quilt tour ireland

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Ireland Quilting Trips

Luxury quilting tours with scotia ireland.

A quilting tour is a truly unique experience, travel the scenic countryside of Ireland while exploring the vast beauty of it's shorelines and the bustling life of it's cities.

Expert guides and instructors will show you the way in this fantastic opportunity to improve your skills and take in a one in a lifetime journey.

We are currently designing our itineraries.

Con, Thank you for the trip of a lifetime. Will treasure the memories always…

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...Your extraordinary level of service, kindness and consideration to our needs and expectations during our trip to Ireland is so much appreciated…

...your kindness and love of ireland made me come to love it, even more than i already did.…, ...i never had such an appreciation for history until this vacation. you have opened our eyes to the fine details.…, ...you are a very adept driver, a wonderful guide and an astute historian. we did learn a lot about irish history, customs and traditions on our trip. thank you for a truly wonderful time…, ...you shared your extensive knowledge and appreciation for the land. it helped my understanding of the culture and its people….

Explore the world famous Wild Atlantic Way

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August 31 – September 10, 2024

Celtic legends, featuring scotland and ireland, this tour includes, tapestry series.

Small groups, big experiences, independent spirit.

Hotel accommodations, including baggage handling

8 Breakfasts, 4 dinners

Guided sightseeing, visits, and admissions as outlined in the day-by-day itinerary

Airfare & Transfers

Round-trip international airfare (gateway TBA); Group transfer upon arrival and for departure

Tour Manager

Full time, English speaking throughout the trip

Hand-Selected Hotels

Top-rated highlights.

• Kick-off Welcome Dinner
• Edinburgh Panoramic City Tour
• Edinburgh Castle
• The Great Tapestry of Scotland
• Blair Castle House and Gardens
• Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre
• Ben Nevis Distillery Tour and Tasting
• Glencoe Visitor Centre
• National Trust for Scotland
• Ferry from Scotland to Northern Ireland
• Titanic Museum
• Quilt Fayre Admission
• Giant’s Causeway
• Ulster American Folk Park
• Dublin Panoramic City Tour
• Springwools Shop
• The Merry Ploughboy
• Customary Farewell Dinner

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Tour Begins: Edinburgh, Scotland

Tour ends: dublin, ireland.

Embark on a remarkable journey through Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. Immerse yourself in the vibrant charm of these Celtic countries. An unforgettable adventure awaits.

Welcome to Scotland . After checking in at our city-centre hotel, enjoy some much-needed downtime. Your first evening in Scotland will be unforgettable. Tonight, savor a delicious Welcome Dinner after meeting fellow quilting enthusiasts and potentially lifelong connections at our kick-off Welcome Meeting .

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast that will make you feel right at home. Your entire day will be dedicated to exploration. Accompanied by our friendly Irish National Guide , you will venture into the historically significant Edinburgh Castle , followed by an enlightening group tour of New Lanark with a knowledgeable guide. Prepare yourself for the awe-inspiring Great Tapestry of Scotland , a sight that is certain to leave you inspired. At the end of the day, return to the welcoming embrace of our hotel to unwind.

After breakfast, embark on a new adventure alongside our esteemed Irish guide. Marvel at the magnificence of Blair Castle , allowing your heart to wander through its enchanting gardens , and then experience the time-honored traditions at The Scottish Kiltmaker Visitor Centre . Conclude the day with a lovely dinner and enjoy a night under the starry highland skies at the Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa or a similarly inviting accommodation.

Indulge in a comforting breakfast before setting off for another day filled with captivating Scottish wonders. Experience the history and learn about the distilling process at the Ben Nevis Distillery with a whisky tour and tasting . Next, immerse yourself in the dramatic mountains, rare beauty, and haunting history at the Glencoe Visitor Centre in the heart of the Highlands. Later, a serene night awaits at the Clayton Hotel Glasgow.

Nourish yourself with a hearty breakfast as you prepare for a day of breathtaking scenery, beginning with a ferry ride from Scotland across the channel, arriving in Belfast, Northern Ireland . Immerse yourself in the stories of the legendary unsinkable ship, the Titanic, at the Titanic Belfast Museum . Later, check in and relax at the Europa Hotel located in the heart of downtown Belfast.

Wake up to a tasty Irish breakfast before departing for the enchantingly delightful Quilt Fayre patchwork festival . Enjoy a full day at the show admiring quilts, watching demos, and purchasing much-needed supplies. Tonight, explore the charming streets and side lanes of Belfast with included free time before tucking in for the night.

Today, after a satisfying breakfast, prepare to explore the breathtaking natural wonder of Giant’s Causeway . Witness the natural rock formations that span the 33 miles of celebrated coastline. Later, unwind with a delightful Irish dinner and spend a peaceful night at the Everglades Hotel.

Rise and shine to a new day! After breakfast, depart for Dublin , stopping en route to explore the fascinating Ulster American Folk Park and its textile collection under the guidance of your Irish National Guide. Later, arrive at the cozy Ashling Hotel in Dublin, your home for the remainder of the trip.

Today, after a tasty breakfast, Dublin is your oyster! Visit the Springwools shop and spend some time meandering the city streets and boutiques . Tonight, enjoy a feast of local flavors at our customary farewell dinner hosted at the delightful Merry Ploughboy .

What a journey it’s been! Savor breakfast before transferring to Dublin’s airport to begin your journey home. As you take off, bid farewell to the friends and memories you’ve made. Rest assured, the quilting inspiration from this trip will last a lifetime!

Per Person/Double Occupancy

Reserve Your Celtic Legends Tour

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Step 1: Accommodations

Step 2: number of travelers, step 3: passenger information, guest 1 (yourself), step 4: billing details & payment, step 5: review & submit.

Space for this tour is limited. Please contact us to discuss accommodation options and availability.

• Mon - Thurs 9am - 2pm EST
• (603) 673-0640
• 1-800-346-9820 (U.S. only)
• [email protected]

Website by Clever Light

A Quilter’s Tour of Ireland

The Scrappy Apple

Quilts and more, a quilter’s tour of ireland, june 30 – july 11, 2024, just $3999 per person, land only, optional group airfare is available for $1289, see details below, simply click on the “ book now ” button to the right and begin the secure booking process, limited single accommodations available for a supplemental payment of $1199, flight information.

Depart Dulles (IAD) on Aer Lingus Flight 118 on 30 June at 8:55 pm arriving Dublin (DUB) at 8:45 am on 1 July.

Return flight departs Dublin (DUB) on Aer Lingus flight 117 on 11 July at 12:35 pm arriving Dulles (IAD) at 3:40 the same day.

Those who prefer to make flight arrangements outside of the group flights above please take note.  You must be at Dublin airport at 8:30 am (early on July 1) to meet the driver and arriving guest to join this tour.  At the conclusion of the tour, you may utilize transportation to the Dublin airport with the group. Please book your return flight after 12:15 pm to ensure ample time for check in procedures.  Please provide flight details as early as possible to Isle Inn Tours.  Optional Pre-Night Accommodations are available,   please ask for details.

Our Expected Itinerary

Departure Day Sunday, June 30th

Depart on your overnight flight from the US to Dublin, Ireland. See flight details above.

Pre-nights or post-nights can be booked if you would like to extend your tour or start early to make sure you are well rested when the group tour begins. Should you avail of early/late stay, you will be responsible for making your way to/from the airport to your hotel.

Day 1 Monday, July 1

Upon arrival at Dublin Airport, we will meet our Irish driver/guide in the Arrivals Hall along with any group members that have arrived early in Ireland for the tour.  Enjoy the scenic drive through lush green fields and charming villages. Our first stop is the historic Trim Castle, a majestic fortress dating back to the 12th century. Here, you’ll have the chance to stretch your legs, indulge in traditional tea and scones , and explore the castle’s impressive grounds. we’ll continue our journey westward, crossing the stunning Irish countryside. Arriving at the charming town of Westport, check-in and settle in. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, savoring the flavors of local cuisine.

Overnight: Westport Plaza, Westport (D)

Day 2 Tuesday, July 2nd

Overnight: Westport Plaza, Westport (B)

Day 3 Wednesday, July 3rd

Overnight: Park House Hotel, Galway (B, D)

Day 4 Thursday, July 4th

Day 5 Friday, July 5th

Overnight: Maritime Hotel, Bantry (B, D)

Day 6 Saturday, July 6th

Day 7 Sunday, July 7th

Overnight: Castlemartyr Resort (B, D)

Day 8 Monday, July 8th

Day 9 Tuesday, July 9th

Day 10 Wednesday, July 10th

Day 11 Thursday, July 11th

After breakfast we will make our way to Dublin Airport with time for last-minute Duty-Free shopping.  Those on the group flight will depart on Aer Lingus flight #117 at 12:35pm, arriving at Dulles at 3:40pm.

Details and other Things to Know about your tour

Your tour is subject to our terms and conditions. We strongly urge all travelers to become familiar with the details of your vacation investment before booking by reading our Terms and Conditions – simply click here .

Tour price is per person based on shared accommodation in double occupancy room.

Mobility requirement is moderate, walking along un-paved surfaces should be expected.

Weather and other circumstances beyond control of Isle Inn Tours, our drivers, or business partners may suggest or require changes to the itinerary without notice.

Scheduled flight times are subject to change and are set by the airline and will be communicated to participants.  Day of travel conditions are beyond the control or influence of Isle Inn Tours and are the sole responsibility of the airline.

A valid passport, with a minimum of six months remaining validity AFTER planned return date is required.  If you are a United States citizen and do not currently have a valid passport you may begin the process online with the US State Department by clicking here

B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Admissions Included/Tour Highlights

• Tea & Scones at Trim Castle with a walk around the grounds
• Achill Island
• The Connemara Peninsular including Kylemore Abbey and Clifden
• Cliffs of Moher
• Poulnabrone
• 4 th of July party in Galway
• The charming village of Adare
• West Cork area of natural beauty
• Garnish Island
• Glengarriff
• Cork City including English Market, Franciscan Wells Brewery
• Spike Island
• Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience
• Dublin City tour including, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Pearse Lyons Distillery, and the Merry Ploughboy
• 2 Nights Westport Plaza, Westport
• 2 Nights Park House Hotel, Galway
• 2 Nights The Maritime, Bantry
• 2 Nights Five Star Castlemartyr Resort, Castlemartyr, Co. Cork
• 2 Nights The Green, Dublin

What’s Included

• 10 Nights 1 st class hotels
• 10 Full Irish breakfasts (B)
• 4 Table d’hote dinners in your hotel (D)
• 4 th of July Party in Galway
• 1 Night dinner and entertainment at The Merry Ploughboy (D)
• Fully escorted via deluxe motorcoach with Irish driver/guide
• Porterage of one suitcase per person
• All service charges and local government taxes
• Admissions and entry as described in the itinerary

What’s not included

Elements NOT INCLUDED in the price of your tour/airfare

• Travel insurance must be paid for at the time of deposit to cover any pre-existing conditions, if purchased after initial payment, pre-existing conditions are subject to exclusion.
• Optional airfare $1289 as described above
• Meals, drinks, snacks, admissions, not indicated in the itinerary
• Beverages, including alcohol and soft-drinks, unless otherwise indicated
• Tips, admissions, and other “out of pocket” items not designate in the itinerary
• Gratuity to driver/guide, suggested at €9.00 per person per day
• Airline upgrades, special seating requests, excess/overweight baggage, connecting flights, or club access
• Single Supplement at $1199, limited space available

Payment Schedule

Tour price is per person based on shared accommodations/double occupancy room.

• A $750 per person non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking to secure your spot on the tour
• A 2nd non-refundable payment of $1000 per person will be due December 4, 2023
• Final Payment must be received no later than March 22, 2024

Payment may be made online any time by credit card using our secure process.  If you prefer to pay by check, you may mail payment to:

Isle Inn Tours PO Box 2559 Moorpark,  CA  93020

For FedEx/UPS

Isle Inn Tours 100 W. High Street Box 2559 Moorpark, CA 93021

Protect your vacation investment

 Travel Insurance is STRONGLY suggested.

