The Spring Quilt Show season is gearing up. Quilters are ready—especially this year—to get out and go. We start looking for that next project, with happy spring color after a long, cold winter.
A quilt show is the ideal place for getting inspiration, buying supplies, and learning new techniques. Chances are you’ll find a show in your neck of the woods during the next few months. Here’s a handy guide to help you enjoy the show to its fullest.
Gather Information Before the Quilt Show
- Visit a local quilt shop. Most shows, whether local or national, will have informational fliers available at local shops. You can also ask the staff about any shows coming up in the area. These folks are plugged into the latest in the quilting world. They can guide you to the best shows.
- Check out the show’s website. This is where you’ll find information about the venue, hours, class offerings, admission, contests, vendors, safety, and more.
- Sign up for a class. Shows are a great place to learn the latest techniques from the experts. Handi Quilter is proud to sponsor hands-on longarm classrooms at many major shows throughout the country and the world. We provide Avante, Simply Sixteen, or Sweet Sixteen machines for students to use during class. It’s a great opportunity to really get to know a machine!
Come Prepared for the Quilt Show
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. You will put quite a large number on that step counter! Get some that will make you comfortable even when standing for longer periods of time than usual.
Dress in Layers
The temperature at shows can never be predicted. It might be very chilly or it might be warm. It is always good to have a sweater or light jacket, just in case.
Be Ready for Crowds
Be ready for crowds, especially at larger national shows.
Speaking of crowds, check the show’s information for any current health or safety guidelines so you’ll know what to expect before you arrive.
Bring a Tote Bag
Do you have a roomy bag that is comfortable to carry? That’s the perfect thing for carting all the treasures you will find at the vendors.
If you come to Houston Quilt Festival this year in the fall, the first booth you want to hit is the Handi Quilter booth. We give away bags large enough to hold a king-sized quilt every day of the show. Come early; they go fast!
Bring a Camera
You will want to take photos of the quilts that inspire you. Maybe you love the color palette, the piecing or appliqué, or the QUILTING! You’ll want to add those ideas to your inspiration stash. If you use your phone as your camera, be sure it is charged.
Taking a Class? Bring a Notebook
A notebook and pen are a must. Be sure to check the supply list for your class so you have all the items you’ll need to get the most from the experience.
Bring Snacks
You’ve got to keep up your energy. Chocolate is my recommendation.
Important Things to Do at a Quilt Show
Give Yourself Enough Time
Give yourself the gift of enough time to fully enjoy all the show has to offer. This might mean planning to come to the show for two or more days.
Stop by the Handi Quilter Booth
Come by the HQ booth and say “hello”! We love to meet quilters. Not part of the family yet? Give a machine a test drive!
Look for the Handi Quilter Truck
Don’t forget to look for the truck. Take a photo of yourself by the HQ truck and share it on social media. Use #handiquilter and tag @handiquilter on Instagram.
Happy Quilt Show season!
By Mary Beth Krapil
Great tips! Wish we could hold a truck event…maybe someday!
I love how you advise on being comfortable while in the class so you can focus on your quilt. My aunt really likes the idea of quilting but doesn’t quite have the time to make stuff herself yet. So she’s looking to get some quilts from professionals. Maybe going to one of these shows can help her find a style she likes.