I was so fortunate to be able to attend the Fall International Quilt Market. Why Quilt Market, you may ask? A reasonable question. It is a curious name, but don’t let that fool you. The International Quilt Market is the premiere trade show for the sewing industry. All manner of fabric, patterns, notions, sewing machines, tools, books and accessories are represented. 

It is held each year in the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.

The show, which is held twice each year, is a gathering place for store owners, buyers, representatives, authors, editors, magazines, designers and a few sewing studio owners too. It really encompasses the entire spectrum of industry insiders. My perspective as a first-time attendee was rather unique, as I was there with a badge as an author with a well-established and respected publishing company and as a small business owner. This outsider disguised with an “insider’s badge” gave me the ability to both stand out and fade into the background at once.

As an author, I was given some time at my publisher, C&T’s booth to have a book signing. Shop owners and representatives stopped by my table at the C&T booth to chat and have their book signed. This was such a fantastic opportunity to meet them and to hear about their work, their customers and what projects they are interested in making. 

After the book signing wrapped up, I had a few minutes to change and refuel on coffee before filming a how-to tutorial. The tutorial, which will be coming soon, will be used as a promotional video for my book. 

Once that was complete, I was free to explore the Quilt Market.

It truly was a fantastic experience for me to meet with representatives of magazines, sewing machines and fabric companies, distributors and suppliers.  I learned a lot and made some valuable new contacts. 

 For example, while visiting the Kai Scissors booth, I mentioned that I personally love their scissors but don’t use them in my shop because I teach kids and the scissors are so sharp they could be a safety hazard.  The representative informed me that they would be happy to blunt the tips of the scissors for me as a precautionary measure.  Well, let’s just say that order was a no-brainer.  Now the kids use beautiful and very sharp- but very safe scissors in class.

I spy my book on the shelf!

Testing new Eversewn sewing machines.

Each booth was an explosion of color, pattern and inspiration. The designers and team did an extraordinary job of not only designing the patterns for their fabric collections but in planning and designing their booths.

 It did take a bit of restraint, but I managed not to go all fan-girl on some of the designers and authors I had the pleasure of meeting.  

By closing, I was exhausted but exhilarated. Fortunately, my hotel was connected to the Convention Center, so it was just a short walk back. The hotel was gorgeous and lucky for me had some exceptional restaurants inside.

The fabric and supplies that I ordered just a few months ago are beginning to ship.  Each time I pull a bolt off of the shelf, I will be reminded of my first time at Quilt Market.

XO, Hilarie