Trip insurance is available for additional cost through Travel Guard (approximately 8% of total tour price) and is strongly recommended.  Visit https://isleinntours.com/travel-protection/ to learn more. You can click through to Travel Guard’s website to purchase from here as well.

Circumstances beyond our control may require us to change the schedule. This tour is subject to the terms and conditions listed on www.isleinntours.com

Reserve your spot on the tour today!

Contact andrea at isle inn tours.

703-997-6725 or [email protected]

Or, simply click on the “ Book Now ” button to the right and begin the secure booking process

Ask us anything.

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Ireland Quilt Trip/Tour Directory

Ever thought of attending a quilting cruise, going on a quilting trip, or enjoying a quilting tour?  Quilt trips, quilt tours, and quilt cruises, can be a great way to get away and finish your latest project or start a whole new one.  The stunning scenery on many of these quilt tours in Ireland can be breathtaking. Imagine the fun, relaxation, and the finished product that will remind you of your Ireland quilt trip for a lifetime.

The Ireland quilt trip, tour, cruise directory is an easy way to find a place to relax and quilt. Try it today! Add yours today. Share it with all your friends and tour providers.

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Learn more about adding your quilting organization or event on the QuiltingHub Network, click Advertise Or Add Content .

List of Quilt Trips/Tour s In Ireland

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2024 Quilters Journey to Ireland

Dublin, Ireland

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About this trip

IMPORTANT INFORMATION - please read through to the end.

Enjoy our amazing Celtic journey as it is perfect for anyone, but especially a quilt enthusiast as we've planned this visit to enjoy Ireland from a quilter's perspective. Our comprehensive tour features the best of Emerald Isle scenery and with our relaxed touring schedule we will have ample time for quilt and  fabric browsing as we enjoy the sights along our way. We've even expanded the tour this year to include an additional day to enjoy the Ring of Kerry and an opportunity to take a celtic theme quilt class with one of Ireland's most beloved quilting instructors.  Our special journey together will highlight the beauty of the Irish countryside, diversity of the Irish culture and allow us to meet and enjoy the company of Irish quilters.

When booking, unless you are paying for everyone on your booking's fees, we strongly suggest each person book separately (as individuals).  Otherwise please note that communications are only sent to the booking person on the account, including invoices.  We cannot separate booking accounts once they are booked.   No one but the person making the booking will be able to make changes to the booking.  Booking separately also allows us to communicate easily with each person on the booking.   Once again, if you are booking and not planning to pay on your cabin partner's behalf, please book individually.

So you will be in the same cabin as your travel partner, there is a place to note roommates on the booking form.

All guests must be 21 or over. 

Before registering for the tour please read our terms and conditions which include our Covid Waiver and Release.  These can be found at https://worldofquiltstravel.com/terms-and-conditions.    

PLEASE USE YOUR PASSPORT NAME ON YOUR BOOKING.

Please note the final payment deadline for this Ireland tour is February 1, 2024.

THIS TOUR IS A GUARANTEED DEPARTURE.  OUR TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY FOR GUARANTEED TOURS.  When you make your plane reservations be sure to purchase travel protection to cover this expense as anything can happen, even for guaranteed departure tours.

Quilters Journey of Ireland Highlights

One must be 21 years of age or older to participate on this tour.

Our circle Ireland tour begins and ends in Dublin and takes us north to Belfast, then west to the beautiful Irish coast, then south giving you a first hand glimpse into all that makes this beautiful island so magical.  In Dingle, you will have an option to enjoy a quilt class with one of Ireland's most beloved quilting instructors.  The tour is an Emerald Isle dream you won't want to miss.

In addition to multiple quilt and fabric shop stops, some of the other stops on our tour include (but are not limited to):

Dublin : Enjoy the vibrant pubs, eclectic markets, and numerous cultural attractions that make Dublin one of the most interesting small cities in the world. Founded as a Viking settlement at the mouth of the River Liffey, Ireland’s capital city is rich with history and filled with storytellers. Major landmarks include: Christ Church Cathedral (the oldest building in Ireland), the Dublin Castle (which has stood since the 12th Century), the Spire of Dublin, the statue of Molly Malone, Trinity College, and the Guinness brewery. Here  you’ll find cobbled streets, lit with the ruddiness of pubs ringing with Irish folk tunes.  

Belfast : Compact and easy to explore on foot, Belfast is known for its pubs and an attitude that values having a good time. There are hundreds of pubs in Northern Ireland’s capital, but The Crown is something special and a must for any visitor, located just across the street from the Grand Opera House. Belfast has something to offer everyone, from an international selection of restaurants, bars, and cafes, to a rugged natural splendor that surrounds the city. Also, the birthplace of the Titanic!

Ulster Folk Art Museum : Step back in time and uncover a way of life from 100 years ago. Discover cottages, farms, schools, and shops as you wander through the beautiful parkland of the Folk Museum chatting to costumed visitor guides demonstrating traditional crafts. Climb on and off majestic steam locomotives or experience the sensation of flight in the Transport Museum bursting with horse drawn carriages, electric trams, motorbikes, fire-engines, and vintage cars. 

 County Kerry : A county in the South-West Region of Ireland, Kerry is one of the most mountainous regions of Ireland. It faces the Atlantic Ocean and features many peninsulas, inlets, and islands, resulting in a breathtakingly picturesque landscape. Kerry is as close as one can get to the mythical Ireland: A Celtic kingdom of misty mountains promised by glossy brochures and Hollywood films. **

Dingle Peninsula : Located in County Kerry and comprising Europe’s westernmost point, the Dingle Peninsula features stunning views, natural wonder, and extensive archaeological monuments dating back 6,000 years. This is the sort of fairytale place that one might imagine when reading Celtic folklore and mythology. Many Hollywood movies have been filmed here.

Slea Head Drive : A circular route, beginning and ending in Dingle, which takes in a large number of attractions and stunning views on the western end of the Dingle Peninsula. Slea Head is a well-known and recognized landmark and very scenic viewpoint, with a dramatic view of the Blasket Islands.

  Ring of Kerry:  Rolling green hills and sparkling lakes. Sheep and cows grazing in patchwork fields. Unspoiled golden beaches giving way to jaw-dropping cliffs. You will find each turn brings a new treat, from lakes, rivers, waterfalls and castles. This treasure on southwest coast of Ireland really has it all.   

 Sheepdog Trials: Enjoy up close and personal viewing of sheepdogs and the sheep they guard.  See how they work, obey commands and take care of their flocks.  This is a rare treat that has been well received by our guests. 

Blarney Castle : A medieval stronghold in Blarney, near Cork, Ireland. At the top of the Castle lies the Stone of Eloquence, better known as the Blarney Stone, which legend tells us is a magical stone upon which Irish kings were crowned. 

Waterford Factory :  A manufacturer of crystal, the factory is named after the city of Waterford, Ireland. The origin of crystal production in Waterford dates back to 1783, when George and William Penrose started producing extremely fine flint glass that became world-renowned. Today, skilled craftsmen are on display demonstrating their trade of making the Waterford Crystal. Experience the meticulous process of molding, blowing, cutting, sculpting, and engraving that goes into producing this fine crystal. 

REGISTERING FOR IRELAND

Before booking this tour, please review and understand the terms and conditions found at our website.  Please note, the final payment deadline is February 1, 2024.  Should someone register after this date, full payment is due at time of registration and space/prices are subject to availability.  Please register early as spaces cannot be guaranteed.    

If you are registering as a single person, wanting a private room, this is very simple, just enter the information requested.

If you are registering and want to share a room with a friend, be certain you include your friend's name on the registration form.  If it is left blank there are no guarantees we will figure out who it is you want to room with.  It is BEST IF FRIENDS BOOK SEPARATELY as wetravel.com only sends one invoice, the total cannot be separated.

If you are registering and need a roommate in order to go, please indicate this in the space provided.

It's also quite easy to book with your roommate - but again unless you are paying for both people in your room, we suggest you each fill out a form.

  Please do not make air arrangements to Dublin until you the tour has been confirmed as a go.    

Available Packages

Shared room, price is per person, 2 people per room/2 double or twin beds per room.  (Triple or Quadruple person rooms are not available.)

Private Room for single use, 1 person per room/1 king, queen or double bed per room.  Pricing based on shared room rate plus the $2100 single supplement which has been added to the full price.

Available options

Your organizer, photo gallery.

Sold out!! Join the wait list by calling us.

Join sherry and friends from calico cupboard on a lovely tour of ireland..

Do you want to explore Ireland with a group of like-minded adventurers who love to make quilts? This is the trip for you!! Don't quilt? We've got you covered.

Enjoy extraordinary  experiences amidst breathtaking scenery that will inspire your next project.  Meet fellow quilters across the pond and learn about their unique traditions in quilt-making. Join in the craic!  Don't know what that is?  You will after spending nine memorable days meeting locals, discovering historic treasures, legends and myths while immersing yourself in charming Irish culture.  The rousing and heart-felt music is just as much a part of the land as is the lush green grass which graces the hillsides and fields of sheep.  This will be an unforgettable trip where you will make as many friends as memories.   

As they say on the Emerald Isle, "There are no strangers here, only friends you haven't met yet."

See the breathtaking  Cliffs of Moher - although you've probably seen them before.  The Cliffs of Insanity in Princess Bride....as you wish....

Cost Land Only: Sold Out  $2,599 per person, double occupancy, $2,450 per person triple, $2,775 single

Optional Group Air nonstop from Cleveland to Dublin:   SOLD OUT     

$300 deposit reserves your seat. Final payment for group air is March 15. Guests on group air will be updated on payments.  Land Only final payment due April 30, 2024.

Your tour includes all of this and a few surprises:

A week of travel through Ireland with Sherry, plus professional tour director from ETS

Sightseeing by luxury coach with one of Ireland's top professional driver/guides

8 nights in great hotels in great locations , including a castle hotel stay

14 delicious meals

Visits and admissions to places noted

Free time to explore and make your own discoveries

Farm and sheepdog demonstrations at an Irish Farm

The Cliffs of Moher and the moonscape of The Burren

Scenic tour of the Wild Atlantic Way coastline and quaint towns

Irish quilt workshop at a local quilt shop

Viking cruise on the River Shannon to Clonmacnoise monastic settlement

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

VIP souvenir name tag and luggage tag

Gratuities for included meals, taxes and fees*

Questions:  Write to Dave Matthews at Enrichment Travel at [email protected]

or email Brenda Willis at [email protected]

*Customary gratuity for driver/guide NOT included.

Project Name

Can you believe people actually lived like this?  Visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park to experience life as it was in a castle and in rural Ireland.

Auld Dublin town - famous for many things - like Guinness!  Will ye have a pint of the tall, dark and handsome?

Westport, Co. Mayo will be our home for 3 nights with plenty of time to explore every magical, musical corner and maybe meet Matt Molloy himself!

Take a Viking cruise on the Shannon River to this ancient monastic settlement.  Clonmacnoise is stunning!!!

Visit the medieval city of Kilkenny.

You will have time to explore, shop and experience this ancient town.

Yes, stay in a real castle!!  Step back in time at this lovely hotel steeped in history and set in a lovely spot in the shadows of the Slieve Bloom Mountains.

Dave Matthews - President

6002 Kenzie Lane

Dublin Ohio, 43017

[email protected]

(614) 581-2126

Brenda Willis

Director of Nashville Office

www.EnrichmentTravel.com

[email protected]

(615) 636-9486

• (760) 610-6929‬
• [email protected]

Quiltcations

Brought to you by World of quilts Travel, internationally recognized as the leading provider of handcrafted quilting journeys since 2005

on the road with World of Quilts Travel

North American destination quilt and textile related sightseeing adventures.

About Quiltcations

At World of Quilts travel we've received many requests to organize quilt related tours with North American destinations. We’ve listened, and the result – Quiltcations. Quiltcations vacation journeys will offer no less than the internationally recognized quilt related tours and cruises offered by World of Quilts Travel, the only difference is that the focus of travel will be within in the US and Canada. These tours are a perfect opportunity to see this part of the world and enjoy some amazing travel experiences with your family or quilting friends. We are starting with six tour offerings and our exclusive, Going Your Way, custom tour program. We will be adding new trips often, so please, come back and check them out again soon.

The Tours with Quiltcations

We've been inspiring quilters since 2005!

