Stewarding at the Festival of Quilts

Are you interested in volunteering as a Steward for the 2026 Festival of Quilts at the NEC, Birmingham? The show runs from Thursday 30th July through to Sunday 2nd August 2026.

Stewards are needed to ensure the quilts on display remain in pristine condition - watching for situations such as pens or food and drink near the quilts and occasionally assisting with any queries visitors may have.

With the official 'Festival of Quilts Steward' sash, and a pair of white gloves, our Stewards are equipped to help with most minor queries.

Stewards are the only people allowed to touch the quilts during the show (for minor adjustments or to display the reverse of a quilt for visitors).

Friendly conversation with visitors is encouraged and our Stewards often meet some of the competition quilt-makers and get to hear their stories first-hand! 

Shift patterns are as follows:

Stewards who complete two x 2-hour sessions on any day(s) are entitled to:

- free entry*

- early entry (before the show opens - just come straight in)

- use of the Steward Room for safe storage of your shopping and other effects (for you only on your stewarding day(s))

- our own kitchen, with free hot/cold refreshments

- 'executive' wc

* If you feel you would only like to do one x 2-hour session, you will get the same benefits except for free entry - you will need to buy your ticket to get in to the show.

We will assign shifts as soon as applications are received. Spaces are limited so early booking is recommended.

You'll find great camaraderie among the Stewards - especially when you bring cakes or biscuits!

If you would like to Steward at the 2026 show, please complete the online stewarding form:

If you are unavailable for 2026 but might like to Steward in 2027, please use this form instead to register your interest:

Festival of Quilts Steward Organiser 2026

You can contact Jacqui directly by email:

[email protected]