Head to the iconic NEC venue in Birmingham this summer and get ready to shop top-quality craft supplies from 200+ exhibitors, it’s the perfect place to stock up on beautiful fabrics, threads, sewing machines, patterns, and essential tools. Whether you’re planning your next quilt or simply browsing for inspiration, you’ll discover an incredible range of products from leading brands and independent suppliers all under one roof.
Dive into the festival’s extensive programme of Workshops, Lectures, and Talks. With hundreds of sessions available, you'll find something for all abilities – from beginner techniques to advanced masterclasses. You'll have the opportunity to learn new skills, refine your craft, and gain insider knowledge from world-class tutors and textile experts in a friendly, hands-on environment.
Explore international textile art exhibitions, showcasing quilts and contemporary works by leading artists from around the world — all included in your ticket. Highlights include work from Clara Nartey, Russell Barratt, the International Quilt Museum Collection, and a curated selection of QuiltCon quilts, among many others.
Don’t miss the inspiring evening talks featuring internationally renowned quilters Ricky Tims and Joe Cunningham. These exclusive sessions offer a unique opportunity to hear personal stories, share creative insights, and enjoy a complimentary drink!
At the heart of the festival is the spectacular Quilt Competition, featuring over 700 breathtaking quilts, from traditional patchwork to bold contemporary designs. Open to all, it celebrates both emerging talent and established makers.
Be sure to visit the lively Demo Stage, where live demonstrations run throughout the day, inspiring visitors with top tips, clever hacks, and insider secrets from quilting experts. Plus, all sessions are included in your admission ticket! Each day, you’ll be joined by brand ambassadors, tutors, and quilting VIPs for fun and informative demos. The line-up includes; Rachel from Crafty Monkies, Russell Barratt, Joe Cunningham, Jenifer McShane, and more.
The Creative Textile Studio returns, bringing back one of the show’s most popular and long-standing features. Discover a dynamic programme of live textile demonstrations, including innovative dyeing, printing, and surface design techniques, all led by some of the UK’s most exciting and forward-thinking textile artists. And adding colour and creativity to the show are the popular Catwalks, where stunning quilted garments and textile creations are brought to life on the runway. These dynamic showcases highlight the versatility of quilting and offer fresh inspiration for wearable art.
Throughout the festival, you’ll also discover a range of special exhibits designed to spark ideas and celebrate the diversity of textile art. Highlights include the Liberty exhibition where visitors can learn more about Liberty’s heritage and be the first to see brand-new collections. From the SHE Kantha display, a non-profit hand-crafted textile brand based in India that empowers women through needlework to the powerful Speak Their Name Memorial Quilt, a UK charity supporting those affected by suicide, through community support it helps bereaved families and friends honour and celebrate their loved ones. Plus, explore Riley Blake Designs latest collection, including the Cath Kidston Signature Collection and the beautiful Jane Austen quilt collection, alongside many more inspiring installations.
The Prima Lounge will be open every day at FOQ and Prima representatives will be handing out free magazines and Prima sewing patterns on a first-come, first-served basis.
We’re excited to offer exclusive private tours with our Textile Gallery artists during the show. Go behind the scenes for a personal, insider’s look at their exhibitions, hear their stories, and discover the inspiration behind their work. Sessions are limited and must be pre-booked, so reserve your place before they sell out.
And don’t leave empty-handed — take home a special memento from the show! Explore official merchandise, from tote bags and pin badges to water bottles, T-shirts, and fans, with something for everyone. Whether you come to shop, learn, be inspired, or connect with fellow makers, The Festival of Quilts offers an unforgettable experience for everyone passionate about quilting and ready to immerse themself in its ultimate celebration!
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Terms and Conditions:
*£2 off standard adult / concession tickets only. Offer not valid on VIP, Child, Two-day or group tickets, or on Sunday 2nd August. Transaction fee of £4.25 applies per order.