The Ailsa Craig Quilt Festival
Celebrating the Fiber Arts from Around the World
What is it?
Festival History
For over 15 years, quilters and fiber artists from across the globe have gathered in the tiny village of Ailsa Craig, Ontario for an extraordinary cultural exchange. Explore the traditions, stories and incredible artistry behind international quilting.
Entirely Run by Local Volunteers
What made this festival truly special was the dedicated group of over 200 local volunteers who poured their hearts into providing an authentic experience for visitors each year.
Past Festival Highlights
2019 – Quilts of New Zealand
2018 – Quilts of Iceland
2017 – Canada 150 Celebration
2016 – Quilts of Latvia
2015 – Quilts of France
2014 – Quilts of Great Britain
…And many more
Buy Supplies
Quilting Supplies & Essentials
Stock up on all the quilting notions, fabrics, and tools you need for your next project.
Explore our curated collection of highly-rated products on Amazon.
Our Items on eBay
Picture Quilts Joan Masters 1986 Hardcover Bell & Hyman
Patchworking Quilt Design & Coloring Book LaBelle Waugh 1983 Paperback
Vintage McCall’s Quilting Collection: Quilt It!, Country Quilting, Book of Quilt
Vintage Quilt World Magazines Lot of 12 (1981–1984) Omnibook & Issues – Exl Cond
The Back Story
Centuries of Quilting Traditions
Quilting has a rich, storied history dating back hundreds of years. The earliest documented quilted garments were found in ancient Egypt, China and Japan, used for warmth and protection. In North America, pioneer women often created intricate quilts using scraps of fabric to keep their families warm during harsh winters.
Over time, quilting became an important part of many cultural heritages, with distinct regional styles and patterns emerging. From the vibrant Amish quilts of Pennsylvania to the bold Hawaiian quilt designs, each quilt tells a story about the lives, beliefs and communities of the makers. The Ailsa Craig Quilt Festival has proudly celebrated this diverse quilting legacy from around the world.
