Quilting Shows in Washington
Washington state's quilting community stretches from the Puget Sound cities to the agricultural towns of the Columbia Basin and the arts-focused communities of the San Juan Islands and Olympic Peninsula. Seattle anchors a vibrant modern quilting movement, while rural areas maintain traditional quilting circles that reflect the state's farming and logging heritage.
The Washington State Quilters organization connects guilds across the state, and the annual show circuit includes everything from large convention center exhibitions to charming small-town guild shows. Port Townsend's arts community and Leavenworth's Bavarian village setting provide unique backdrops for quilting events that attract visitors combining fiber arts with Pacific Northwest tourism.
Top Quilting Events in Washington
- WSQ Quilt Show — Spokane (Spokane Fair & Expo Center); Washington State Quilters' annual show with over 500 quilts, a boutique, and demonstrations (October 16–18, 2026)
- Seattle Modern Quilt Guild — Seattle; modern quilt guild with meetings, workshops and member projects (check the guild for show dates)
- Washington State Fair — Puyallup; 20-day September fair whose Creative Arts exhibits include quilts (September 4–27, 2026)
What to Expect
Washington quilt shows range from the Washington State Quilters' show in Spokane, with over 500 quilts and a quilter's boutique, to smaller guild shows in communities like Bellingham, Wenatchee, and the Tri-Cities. Seattle's modern quilting scene is active, with the Seattle Modern Quilt Guild producing innovative work that pushes the boundaries of traditional quiltmaking. Classes at multi-day events cover techniques from traditional hand-piecing to modern improv quilting.
The Pacific Northwest's fiber arts culture intersects with quilting at events throughout the state. Fabric shops in Seattle, Tacoma, and smaller towns like Port Townsend and La Conner attract visiting quilters with curated fabric selections. Washington's rainy winters make quilting a natural pursuit, and the state's guilds stay active year-round with monthly meetings, retreats, and community service projects like Quilts of Valor and comfort quilts for local hospitals.
Popular Cities for Quilting Shows
- Seattle — Seattle Modern Quilt Guild and a thriving urban quilting and fiber arts community
- Tacoma — proximity to the Washington State Fair in nearby Puyallup
- Port Townsend — Victorian seaport arts community with fiber artists and fabric shops
- Leavenworth — Bavarian-themed village hosting quilting retreats and arts events in the Cascades
See all craft events in Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the biggest quilting shows in Washington?
The WSQ Quilt Show runs in October at the Spokane Fair & Expo Center (October 16–18 in 2026). Guild shows are spread throughout the year, with many in spring and early summer. The Washington State Fair in September also features quilt competition entries.
Are Washington quilt shows open to beginners?
Yes. Most shows welcome all skill levels. Multi-day events offer beginner workshops alongside advanced classes. Guild shows are particularly welcoming, and many Washington guilds have mentoring programs and beginner sew-ins to help newcomers get started.
Where can I find quilting guilds in Washington?
Washington has quilting guilds in Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, Olympia, Bellingham, Spokane, the Tri-Cities, and many smaller communities. The Washington State Quilters organization connects guilds across the state. Most meet monthly and welcome new members year-round.