PrettyKitty

Hi Everyone,

http://www.twistedthread.com/pages/exhibitions/viewExhibition.aspx?id=17

Has anyone in the UK been to this quilt show before and can tell me what it is like? I am interested in going but am not sure if I will be a bit out of my depth – new to quilting and have not even done the binding yet on their first ever quilt!

I suppose it would be worth going to get good deals on equiptment and supplies?

Do they do any demonstrations on basic techniques or is it all about the more advanced quilting?

Anyone else going?

Mary

Katrine

PrettyKitty, lucky you to be so close to the Festival of Quilts. It is a huge show, and you will find absolutely everything there. All the UK suppliers, and many from overseas, are there and are very helpful and informative. I believe that alot have special offers for the duration of the Show. Check out the blog on the Cotton Patch site (www.quiltingonline.co.uk/blogger), they will soon be putting details of their stands on, think they have 2. I just had an email newsletter about it.
There are talks, demonstrations, etc. etc. as well.
I only wish the airfares were not so expensive in August - I would love to be there.
Have fun.

PrettyKitty

Thanks Katrine, feeling more like I should go now. I work at a company that is situated right next to the NEC, so it will be nice to catch the normal train there but turn right twards the quilt festival when leaving the station instead of turning left to go to work!

Harmony

Doesn't matter how long you've been quilting. If you go you will be inspired and humbled by what you see! And it's fun--don't miss it! Lots of fun to walk around to all the vendors, too.

MAXIES2

I usually go to the quilt show at Harrogate, and feel very inspired afterwards. You may spend a fortune if you are not careful , if you do see something that takes your eye have a good look round as you will be amazed at the different prices charged for the same thing , material and notions etc. Also dont expect too many bargains, I buy most of my material from E bay USA, even with postage it works out to be so much cheaper than here in the UK Having said that I am sure you will have a great day, wear comfy shoes, perhaps take a flask as the coffee shops get very busy, and of course a camera.
Enjoy
Katherine

Butterflyspain

Hi Pretty Kitty, I haven΄t been to a quilt show at all, but I would think you could get an awful lot of tips and hints just by asking all those people on the Stands. Not only that think of all those pictures you could take and share with us :lol: :lol: I really think it would be a great experience I just wish i could join you.

Elle

Butterflyspain

Hi Pretty Kitty, just noticed you work almost next door to the NEC, oh now you have got to go, just think of all those gorgeous fabrics you could buy.

Elle

quilter1962

Hello Pretty Kitty

I live in Nottingham & shall be going to the NEC to get my fix!!

I've not been before, however I have been told that the best day to go is on Sunday to get the bargains. The group I have joined always go on the Sunday for this reason. Some of the ladies also take a trip on the Thursday as apparently some of the designer fabrics go pretty quickly eg: Kaffe Fassett.
I went to the Malvern Quilt Show in May, being new to quilting like yourself I spent a fair amount of money. I did get some good deals though. Pleased I wore my loafers as my feet were throbbing by time I got home! The usual beverages, etc are not cheap. It cost me £5.50 for a Coffee & Muffin! This time I intend taking a packed lunch & bottles of water as I would prefer to spend my money on fabrics. LOL
Let me know if you decide to go, we could meet up. PM me if your interested.

Tisha

AndreaM

I've been to both Malvern and the NEC over the past three years and I have only been quilting for about that time. It's really inspirational seeing all the fantastic quilts on display but not only that, when you see the choice of fabric that is available as well as notions, threads and more you'll be inundated with ideas and won't be able to wait to try things out. Go and enjoy!

PrettyKitty

Well, thanks everyone, you've all made me really want to go to the show, and I will go. Can't wait now! It is also my birthday in August so I may have to see if I can get some early birthday money to spend at the show. And I LOVE packed lunches! I love going to shows and fairs and sports events, but HATE the expensive fast food that is on offer, I always take packed lunches and snacks, it adds to the enjoyment of the day eating yummy sandwiches on nice bread that you made yourself.

So looking forward to the show now!