Australia’s largest celebration of craft, quilting and creative making returns to Sydney in 2026, bringing together thousands of makers, sewers, quilters, fibre artists and creative enthusiasts for four inspiring days at ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour.
From 15 – 18 July 2026, the Sydney Craft & Quilt Fair will showcase the best in quilting, sewing, yarn, textile arts, cake decorating and handmade creativity, with exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations, shopping and interactive experiences for all skill levels.
The Fair is delighted to welcome acclaimed textile artist Pi Williams as its featured guest artist for 2026. Known for her distinctive artistic style and innovative approach to textile art, Pi’s work combines creativity, storytelling and technical expertise to create truly captivating pieces.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a curated exhibition of her work, gain insight into her creative process and learn more about the inspiration behind her designs. Whether you’re an experienced textile artist or simply looking for creative inspiration, Pi’s work offers a fascinating glimpse into the possibilities of contemporary fibre and textile art.
Highlights of the 2026 Sydney Craft & Quilt Fair include:
- Australian Quilt Show – Discover an extraordinary collection of Australia’s finest quilts, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship, innovation and artistic expression.
- AQC Challenge – Connections – See the 2026 AQC Challenge exhibition, where quilters from across Australia interpret the theme Connections through colour, storytelling and textile artistry.
- SAQA Oceania – Opposites – A contemporary textile art exhibition exploring contrast, perspective and the natural world through innovative fibre-based works.
- One Red Thread – RepaiRED – Celebrating its 14th year, this popular exhibition invites artists to explore themes of repair, renewal and resilience through striking textile art.
- Cavalcade of History & Fashion – Beads, Buttons & Bows – Step through fashion history and discover how decorative details shaped clothing across the decades, featuring daily talks and a stunning wedding party display.
The 2026 Sydney Craft & Quilt Fair introduces four exciting new spaces designed to inspire creativity and connection. The Craft Bar offers a free, drop-in creative experience where visitors can make something beautiful without booking ahead, while the Skills Studio provides beginner-friendly, expert-led sessions introducing essential sewing and making techniques.
Also new for 2026 is Cake Decorating & Sugar Art Pavilion. Presented by the Australian Cake Decorating Network, the pavilion combines shopping, live demonstrations, expert teaching and hands-on decorating experiences. Visitors can learn from some of Australia’s leading cake artists, participate in quick make-and-take sessions, or book premium Sip & Decorate workshops.
Visitors can learn new techniques through hands-on ‘make and take’ projects, premium workshops, live demonstrations, free on-stand demonstrations throughout the exhibition floor and interactive sewing experiences with leading brands.
Back by popular demand, fibre enthusiasts can also unwind in the Knitters Lounge, a welcoming community hub where visitors can bring along their projects, connect with fellow makers, share ideas and enjoy a moment of calm amongst the excitement of the show.
The Sydney Craft & Quilt Fair takes place at ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour, from 15 – 18 July 2026. For more information, visit: www.craftfair.com.au for details.
Images: Quilting and crocheting displays at the Sydney Craft & Quilt Fair (supplied) | Craft workshops (supplied) | Make and Take Projects at the Sydney Craft & Quilt Fair (supplied)