UK Crafters and Makers - Join North America’s Craft Revolution

Posted by Rachel Westall on 22 July 2025

The global craft community is buzzing after another record-setting edition of h+h americas, In May 2025, h+h americas welcomed 5,180 verified industry professionals to the Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Centre in Rosemont, Illinois, USA—a 29.7% increase over 2024. Attendees represented 48 countries, all 50 U.S. states, and two U.S. territories, solidifying the event’s position as the most influential B2B handicraft show in North America.

lady and man chatting at trade show stall "The energy this year was electric," said Darrin Stern, Vice President of Koelnmesse Inc. "We're seeing incredible demand from international companies—especially from the UK—who recognise the power of the US craft market and want in."

And now, eyes are turning to the newly launched consumer event Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival, as the call for instructors is officially open for 2026.

Introducing Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival – May 1–3, 2026, Rosemont, IL, USA
Following this industry momentum, Koelnmesse Inc. is proud to announce that over 175 companies have already committed to exhibit at the 2026 edition of Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival, taking place the weekend before h+h americas.

A first-of-its-kind consumer-focused festival, the event invites fiber artists, fabric lovers, paper crafters, sewists, cosplayers, and creative communities to unite under one roof for three days of hands-on learning, shopping, and connection. The open call for instructors is now live, welcoming submissions across all crafting disciplines—from quilting and knitting to scrapbooking, cosplay, spinning, beading, and more.

"Initial feedback has been overwhelming," said Stern. "The energy and enthusiasm are wonderful. People see the vision of bringing all crafts together—and it's resonating in a big way."

yarn display at trade show What's Next?
Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival: May 1–3, 2026 | Open to Consumers
h+h americas: May 6–8, 2026 | Trade-Only B2B Show
Location: Rosemont, Illinois, just minutes from O'Hare International Airport

Call for Instructors: Now open at fiberfabriccraft.com

JOIN US! Whether you're a UK manufacturer, maker or educator - now is the moment to get involved. For UK brands, distributors, and designers seeking North American exposure, h+h americas and Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival offer unmatched access to both trade and consumer audiences—with cross-over potential like never before.
Contact for details: Leslie Fleck, Manager International Exhibit Sales: l.fleck@koelnmesse.us

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