I have just ordered my tickets for the Festival of Quilts in Birmingham, England this August. This will be the first time I have ever been to one of these big quilt events and I am really excited, for three reasons in particular.
Firstly, I think you'll agree, but anyone who quilts or sews can spend hours just wandering around a great big hall filled with fabric, notions, patterns and the rest. I cannot wait for the colour explosions, that clean smell of new fabric bolts and all the latest knick knacks on the market to make our sewing lives easier!
Secondly, I am going to try out the Grace quilt frame at the Cottonpatch stand. Once we move (this September) I will have enough space for a proper quilt frame. I have done a fair bit of research and I think the Grace frame is a great entry level frame. (One day I hope to upgrade to a Handiquilter, but first I need to win the lottery!)
Finally, the atmosphere at any big event aimed at a specific group of people is usually overwhelmingly positive. I cannot wait to be amongst like-minded people who are just as passionate about quilting and sewing as I am. People are always friendly, happy to share their experiences with different machines, thread and other quilting essentials. There is a real sense of community. I may even find a few people who would be interested in a pan-European quilting bee!
I will post photos of the event when I get back!