Those of you who subscribe to my newsletter will know that I've planned something a bit different for this year's Festival of Quilts, which is taking place at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham on the 18th – 21st August. Inspired by the launch of my Twelve Days of Christmas pattern book I've decided to give the whole stand a Christmas theme this year. Although I promise not to dress as an elf!
I also have a slightly different position on my aisle this year and have a corner stand - which I'm excited about as it will be more visible - but, of course, has one less wall for display so has required some careful thought about which quilts I take with me.
Choices, choices...
Twelve Days of Christmas
The Twelve Days of Christmas sampler - and the accompanying block of the month programme - has been one of my main focuses this past year and as well as the pattern book I will be taking a limited number of boxed kits with me using the beautiful Tilda Windy Days fabric we've been sewing with.
Daylilies
As I’m always keen to include something that will appeal to new quilters, this year I'm kitting Daylilies, which is a wonderful beginner-friendly pattern. Although the fabric I originally used to make my quilt is out of print, I've found some ravishing replacements and some delicious Tilda Chambray for the background (my new fabric crush).
Afternoon Tea
Quick-to-make projects are always welcome in the busy weeks before Christmas - whether you're making gifts or escaping from your to-do list - so I've created a festive version of Afternoon Tea with a charm pack of Lella Boutique's elegant Christmas Morning collection.
And let me introduce a brand new table runner pattern, Danish Hearts, inspired by the traditional Julehjerter decorations created by author Hans Christian Andersen and made by children throughout Scandinavia during advent. There are 24 hearts, so it would make the perfect advent project for quilters!
Dalarna
Last, but not least, everyone’s favourite Dala’s will also be joining me, as I’ll be releasing a stand alone pattern for the Dalarna quilt which appeared in the Today’s Quilter Christmas supplement a couple of years ago. Again, I’ve not been able to match the fabric exactly in my kits, but Christmas Morning is the perfect alternative.
In addition there will be some special festive Baker's Dozen bundles and I've rustled up the perfect stocking fillers for your quilty friends. Or for yourself (trust me, your significant other/relatives will be grateful). Oh, and thanks to my generous friends at Martingale Books, I'll be raffling copies of Rollin' Along and Did Someone Say Cake.
It's been a full week, did I forget anything? Anyone fancy a mince pie? Or a sherry?
See you at Festival,
Nicola xx