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• January 4-10, 2023

Quilter’s Charleston & Savannah Tour

• April 10-20, 2023

Northern Parks Quilt Tour

• September 6-14, 2023

TOUR DETAILS >>

Houston Quilt Festival Tour

• OCTOBER, 2023
• COMING SOON

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We've been setting the standard in the quilting travel industry since 2005

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© 2020-2021 Deb Roberts – Content may not be used without written permission.   QUILTCATIONS uses the travel services of Deb Roberts’ Tours, a California registered seller of travel (#2090694-40).  All travelers are protected by the Travel Consumer Restitution Corporation.   Trips, itineraries and provided information are the intellectual property of Deb Roberts’ Tours.

Quilters Journey to Ireland

May 19-june 2, 2024, sold out, join our waitlist, quilters northern isles quilt cruise with road to california, july 6-20, 2024, benefiting the international quilt museum, batik lovers bali, august 18-29, 2024, quilters journey to morocco, two more places, september 3-16, 2024, 2024 houston quilt festival tour, international quilt festival, october 28-november 3, 2024, quilter's england christmastime magic london & the cotswolds, december 1-9, 2024, hawaii quilt bee at sea, january 11-28, 2025, 2025 caribbean quilt cruise, with sue spargo, jolynn o'neil and peggy gelbrich, february 19-march 1, 2025, 2025 quilters batik lovers bali, may 12-22, 2025, 2025 quilters crusin' alaska, june 7-14, 2025, 2025 quilters journey to ireland including ireland's acclaimed quilt fayre and travel with sue spargo, august 16-31, 2025, 2025 houston quilt festival tour, japan textiles & craft tour, including the yokohama quilt show, november 2025, 2025 european christmas markets viking river cruise, december 3-14, 2025.

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9-DAY IRELAND WITH BONNIE HUNTER

• TOUR PACKAGE
• OPTIONAL TOURS
• ABOUT BONNIE

9-DAY PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• Round-trip International airfare from the New York JFK Airport to Dublin. (Airfare available from your closest international airport for an additional fee. First/Business class upgrades available)
• Transfers to/from the airport/hotel in Dublin for full package guests.
• Private deluxe motor coach and professional driver the entire time.

• Hotel accommodation in Galway, Killarney & Dublin. (Suite upgrades available)
• Sightseeing and shopping in Galway and Dublin.

• Sightseeing to Ireland's “Natural Wonder of the World," the Cliffs of Moher.
• A tour of the port town of Dingle and the  Dingle Peninsula .

• Delicious Irish breakfast served daily and some dinners .
• A welcome dinner, introductions, and orientation meeting.

• Shopping & sightseeing in  Avoca .
• An  optional tour to Connemara Region to visit the Celtic Crystal Factory.

• Visiting the extraordinary Kylemore Abbey .
• A visit to the award-winning village of  Adare .

• A visit to the  Blarney Woolen Mills and Castle .
• A tour of  St. Kevin’s Monastic Settlement .

• Photo opportunity in Killarney to see the ruins of  Ross Castle .
• Shopping in the seaside craft village of Spiddal.

• A professional Craftours travel manager throughout your entire journey.
• Workshops with our special guest,  Bonnie Hunter .

• A Craftours lanyard, luggage identifier and commemorative gift.
• All taxes are included in this package and insurance is highly recommended.

Cost of this Quiltville experience in Ireland is:

Reserve Your Space Now!

Call Toll-Free 877-887-1188

Any questions please e-mail: [email protected]

Space is available on a first-come/first-served basis. Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Travel insurance is highly recommended. Land only and single rates are available upon request. Please consult our Terms & Conditions as they apply once your first deposit is made. A 3% discount is offered if the expedition is paid in full by check within 7 business days of the invoice date.

Celtic Crystal Factory

Celtic Crystal was founded in 1972. This family-run business has been pioneering the incorporation of Celtic Designs and Gaelic Motifs into its ornate Irish Crystal and it is proud to claim leadership in this field.

Kylemore Abbey & Gardens

Kylemore Abbey is a Benedictine monastery founded in 1920 on the grounds of Kylemore Castle, in Connemara, County Galway, Ireland. The abbey was founded for Benedictine Nuns who fled Belgium in World War I. The current Mother Abbess of the Benedictine Community is Mary Margaret Funk.

The cost of this optional tour to Kylemore Abbey and Gardens and scenic drive through the stunning Connemara Region is $127.97 per person.

BONNIE HUNTER

Bonnie K Hunter is passionate about quilt quilting, focusing mainly on scrap quilts with the simple feeling of “making do”. She started her love affair with quilting in a home economics class her senior year of high school in 1980 and has never looked back. Before quilting became her full time career, Bonnie was the owner and designer of ""Needle in a Haystack!", creating more than 70 patterns for dolls and stuffed animals with a country primitive feel.

Many of her designs were licensed through the Butterick Pattern Company, translated into 7 languages and sold around the globe through fabric stores. But quilting has always been Bonnie’s first love. She has been machine quilting since 1989 and professionally long arm quilting for the public since 1995, retiring in 2009 when she no longer had the time due to her teaching, traveling and writing schedule. She has been featured in magazines both for her quilt patterns and articles she has written on scrap management and using that stash to its full potential.

Bonnie received the 2012 “Teacher of the Year” award through a global internet poll hosted via Sew Cal Gal, and was completely flabbergasted, not to mention honored and humbled at the same time.

Dedicated to continuing the traditions of quilting, Bonnie enjoys meeting with quilters, teaching workshops and lecturing to quilt guilds all over the world, challenging quilters to break the rules, think outside the box, and find what brings them joy.

When not traveling and teaching, she spends her time piecing scrap quilts, enjoying the peaceful reward of English paper piecing and hand quilting as much as machine work, and loving life in her wooded surroundings in beautiful rural Wallburg, North Carolina, a suburb of Winston-Salem. She and her husband, Dave are the proud parents of two grown sons, Jason, and Jeffrey. They round out their household with Sadie the dog and two cats –Emmy Lou, who loves life inside only, and Chloe who only loves life on the outside—keeping Bonnie company while she designs, quilts and plays happily with her fabric.

Bonnie also writes a regular column for Quiltmaker Magazine entitled "Addicted to Scraps" with the main intention to help you to put various aspects of your own Scrap Users System to good use!

Bonnie’s favorite motto? “The Best Things in Life are Quilted!!” of course!

Deborah Pastorelle , Lawrenceburg, IN - Absolutely stellar Ireland trip!

Judith Stindt , Knoxville, TN - Fun filled 7 day tour of Dublin and Galway. Enough time to sightsee and shop. Tour guide/bus driver Lee was exceptional and the information he gave us was invaluable. Highly recommend it.

Jana Erickson , Rock Springs, WY - Such a beautiful country, full of welcoming people and amazing accommodations.

Janet North , Seminole, OK - A dream come true experience. New adventures every day. Hands on crafts, breathtaking scenery, local artisans, great food. Our tour guide, Margie, was so nice and friendly, she kept us on track. Dominick, our bus driver, was a drum of knowledge and a master of Irish history. Great trip!

Sally Mack , Guernsey, WY - It was everything I hoped for. Seeing that fantastic countryside -good weather helped- the iconic structures, whether castle or Croft, the craft people were incredible and our bus driver/guide, laAdele, and participants were fun and enjoyable.

Rita Fanning , Olympia, WA - I enjoyed the tour, the beautiful countryside, and amazing castles.

Deborah Calyo , Spring Valley, NY - It was a beautiful experience! Ireland is gorgeous and our escort kept everything organized.

Susan Beard , Casa Grande, AZ - It was interesting! We got to see lots of Irish countryside, from coastal to mountainous, to city.

Janice Marquardt , Van Meter, IA - Ireland was beautiful and our tour manager was absolutely excellent! She approached everything with grace and patience and good humor.

Joanne Rinaldi , Toms River, NJ - Our Craftours Ireland Experience was the BEST vacation I've ever had. The tour itself was absolutely amazing - we stayed in such beautiful areas of Ireland, and the people were all so nice. Our tour guide, Agnes Warren, was the perfect guide, with a great sense of humor, as was our Craftours driver, Dominick. We learned so much from Agnes and Dominick about the areas we visited and the history of Ireland. I would highly recommend a Craftours experience to everyone - very professional guide and driver, the hotels we stayed at were beautiful, and the places we visited were beautiful!

Rita D'Alonzo , Port Washington, NY - I enjoyed the tour immensely. Anges was great and Dominick, our bus driver, gave us the history of Ireland from the beginning to present time. Plus, he is a fantastic driver on the two lane country roads.

Tammy Price , Meadville, PA - Ireland was fabulously beautiful! Our tour guide and bus driver were delightful!

Margaret Lee , La Crosse, WI - Ireland has always been on my bucket list and this tour gave me a chance to experience Ireland and let someone else do the planning. We were in excellent hands with Agnes as our guide. Dominic was superb as the coach driver and was very engaging in his commentary.

Darlene Bloss , Toms River, NJ - I had the time of my life! All the accommodations were great and everyone was very friendly and helpful. We visited so many interesting sights and there were stories to go with each one.

Sheila Frey , Marathon, WI - The tour was a lovely experience to get a mix of gardens, castles and country feel in a week. More than an appetizer tour, but less intensive than a study.

Mary Jo Crawford , Milwaukee, WI - Tour was wonderful. Thirty very nice people and we all got along and had a great time.

Melissa Hall , Oxford, MS - Agnes Warren is an extraordinary tour guide. She knows and loves her home country. She's smart, funny, flexible, and innovative. Our driver, Dominick shared his knowledge of Irish history as he drove which enhanced the trip tenfold. Not to mention, he was a fantastic driver of a very large vehicle on very twisty roads. Tamara Kelly is one of the country's foremost experts in crochet and a gifted teacher to boot. This trip succeeded because these three experts gave it their all!

Laura Jack , Louisville, KY - Agnes and Dom were consummate guides teaching us about the history and culture of each city and attraction we visited. As an added bonus, I learned the etymology of several words and phrases that we use in our everyday conversations. The hotels were top-notch and comfortable. I enjoyed walking the beautiful grounds of the hotel during our stay in Galway. The staff at each hotel were polite and friendly. I had a wonderful time with the classes we participated in and enjoyed learning about the history of bobbin lace. The dry felting class was a great way to get out some tiredness by repeatedly stabbing our art piece. Having Tamara show us various techniques was really helpful in making our Irish Adventure Bag. I look forward to completing it and then showing it off. I thoroughly enjoyed our trip to the sheep farm, and admired the skill and discipline of the border collie as he obeyed each command the shepherd spoke. It is amazing how well they can hear. Petting the lambs and watching my friends feed and hold them was a highlight. Visiting the peat bogs was enlightening. I have often heard of the bogs, but had never seen them. The ground was quite squishy. I enjoyed learning about the weaving process and taking whoa from sheep to yarn. The gentleman was very patient and answered all of our questions. Agnes was funny and kept us guessing what would happen next as things inevitably changed. Visiting the yarn shops was awesome. The walk around each of the cities we either stayed in or visited proved charming. Eating the local fare and hearing live music was icing on the cake. Overall, I loved my trip.

Andee Graves , Jamestown, CO - It was such a fun-filled time. So many cool things to see and do. My only complaint was how fast the week went past.

Laurie Manning , Jacksonville, FL - We had a wonderful time in Ireland and enjoyed all the stops on our tour, our tour guide, our driver, our planned activities, and our workshops.

Cheryl Howe , Albany, OH - As my first CrafTour vacation I did not know what to expect. 100% satisfaction is what I found. Their guides were kind, attentive, responsive, and hilarious! Their locations and attractions visited were top notch.

Dana Shaw , Ammon, ID - This was such a great tour. Ireland was just absolutely beautiful in more ways than one. Breathtaking sites and castles and coastline. And the sheep were sooo cute just to add. It was a trip where I did not want to come home from. I could have stayed much longer to see more of the country. This trip left me wanting more!

