Modern Quilting Blog

The Festival of Quilts is the largest quilt show in Europe and is held annually in Birmingham, UK over a period of four days in August. The festival features exhibitions, workshops, and demonstrations by some of the world’s leading quilt artists, as well as a large marketplace where visitors can buy quilting supplies, fabrics, and other related items. This year’s festival will be held from August 3 to 6 at the NEC in Birmingham. 

The festival also hosts a number of competitions, including the “Fine Art Quilt Masters” competition, which is open to quilters from around the world and is judged by a panel of experts. The festival also features a “Young Quilters” competition, which encourages children and young adults to explore the art of quilting and express their creativity through textiles.

History of The Festival of Quilts

The Festival of Quilts was started in 2023 and has run every year since then, with the exception of 2020. Over the years, some of the featured artists and quilters have included legendary quilters like Dorothy Caldwell, Elizabeth Brimelow, Nancy Crow, Jane Dunnewold, Diana Harrison, and others. Famous quilts are also displayed, such as the Grenfell Memorial Quilt.

What are some ways to participate at The Festival of Quilts in 2023?

There are many different workshops, classes, and other activities to participate in at The Festival of Quilts. Here are some things that are worth checking out:

  • “Creative and Colorful Improv Piecing,” “Organic Shapes,” and “Watercolor Quilts,” are three classes that will be taught by Carolina Oneto as part of The Festival of Quilts Academy. 
  • The Festival of Quilts will also offer several easier, shorter classes for quilters of all skill levels through its Quick and Easy classes.
  • You can also visit several different galleries throughout the festival, including an exhibit from The Quilters Guild Museum.

What’s the best way to enjoy The Festival of Quilts in 2023?

The best way to enjoy The Festival of Quilts in 2023 is to buy tickets online and arrange for a stay at one of the many hotels nearby, such as the Moxy Hotel or the Hilton Hotel, since there is transportation from these locations. 

Keep in mind that courses from The Academy will take the majority of the day, so you may want to focus on taking one or two academy classes and some of the Quick and Easy classes so that you can maximize your learning. Planning your time at the Festival well in advance will let you see the most classes, displays, and masterclasses

See you at The Festival of Quilts in August of 2023

The  Festival of Quilts is a must-attend event for anyone interested in quilting, textile art, or craft in general, and provides a fantastic opportunity to learn from and be inspired by some of the world’s most talented quilt artists.