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The Ultimate Guide to 2024 Quilt Shows: Your Passport to Quilting Bliss

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Welcome fellow quilting enthusiasts! As we bid adieu to the 2023 quilt shows, it’s time to gear up for an exhilarating array of quilt exhibitions slated for 2024! We’re thrilled to present you with a comprehensive guide to all the captivating quilt shows scheduled throughout the year, both in the United States and across the globe. So, grab your favorite quilt, cozy up, and let’s embark on an exciting journey through the vibrant world of quilting!

Unveiling the 2024 Quilt Shows in the United States

Let’s kick off our quilting adventure with a whirlwind tour of the enchanting quilt shows taking place across the United States. From the bustling streets of Bloomington, Indiana, to the serene landscapes of Puyallup, Washington, each show promises a unique tapestry of creativity, craftsmanship, and camaraderie. Here’s a glimpse of some of the noteworthy shows gracing the quilting calendar:

Indiana Heritage Quilt Show

Location: Bloomington, IN
Dates: Feb 29 – Mar 2

Mid Atlantic Quilt Festival

Location: Hampton, VA
Dates: Feb 29 – Mar 3

Sewing & Stitchery Expo

Location: Puyallup, WA
Dates: Feb 29 – Mar 3

Desert Guilds Quilt Show

Location: Palm Springs, CA
Dates: Mar 1 – Mar 2

Stitches in Time Quilt Show

Location: Naples, FL
Dates: Mar 1 – Mar 2

Quilting by the Gulf – A Festival of Quilts

Location: Venice, FL
Dates: Mar 2 – Mar 3

And the list goes on, weaving a colorful tapestry of quilting events spanning the nation. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just dipping your toes into the world of quilting, these shows offer something for everyone.

Embark on a Global Quilting Odyssey

But wait, the quilting extravaganza doesn’t end there! Prepare to be dazzled by an international showcase of quilt artistry that transcends borders and cultures. From the picturesque landscapes of the United Kingdom to the vibrant streets of Spain, the 2024 International Quilt Shows promise a visual feast for quilt enthusiasts worldwide. Here are some highlights from the global quilting scene:

Newark Quilt Show

Location: Newark, Nottinghamshire, UK
Dates: Jan 12 – Jan 13

International Festival of Patchwork

Location: Sitges, Spain
Dates: Mar 14 – Mar 17

Australian Quilt Convention

Location: Melbourne, Australia
Dates: April 11 – April 14

South African Quilt Show

Location: Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
Dates: July 4 – July 9

European Patchwork Meeting

Location: Val d’Argent, Alsace, France
Dates: Sept 12 – Sept 15

Crafting Memories and Connections

Whether you’re marveling at the intricate stitching of a traditional quilt or admiring the avant-garde designs pushing the boundaries of quilting, these shows offer a wealth of inspiration and opportunity for connection. So, mark your calendars, gather your quilting companions, and embark on a journey filled with creativity, camaraderie, and countless memories waiting to be stitched together.

Your Quilting Adventure Awaits!

As you prepare to immerse yourself in the world of quilting, don’t forget to share your experiences, insights, and favorite finds with fellow quilting enthusiasts. Together, let’s celebrate the artistry, passion, and joy that make quilting a timeless and cherished craft.

So, whether you’re attending in person or exploring virtually, let the 2024 quilt shows be your gateway to a world of creativity, connection, and endless possibilities. Happy quilting!

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My Fabric Buying Rules (That I Break All the Time)

I have fabric buying rules.

Very sensible rules.

Responsible, grown-up, “I have teenagers and a mortgage” rules.

And yet… somehow… I still come home with another bundle of florals.

If you’ve ever typed “quilting fabric sale” into Google knowing full well you do not need more quilting fabric, this one’s for you.

Let’s talk about the rules I made for myself — and how often I quietly ignore them.

Rule #1: Only Buy Fabric for a Specific Project

This is my most repeated rule.

Only buy quilting fabric if I have a pattern in mind.
 Only buy fabric yardage if I know what quilt I’m making.

In theory? Sensible.

In reality?

“I don’t have a pattern yet, but this would make a beautiful lap quilt.”

Which means it joins the “future project” pile.

That pile is thriving.

Rule #2: Shop Your Stash First

Before buying new quilting cotton, I tell myself:

You have a whole cupboard of beautiful fabric.

And I do.

But sometimes I open that cupboard and think:

“Yes… but not this shade of blue.”

Apparently there is always room for “just one more perfect blender.”

Rule #3: No Buying Just Because It’s On Sale

This one gets me every time.

Clearance quilting fabric is dangerous.

Because suddenly I’m not buying fabric…
 I’m “saving money.”

Which is how three metres of something I wasn’t even looking for ends up in my sewing room.

On sale fabric has a way of whispering,
 “You’ll regret it if you don’t.”

And honestly? Sometimes I would.

Rule #4: Stop Buying Novelty Prints You’ll Never Use

I love novelty quilting fabrics.

Chickens. Teacups. Tiny strawberries. Vintage florals.

Do I make novelty quilts often?

No.

Do I convince myself I will?

Absolutely.

There’s something about quirky fabric that makes my creative brain light up — even if it takes five years to turn into something.

Rule #5: Don’t Duplicate What You Already Have

This is the funniest one.

Because I absolutely have:

Three nearly identical cream background prints.
 Four versions of “soft dusty pink.”
 More neutral blenders than I could sew in a year.

But when I see “the perfect low-volume print” — logic disappears.

Apparently I believe each new one is slightly more perfect than the last.

Rule #6: Only Buy Quality Quilting Fabric

This one I actually stick to.

If I’m investing in fabric for a quilt, I want quality quilting cotton that presses well, holds up over time, and doesn’t fade after washing.

I’ve learned that lesson.

Cheap fabric looks like a bargain… until it doesn’t behave.

So at least I’ve matured in one area.

Rule #7: Finish One Quilt Before Starting Another

This isn’t strictly about buying fabric, but it’s related.

Because nothing triggers fabric shopping like:

  • A tricky block
     • A frustrating seam
     • A quilt top that won’t lie flat

Suddenly a new project feels like a fresh start.

Which means new fabric.

Which means the cycle continues.

Why We Really Buy Fabric

If I’m being honest — and this is the handwritten, tea-in-hand honesty — I don’t just buy fabric for quilts.

I buy fabric for:

  • Possibility
     • Inspiration
     • A future version of myself
     • A quiet hour I haven’t had yet

Sometimes buying quilting fabric is less about productivity and more about hope.

And that’s not entirely a bad thing.

My Real Fabric Buying Rule (The One That Matters)

Here’s the rule I actually try to follow now:

Buy fabric that genuinely makes you excited to sew.

Not pressured.

Not influenced.

Not because someone else says it’s trending.

If I can picture it on my cutting mat.
 If I can see it stitched into something useful.
 If it makes me want to sit down and sew tonight.

Then I don’t feel guilty.

A Little Gentle Reality

Most hobby quilters don’t struggle because they don’t have enough fabric.

We struggle because:

  • We don’t have enough time
     • We don’t have enough energy
     • We’re juggling life

Fabric buying is the easy part.

Making space to actually sew? That’s the real challenge.

So yes.

I have fabric buying rules.

And yes.

I break them.

But as long as the sewing room still feels joyful — and not stressful — I’m okay with that.

Because quilting isn’t about being perfectly disciplined.

It’s about enjoying the process… even if that includes another bundle of florals.