2023 Original Sewing & Quilting Expo Trip

The 2023 Sewing & Quilting Show season has begun. I have made it a tradition to attend the Original Sewing & Quilting Expo in Atlanta (Duluth) every year if at all possible.  It is one of my favorite events because there is so much to see and do. If you want to take classes, learn new techniques, try out a certain machine, look at pretty quilts, meet new friends or just get away for a  trip- this might be it.

Now don't get upset that this Atlanta event has already passed because it travels around the United States all year. So you have many more chances to attend.

You can visit  https://www.sewingexpo.com/Events/Atlanta-GA
and get to their website. There you will be able to see upcoming locations. Some advice for you would be if you think you will be attending, don't wait to book your classes. They fill up fast. Especially anything quilting related. Also, book your hotel as close as possible so you can get to and from the Expo easily.  Then it won't matter what time those classes are being held.  Some of mine were at 8:30am, so I had to get to the parking garage early.  In years past there were night classes and I did have to go to my car in the evening. So an Uber might be a better choice for you.  If they are scheduled after dark, you may feel more comfortable having someone drive you.

Make sure you check out the dining options at your hotel.  I was very lucky that breakfast was offered at mine. Every morning I knew I would have a full tummy and coffee of course to fuel my day.

I was so tired and hungry from my classes and staying busy the first day that I ordered room service. That was a fantastic hamburger.

You will need to print all of your tickets before you arrive and then immediately go to the check in desk. This is where you can pick up your arm band that allows you to enter each day.  You also get one entry for the daily prizes. Remember to drop your ticket in and stay until the end of the day. If you aren't present someone else gets the prize!

Sewing machine dealerships sponsor these events and the classrooms are full of brand new machines.  The instructors teach lessons so you can try everything out. Then you can purchase the machines at a special show discount. The vendors also have booths with just about everything you could want or need.

There is a main stage that has something happening throughout each day. You can watch demonstrations, fashion shows or special distinctions like this Quilt of Valor being awarded.

Some of the classes will have special gifts that you get to take home with you. Here is all of my loot.

Of course there are so many beautiful quilts to see. Here is a small sample.

You will also probably find several non profit sewing organizations.  This was one that I found. 
​https://www.sewpowerful.org/ 
I really enjoyed looking at all of the purses they had on display that had been donated.  You may be able to find a local chapter you can donate to.  They have free patterns on their website. Click the picture to be taken to their site.

There are so many other things to list. I am glad I planned this getaway for myself. I met new friends, learned some new skills and had a great experience. I filmed my trip and have a video you can watch below to see all of the quilts.  I also show you my hotel, the parking and give you a tour of the event. Just in case you want to make plans to attend. I hope you have enjoyed this post, share what you learn and are generous with what you create. Someone will appreciate your hard work!