Getting the most out of your Yarn & Fibre Festival Experience
As the days grow longer and the promise of spring fills the air, this signals it’s almost time for one of the highlights of my knitterly year: Wonderwool Wales in April. This thigh-rubbingly good yarn and fibre fesitval has become an annual pilgrimage (recent you-know-what years excepted!). With its vibrant atmosphere, diverse array of vendors, and endless inspiration, Wonderwool Wales is more than just a festival—it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and the timeless allure of fibre arts and crafts.
There are of course many other great yarn festivals, all of which I’m sure are well worth a visit, but Wonderwool Wales has to be my favourite so far - and not just because it is in Wonderfull Wales! A particular charm of Wonderwool is its celebration of the entire journey of wool and fibre, from its humble tufty beginnings to its transformation into beautifully tactile creations. I love that this festival provides a view of the whole process, allowing us to appreciate the craftsmanship and tradition that goes into all woolly crafts. With felt making, spinning, weaving, dyeing and of course lots of beautiful yarn there really is something for all. It’s this immersive journey, from farm to fibre to finished product, that makes Wonderwool Wales a truly unforgettable experience for knitterly types.
Yarn and fibre festivals offer a treasure trove of yarns, fibres, tools, and inspiration. Whilst hugely exciting, they can also be a bit overwhelming, particularly if it’s the the first time you visit one. There are a few strategies though that will help ensure you get the most from such events. So whether you’re a seasoned festival-goer or a first-time attendee, here are some hints and tips to help make the most of your festival experience, and ensure you come away feeling inspired, fulfilled, and ready to embark on your next knitterly adventure.
Planning ahead
A bit of preparation ahead of the day will help ensure you make informed purchasing decisions and avoid unnecessary splurges tor purchases that you might regret later. A common pitfall of yarn festivals is the temptation to buy yarns etc without a clear plan for their use, and it’s easy to come away with too much, or you find that you have keep buying yet more of that same favourite colour of yours that you already have in your stash.
Conversely, the opposite problem is not buying enough and falling prey to what I call Ornamental Yarn Syndrome! It’s all too easy (I know too well!) to end up with a collection of exquisite single orphan balls or skeins that can be frustrating to incorporate into future projects. They are doomed thereafter to sit forever unknit. To avoid these scenarios, take some time before the festival to consider the following.
Assess Your Stash
Before your visit, take time to assess your current stash. Understanding your existing supplies will help you focus your shopping efforts at the festival. What do you already have in your collection? Are there any specific yarn weights, fibre types, or colours that you lack? Do you have any orphan skeins that could do with a suitable partner yarn for you to create with? For example if you have a gorgeous 4 ply skein, a second one in a complementary colour could make for a stunning 2 colour shawl. Don’t forget too about tools and notions such as buttons etc.
Make a list of what you need (or really don’t need!), and take photos on your phone of any particular yarns you are seeking a partner for.
Make a List of Projects
Before you embark on your festival adventure, make a list of the projects you have in mind for the coming year. Ask yourself what gaps you may have in your wardrobe, or what gifts you may like to knit for others. Whether it’s a cozy sweater, a delicate lace shawl, or a fun coloured pair of socks, having a few knitting and/or crochet projects in mind can help guide your purchasing decisions. Consider the type of yarn and quantities you’ll need for each project, and jot down any specific colours or fibre types that you’’d like. Having a clear idea of what you’re looking for will help you stay focused amidst the sea of tempting options at the festival.
Have a look through patterns you may have already, and/or browse for new ones. If you are a ravelry user you may have queued or favourited some designs - now is a good time to revisit those. Make a note of the quantities you’ll need for those specific projects.
Or maybe you haven’t got a specific pattern or design in mind yet, but know you are going to want to make yourself a cardigan in aran weight yarn for example. Have a look at some patterns for ideas of how much yarn you’d need to make a cardigan in your size. When determining how much yarn to purchase for your planned projects, it’s wise to err on the side of caution and buy a little extra, as you won’t want to run out. This additional yarn may seem wasteful, but can come in handy for swatching, making modifications to patterns, or adding extra embellishments to your projects.
Do a little research
Once you have a clear picture of what you’re looking for, if you have time it’s worth doing a little research to see which vendors are attending the festival. Many events provide exhibitor lists and maps ahead of time. Take advantage of this information to identify your must-visit booths, as it can be easy to forget about or miss them on the day. Are there particular yarn dyers or fibre artists whose work you admire? Highlight their locations on the map to ensure you don’t miss them in the bustling crowds.
Also many yarn and fibre festivals offer a programme of workshops and demonstrations - be sure to browse these ahead of time as they often get booked out early.
