It’s somehow already a week since the Knitting and Stitching Show at Harrogate. It’s my second time attending, although last year I was relatively new into the world of sewing, and found it a little overwhelming. This year I was much better informed about brands and pricing, so knew a good deal if I spotted one. I did however learn this year that I should buy something when I saw it rather than being disappointed later. 

I went with my mum, who isn’t into sewing but has a vested interested as I’ve made her a couple of things, and she is of course an avid follower of my blog. We set off early and arrived and got parked just out of town in about 90 minutes. We headed for Wetherspoons for a warm and a coffee before venturing into the Show.  

 We spent a couple of hours exploring the stalls and trying to get a feel for what was available, and I made my first purchase – 3.5m of this Lewis and Irene.  

 There’s loads of places to eat inside, and we spotted some people who’d brought packed lunches, but we headed up the hill to Wagamama. My Crispy Chilli Squid appetiser did not disappoint. 

 My mum had chicken ramen and amazed both of us by using chopsticks for the first time!  

 We headed back to the Show and I knew it was time to start making decisions and purchasing the items I wanted.  I got another Lewis and Irene print, enough to make a dress.  I’d chosen a slightly different print in this collection, a grey background with the girl, umbrella and dog, but they had sold out by the time I went back to buy. 

 I also bought this beauty – I’ve seen a couple of prints in this collection online and I just love the vintage design and colour scheme.  There was actually another print I slightly preferred, but there was only one metre of that one left. 

 I was extremely surprised to find a stall selling these Makower Christmas 2014 fabrics for £7.50 per metre! I’d already ordered 3m of this one online, which had cost around £35 delivered, but I ordered another metre to give me more options as to what I could make.  

I also bought 4m of this one which I’m hoping to use to make my Christmas dress:  

I love this whole collection and was worried I had completely missed out on ut during my pledge not to buy any fabric. The prints and vintage style are just lovely. 

I wondered whether I would bump into anyone I’ve met online through blogging or Twitter, and did spot the lovely Amy from Almond Rock. I found it so nice to be able to chat with so many friendly and helpful makers and sellers whilst perusing the stalls. 

In addition to the above, I also bought a couple of Christmas gifts that I can’t feature. My mum bought a few little items such as keepsakes and Christmas decorations. By the end of the day I was well and truly spent up, but I was extremely happy with my haul, plus I’d spent a lovely day with my mum.  
 Did you make it to Harrogate this year? When’s your favourite time to indulge and stock up on all things sewing related?