Frequently Asked Questions

How do I receive information?
Sign up to receive an email reminder when class registration is open online, approximately 11 weeks prior to the Expo. Or, we can mail you an Expo brochure, which will arrive via US mail approximately 7 weeks prior to the Expo. Click here to join our email and mailing list, or call us at 800-699-6309. Click here to view and register for classes approximately 11 weeks prior to the Expo.

What is the price of admission?
General Admission is $8 per day online (note a $5 processing fee per order applies) or $15 per day at the door. General Admission is included for FREE when you register for a Value Package before the pre-registration deadline. Children 16 and under are free with an adult. Click here for more detailed pricing information.

What do I get for my General Admission fee?
Your General Admission ticket will give you all-day access to the Exhibit Hall and everything inside it. Shopping, with vendors from across the US and Canada, plus a few from around the world. Check out projects up close, try on sample garments, discuss quilting techniques with designers, sit down to test drive new sewing and embroidery machines and see the latest tools and techniques to help you get more satisfaction out of your own stitching.

Expo Stage presentations running throughout the Expo, will let you in on glorious trunk shows, how-to demonstrations and runway fashion shows.

Make-It Take-It projects are available in vendor booths, too. The projects are quick and fun, and when you’re done you’ll have learned about a new product and how to use it.

The Display Gallery, with wonderful quilts of all sizes and styles, wearable art and other displays provides you with a place to simply absorb the talent, the ideas, the wonder of our shared creative adventures.

Concessions, too, are located inside the Exhibit Hall, generally with a view of the Expo Stage. So you can rest, refuel and take in one of the presentations, all at the same time.

What are the Exhibit Hall hours?
Thursday & Friday: 10:00am - 5:30pm;  Saturday: 10:00am - 5:00pm

How much are classes? Do you have any discounts?
Classes are $29 per session when purchased at the Expo. Value Packages are the best way to get the most for your money, and are available during the pre-registration period only. Value Packages include FREE General Admission, discounted class prices and MORE. Click here for more detailed pricing information.

How do I purchase General Admission tickets or register for Classes?
To Register Online: click here. To Register by Phone: call 800-699-6309 (Monday-Friday 10:00am-3:00pm ET). You may also purchase tickets at the Expo beginning at 8:00am on the first day of the event. Please note that pre-registration pricing does not apply to tickets purchased at the Expo.

What are the benefits to registering online?
Save on classes and general admission when you purchase online. Our easy-to-use website is secure and reliable! Register when the time is convenient for you – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

What do I do if I have a question while I am registering online?
To talk to a Registration Specialist, call us at 800-699-6309 (Monday- Friday 10:00am-3:00pm ET). We can answer any questions you may have to complete your order. You can also email us at info@sewingexpo.com

How do I find all of the classes offered by my favorite teacher?
Click here and choose ‘Teacher’ in the ‘View By’ box at the top of the page.

How do I receive my Class and/or General Admission Tickets?
Be sure to print your Class and/or General Admission tickets, as they will NOT be mailed to you. The link to print your tickets can be found in your Order Confirmation email. You can also view your Order Confirmation and print your tickets by logging in to our website. Click “Login” at the top of the page, enter your username (email address) and password and click the Log In button. Once logged in, click on “Order History” in the menu bar at the top of your screen.

How do I receive my Super Prize Drawing Ticket? Do I need to be present to win?
You will receive your Super Prize Drawing Ticket at the Expo each day. You must be present to win a sewing machine and other prizes from the exhibitors. Drawings are held at 5:15pm on Thursday and Friday, and at 4:30pm on Saturday, on the Expo Stage inside the Exhibit Hall. Note: You do not need to be present to win the Bonus Chance, which is a Value Package for next year’s Expo.

Do I need to bring a sewing machine to my class?
Leave your Sewing Machine at home! When you register for a hands-on workshop that uses machines, you'll be seated behind a brand-new sewing machine, generously provided by our sponsors and their local retailers at the Expo.

Where is my class located?
Classroom assignments will be emailed to you one week prior to the Expo and listed on our website. Classroom Assignment posters will also be located in convenient locations around the Expo.

What if I miss a class or change my mind about a class I have already registered for?
If you miss a class or decide you’d like to switch to a different class than that for which you’ve registered, you may bring your unused ticket to our Registration Desk at the Expo and turn it in for any other available class ticket.