Victoria Schwab , Hamilton, OH - Oh, wow... Where to begin? The music! The castles! The scones! The pubs! My trip to Ireland with Craftours and Jenny Doan was the stuff of which dreams are made. With the incomparable Jim West as our energetic, entertaining, and attentive travel manager and the unbelievably skilled Lee as our affable, solicitous, and accommodating driver we were in excellent hands from start to finish. The itinerary was planned perfectly and even the couple of small changes that were made went smoothly and without conflict or complaint. Though the Emerald Isle is usually known for rain and cloudy skies, our tour was blessed with the unheard of joy of endless sunshine and clear, blue heavens. Every. Single. Day. Wish I could give Jim the credit for that, buuut... LOL I can't thank Jenny, Craftours, and Kerry Coaches enough for bringing to life a place that has beckoned my heart since I was small. We all formed what I hope are lasting friendships, and now that a little birdie has told me a reunion tour may be in the works in the not too distant future all I can say is "Count me in!"

Jocelyne Bourque , Ottawa Canada - This being my first trip with Craftour and also my first time in Ireland. I enjoyed the trip very much.

Cheryl Prince , Colorado Springs, CO - This was by far the best trip I have ever been on! It was a great group of people, a great guide in Jim West and the best bus driver in Lee! It was a wonderful mix of sight seeing, tours, shopping and free time! Love love loved it! Would do it again!

Judy Read , Vars Canada - I loved Ireland and am very glad I visited. The people were superb, everyone willing to smile and help and be flexible. As quilters usually are.

Mary Sue Erven , Bonita Springs, FL - The Craftours of Ireland was outstanding. The company was very professional and sensitive to the wants of the entire group. I’ve been on many trips and I will definitely use Craftours in the future.

Melinda Wellman , Bradenton, FL - I'm part Irish and visiting Ireland has always been on my bucket list. I loved the castles and countrysides of England and figured Ireland would be beautiful as well. The trip exceeded our expectations.

Allen Lee , Monroe, NC - Excellent tour, excellent guide and bus driver, good hotel in Galway(great hotels in Killarney and Dublin), great food. All in all, a very good experience.

Peggy Woodhall , Macon, GA - This tour was great! The various gardens were in beautiful condition and the castles were fascinating! Our tour guide and bus driver were very knowledgeable and added tremendously to the experience!

Rhonda Denney , Emporia, KS - Another winner! I loved all the sights (and sites) in our adventure! It was sad to see it end!

Julie Bohnsack , Carbondale, IL - I thought it was a lovely trip. We got to see and experience so many things. Our guide and our bus driver were excellent and went out of their way to provide us with the best experience in Ireland.

Deb Kipp , Gillette, WY - This was an absolutely wonderful experience. The sights/activities included were great and I enjoyed them all.

Julie Knebel , Eugene, OR - I fell in love with Northern Ireland! Rolling green fields, sweet lambs, friendly people with a great sense of humor. If I were 60 years younger I’d like to be a Galway Girl!

Nancy Mundschenk , Carbondale, IL - This trip exceeded my expectations from start to finish. The trip was well-planned to include many of the must-sees of Ireland. From the Titanic Museum to the Cliffs of Moher and all the stops on the way to Dublin we heard fascinating details of the history, traditions, culture and yes, the spirit of Ireland! All the details of the trip were well-planned and yet we had time built in to explore on our own or in smaller groups. The optional cooking class with Catherine Fulvio was marvelous. I felt a bit like I was on an episode of The Great British Baking Show. The hotels were beautifully appointed and situated in locations that allowed personal excursions or just a walk in the area. The delicious Irish breakfast was plenty to hold me over for hours. The welcome and farewell dinners were excellent, and the tea was an amazing treat with a selection and quality so impressive I took a pic of the menu to share with family and friends. And what can I say about the pubs---singing, lifting a pint, and sharing with locals was magical. SLAINTE! Our travel manager, Agnes Warren, was outstanding. It will be hard for any subsequent trip I take to equal this one.

Susan Pearlman , Carbondale, IL - This trip provided great value for the cost, with so many outstanding experiences included.

Susan Goldstein , Morristown, NJ - Very good span of worthwhile sights to visit.

Grace Lents , Raleigh, NC - The trip surpassed my expectations.

Ann Hothem , Newcomerstown, OH - Beautiful people and countryside!

Kathy Gillaspie , Murphys, CA - I enjoyed it very much.

Jeff Kreide , Pooler, GA - Our tour to Ireland was fantastic!! We had great weather, a great guide, Jim West, a fantastic driver and a super group of people. The scenery was unbelievable and varied from the north to the south and even east to west. Hotels were great and to my surprise the food was really good, not to mention the beer.

Chris Kreide , Pooler, GA - Our Craftours Ireland Experience was full of laughter and surprises.

Patricia Parr , Buckeye, AZ - What a wonderful week in Ireland! I'm 73, traveled alone but made many, many wonderful friends on my trip. The hotels in Galway and Dublin were first class and I couldn't have felt safer. Our bus driver was top notch and I can't say enough about our wonderful travel manager, Alice. She too care of all of us like we were her children! Resting up now and waiting for my trip to Bali in June. Thank you all for what you do!!

Viki and Linn West , Yachats, OR - Fun tour; though it provided a good variety of sites we visited. Alice was a great "house mother" and Pat shared some good history and stories. The accommodations were nice. All together a worthwhile trip.

Imogene Musso , Thornton, CO - The trip was wonderful.

Janet Parker , Atwater, MN - Friendly people, I felt completely safe.

Kathie Chapman , Sequim, WA - It was a wonderful trip. Even though it rained (reminded me of Seattle), the Irish countryside and people were very welcoming and beautiful.

Tiffin Kreger Bryant , Charlotte, NC - There were some very special moments during our Ireland tour, which were totally enhanced by our enchanting guide, Agnes. We loved the cliffs of Moher, and the Burren, as well as the entire day to Kylemore Abbey-we could've spent the entire day there! And, of course, the weather was INCREDIBLE so that made the experience all the better. The Bunratty Castle dinner was REALLY fun, all that went really enjoyed the food and the experience! Also-I can not recommend Catherine Fulvio's cooking school enough! I absolutely loved spending time with her! Making Irish scones and then having tea in her family's farmhouse-it was all magical! We loved the Wicklow area! Also, the Avoca tour was unique and endearing for a number of reasons-Jim the guide was so fun, passionate about the history and work-it is their 300 year celebration, so seeing that work come to fruition AND having an extraordinary moment with Jim and his truly generous Irish spirit-was just one of many treasured moments! Galway is a vibe-it just is-we enjoyed walking the streets and everything being a "10 minute walk" if you hit water you've gone too far... We loved the tour and especially enjoyed our time with the brilliantly witty Agnes.

Ann Rogers , Plainfield, NH - This trip was amazing. We had traveled with Alice Ridge and Crafttours before so we knew this trip would be great. The castle tours were great. The crafts offered were fun and the scone making class with Catherine Fluvoli was so much fun.

Diane Halinski , Grimsby, Canada - I waited three years for the Ireland tour due to Covid, it was worth the wait. Alice, the tour guide, is the best. The tour went off without a hitch. We saw many beautiful sites, toured castles, cliffs and had several craft experiences. I would highly recommend a trip to Ireland with craft tours anytime.

Megan Esmailka , Galena, AK - Loved the experience and the new friendships I made. I really enjoyed Agnes, she was very knowledgeable and did a great job.

Marchon Miller , Sparks, NV - I enjoyed my trip very much. All the activities were wonderful and our tour director, Agnes, was awesome!

Kerre Cardwell , Macomb, MI - I enjoyed the experience very much. I enjoyed the varied sights we visited and the local shops showing us their craftsmanship. I saw sights I might never have found on my own. We also had plenty of free time.

Harriet Carlo , Galena, AK - This wonderful trip was well planned and provided plenty of excursions and shopping time and even time for exploring on your own. Agnes, the travel manager, helped some of the other travelers book their own side excursions. She is absolutely the best! Our bus driver was engaging and witty. Very helpful with all kinds of information.

Dianna Cacciabaudo , Sparks, NV - The tour I took to Ireland was very organized and I had a great time. Our tour leader, Agnes, was a delightful person who was very knowledgeable about the country, the history and the people of Ireland. The tour sites that were included were awesome!

Teri Madden , Egg Harbor, WI - This craft tour was wonderful, except for the rain. Got washed out a few times but we got to witness Ireland first hand.

Brock Rasmussen , Marshalltown, IA - I thought it was great! I loved the countryside. Not a big fan of the city but the countryside was great.

Kit Turner , Pinole, CA - We absolutely loved touring Ireland with Craftours. So many wonderful memories and experiences! My mother and I traveled together; she has some mobility issues and uses a walker, and I was so pleased to see the care and thoughtfulness with which she was treated. Sometimes traveling with a walker presents real challenges, but our tour guide Agnes and our bus driver Pat went out of their way to make sure she felt included at all times and able to enjoy all stops. That really made a big difference to us. Thank you so much! Beyond the kindness and hospitality we were shown throughout Ireland, we were also delighted by the choice and variety of tour stops we made. We got to experience quite a lot of Ireland's natural beauty in just a week, and created some wonderful crafts that we will treasure!

Lisa Kline , Ormond Beach, FL - Thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Ireland. Hotels and transportation to and from Dublin were excellent .I could have spent more days in and around the Galway area and less time in Dublin. The countryside and people of Ireland were fantastic. I would highly recommend your tour.

Charlotte Shell , Spokane, WA - We had such a wonderful time in Ireland! Our guide, Agnes, and bus driver, Patrick, were phenomenal. Their knowledge of the areas we drove through and visited was wonderful., and their humor was delightful. Since the tour had an underlying craft theme, our group of strangers had a joint appreciation of the needle arts and soon became a family. Thank you Craftours for a brilliant and lovely experience.

Diane Black , Colorado Springs, CO - "I had a wonderful time. There was a nice combination of city and rural countryside. Holly did a great job as did Shawn, both were delightful to work with. I enjoyed the crafts that we visited and saw. The food was also great. This trip was beyond my expectations."

Becky Yurchiak , Barberton, OH - "Ireland - one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen."

Patricia Mills , Akron, OH - "I enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful countryside of Ireland."

Adriana Dugo , Peyton, CO - "It was a great experience and the places we visited were great. The views of the land and the explanations of the tour guide and the local driver, very accurate and the driving was excellent!"

Sheri Knox , San Diego, CA - "This was a fantastic tour! We covered so much ground and loved Ireland so much. We circumnavigated the entire island experiencing so many different cities and towns and breathtaking landscapes. I was thrilled that the tour included Belfast – in past years, I never thought I would be able to travel there in my lifetime. I loved that so many of the places we visited were on the water. The tours offered enhanced the experience, and we had some time when we could schedule something additional, like a Black Taxi tour in Belfast (a must!), and a horse-drawn buggy ride and Whiskey tasting in Killarney. The people are delightful and charming, the food and drink (love that Irish Whiskey!) delicious and the shopping is endless and varied. I would encourage anyone to do this wonderful 14-day tour!"

Joan Ternovan , Akron, OH - "A great opportunity to see the majority of the country."

Sue McCullion , Philadelphia, PA - "The Ireland Experience has peaked my interest in returning to Ireland in the near future. Since we literally circled the entire Ireland, I found the topography so beautiful and so distinct. A highlight of the tour was that we made a stop in Donegal and on the way we passed right through the town where my father was born ... Ballybofey!"

Gail Warnes , Ashland, OH - "I loved traveling around Ireland and seeing the natural wonders like The Giant’s Causeway and The Cliffs of Moher as well as the charming villages and the beautiful countryside. The dry stone walls in the north and east and the hedgerows in the south made the farmland memorable. The castles/palaces and cathedrals were beautiful. The crystal carving was amazing, and our cookery class making scones was really fun."

Melody Cox , Raytown, MO - "Gorgeous country filled with friendly people!"

Hilory Boucher , Northport, NY - "This was my third trip to Ireland. The tour was very well thought out. Hotels were very accommodating. Our tour director and bus driver were very knowledgeable and caring. The days were very full of activity and wonderful side tours. I loved it!"

Joyce Outten , North Pole, AK - "Beautiful country and wonderful, kind and interesting people."

Ann McConkey , Topeka, KS - "Great trip. Got to see more of Ireland than I could ever imagined."

