Inside H+H Americas with Founder Darrin Stern

In today’s episode, meet Darrin Stern, the founder and driving force behind H+H Americas, the fast-growing trade show transforming the fabric, fiber, and creative industry. With the International Quilt Show officially gone, makers and businesses are looking for the next major industry gathering. H&H Americas is stepping up in a big way.

Darrin shares how the show came to the U.S., what makes it unlike any other event in this space, and why it’s becoming the must-attend conference for quilt pattern designers, fabric buyers, shop owners, influencers, makers, and creative entrepreneurs.

You’ll also hear about the consumer-facing Fiber and Farbic Craft Festival (the day before the trade show), giving hobbyists and small business owners a chance to connect, learn, and get inspired.

From ice-cream socials and networking lounges to podcast recordings, classes, and hands-on demonstrations, H+H Americas is all about meaningful community, modern industry insight, and in-person connections that truly move your business forward.

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What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How H+H Americas started and why Darrin felt the fabric and fiber industry needed a fresh, modern trade show
• What makes H+H Americas different from traditional quilt or craft shows
• Details about the H+H Festival, the consumer event held right before the main trade show
• Why now is the perfect time to attend, especially with the International Quilt Market no longer returning
• Who the event is for, from quilt pattern designers and fabric reps to shop owners, educators, and influencers
• What actually happens at the show, including classes, networking, live podcasts, social events, and product launches
• How in-person industry connections can transform your creative business
• Tips for first-time attendees to get the most out of their experience

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Key Takeaways

• H+H Americas is quickly becoming the central hub for the fiber and fabric industry in the U.S.
• With both a consumer festival and a business-to-business trade show, there’s a place for everyone—makers, buyers, educators, and brands alike.
• The community-focused events (happy hours, meetups, socials) make networking feel natural and enjoyable.
• If you’re in the quilting or creative business space, H+H Americas is the industry gathering you don’t want to miss.

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Mentioned in This Episode

• H+H Americas Trade Show
• Fiber and Fabric Craft Festival (consumer event)
• Industry classes, networking sessions, podcast recordings, and social events