Attending Industry Events is a Power Move for Your Quilt Shop

Your shop is your world—but every once in a while, stepping outside of it can be the very thing that fuels your next big idea, connection, or bestselling collection.

Whether it’s a local shop hop, an industry trade show, or a bucket list trip to the Garden of Quilts, industry events are more than just fun field trips—they’re strategic opportunities to grow your business, your inspiration, and your reach.

Let’s talk about why saying yes to these events can be a total game changer:

✂️ Stay Ahead of the Curve
The quilting world moves fast—new trends, new techniques, and fresh takes on color and fabric show up season after season. Attending events like h+h Americas or Quilt Market helps you keep a finger on the pulse. You’ll see what’s launching before it hits shelves, spot patterns in color stories, and maybe even discover a trend that fits your shop like it was made for you.

🤝 Meet the Makers Behind the Magic
There’s nothing like chatting with a designer face-to-face or hearing a manufacturer explain the why behind their latest product. Events bring you closer to the people shaping the industry—relationships that can turn into special opportunities, early access, or simply a deeper understanding of the brands you carry.

🌸 Get Inspired by What’s Possible
There’s something about walking through rows of beautifully styled booths, seeing quilts hung like artwork, and hearing other shop owners talk about their wins and lessons. It resets your creativity and reminds you of what’s possible in your own space.

🧵 Build Your Shop Owner Network
Quilt shop owners are some of the most generous, insightful people around—and you get to meet them in person at these events. From swapping ideas about class schedules to sharing what’s working on social media, these conversations build a peer network you can turn to all year long.

💡 Learn New Skills That Actually Move the Needle
Many industry events offer classes, panels, or even behind-the-scenes tours. Whether it’s marketing techniques, merchandising tips, or community-building strategies, you can walk away with actionable knowledge that impacts your bottom line—not just your Pinterest board.

🧳 It’s a Business Trip… That Feeds Your Soul
Let’s not forget: stepping away from the daily grind can be revitalizing. Events give you permission to pause, soak up inspiration, and reconnect with why you started your shop in the first place. They fight burnout in a big way—because when you’re constantly giving your energy to customers, displays, and inventory decisions, it’s easy to lose your spark. A change of scenery and a flood of fresh ideas can refill your creative cup and remind you that this is fun, too.
That kind of motivation? It’s priceless.

✨ How to Prep for Attending an Event
A little preparation can go a long way in making your event experience even more productive. Here’s how to get ready:

• Plan Your Schedule: Check the event agenda and highlight key sessions, classes, or booths you don’t want to miss.
• Pack Like a Pro: Comfortable shoes are a must! Don’t forget business cards, a notebook, and your phone charger.
• Set Your Goals: What do you want to achieve? Make sure you know what you’re looking for—whether it’s networking, new products, or fresh ideas.
• Network and Take Notes: Talk to other shop owners, designers, and suppliers, and take plenty of notes or photos to reference later.

📍 Ready to Make It Happen?

If you’ve never been to a big industry event, consider this your invitation. Start with something close—maybe a regional shop hop or a local quilt show—and build from there. And if you’re already planning to attend one of the major shows? We’ll see you there!

Industry Insight

Kelly Morris, VP of Marketing at Riley Blake Designs

“I’ve attended countless industry events over the years, and every single one brings something new to the table. Whether it’s a casual conversation with a shop owner that sparks a campaign idea, or spotting a color trend that ends up influencing a whole collection, these experiences are irreplaceable. Events keep you connected—to the industry, to the people, and most importantly, to your passion.”