Lorraine Shonio , Terryville, CT - "Fully enjoyed the trip. Alice Ridge was a wonderful addition to the trip. She kept us all together and on time. Not an easy job to do. The places we visited gave a real picture of the country and the drivers had an excellent knowledge of the history of Ireland. Informative and enjoyable trip."

Evelyn Mayes , Campton, NH - "Everything was spectacular!"

Edith Mahoney , Bradenton, FL - "Our trip to Ireland was magical. It was very well organized. Our tour guide Alice was fun and caring and so very knowledgeable. Our bus driver was really great. He kept us all entertained the whole time."

Lynette Holm , Hammond, IN - "The tour was wonderful. I was very glad that I went. I was able to see so many beautiful places."

Doretta Herr , Bloomington, IL - "Great people and great value."

Cathy Howell , Eaton Rapids, MI - "Excellent trip! We were kept busy seeing a beautiful country and had the right amount of personal time to venture on our own."

Suzy Hutton , Seal Beach, CA - "This was my first trip to Ireland, and I thoroughly enjoyed being introduced to Ireland in this enchanting way."

Terri Andrino Korte , Willits, CA - "This was an amazing trip! My second Craft Tour trip. Great price, very organized, and good accommodation. I found it relaxed enough to allow free time for our group of 25 in Bus #1. Our tour guide Agnes (genuine Irish gal) was perfect in making sure things went as planned... we also got an extra guide with Hika who was helping out. The group crafts were a lot of fun. Also, shopping at stores and having tours of the local Irish factories was a delight. Our bus driver Brendon was such a good driver, and helpful. I enjoyed talking to people in my group, and came away inspired by a few who were 70-80’s and had amazing courage and spirit to travel so far from home. To top it off... the weather was beautiful! a win win.."

Cindy Miller , Athens, AL - "This was my first tour and I couldn’t have been more impressed. Everyone was so nice and welcoming. The tour was well balanced with activities and free time and the tour group leader and driver were well informed and very approachable. It was like being on tour with your friends. I’m already planning another trip back to Ireland. I just fell in love with the people and the place."

Alice Rigg , Oceanside, CA - "It was a nice trip to the central coast section of western Ireland."

Frances Cummings , Pomona, CA - "Wonderful sights it was all very interesting."

Marquita Pierce , Simi Valley, CA - "I thoroughly enjoyed my tour."

Susan Pearson , Claremont, CA - "Great tour overall."

Dick Fermanian , Kansas City, MO - "This was our first tour and it was a good one. Nice way to get a taste of Ireland."

Linda Pringle , Grand Junction, CO - "Great trip. I appreciated the small group size."

Elaine Barrett , Bangor, NSW Australia - "Interesting tour as there is something for everyone due to the combination of gardens and castles."

Julia McGrath , Van Wert, OH - "Loved this tour. Most everything was wonderful and thought out for our benefit. Beautiful country- side. Nice hotels. Fun people. Great guides."

Janet Glaholt , West Sacramento, CA - "What a great way to see parts of a beautiful country. It was amazing to see actual castles and the gardens were stunning."

Nancy Laswick , Phoenix, AZ - "Had a great time in Ireland. Our tour leader Holly, was awesome."

Judy Gottsch , Eloy, AZ - "Ireland was so beautiful and the tours there were exceptional."

Rebecca Frederick , Greenwell Springs, LA - "Wonderful trip. Beautiful country and people."

Sandra Yeager , Peyton, CO - "The tour was exactly what was published and it was a fantastic trip. The tour guide was fantastic and was very knowledgeable and fun."

Lyn C. Ahboltin , Meadow Vista, CA - "Ireland is a beautiful country and I thoroughly enjoyed the many tours all around to see the 'green' of it all."

Barbara Clark , Lexington, KY - "This was a wonderful experience. Our guide, Holly, was excellent. She was very attentive to our needs and always available. Our driver, Brenden, managed to negotiate very narrow streets and windy roads with ease. Spending time in the city of Galway and the daily side trips truly gave a taste of Ireland. I loved every minute of this adventure."

Patty Tufts , Mariposa, CA - "A wonderful introduction to What Ireland has to offer."

Cheryl Dolence , Salem, OH - "The tour was far beyond expectations."

Cathy Climpson , Sharon, Ontario - "Great time and wonderful scenery. A countryside of old-time charm."

Nancy Davenport , Gig Harbor, WA - "Great Tour. Learned lots about Ireland and was amazed at how beautiful it was! Truly the Emerald Aisle. New Friends."

Joan Hobbs , El Segundo, CA - "I had a great time, met a lot of people that I hope to take another tour with, learned new crafts, and saw many glorious sites."

Ann Shibut , Richmond, VA - "I enjoyed the tour... the hotels were excellent, and the variety of events was very good as well... nice mix of travel and workshops and free time."

Carolyn Waller , Midlothian, VA - "I’ve traveled and lived overseas, but always with family or a partner, and never with a tour. I was a bit nervous about being a single traveler and letting them arrange a roommate, but honestly, this was the best trip ever! Even before leaving JFK, I connected with fellow travelers, including my tour escort, Holly. I was immediately put at ease. From that moment onward, the name of the game was FUN! I never felt a moment’s nervousness or awkwardness. My fellow travelers were fun, inclusive, and interesting. I no longer feel a need to hit "pause" on my bucket list ventures, waiting for a travel partner, as I can travel "alone" and know with Craftours, I’ll never be lonely! I’ve already booked Tuscany and am planning on Kenya after that! I’m loving living life out loud with Craftours!"

Kelly Anne Erben , Eureka, CA - "The 2018 Craft Tour to Ireland exceeded my expectations. Besides the beautiful scenery and the great food, I was truly impressed with the camaraderie developed in meeting crafters of like mind from all over the United States. If you did this trip on your own, you would miss this sense of belonging."

Kim Stirrett , Leander, TX - "Ireland was very interesting and not at all what I expected. Very wild country with beautiful coastal areas. People were very friendly and informative. I appreciated the history and age of the country. As our driver said, you can’t get lost in Ireland for long.... it is an Island! You can only go so far."

Candy Snipes , Mobile, AL - "We loved every minute of our tour of Ireland and plan to go on another Craftours trip!"

Jennifer Williams , Crittenden, KY - "Overall, I highly recommend a Craftour! It had a good balance of hands-on and observation, free time and set tour time, early and late. I haven’t traveled outside of Canada/Mexico before, so this tour felt very safe and had enough structure to make me feel like I wasn’t alone. The instructors for the craft projects were extremely high quality and each lesson FAR exceeded my expectations, creating a meaningful memory of my trip to Ireland."

Suzanne Doonan , Malvern, PA - "Ireland is pure magic. Spectacular scenery that never stops coming at every bend of the road. Quaint villages, exceptionally friendly people and exceptional crafts were everywhere."

Amy Armenta , Aurora, CO - "What an awesome fun and funny time we had in Ireland. Agnes and Pat were a wealth of information escorting us through Ireland, their home."

Janet Bigelow , Tacoma, WA - "Great guide/driver and Agnes wonderful. The country and the scenery spectacular. People friendly and helpful. Large group,but well organized."

Clyde Gabriel , Urbana, IL - "Ireland was beautiful. Our host Agnes was the best guide we ever could have had."

JoEllen Freida , Sunbury, PA - "Very enjoyable--- I had free time to shop or explore and interesting crafts to make! Could not ask for a better vacation!"

Donna Hale , Boise, ID - "This was a great tour of the highlights of Ireland. I enjoyed learning about the different crafts, beliefs and superstitions of the Irish people. There was just the right mix of scheduled events and free time. I would go again tomorrow if I could."

Mae B Kramer , Hemet, CA - "The tour was fantastic. It would have been nice to have more time to explore the small villages, and especially Adare. There were a few areas that could use tweaking, but overall it was a wonderful experience."

Jennifer , - "I thoroughly enjoyed this trip; it provided the perfect introduction to Ireland and its history."

Cathy Pharr , Hedgesville, WV - "What a great trip! The classes were fun, well taught and inspiring.Our lodging and meals were top notch. Alice,our escort, and Mike, our tour bus driver, were great and added to the fun. Ireland was stunningly beautiful and it’s people were very friendly. I’m hoping to return there with my daughters for another visit!"

Annie Lancaster , Katy, TX - "The tour took us through so much of Ireland that I don’t feel as though I missed anything. The tour bus driver was so knowledgeable about the history, agriculture and towns which really enriched the experience."

Sheila Goldsberry , Oceanside, CA - "I fell in love with Ireland all over again, the people were so friendly. The places that we visited, the artisans that shared their knowledge and passions with us were incredible. Our bus driver and tour guide combo were amazing! Michael and Alice, were incredibly helpful, friendly and full of knowledge. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Jim West and Craftours are the best! I can’t wait for my next adventure!"

Susan Morance , Chapel Hill, NC - "I enjoyed the Photography Expedition in Ireland very much. I learned a lot from the escort. The itinerary was excellent as were our hotels. Our driver Pat added a great deal to the enjoyment of the trip with all the commentary he provided about Ireland as well as his excellent sense of humor. Overall I found the trip extremely enjoyable."

Jill Gohr , Virginia Beach, VA - "Although I am not a quilter, the 2 friends that invited me, are quilters and have had several classes. I immediately felt comfortable and welcomed. It was the country I was interested in and I was not disappointed! Our tour guide Pat, was 1 in a million and his knowledge base was detailed and endless, as was his sense of humor! I would travel anywhere with him as a guide. I would go again in a heartbeat! Further, I would recommend this expedition to anyone interested in seeing and learning about Ireland. The trip and accommodation were first class from start to finish. Nothing was left to chance.I rarely had to deal with the beast (my huge suitcase) and even then, it was only to put it in outside my door, to be handled by leprechauns! I could add so much more, but hopefully my point is made ~ the trip and everyone that made it happen, was fabulous!"

Diane and Ronnie Herrington , Dripping Springs, TX - "Such an incredible trip with my brother and sister in law and all the new friends we made along the way."

Mary Rogers , Edina, MN - "The places we visited were lovely, and the hotels were very good."

Larry and Frances Lynch , Waco, TX - "Well organized and the tours were great and informative. We met so many nice people on the tour and in Ireland."

Janet Cox , Yuma, AZ - "This was a Once in a Lifetime-Bucket List Filled-Adventure around every Corner- trip for me. So very blessed for this experience and so grateful for the memories along my journey."

Leslie Kemper , Deer Park, WA - "This was my husband and I first trip to Europe. We enjoyed every part of the trip. The guide, Agnes and bus driver, Pat were well informed of the history of Ireland. The tours of each stop we made; the castles, wool mills, and evening excursions were wonderful. The hotel accommodation were excellent."

Penny Harvey , Rock Springs, WY - "This trip was amazing. I was so pleased at all we were able to see and the way everything came together. The hotels we stayed at were beautiful and the people we dealt with were very pleasant and helpful. We saw so much! It was a wonderful trip that I feel very lucky to have been a part of."

Christyne Mills , Rancho Cordova, CA - "It was the experience of a lifetime. I don’t think this could ever be duplicated due to the combination of people involved. Our guide, Holly & driver, Pat, were so great. They even went out of their way to get us tickets to the Celtic Steps show which was amazing."

Diana Sillence , Lutz, FL - "The trip was more than I could have hoped for and was jamb packed full of sight-seeing, shopping, experiencing the culture through music and knowing Ireland’s history. Patrick was awesome in telling the history with his side jokes! The first reason I signed up was for the craft project but thread so much more!! Yes, I loved it and would love to return someday!!"

Sherry Kesselman , Albuquerque, NM - "This was my first trip over the Atlantic and because of having such a wonderful experience, will not be my last. I enjoyed everything from the group I was with to the food, sights, quilting class, shopping and informative and personal tour guide (Holly) and driver (Patrick). Both Holly and Patrick went way and beyond in making this trip truly an exceptional experience."

Ruth Robertson , Denver, CO - "Great tour!! So much to see & do - plus some tips on quilting."

Primrose Lowry , Lakefield, Ontario - "Loved Ireland it was as beautiful as they say, the size of the trip was nice number as we all got to know one another."

