Frequently Asked Questions

A quilt show is an event where quilters display their completed quilts for exhibition, competition, or sale. They range in size from intimate guild shows in a local community center to large national events like AQS QuiltWeek, which draws thousands of quilters and hundreds of vendors from across the country.

Most shows have a mix of competition quilts (judged for ribbons), vendor halls (fabric, notions, and supplies), and educational programming (demonstrations, lectures, and classes).

The directory covers a wide range of quilting and fiber arts events across the United States:

• Quilt Shows — competitive and non-competitive exhibitions of finished quilts
• Guild Exhibitions — shows organized by local or regional quilting guilds
• Quilt Competitions — judged events with ribbons and prizes
• Art Quilt Shows — exhibitions focused on art quilts and fiber art
• Fabric & Textile Fairs — vendor markets focused on fabric, yarn, and fiber supplies
• Sewing Expos — multi-craft expos including quilting, sewing, and embroidery
• Modern Quilt Shows — shows organized by modern quilt guilds
• Vintage Quilt Shows — exhibitions of antique and vintage quilts

Most competitive quilt shows use certified judges (many certified by the National Quilting Association or the American Quilter's Society) who evaluate entries on two main dimensions:

• Craftsmanship — construction quality, stitching consistency, binding, seam alignment
• Design — color use, pattern execution, creativity, and overall visual impact

Quilts are divided into categories by technique (traditional, art quilt, miniature, appliqué, etc.), size (wall hanging, lap, queen, etc.), and sometimes skill level (novice, intermediate, advanced). Ribbons are typically awarded for Best of Show, Judge's Choice, and first through third place within each category. Many shows provide written judges' critiques to all entrants — invaluable feedback for improving your work.

Absolutely. Most quilt shows have novice or beginner categories specifically for quilters who are new to entering shows. Entering is a wonderful way to:

• Receive detailed written feedback from a certified judge
• Set a completion deadline for a project
• Connect with the broader quilting community
• See your work displayed alongside inspiring quilts

Don't let imposter syndrome stop you — every experienced quilter entered their first show as a beginner.

Quilt shows are a feast for the eyes and a great learning opportunity. Here's what to focus on:

• Inspiration — notice color combinations, quilting patterns, and design choices that resonate with you
• Judges' critiques — many shows attach written critique sheets to competition entries; read them for technique insights
• Vendor booths — stock up on fabric, batting, thread, and notions, often at show-exclusive prices
• Demos and lectures — free or low-cost educational programming from experienced quilters
• Guild tables — talk to local guild members about joining and upcoming events

Remember the golden rule of quilt shows: never touch the quilts unless specifically invited to do so.

No account needed. Browse, search, and filter events completely free with no sign-up required.

Events are gathered continuously from guild websites, quilting federation calendars, event listings, and community submissions, then reviewed for accuracy. That said, organizers sometimes cancel or reschedule on short notice — always check the official event page or guild website before making travel plans.

Enter your city, ZIP code, or state in the search bar on the home page. You can set a search radius (50, 100, 200, or 400 miles) and filter by date range or show type.

Your location and radius are remembered between visits so you don't have to re-enter them every time.

Click Submit a Show in the top navigation bar. Fill in the event name, date, location, and any other details you have — the more information you provide, the more useful the listing. Submissions are reviewed before being published, usually within a few days.

Open the event's detail page and click the "Report incorrect information" button. Select the issue type (wrong date, wrong location, event cancelled, etc.), add any details, and submit. We review reports promptly.

If you're the event organizer and need a more significant update, contact us directly.

Send us a message and we'll get back to you.