The Australasian Quilt Convention (AQC), Australia’s ultimate quilting event, is back at Melbourne’s Royal Exhibition Building from 10–13 April 2025. Now in its 19th year, AQC is where tradition meets innovation, where timeless techniques are shared and pushed in new creative directions, and where a welcoming community of makers come together to inspire and be inspired.
This year’s program is packed with opportunities to roll up your sleeves and get involved. Visitors can try their hand at Make & Take Stations, sit in on expert-led seminars, and watch live demonstrations showcasing the latest tools and materials. If you’re curious about the latest sewing machine technology, head to the Sewing Rooms, where you can test-drive state-of-the-art equipment.
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But it’s not just about learning. AQC is also renowned for its jaw-dropping quilt exhibitions, and 2025 will be no exception. Among the highlights is The Australian Quilt Show, where Australia’s top quilting talent takes centre stage. The finalists’ works will be unveiled for the first time, with winners crowned during the event. Expect to see everything from modern minimalism to intricate traditional designs, all proudly stitched by local artisans.
Adding an international flavour, QuiltCon’s Travelling Exhibition brings a fresh wave of modern quilting from the United States, offering a glimpse of what’s trending globally. Meanwhile, the 2024 Mola Quilt Exhibition by Han Quilt (Korea) presents a stunning cultural crossover with vibrant Korean garments crafted with the intricate mola technique, a form of reverse appliqué with roots in Panama.
For those drawn to themed challenges, this year’s AQC Challenge, On The Map, will showcase how artists interpret the concept of maps. Similarly, Chasing Rainbows, a colourful installation of 384 tiny quilts, explores a different theme every month, stitched together into a dazzling collective display.
Other exhibitions not to miss include Oceans, an international quilt competition inspired by the majesty and mystery of the sea, and Bridges of Brisbane, a beautiful collection reimagining iconic Brisbane bridges through fabric and mixed media. The Rajah Display will celebrate the work of Lorraine Carthew, this year’s recipient of the prestigious Rajah Award for her outstanding contribution to quilting in Australia. And for a touch of textile magic, the Evolve II exhibition from the Magic Carpet artists will push the boundaries of what quilting can be.
Set against the grand backdrop of the Royal Exhibition Building, AQC offers four days to immerse yourself in creativity, connection, and craftsmanship. Tickets start at $22 for daily entry, with multi-day passes also available.
What: Australasian Quilt Convention 2025
When: 10–13 April 2025, 10am to 4pm daily
Where: Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton Gardens, Melbourne
Tickets from $22. Purchase online or at the door.