Carol Welsheimer , Galena, OH - "I had a wonderful time on this tour. I felt we got to see a lot considering we were only there for a week. It was all very well planned and organized. Our leader was very helpful and the participants were all so nice."

Mary Longie , Elgin, TX - "Ireland was amazing, people are fantastic, the food was awesome and the sites spectacular."

Nancy Mayak , Fremont, OH - "This was my first time touring Ireland and my first time with Craftours. I enjoyed the trip immensely. Ireland is as beautiful as I had heard. The people were friendly."

Susan Eldridge , Port Charlotte, FL - "Our tour director, Agnes, and bus driver, Patrick, were delightful. They were knowledgeable, friendly, and informative in an entertaining way. The hotels we stayed in were excellent - with all modern conveniences - and located in walkable areas. If asked to name my favorite site, I could not do it. Each one had its own unique way of giving me a little taste of Ireland’s cultures, history, and beauty. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone."

Cheyenne Moondancer , Longmont, CO - "We were treated FIRST RATE for the entire trip: the best hotels, the greatest food, the best tour guide, motor coach and driver-every day brought so many new and amazing opportunities to explore the culture of the land and to sample local heritage from every class and outing."

Maydean Tilton , Cibolo, TX - "I have to admit I was apprehensive about a tour as I have always traveled independently but my fears were unfounded. We had a wonderful experience and saw the beautiful Irish countryside. Our group was a great group of talented ladies. Our bus driver, Pat Moynihan and our tour guide, Agnes Warren were beyond incredible. I cannot say enough good things about the two of them."

Liz Van Keuren , Copperas Cove, TX - "The tour was so much more than I was expecting. Our guide/bus driver and escort were great. We had some weather and construction issues and they were able to rearrange or offer alternatives. The hotels were really nice and the Irish breakfasts were wonderful!"

Besime Brierton , Burke, VA - "Lovely trip. Ireland is a beautiful country, but Craftours escort and the bus driver/guide really made the trip special. Even though the weather didn't cooperate, they made sure we saw plenty and had a great experience."

Holly Brown , Ave Maria, FL - "The treasures of Ireland tour was amazing. My soul was invigorated. I have never seen so many different shades of green. I loved all the history and folklore. Craftours escort and the bus driver/guide were a fantastic team. They are both a wealth of knowledge. My sister and I are already planning another trip."

Joni Ostroff , Orlando, FL - "Thoroughly enjoyed Ireland."

Kris Conant , Westbrook, Maine - "A very unique travel experience."

Kathy Heydorn , Willoughby, Ohio - "Fabulous trip! We saw so many areas of Ireland, not just the standard tourist areas. The crafts were excellent."

Lorraine Brown , Plainwell, Michigan - "This was a great trip! Especially the sheep farm, what a visit! The crystal visit was enlightening, spent too much!"

Marlys Wiens , Edina, Minnesota - "The people of Ireland taught/confirmed the importance of taking care of the earth. There is history back to BC to the present (environmental issues (making ethanol on their farms to turning off your lights every time you leave your room) and all the sheep and Holstein cows as we drove through the countryside in the many shades of green pastures and trees. All surrounded with blue water of the Atlantic Ocean."

Phyllis Schicker , Johnson Creek, Wisconsin - "A very enjoyable and relaxing trip. Loved the crochet projects and slow pace of the trip. Our tour escort and driver were super."

Lisa Schicker , Johnson Creek, Wisconsin - "I really enjoyed this trip. I felt that the trip included just the right combination of workshops and site seeing. I loved how relaxed this trip was and how friendly everyone was. I felt that Jennifer was a great instructor and this trip really inspired my creative side."

Grace Weiss , Glendale, New York - "The Emerald Isle Tour was the best trip I've ever taken."

Peggy Mott , San Antonio, Texas - "An informative, and entertaining tour. Our tour guide and the bus driver went over and above to see that we were entertained and well cared for. Jennifer Ryan, the instructor was well organized with her course materials and went out of her way to not only explain the technique but to make adjustments and adaptations for those of us who had vision, hearing and other physical problems."

Danny Olivia , Port St. Lucie, Florida - "too short, fun, new family"

Carrie Pearsall , Seattle, Washington - "It was terrific. I had a great time. All the visits & activities were a lot of fun. The time went so fast."

Mary Travillian , Marshalltown, Iowa - "A beautiful and well-organized trip with a great exploration of the flora and geographically beautiful sites; PLUS the fun crochet projects"

Karen Anderson , Sandpoint, Idaho - "It was so much fun. A good balance of crochet and sightseeing."

Shereen Prochnow , - "This was an amazing trip! I love history, so it was great to be able to visit a lot of the castles and cathedrals that are several hundred years old. The hands on scone making was also a highlight."

Terri Englehaupt , Rochester, Minnesota - "It was a wonderful time. Enjoyed the crochet portion, but going to Ireland was such a thrill for me. I'm digging up all of the genealogy I have & will continue working on it, now that I have visited where my family once lived!"

Jean Mejerle , Woodruff, Wisconsin - "The tour was grand! We covered a lot of territory in the time available! Craftours escort, the tour guide, and Brendan, the bus driver, couldn't have been nicer. I'll certainly look at more Craftours!"

Meg Brotnov , Bellingham, Washington - "Ireland is a beautiful land of endless history. Craftours allowed us to visit as many places as possible in a short amount of time. The hotels were excellent and dinners superb! Our guide, Agnus was lovely and kept us organized and the bus driver/guide was very informative about the area. There was so much to see and so much history to absorb that I often didn't catch it all."

Rita Walter , Cresbard, South Dakota - "It was a trip of a lifetime."

Pauline Fitzgerald , Medicine Hat, Alberta - "Had never been part of a group trip before. I found the arrangements very satisfactory. My booking person was very helpful with flights, etc."

Diane Graham , Sioux Falls, South Dakota - "This trip was a dream come true!"

Diana Bane , Buda, Texas - "I loved this tour! It was everything I hoped for and then some."

Brenda Swanson , Stony Mountain, Manitoba - "Awesome. Worth every penny"

Jill Lombard , Carlsbad, CA - """I was on the Ireland tour in Summer of 2013 with Bonnie Hunter. I can’t say enough about the wonderful experience I had. Examples include having Craftours arrange a roommate for me (a dear lady from Canada), arranging my air reservations, seating me next to ""new"" friends, being met at the airport by the most charming coach drivers, arranging truly ""first class"" accommodation in every town, offering wonderful sightseeing opportunities and historical information. As with any major undertaking such as planning and executing a trip of this magnitude ""hiccups"" do happen. I was so impressed with the staff of Craftours. When problems arose there was always one and often more to the ""rescue"" to make things right. I have recommended Craftours to all my quild friends and would love the opportunity to take more (and more) trips!"""

Barbara Stanbro , Hillsboro, OR - "I attended the International Quilt Festival of Ireland in 2012, and I had a fabulous time. The hotels were lovely, the destinations interesting, and our tour guide/bus driver couldn’t have been more charming or knowledgeable. It was a wonderful trip and I have many good memories."

Dr. Jo Barnes , Hamilton, New Zealand - "This was my very first organized tour and I was a little apprehensive about spending 15 days with people I did not know with a tour company I had found by accident on the internet. BUT my friend Bev and I had an amazing time we had fun, we saw lots of new and exciting places, we visited some quilting stores and met some really nice people. The hotel accommodation were excellent, the bus was comfortable, and the meals were varied and of good quality. I would recommend Craftours tours every time and I am looking forward to the South American Expedition in 2015."

Nancy and Ken Burkhalter , Chelsea, MI - "My hubby and I had an absolutely wonderful trip sponsored by Craftours to tour Ireland and the 1st International Quilt Festival in Galway in 2012. It was a small group, and we really loved that tour. We are still in touch with many of the others who were on our tour. Very well organized! Great places to see, great places to stay, great quilt festival - wonderful time. It was our 50th wedding anniversary trip - so we went on to Paris after to have our final celebration!"

Bonnie Bloom , Duncansville, PA - "I was on one of your trips to Ireland with my sister. I was amazed at the care that was taken to make our trip flawless. Everything was seen to and everyone was so friendly it was a memory I will treasure forever."

Mr. & Mrs. Jon Schroder , Sweet Home, OR - "My husband and I truly had a trip of a lifetime visiting Ireland. We also received souvenirs that to this day remind me of the fun we had and the nice people we met including a few notables! Since our trip, every Christmas I hang ornaments on our tree that were swapped with fellow travelers... wool boots from Russia, a star from France and an Angel from New Zealand to name a few. The venues, traveling (great bus driver!), food, accommodation, all of it couldn’t be better. After arriving home, my husband and I agreed that we could not have planned it better than Craftours."

Trena Stephens , Missouri City, TX - """What a great trip to the IQFOI in June of 2012! Our coach driver/tour guide was fun & entertaining. The accommodation were luxurious & comfortable. The food was fabulous. The countryside was picturesque & breathtaking. The quilts were beautiful & inspirational. Thanks for a wonderful time."""

Karen and Mike Holt , Grand Junction, CO - "My husband and I went on a Craftours Tour to Ireland for the International Quilt Festival in 2012 and LOVED it. We both had so much fun. The hotels we stayed in were marvelous, our bus driver and tour guide took such good care of us, Ireland is amazing, beautiful, and fun and the people are wonderful. There were plenty of events for my husband to sign up and do while I was at the quilt show so he was happy and having fun too. The quilt show was great fun and I took a wonderful class there from a native Irish woman, using all Irish wools. We had the time of our lives and would love to go again - SOON! Thank you Craftours!"

Mary Mulcahey , Lake Forest, GA - "The Ireland tour was absolutely wonderful. I would sign up again in a heartbeat."

Judi Walsh , Sault Sainte Marie, MI - "I absolutely loved Ireland and would consider taking another tour."

Mary Kent Davidson , Cochran, GA - "The trip to Ireland was even better than my expectations! We were matched with a wonderful driver/tour guide, Derrick, who added so much to what was already there. Wish it had not ended!"

Mary Lavold , Pensacola, FL - "I was very impressed that everything ran smoothly"

Caren Duggan , Susanville, CA - "Our trip to Ireland was WONDERFUL! Enjoyed the many beautiful sights. We had excellent accommodation. Our driver, Derek Ryan, was a wealth of history and local information. I hope to go to Ireland again, as soon as possible."

Louise Caron , Valleyview, Alberta - "Fantastic! A week is a bit short, 10-14 days would be ideal!"

Shannon Reed-Michon , Sunset House, Alberta - "Very magical tour. Great overview of what Ireland had to offer."

Kathy Dunn , Red Deer County, Alberta - "This is a wonderful overview of the Republic of Ireland. All of the highlights this country has to offer have been showcased in this lovely 10 day trip!"

Bonnie Trottier , Valleyview, Alberta - "My first time ever abroad was a wonderful experience. Someone asked what my favorite part of the trip was and I must say the people. It’s all about those connections with people. The Irish and their country are truly wonderful."

Helga Brown , Lake Havasu City, AZ - "This was a wonderful tour, scenic, informative and wonderful accommodation."

LINDA EVANS , Farmington Hills, MI - "The trip to Ireland was wonderful! It was well planned and executed. I would encourage all my friends and family to take this trip."

Ami Peterson , Albuquerque, NM - "This was a wonderful way to whet your appetite about Ireland and traveling on bus tours in general."

Rebecca Gallen , Northway, AK - "I thoroughly enjoyed the planned out trip! Ireland was not my first choice of a country to visit, but I enjoyed the whole tour."

Joan Durbin , - "Our trip to Ireland in 2012 was everything a dream trip should be. Excellent accommodation, great tour bus and driver, well planned. Itinerary and options for "side trips". I am anxious for another trip."

Cindy Turner , Bedford, IN - "The tour was wonderful. Saw many amazing things. The escorts were so much fun"

Karen Moorhead , Tarpon Springs, FL - "The tour was delightful. The accommodation, food, tour guide, selection of places to see, were all excellent!"

Nancy Joyce Dronek , Coarsegold, CA - "Fabulous trip with wonderful stops and activities!"

Donna Leichtenberg , Iroquois, SD - "Ireland was everything I expected and more!"

