Hosting A Square

Who can become a square host?

Anyone with a qualifying site can host a square on the AQT. In order to determine if your site qualifies, we have a few basic guidelines that must be met. The purpose of said guidelines is

to ensure unity across the trail and a strong connection with the trail’s mission. After determining that your site meets the following, you can contact the AQT office to speak with staff about getting a square or being listed on the trail!

• Square must be visible from a public road.

• Must attach the block to a sound structure that we approve—no free-standing blocks will be approved.

• Property should be well maintained, free from obstruction and debris.

• Political signs may not be placed on or around the block.

• Squares cannot be hung on a state structure.

After your site is approved, you will choose a square to hang. There are several options for attaining your square, including painting it yourself, having it donated by a local artist or group, calling us to get a pre-painted square ready to hang or calling us to request information about getting a custom square. More information about this process can be found in the printable Host Guide. We have a few basic guidelines for quilt blocks as well:

• Squares must be 4x4 or 8x8 unless special hanging conditions are approved by the AQT.

• Square and frame must be constructed, painted and hung with approved materials.

• All blocks must be of a heritage quilt square design approved by the AQT—any variations on the heritage patterns must also be approved.

• While coloration will vary, blocks should be painted with consideration to the original heritage square and should only be altered for visibility.

• All blocks must be approved BEFORE becoming an official trail stop or waypoint.

• Blocks may not be signed by the artist, unless on the back.

• The AQT reserves the right to deny applicants and square designs or remove them if the above site and square guidelines are not met.

With your site approved and pattern chosen, you will submit a registration form and become a part of the trail! There are two types of sites on the trail, depending on what your location is and has to offer visitors:

• Stops are places that are open to the public. Here, tourists can park, get out of the car, and eat, shop, take a tour, etc.

• Waypoints are typically private property and not open to the public—barns, farms, etc. Parking is not recommended at these sites.

Once the application has been reviewed, you'll be contacted. Unless the application is for a location of special consideration to be reviewed by the Appalachian Quilt Trail Advisory Committee, you should receive notice of application status within 14 business days.

A Quick Recap, here's what you'll need :

1. Painting and Installation Guide[128.6 kb pdf]
2. Qult Square Guidelines [414.4 kb pdf] 
3. Registration [74.4 kb pdf]

Already have a square?

We love adding new sites and bringing more folks to the trail to see what Tennessee has to offer! If you have painted a square or acquired one at some point and are interested in becoming a part of the trail, read over the above guidelines and download our Host Guide to get all the details! If your site and design comply with our criteria, call us about getting your site listed in our database!