A Crafting Extravaganza:
It’s been a whirlwind of creativity, connection, and serious retail therapy! I’m absolutely thrilled to share all the highlights from my recent trip to the Creative Craft and Sewing for Pleasure Show at the NEC in Birmingham. This event is a true Mecca for anyone passionate about textiles, needlecraft, and all things handmade, and it certainly delivered an unforgettable day of inspiration and discovery.
The Show: A Hub of Creativity at the NEC
The Creative Craft and Sewing for Pleasure Show is a massive, vibrant celebration that brings together the best of the crafting world. Held at the iconic NEC (National Exhibition Centre) in Birmingham, the atmosphere is electric. Imagine a large hall transformed into a sprawling marketplace and workshop space, packed with hundreds of independent and international brands. It’s the perfect place to stock up on supplies, discover new techniques, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
The show is renowned for its sheer variety, often running alongside other complementary events like the Fashion & Embroidery Show and Simply Christmas (depending on the season). This means your ticket grants you access to a huge range of disciplines, from traditional sewing and quilting to modern mixed media, papercraft, and jewellery making. It’s a sensory feast of colour, texture, and innovation!
Hands-On Inspiration: Workshops and New Skills
One of the absolute best parts of the day was diving headfirst into the workshops. I made it a mission to try out numerous crafts and taster sessions—not just for fun, but with the Academy in mind. It’s vital for us to stay current and bring the most exciting, in-demand skills back to our students.
I spent time testing out different techniques, from intricate needle felting to modern macramé and even some advanced printing methods. These hands-on sessions were invaluable, offering a fresh perspective on teaching methodologies and the latest trends.
The Juki Stand by Franklins Sewing Machines
The goal is simple: to bring these new, exciting workshops directly to the Academy’s timetable. Keep an eye out for some fantastic new classes that will allow you to explore these crafts in depth!
The Future of the Academy: Networking and New Tutors
Beyond the stalls and the scissors, the show is an incredible networking opportunity. I spent a significant portion of the day connecting with industry professionals, established crafters, and, most excitingly, potential new tutors for the Academy.
I’m delighted to report that I’ve been in talks with some truly talented individuals who offer highly specific and unique skill sets. These discussions are already shaping up to bring a new level of expertise to our curriculum, offering more specialised classes that I know our students will love.
The Academy is all about community and quality instruction, and these new partnerships will ensure we continue to offer the very best in creative education. Watch this space for announcements about our expanded tutor team and new class schedules!
Serious Upgrades: The Shopping Haul
Now, for the part that every crafter understands: the haul! I may have gone a little overboard, but every single purchase was a strategic investment in the Academy’s future and my own dressmaking projects.
The stalls were overflowing with tempting supplies, and I couldn’t resist stocking up on beautiful materials. I bought a huge amount of new yarn in stunning colours and textures, perfect for our knitting and crochet classes, and a gorgeous selection of high-quality fabric that will inspire countless sewing projects.
But the real game-changers are the new machines and tools that are coming back to the Academy:
New Cover Stitch Machine: This is a massive upgrade for our dressmaking facilities. A cover stitch machine is essential for professional-looking hems, necklines, and topstitching on knit fabrics. It’s going to dramatically improve the finish and quality of all our garment-making classes.
Industrial Iron: An industrial-grade iron might not sound glamorous, but it is absolutely invaluable in a busy sewing studio. Its consistent heat and powerful steam capabilities will make pressing seams and setting fabrics so much faster and more effective. This is a tool that will benefit every single student working on a project.
Heat Press: A larger heat press will open the door to exploring a deeper range of heat transfer and sublimation designs both in dressmaking and in crafts. Think….personalising all of your makes for a more custom touch.
A Day Well Spent
The Creative Craft and Sewing for Pleasure Show was more than just a day out; it was a powerful reminder of the vibrant, thriving community we are a part of. It was a chance to refuel my own creative energy, secure new resources for the Academy, and lay the groundwork for exciting new classes and collaborations.
If you’re a crafter, I highly recommend keeping an eye on the dates for the next show at the NEC. It’s an experience that truly inspires, educates, and equips you for your next creative adventure.
I can’t wait to share the new skills and supplies with all of you!
