syndicate members for guidance, photos, tips, and support as your research continues
We believe research isn’t just an academic exercise—it’s a personal journey. And it’s better when shared.
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 June 1, 2025 for a full refund.
Cancel between June 2 and July 1 for a 50% refund.
Cancellations on or after July 2 are not eligible for a refund.