Can I bring my child into the Exhibit Hall or classroom?
Children 16 and under are admitted into the Exhibit Hall for free when accompanied by an adult with a General Admission ticket. Children 8 and up are permitted in the classroom, provided they have their own ticket, and are accompanied by an adult with her/his own ticket.

Do you have anything at the Expo for young sewing and quilting enthusiasts?
Yes! Many of the classes offered are suitable for young people. As with adult enthusiasts, their level of experience should be taken into account when choosing classes. Most Make-It Take-It Projects and Expo Stage Presentations are suitable for young people, and on Saturday all enthusiasts ages 18 and under are encouraged to participate in Sewing's Next Generation: Youth Fashion & Project Show.

How do I get to the Expo? Where should I park?
Click here for detailed information and directions to the Expo.

What should I wear to the Expo?
Dress in layers or bring a sweater with you because temperatures may vary within the building. Don’t forget comfortable shoes!

What should I bring to the Expo?
Whether or not you were a Girl Scout, being prepared is an essential part of having a great experience at the Expo. We've put together a list of helpful things to bring with you.

• Note-taking supplies, pad of paper, pencil and pen.
• Directions, parking and transportation information.
• Lunch money! Food and beverage service will be available for when you need to refuel or take a break. The Center prohibits bringing outside food and beverage into the Expo.
• List of exhibitors you want to visit or a shopping list of items to find.
• If you have pre-registered for classes: your Class tickets, Name Badge and Order confirmation.
• If you are taking classes, don’t forget your class supplies. Check your Order Confirmation email for your supply list, if applicable.

Can I check my coat and bags?
There will be a convenient coat and package check available. 

Is there food available?
Food and beverage service will be available for when you need to refuel or take a break. The Center prohibits bringing outside food and beverage into the Expo.

Are strollers or rolling totes allowed inside the Exhibit Hall?
Strollers filled with children are allowed inside the Exhibit Hall. Please be courteous to others if you have a stroller! For safety’s sake, rolling totes are not allowed in the Exhibit Hall. There will be a convenient coat and package check available. Please see an Original Sewing & Quilt Expo staff member if you have a medical need to use a rolling tote.

Are wheelchairs and scooters provided?
The Suburban Collection Showplace offers a couple wheelchairs and/or motorized scooters for event attendees to use on a first come / first served basis. If you prefer to rent a scooter prior to the Expo, contact Liberty Medical at 248-496-2751 for complete details and to make arrangements.

Can I take photographs of the displays or booths?
Photography of quilts, garments, and other items in the Display Gallery is allowed for personal use only. If you wish to take a photograph of an Exhibitor's booth, you must first ask their permission. No commercial photography or videos are permitted at the show. Members of the press are welcome, and may pick up a Press Pass at the Registration Desk.

Do you have a list of exhibitors?
Click here to view the Exhibitor List approximately 11 weeks prior to the Expo. Check back often as more exhibitors are added.

I have an extra ticket for Saturday and can't attend. Can I give it to a friend?
Yes, of course! If you have more tickets than you can use yourself, please do share with a friend. This is also a great solution if you cannot attend the Expo, as all tickets are non-refundable.

What is your refund policy?
General admission, class and product tickets for Original Sewing & Quilt Expo are non-refundable. Please send someone in your place if you are unable to attend. If the event cannot occur on the scheduled dates, then a credit for a future event will be issued.

Do you offer any group discounts?
Yes! We have an incredible offer for groups of 30 or more. Call us at 800-699-6309 for details.

Are there Bus Trips to the Expo?
Re-energize your sewing passions by taking a bus trip to the Expo. What could be more motivating and fun than taking a trip for some “serious” sewing and quilting inspiration? Don’t worry about directions or parking! Click here for more information on joining a bus trip to the Expo. Interested in coordinating a bus trip? Call us at 800-699-6309 for details.

What are the benefits of staying overnight at the Expo hotel?
Find extra satisfaction when you take a break from your day-to-day routine and stay at the Expo hotel. Once you arrive, you’re there for the duration – no household to keep on schedule, no interruptions from work or family. Staying at the Expo hotel makes your Expo experience a mini-vacation, all for YOU! Click here for hotel accommodation information.

What if I need special assistance?

We must be contacted at least two (2) weeks prior to the event start date in order to arrange for individualized services such as interpreters, special assistants, aids or other disability services at an event. While all efforts will be made to accommodate every guest, not all services can be arranged or provided.