Hidden Treasures Online Retreat

GUILD MEMBER ONLY EVENT

This two-day event, taking place on 17 & 18 January 2026 (10:00–19:00 each day), promises a wonderful weekend of creativity, conversation, and discovery — all from the comfort of your own sewing space. The £50 ticket includes access to every talk and activity, plus all the recordings which will be available for four weeks after the event.

This year’s programme brings together some of the quilting world’s most inspiring makers. We’ll be joined by Chris English, Sara Impey, Anne Kelly, and Alex Kingswell, exploring techniques and ideas that shine a light on the hidden details in our craft. Moraig Hewitt will share her “inchie boxes” for storing tiny treasures, and Carolyn Forster will guide us through back-basted hand appliqué, and we’ll enjoy a fascinating session on Amish quilts.

There’s more to uncover too — designing and printing your own fabrics, understanding how wadding shapes your work, and seeing quilting through fresh eyes with Heather Audin, who will be revealing hidden gems from the Guild Collection. Kate Smith will explore what quilts from the past can tell us, sharing her tips on researching family heirlooms and uncovering their stories.

Quilting often brings unseen stories to light, and this year’s retreat also includes moving presentations from Sarah Humphreys on her domestic abuse project and from those involved in quilting work with prisoners in Northern Ireland — a powerful reminder of how creativity connects us.

And if you’re wondering what you’ll be stitching over the weekend, our Hidden Inspiration project will guide you. Inspired by a quilt from the Guild Collection, our team has been busy creating samples in every imaginable style — from traditional piecing and appliqué to painted fusibles and eco dyeing. We can’t wait to see what you’ll create as you make it your own.

There will, of course, be spot prizes for early bookers and plenty of surprises throughout the weekend. Every attendee will also be entered into our door prize draw, with a Janome 5060QDC sewing machine up for grabs — a perfect companion for home sewing or workshops.

We hope you’ll agree that this is shaping up to be a full, friendly, and inspiring weekend — a chance to connect, learn, and start your 2026 quilting journey surrounded by fellow makers.

We can’t wait to share it with you.

Warmest wishes,
Cat, Judi, Muriel and Elizabeth
Your January Retreat Team 

Please note, the 10% discount is not eligible on this product. 

This event is only available to Quilters' Guild members. If you are an international member, please visit the Members Area HERE to purchase your ticket.

Sign up for Quilters Guild membership HERE.

If you have any queries or problems please contact conference@quiltersguild.org.uk