When I was living in London (I lived there for 11 years before moving to Amsterdam in 2021), I visited many craft fairs. I remember vividly my first time at the Knitting and Stitch Show which used to be held twice a year at Kensington Olympia, now usually done once at Alexandra Palace (and in two other locations outside of London). This festival was mainly a knitting fair where, to be honest, I didn't feel I fitted that much because of my age and what was offered.
Years later and with an incredible boom in crafting of all types and amazing small businesses popping out here and there, The Knitting and Stitching Show has become a staple in the crafty calendar. So much so that one of the two yearly dates was transformed into The Stitch Festival, celebrated in February-March and more focused in sewing.
The last time I visited it was right before the pandemic started in 2020. Many people didn't dare coming, but I am grateful I had the opportunity to see friends and support other creative businesses before the world closed down.
Now, just this past week, I was lucky enough to be in London again for another Stitch Festival and how fun that was! It was packed with amazing businesses, I was able to catch up with friends and I was also incredibly inspired by all the creativity surrounding me.
The Stitch Festival, London, 2024
Highlights and favourite businesses
The Stitch Festival lasts for four days, usually from Thursday to Sunday and it is held at the Business Design Centre in London. I prefer going on a weekday to avoid the crowds and also first thing in the morning. I arrived on the Friday at quarter to 10am, when it was going to open, and there was already a long queue! I was quite surprised but happy to see that many people also looking forward to enjoying the show :)
I spent around 4 hours there, stopping at stands, chatting with friends, buying a few things and sitting down to rest and eat. It got quite crowded by around 12pm which I don't enjoy but the space is quite airy with a few places here and there to sit and relax so it was ok.
What I liked the most was of course browsing my favourite indie businesses. Take a look at how beautiful they all were!
Tilly Buttons 10 year anniversary retrospective
Katie Jones 10 years retrospective
I really hope being back in London soon for more crafty fairs. I think my next will be the Festival of Quilts in August where I will be exhibiting my Quilted Nutmeg Jacket!
Thank you for reading and see you again here soon!
Ana
xxx