Jan Bechle , Albany,Oregon - "In April of 2010, I traveled to Ireland with Craftours. I was with three friends, two of us were celebrating our retirement. The night we flew to Ireland was the same night the volcano blew in Iceland stopping all air traffic in Europe and across the Atlantic for a week. Craftours planned ahead, making arrangements for us to stay on in Dublin if we needed to at a very reasonable rate. The flying ban was lifted the day we were to leave and we were delighted to be able to leave on time. The entire trip was very well organized. We had a delightful bus driver, interesting tours and the time to do some wandering on our own. The four of us had a wonderful time and made new friends. I wouldn’t hesitate to travel with them again."

Suzanne Novoselac , Coulterville, IL - "My daughter and I went on the trip to Ireland in 2008, and we had a completely wonderful time! My daughter does not sew or quilt, but she does do other forms of needlework, and she enjoyed herself very much. I’m a knitter and crocheter, and I enjoyed the trips to the woolen mill at Blarney and the weaving at Acoa (sp) near Dublin. Our tour host was excellent, we loved our bus driver, and both of us want to buy a place at the Dingle Peninsula! All in all, it was a never-to-be forgotten experience, and we are both just dying to go to Ireland again!"

Cindy Frederick , Cheyenne, WY - Every part of the trip was well organized and every stop was worth seeing.

Strawser Lucie , Oakland Park, FL - Our tour guide Holly was really great. She kept us on track the whole time.

Rick Sullivan , Erie, PA - Very nice trip and Holly and Pat did a great job. A little more time at the different sites would be nice.

Jackie Quatse , Neptune, NJ - I thoroughly enjoyed my craft Ireland tour. Agnes our guide and Dominick our driver were exceptional, Their knowledge and caring went over and above my expectations.

Cindy Collins , St. Louis, MO - Our guide was courteous and able to turn any bump into a pleasant experience.

Deidra , Red Lion, PA - The Creative Crochet Experience was my first tour with Craftours, and to be honest, I was having doubts the few weeks leading up to the tour. Once the tour started, it was amazing! We had the perfect size group, and everyone got along so well. The planned stops and activities were great. I enjoyed the free time we had in the evening, and getting to know each other better. Overall it was a fantastic trip and experience, and I would do it again.

Cynthia Mathieu , Santa Paula, Ca - The tour stops and sights were great. The hotels are very nice, comfortable and the staff friendly and helpful. The tour guide, Agnes Warren, was terrific. Informative, easy to work with, fun, knowledgeable and creative. The bus driver, Dominick, I think, was also very knowledgeable and informative about the places we drove through, places we visited and historical/social perspective.

Hannah , Tinker Air Force Base, OK - It was amazing! The group, Jim, even the bus driver Lee! We got to see everything I was looking forward to and more. I would go a hundred times over if I could. Amazing!!

Lisa Pinguelo , Granbury, TX - Well thought out and professional tour. However, it went way beyond this! Laughter and fun were the forerunner of every event, every site and experience. Jim West along with our driver met every expectation and went way above with their “we can do” attitude. This trip couldn’t have been better!

Deb Redman , Newfield, NY - It was fun. Jenny and her family were so down to earth and friendly. All of the people on the trip bonded over similar interest quilting.

Dawn Doran , Blanchardville, WI - What a great trip. You did a wonderful job substituting events for those that were no longer available. Agnes is a top notch tour guide! I highly recommend this tour!

Gretchen Adams , Afton, NY - A fabulous experience guided by a knowledgeable local guide and driver. It exceeded my expectations.

Barbara Mau , Carbondale, IL - I found the tour to be well-organized with details well taken care of from the time of booking the tour through the actual experience.

Janelle Harris , Burson, CA - I really enjoyed all the experiences. Our tour guide and bus driver were great.

Joan McKenna , El Cajon, CA - The tour was fantastic. Jim West was our tour guide. Our coach drivers were wonderful and full of fun tidbits about each place we visited. I am planning on going on another tour to Japan, in 2025.

Karen Tholen , Roseland Prk, KS - This was my husband & my first Craftours trip & we enjoyed it so much! Everything was so well organized, our host, Agnes, was knowledgeable, fun & really cared about our small group of 7. Our bus driver, Pat, was an excellent tour guide too, as we drove all over the east & west coasts of Ireland. The hotels were 1st rate. I don’t know why more men don’t take these trips. We certainly will again!

Barbara Kacer , Bowling Green, KY - This was a great trip. Our itinerary was well-planned and there was a good balance between planned events and free time.

Jean Payne , Hyannis, MA - "From the office staff at Craftours to our guide and driver....all were exceptional."

Joyce Raiskio , Yarmouth Port, MA - "A truly wonderful trip!! Agnes and Pat were so amazing."

Penny Terrell , Abilene, TX - "This was our first craft tour and we loved it. The size of the group and the staff were perfect.we also enjoyed the variety offered."

Phyllis Smith , Lansing, IL - "The tour and the tour guide Alice, including the bus driver Donal were exceptional. The Hotels were very comfortable."

Bernice Sanders , Ashlan, NH - "I had a wonderful trip! I would love to go on another bus trip with craft tours. Alice was wonderful! She was helpful in making our trip run smoothly. She was always upbeat and friendly to everyone. Alice is a perfect leader. Our bus drivers were great. Very knowledgeable and helpful. We saw a great deal of Ireland in a short time.

Laura Covillon , Brooksville, FL - "This was my first time traveling alone and I had the most wonderful time. The tour leader, Alice, was organized and dealt with every situation in a calm and confident manner. She made sure that we all had a good experience. The trip was a balance of group outings and personal time. I cannot wait to be able to take another trip."

Don Myers , Bloomington, IL - "Very well organized; printed materials get an A for presentation; Holly Gaines Brown was very fun; hotels were first rate."

Catherine Suter , St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada - "I really enjoyed my time there. The Tour guide Agnes was super, engaging, factual, humorous and obviously dedicated. Brendan the bus and tour guide was also very pleasant and knew his route."

Di An Putnam , Winnemucca, NV - "A dream vacation - escorted by guides that provided a fabulous history and culture of Ireland."

Barbara Murphy , Saratoga, NY - "Loved it! Our tour guide Agnes and our bus driver Pat were wonderful and really made the tour fun. Saw many great places, ate good food and drank wonderful whiskey. I would differently recommend using Craft Tours for your next vacation."

Carol Stewart , Slingerlands, NY - "My trip was absolutely amazing. Agnes and Patrick were knowledgeable, humorous, caring and just a delight to be with. I would recommend this company to anybody. Thank you for such a wonderful experience."

Susan Phillips , Linville, VA - "The trip details before the trip were clear and communication with the Craftours staff was quick and satisfactory. The trip was laid-back, but plans ran on time each day. The bus driver Brendan was a definite plus-pleasant and very knowledgeable."

Kathy Nester , Exton, PA - "Excellent and fun trip with Agnes as the guide and Patrick as the driver."

Judy Clark , Port Orchard, WA - "Excellent tour. Loved the itinerary. Would like to see more cultural sites added to tour and less shopping. Tour coordinator and driver/guide were fantastic."

Alicia Liermann , Downington, PA - "This was my first international visit and my first tour group. I was pleased with what we saw and did, and it was so much fun. Agnes and Patrick were simply awesome. I do wish we had one more day in Dublin to be able to do more on our own. Otherwise, every tour and visit were exactly what I expected."

Carolynn Spies , Des Moines, WA - "I thoroughly enjoyed this tour. Ireland is a beautiful country, and the guides, Agnes and Pat, made it come alive."

Irene Dietlin , New Hartford, CT - "The tour was well planned and carried out. Our tour director and driver were excellent and made our trip a pleasure."

Marsha Azorsky , Hailey, ID - "Craftours Ireland was an awesome tour. There was plenty of variety and diversity."

Maureen Lamping , Olympia, WA - "I had such a great trip with Pat the driver and Agnes kept us entertained and informed of our surroundings on the bus stopping numerous times so we could take pictures to remember it all. I loved the classes, especially the journal class."

Lisa Boyette , Las Cruces, NM - "Good value, I would consider taking another trip with them"

Barb Peterson , Bremerton, WA - "I wouldn’t travel any other way, with any other tour group. Jim West puts together the best tours. I was busy as much as I wanted to be. The places we stopped were perfect for my arts and craft tastes. Everyone involved in making our tour great, Jim, our tour guide, the bus driver, and the people we visited, all made the trip fun, comfortable, and adventurous. I’d go again in a heartbeat."

Debbie Beach , Perry, FL - "It was a wonderful full experience. Something schedule everyday, but free time also. Everyone was so nice and always had time for each of us. The guided tours were well planned and fun. The Ring of Kerry was really nice. Dingle in the sunshine was just beautiful."

Donnis Doyle , Austin, TX - "I had a wonderful time on the tour. Our guide, Agnes, was superb as was the bus driver, Pat. Both gave information that was useful and enlightening."

Linda Merhley , Kankakee, IL - "Ireland was wonderful - in spite of the late winter weather. Agnes and Pat gave us lots of information to help us understand what we were seeing and to appreciate a bit of Ireland’s history."

Nancy Martinez , Orlando, FL - "The trip was very well planned. Alice was a fabulous tour guide and Michael our bus driver kept us laughing. The hotels were very accommodating and most of all the price was right."

Susan Ostaseski , Boons Mill, VA - "The trip was fabulous, fun, and so interesting. I’ve never seen a tour so well organized. The crafts were great with gifted instructors."

Kathy Thompson , Virginia Beach, VA - "This trip certainly met all my expectations. It was superbly organized, had great accommodation, and had the most exceptional bus driver ever. Pat was a true gem. The escort’s wonderful personality and photography information and tips made you see more and realize more from the trip. It was a pure pleasure!"

Rose Rodriguez Stevenson , Elpaso, TX - "The tour guide was attentive to our needs, our whereabouts and instruction/guidance in photography. The sessions she provided were enjoyable and informative---excited us to experiment in photography and how it can be utilized in creating textile art."

Julie Wickware , Clinton Twp, MI - "The escort gave excellent photography tips and the bus driver was exceptional with plenty of information and quips."

Kristine Sirmons , West Allis, WI - "I enjoyed the tour. Our bus driver Pat was wonderful and very knowledgeable about everything we were going to see, and had a great sense of humor. The hotels chosen were nice. Jim was fun to work with and worked together well. It would have been nice to have our itinerary before the trip, as I came to the country a couple days beforehand and didn’t know what we were going to see so I wasn’t sure what to plan for myself. But it was fun and I would book the tour again."

Chris Booth , Burlington, ON - "Everything was very well planned but flexibility was also built into the itinerary. Lots of free time to explore in Galway."

Sidney Finneran , Dublin, OH - "This was my first time flying without my husband and my second time flying to Europe. This tour was so well organized. I met fun and pleasant women who were all talented in their own way. I liked the combination of planned time vs. free time. I would recommend this tour to anyone!"

Angela Rowland , Catonsville, MD - "It was a blast. Agnes our your leader thought of everything and it went so smoothly. Pat our driver was a world of knowledge and kept us entertained as we rolled along. Definitely would recommend."

Ellen MacLaughlin , Midland, MI - "Great tour guides, Craftours escort and the bus driver/guide."

Joann Przygocki , Bay City, MI - "I can't begin to say how wonderful this tour was! Craftours escort and the bus driver/guide are such an incredible team! They made the trip worth every dollar!"

Kris Young , Fredricksburg, VA - "This was my first tour - it was amazing. Our bus driver had a wealth of information that just made you want to squeeze his brain so you could get all that information. He was very professional and beyond nice! Craftours escort - she was like family. She ran a tight ship but in such a caring way and was able to get everyone where we needed to be. They both went out of their way to make sure we had a good time. They offered things that were not on the itinerary but on the way. They are both a major asset to Craftours and because of them, I would definitely book a tour with you again."

Diane Felice , St. Augustine, FL - "Since this was my first tour with any company, I am very pleased to have taken with Craftours! Everything was thought out in advance and nothing was left to wonder about. I most certainly will be taking more tours in the future as I can! I have already been searching what is available and when they are so I don't miss out!!"

