Knit + Stitch London, 8–11 October 2026: how to prepare for a craft show
From 8 to 11 October 2026, Alexandra Palace in London hosts Knit + Stitch, a textile craft show its organisers call the biggest in the UK. The same series continues in Northern Ireland on 12–15 November and in Harrogate on 19–22 November 2026 (show website, opening hours).
What's on
According to the organisers, there are workshops and demonstrations, textile art galleries and more than 200 exhibitors. Embroidery is one theme alongside knitting, sewing and quilting.
Even if you're not in London, shows like this happen in many cities. Here's how to prepare for any of them so you don't spend money on things you don't need.
Before the show
- A list of threads by code. Note the threads you're missing for current and future charts, with the maker: "DMC 310", not "black". Colours are deceptive under exhibition lighting.
- Fabric size. Work out the piece you need for each chart, margins included — the formulas are in "How to work out the size and the thread".
- Count. Write down the count you'll stitch on: you can't judge it by eye, it's on the label. More in "Fabric and count".
- Budget. Decide in advance how much you'll spend, and set aside a separate amount for impulse buys.
At the show
- Start with a workshop if you want one: popular ones fill up first.
- Look at fabric in daylight if you can, by a window or an exit.
- Photograph price tags and business cards of stalls you like — you can buy later.
- Check purchases against your list, not your memory.
Afterwards
Sort your shopping the same day: label the threads and put the fabric with its chart. A month later you'll know what you have and won't buy the same colour twice.