Scotland’s biggest craft show set to spark a new generation of makers

Scotland’s biggest craft show, The Creative Craft Show & Scottish Quilting Show, is gearing up to inspire a new generation of makers, as it brings together leading creatives, hands-on workshops and heritage craft organisations under one roof at the SEC Glasgow from Thursday 5th March to Saturday 7th March 2026.

Designed to spark curiosity and celebrate the power of making, the 2026 event aims to encourage younger audiences to discover new skills, connect with Scotland’s craft community and experience the joy of creativity in an inclusive, welcoming space.

This year’s show promises a packed programme of features designed to inspire from traditional crafts to contemporary textile art. Highlights include:

The Scottish Women’s Institutes: (SWI) will showcase their rich 100-year heritage at the Creative Craft Show, highlighting their legacy of creativity, community, and women’s empowerment. Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the SWI is inspiring a new generation through free workshops for younger women and non-members, reflecting their long-held ethos of sharing skills and strengthening communities.

Diverse crafts from pyrography to mosaic, calligraphy to glasswork: The show brings together a rich tapestry of crafts such as wood-burning with pyrography artist ConnieFlower, silk-painting, mosaic art by contemporary artist Sara Melville, modern calligraphy with Heather Syrett Leigh, glasswork from glass-artist Julie Bowden from Kiln Time, jewellery & clay-art instruction from Craftworx jewellery workshops and much more. Whether visitors are into traditional crafts or experimental art, there is something to spark inspiration.

Guild showcases and community groups: Visitors can discover the Beadworkers Guild, The Lace Guild, the historic Scottish Women’s Institutes (SWI), the Glasgow, and West of Scotland Guild of Silk Painters, and more. Visitors can engage with traditional craft heritage, contemporary textile art, and community-led creative work. As well as the work of The Edinburgh Modern Quilt Guild, Glasgow Gathering of Quilters, and others with opportunities to meet makers, enjoy their displays, and learn about their creative journeys.

Expert tutors and craft stars: Visitors can learn from leading tutors such as Elizabeth Hunt jewellery maker, Kerrie Padmore, Samantha Townsend, John J. Cole-Morgan, offering demonstrations and guidance across jewellery making, calligraphy, quilting, patchwork, machine stitching, textile design and more.

Machine Stitching Den and Hand-Stitching Den: Whether visitors prefer machine quilting or traditional hand stitching, both sections offer a welcoming space to try new techniques ideal for beginners and experienced stitchers alike.

Artisan talks, exhibitions, and contemporary textile art: The show isn’t just about classics. Visitors can expect modern takes on textile art, innovative materials and inspiring exhibits that blur the lines between craft, art, and design.

An exciting element of the show is the annual Scottish Quilting Competition, open to everyone from hobby-sewers to professional makers, and even under-16s. There are eight categories including Traditional Quilts and Themed Quilts (Pathways). Prizes range from product awards for hobbyists to cash awards for professional entries.

As always, the show blends education with fun, visitors can expect a wide variety of workshops catering to all skill levels, plus Make and Take sessions great for trying something new and taking home a handmade keepsake. Plus, hundreds of exhibitors will offer craft supplies, materials, and unique handmade items for sale.