A trip to the Knitting and Stitching Show

This time of year (distinctly Autumnal!) makes me think of the Knitting and Stitching Show at Ally Pally. I’ve been every year since 2007 and I started blogging about my purchases from the Show. As there are just so many lovely to things to buy I have to be strict with myself so I blog my purchases and what I make to justify my purchases.

In 2010 I bought a Clothkits doll cushion, Advent calendar printed panel, gingerbread man cross stitch and Union flag quilt pattern. I made everything except the Union flag quilt as I couldn’t find the jelly roll I needed (I’m afraid I’m not the most adventurous quilter and need to follow instructions!). I wrote about it here.

2011 was the year I bought the fabulous London scene by etsuko furuya from the Eternal Maker shop. I made it into a crawling blanket for what became Little Sis and  we use it every day! That was a great purchase. Not so great was the 3D cross stitch gingerbread house kit I bought. It’s still in its packet but I will make it one day.

In 2012 I purchased lots of fat quarters for the patchwork Union Flag quilt I’m supposed to be making for Little Sis. Hhhmmmm. I’m enjoying the project but it’s going slowly and definitely won’t be ready for her birthday this November. Perhaps Christmas next year.

So you can see I’m a bit hit and miss with my purchases, I am easily swayed by a pretty store!

Last year was great. I got there as early as possible now we’ve moved to the other side of London but it was still quiet enough for the first hour. I visited the 200 odd stores first as that’s my favourite part of the Show. Deep breath. So I bought….. three magazine subscriptions, some seasonal cross stitch patterns, and the prettiest fabric from Eternal Maker (postage stamp by pushpin for kokka japan) and some soft pink minky fabric  which I made into a snuggly blanket for Little Sis.

My track record is pretty good which is why I’m looking forward to going again this year. The Knitting & Stitching Show is taking place at Alexandra Palace from 8–12 October and for the first time is open for an additional day on Wednesday 8 October as well as late-night shopping on Thursday 9 October.