Artisans to showcase handmade items at Laidley Quilt and Craft Expo

Craft enthusiasts will feel like they have stepped through the gates of heaven when they see the wide range of displays, market stalls, hands-on demonstrations and sweet treats when the Laidley Quilt and Craft Expo returns to the historic Uniting Church this September.

Held over two big days from 6-7 September, the Quilt and Craft Expo is part of the much larger three-day Laidley Spring Festival, which features an incredible lineup of family-friendly spring-inspired events and experiences for visitors to enjoy.

With only a few months until the event arrives, Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor, Councillor Tanya Milligan is encouraging craft enthusiasts from far and wide to come and see the impressive displays for themselves.

“The annual Quilt and Craft Expo has been a yearly highlight for four decades, as it gives our crafty locals the chance to share their talent with the wider community.

“You can’t help but feel inspired to start your own project!,” Mayor Milligan said.

As an avid quilter and the coordinator of this year’s Quilt and Craft Expo, Maxine Lester said this year’s event was not to be missed.

“Regardless of whether you’re an experienced crafter, a beginner, or someone who likes to admire the handiwork of others, you are sure to find something that will catch your eye.

“One of the most amazing things to see will be the church blanketed in colourful, handmade quilts of all sizes.

“We will hang the quilts from the open rafters on the roof, as well as on the walls, so everyone who visits can see them up close,” she said.

Plenty of intricate crafts, including crocheted items, decorative sewing and textile art will also be on display and for sale in the church hall, as well as handcrafted mementos you can take home like jewellery, woodwork, cards, flowers, dolls and children’s wear.

The Expo was established in 1984 by the late Audrey Brimblecombe, who had a passion for craft and giving back to her community.

“It’s exciting to be the coordinator for the Expo’s 40th anniversary.

“We all love the Laidley Spring Festival, and all have wonderful memories of coming with our kids when they were younger,” Maxine said.

The Quilt and Craft Expo will be held from 9am-4pm on 6-7 September at the Laidley Uniting Church, located at 45 Patrick St, Laidley.

The 61st annual Laidley Spring Festival will run from 6-8 September.

A full festival program is available on the festival’s website at www.laidleyspringfestival.com

The 2024 Laidley Spring Festival has been made possible with support from Lockyer Valley Regional Council, Tourism and Events Queensland, Kambu, Pohlmans Nursery, Urban Utilities, The Lockyer Valley and Somerset Independent, River 94.9 and Australian Organic.