The Australasian Quilt Convention (AQC) returns to Melbourne this April, celebrating 20 years as Australia’s leading quilting event and bringing together thousands of quilters, textile artists and craft enthusiasts for four inspiring days of creativity.
From Thursday 9 April to Sunday 12 April 2026, the Royal Exhibition Building will transform into a vibrant hub of colour, craftsmanship and community. Presented by Expertise Events, AQC showcases breathtaking quilt exhibitions, hands-on workshops, world-class guest artists and the latest quilting supplies all under one roof.
Whether visitors are passionate quilters, textile artists or simply curious about the beauty of handmade craft, AQC offers an immersive experience that celebrates creativity, skill and the power of stitching communities together.
Highlights of the 2026 Australasian Quilt Convention includes:
- 560+ Quilts on Display
AQC will showcase more than 560 quilts from Australia and around the world, including works from Europe, Asia, North and South America and New Zealand. - The Australian Quilt Show
A centrepiece of the event, this prestigious exhibition features the best of Australian quilting, from traditional techniques to bold contemporary designs. - International Exhibitions & Guest Artists
Visitors can explore world-class quilt art and hear from leading international artists, including guests from the Taiwan Patchwork Quilt Association. - 100 Hearts Project
Led by Victorian artist Ronda Hazell, this global initiative raises awareness of women’s heart health through a collaborative travelling quilt. - Historic Red Cross Quilts
A special display of quilts dating from World War I to today highlights the role of quilting in supporting communities, including pieces linked to POW camps. - QuiltCon 2026
AQC will host the QuiltCon 2026 Travelling Exhibition, showcasing a selection of quilts from QuiltCon. The world’s largest modern quilting event, presented by the Modern Quilt Guild. - Rainbow Stash Series – The Hero Colour Challenge
The Rainbow Stash Series showcases a vibrant international collection of over 280 original 10-inch textile artworks, created as part of a creative colour challenge. - Workshops, Lectures & Shopping
AQC offers hands-on workshops, daily seminars, evening lectures from international experts and a marketplace featuring over 60 exhibitors from Australia and overseas.
Whether you’re a passionate quilter or simply curious about the craft, the Australasian Quilt Convention is four days of world-class quilt artistry, creativity and inspiration.
The 2026 Australasian Quilt Convention will take place at Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building from Thursday 9 April to Sunday 12 April 2026. For more information and full program, visit: www.aqc.com.au for details.
Image: 2025 Australasian Quilt Convention – photo by Eric Stone