Set a Budget
Even if you don’t want to go to the bother of planning ahead as above and prefer to go with the flow, it’s really good to at least consider and set yourself a budget. Yarn festivals can be a paradise for knitters and fibre enthusiasts, but it’s easy to get carried away in the excitement and overspend. Before you go, establish a budget for your purchases. Decide how much you’re willing to spend overall, as well as how much you’re comfortable spending on each of your intended projects. Make sure if you can to allow a bit of budget for unplanned purchases - that way you can allow yourself to be open to serendipitous discoveries and/or take advantage of a good bargain without feeling guilty.
Money can be tight, especially these days, but it’s important to treat yourself sometimes and nurture your creativity. To raise funds for your festival buys, you could consider selling some of your unused/less loved stash. Also if your family/friends have difficulty choosing gifts for you for birthdays etc - maybe they would like to let you shop for this at your yarn festival?
While it’s really helpful to have a plan in place, it’s equally important to remain flexible and open to unexpected discoveries. Allow yourself the freedom to deviate from your original list if you come across a yarn or fibre that speaks to you. Sometimes the most serendipitous finds can lead to the most exciting and creative projects.
On the day
Yarn festivals can be tiring and hard on the feet, so it’s good to think about practicalities and your comfort.
Dress for Comfort
Yarn and fibre festivals often take place in rustic settings like outdoor or agricultural outbuildings, which can be subject to unpredictable weather conditions. To ensure your comfort throughout the day, dress appropriately. Layering is key, as temperatures inside these buildings can vary widely. Opt for warm clothing such as sweaters, scarves, and hats, and consider bringing a lightweight jacket or shawl that you can easily remove if it gets too warm.
Don’t forget to wear sturdy, comfortable footwear, as you’ll be on your feet for extended periods exploring the festival grounds.
Self-care essentials
With all the excitement and activity, it’s all too easy to go for hours without taking a break and you’ll suddenly feel exhausted. Staying hydrated is essential, so as well as planning in regular breaks, be sure to bring a refillable bottle of water with you and take regular sips to replenish your fluids.
Some festivals may have water stations available for you, but it’s always wise to come prepared. You can also usually purchase water from food & drink vendors, but these can be expensive, and bringing your own means you can just get straight to the yarn squishing, rather than wasting time queuing to buy some.You may also want to pack a lunch or at least a few snacks to keep your energy levels up.
In addition to staying warm and hydrated, prioritise your overall comfort throughout the day. Consider bringing along a small cushion or portable seat to provide extra support during workshops or while waiting in queues.
If you’re prone to allergies or have a chronic condition, don’t forget to pack any necessary medications or remedies to keep symptoms at bay. By taking proactive steps to prioritise your comfort, you’ll be able to fully enjoy everything the festival has to offer and avoid any unnecessary discomfort.
Packing
As you prepare for a day of shopping and exploration, it’s worth thinking about packing thoughtfully. Bring a good-sized bag to carry your purchases, but be considerate of others, especially in crowded spaces. Opt for a shoulder bag or tote rather than a bulky backpack, which can inadvertently bump into fellow festival-goers as you manoeuvre through the crowds. Remember, a little mindfulness goes a long way in ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone involved.
As well as essential supplies, don’t forget to bring your tickets and If you’ve pre-booked your tickets this will make it quicker to get through the festival entrance.
Additionally you’ll want to bring some cash. Although things have improved in recent years, some vendors may not accept card payments or the wifi can be hit and miss.
Be Mindful of Etiquette
Finally, as you navigate the bustling festival atmosphere, remember to be mindful of etiquette. Have patience with others when negotiating tight spaces, and respect the personal space of fellow attendees and vendors. Refrain from blocking aisles or congregating in busy thoroughfares. If you need to step away to browse or make a purchase, be sure to move to the side to allow others to pass freely. By practicing courtesy and consideration, you’ll contribute to a positive and more pleasurable festival experience for everyone involved.
Also be mindful of any animals on display - its lovely to see them but be aware this could be stressful for them - don’t crowd them, and if you have children supervise them in their interactions with our woolly friends!
Embrace the Experience
While it’s tempting to focus solely on acquiring new knitterly goods, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the full festival experience. Take time to attend workshops, demonstrations, and talks led by experts in the field. Engage with fellow crafters, share tips and tricks, and enjoy the sense of community offered at these events. You never know what valuable insights or friendships you might gain along the way.
It’s always tempting to try and pack everything in, but this can be exhausting, especially if you are not too comfortable in busy crowds. If it’s possible you may want to consider booking to attend for 2 days so you can pace yourself, dip in and out of the festival and making more use of the quieter times.
In conclusion, attending a yarn and fibre festival can be a delightful and rewarding experience for wool crafters of all skill levels. By planning ahead, setting a budget, and embracing the full range of activities available, you can make the most of your time at the event and come away feeling inspired and fulfilled.
Over to you
So that’s my top tips for how to get the most out of your visit to a Yarn & fibre festival. I’m sure there are many more - what other advice would you give for knitters & crocheters planning a visit a big yarn event? Can you recommend any other yarn and fibre festivals that you’ve visited? Feel free to leave a comment below.
Happy Creating!
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