Cecelia Waye , Avon, IN - "The tour was a trip of a lifetime. I have so many wonderful memories. The itinerary was thoughtfully planned so that we were able to make the most of our time while there. I would highly recommend this trip!!"

Hazel Furst , East Northport, New York - "This was a wonderful tour. It was well planned, and the tour guides altered the agenda as needed and made it even better."

Jessica Mileto , Glendale, New York - "The tour guides were amazing, they were so knowledgeable, friendly, easy-going and it helped that the entire trip was already planned and all I had to do was catch the bus in the morning. Amazing country, amazing people and I am so grateful I chose to come along."

Ellen Gormley , North Bend, Ohio - "Craftours made the trip very easy by handling all the details!"

Darlene Pearsall , Seattle, Washington - "Very well organized. The tour guides (Alice), our driver (Brendan) and instructor (Jennifer Ryan) were all great."

Brenda Pokorny , Stafford Springs, Connecticut - "AWESOME!! Well planned and organized. Everything went like clock work"

Marilee McQuarrie , Wallawalla, Washington - "The tour itself was wonderful. Our guide and bus driver were fantastic people who knew the area and history. We completely enjoyed the trip."

Sharon E. Posey , Everett, Washington - "I had a fabulous trip to Ireland, Craftours escort was an excellent tour guide. The bus driver/guide also was an educated bus driver who informed of the history of Ireland."

Carol Wells , Peabody, Massachusetts - "It was a great trip! I had a great time. Craftours escort was the best tour escort!"

Susan Green , Glen Allen, Virginia - "Great tour guide and driver. Carol Feller was fantastic."

Sarah Ruth Bridges , Moultrie, GA - "Absolutely fantastic! One of the best coach tours that I have been on. Our driver/tour guide was wonderful. I would go again."

Suzanne Leimer , Moultrie, GA - "Wonderful experience. I wanted to stay another week and repeat everything. I would like to return. Craftours is top notch."

Bonnie Kipp , West Palm Beach, FL - "It was a fantastic trip. Very well done! Everyone was so friendly and everything seemed to be very well planned."

Marilyn Kennedy , Englewood, FL - "It was well planned and an exceptional trip."

Marilyn Harding , Greenwood, IN - "The trip was perfectly planned. The escorts were amusing and very congenial. Our driver, DB, was the icing on the cake. DB was funny and very knowledgeable. I spent a lot of the trip laughing. Isn’t fun the objective of a vacation?"

Nancy Lee Joyce , LaLuz, NM - "The tour was terrific! Especially our bus driver/tour guide BD."

Mary Jane Cahill , Havelock, NC - As a person that isn't that knowledgeable about gardening. I found the experience with Melinda Myers and the rest of the tour group very helpful in sharing gardening knowledge and friendship.

Barbara Hess , Coal Center, FL - It was a wonderful experience and let me practice and expand my skills as a crocheted.

Marlin Shaw , Estero, FL - It was a fantastic trip. Being a non quilter / crafter I did not know what to expect exactly. However, it was all wonderful and I loved every minute. I would definitely do it again and recommend it to others.

Dodie Halter , Vincennes, IN - "This tour was awesome! We had many opportunities for "hands-on" crafts; needle felting, Brigit’s cross, cooking and we saw demonstrations of many more."

Diana Dingwall , Campbell River, British Columbia - "Excellent tour, loved the workshops"

Liz Berry , Chesapeake, VA - "I’m not much of a photographer but the escort was able to inspire me. She explained things in a way that made sense and has helped me look at things in a totally different way."

Elaine Shepard , Little Mountain, Queensland - "Most enjoyable tour and crocheting experience."

• Full Package Price: $3,773.00 | Air from New York City
• Land Only Price: $3,153.00 | Land only rate does not include airport/hotel transfers (per person, based on double occupancy)
• Not Included

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Quilter on the Run

Quilter On the Run

Quilting instructor, professional quilter, always on the run.

Author Designer Teacher Kris Vierra

Ireland Adventure

I’ve always been fascinated with stories about Ireland. The beautiful scenery in the Quiet Man, the stories of the little folk, and of course Tristan and Isolde. My maternal grandfather’s family immigrated from there back in the late 1800’s, and it had always been my dream to travel there. When I got the chance to go visit, I jumped at it. That was almost 10 years ago, and I’ve been back twice since. Each time enjoying myself more than the last. The Irish people are wonderful, friendly, and sharing, and the views did not disappoint. You can image my joy when I was asked not only to lead a tour to Ireland, but to help plan it as well.

I spent two weeks fine tuning the itinerary. The difficult part wasn’t what to include, but how to pick what would fit in the time allotted. I wanted to share my love of Ireland with fellow quilter’s and include both your more traditional tourist destinations with ones specifically tailored to a love of quilting and fiber arts. The end result is a 12-day journey that winds through some of Ireland’s most beautiful landscapes. Skilled artisans, including weavers and quilt makers, will share their knowledge as the tour makes stops at wool mills and well-stocked quilt and yarn stores. We’ll also stops at two sheep farms to see the first steps in wool manufacturing—the raw material itself.

We will visit the must sees on our journey: Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin, Blarney Castle in Cork, and the Muckross House and Gardens in Killarney. We’ll even take the ferry over to the Aran Islands. Of course, no visit to Ireland is complete without a visit to the Book of Kells and the Guinness Storehouse. Have a pint in their Pilsner shaped glass lounge overlooking Dublin.

The tour starts in Dublin on Sept. 22. We’ll enjoy a welcome dinner with a chance to meet and make new quilting friends. After exploring Dublin, we’ll make our way across Ireland stopping in Kilkenny, Killarney, and Galway. We’ll pass by the Ring of Kerry, County Wicklow, and the Cliffs of Moher, just to name a few of the beautiful vistas we’ll experience, as we make our way back to Dublin and fly home on the 3 th of Oct.

This is going to be so much fun. I hope you will want to join me on this incredible adventure as we visit new lands, make new friends, and spread the joy of quilting as we go. Click the button below for more information.

2 Responses

My sister and I are seriously interested in this tour. Checking to see if there are still two more seats available.

Thanks Peggy McThompson

There are still a few spots available. Feel free to email me at [email protected] , if you have any questions. I would love for you to join us.

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Rona the Ribbiter

September 12, 2023 · Leave a Comment

What is a Quilt Tour?

Airline Travel · Bucket List Challenge · Iceland · International · Ireland · Planning · Quilt Tours · Quilting · Travel · Travel Tips · United Kingdom · United States

How organized quilting is taking over the globe!

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Have you always had an itch to see the world but don’t want to go alone? Did you know there are several tour groups that do just that and are geared specifically for quilters! Hundreds of Quilt tours are scheduled each year to places like Ireland, England , Japan, Egypt, Iceland and even many quilt destinations here in the US! For an unforgettable quilting adventure of a lifetime, I’d highly recommend giving them a try!

in this article

• What is a Quilt Tour
• Why Take a Quilt Tour
• What to Expect on a Quilt Tour
• How Much does a Quilt Tour Cost?
• What to Pack on a Quilt Tour?
• Want to take a Quilt Tour with me?

A few years ago, Mark Sherman came to speak at our Quilters Guild and brought with him some flyers. He was advertising his first Quilt tour to Ireland . On that trip he would be premiering his amazing Book of Kells quilt at Trinity College in Dublin. Well, on a whim I picked up a flyer and took it home.

The next day I showed the flyer to my husband and, half-jokingly, told him we should go. No way did I expect the next words out of his mouth, “When do you leave?”

Dumbfounded that my husband, Mr. ‘why do we need to spend money on that’ was telling me to actually go to Ireland on a Quilt tour. I quickly hopped on the phone and made my reservation before he decided to rethink his position.

Y’all, that trip changed my life. Seriously. 12 strangers from various parts of the US came together in New York to trek across the Atlantic and explore just a few of the amazing sights and experiences Ireland had to offer. After 9 days, those strangers left life long friends. It was, by far, one of the best trips I’ve ever taken. And, I can’t wait to do it again!

For over 30 years a handful of tour companies have been taking quilters of all ages to various locations to experience quilt shops, retreats, shows and much more. Today, those trips include destinations all around the world including Japan and even Iceland.

Each Quilt tour usually includes entrance fees, travel and hotel accommodations and some meals. Some even include airfare.

Get the FREE Ultimate Quilter’s Bucket List Checklist

Why take a quilt tour.

There are definitely a few pros and cons to going on an organized Quilt tour. The best Pros:

• Everything is done for you. Once you sign up, all that’s required is for you to show up and enjoy. All of your accommodations, travel, ticketing, and itinerary has been scheduled for you.
• New friends! Going in you already know that everyone on your trip is a fellow quilter. That means you already have something in common. By the end of the trip, you’ll all be great friends having experienced a grand adventure.
• Security and peace of mind. There’s safety in numbers. That, coupled with your tour guides and their expertise, you can feel safe and secure to better enjoy your trip.

The only draw back that I can see with organized Quilt tours might be the price. Full 1 – 2 week long Quilt tours can range from $1000 up to $5000 depending on the location. However, most of them do take payments so you can spread it out a bit.

All that said, in my humble opinion, the tours are worth every penny.

Whether your goal is to see the US or to see the world, there is a Quilt tour adventure out there just waiting for you. From workshops to tours, museums to the wild outdoors, it’s sure to be the quilt adventure of a lifetime!

What is on your Quilt Travel Bucket list ? Let me know in the comments!

WHAT TO EXPECT ON A QUILT TOUR

Each quilt tour is unique. They vary in size and destination. Some schedule all your meal locations. Others only schedule a few. Some include full quilt workshops and others do not. Some will take you to various quilt shops, while others don’t include a stop at a single one. However, the biggest thing you can expect on every quilt tour is to be traveling with an entire group of fellow quilters.

For me, I always feel comforted going into a quilt tour because right away I know we all have a significant common interest. And, if you’re like me, you can talk about quilting ’til the cows come home. It’s sort of like a great unifier amongst people who might otherwise be strangers. 

The next thing to expect is that the group will be filled with all sorts of interesting personalities. There will be the super adventurous one who would rather be exploring when she should really be napping (that’s usually me). There might also be the “Auntie Mame” type that keeps the entire group laughing. There usually will also be the shy one who isn’t really sure what to say to strike up a conversation. These are the people I like to seek out first to make them feel welcome and part of the group.

No matter who you meet, you’re sure to find lifelong friends after experiencing such a wonderful adventure together.

Whether your goal is to see the US or to see the world, there is a quilt tour adventure out there waiting for you. From workshops to tours, museums to the wild outdoors, it’s sure to be the quilting adventure of a lifetime!

how much DOES A QUILT TOUR COST?

As a general standard, full 1 – 2 week long quilt tours can range from $1000 up to $5000 per person, depending on the duration and the destination. However, most of them offer payment plans so you can spread the expense out a bit.

I know that may seem like a large chunk of change; however, consider what is included in the price:

• All entrance fees to exhibits, museums, etc. that are part of the itinerary
• Hotel accommodations and scheduling
• All transportation costs while on the tour
• A professional tour guide
• Some tours include a quilting workshop with established quilt teacher
• Most include some meals
• Many also include airfare to and from your tour destination

I’ve also seen quilt tours that offer special “behind the scenes” type adventures that you can only experience with a tour group.

WHAT TO PACK ON A QUILT TOUR

Before going to Ireland, I had absolutely no idea what to take with me. I checked the weather projections so that I could pack appropriate clothing. Then, I bought a brand-new pair of walking shoes. If you do this, please make sure you break them in for at least 2 weeks BEFORE your trip. Your feet will thank you.

However, when it came to the size of my bag or the type of carry-on or even the quilting supplies I might need, I was clueless. So, I just bought the biggest suitcase I could find and filled it with whatever I THOUGHT I might need. I’m here to tell you, I didn’t even need half of what I brought. In fact, I ended up leaving a few things in Ireland.

For most quilt tours, especially overseas, you will be doing a lot of moving around. Unlike quilt retreats where you mostly stay in one building, on quilt tours you’ll most likely be staying at a few different hotels and traveling to many different cities. I grant you that tour buses do have a decent size storage area. Unfortunately, you will be the one lugging that bag around to and from each hotel change.

So to save your back and your sanity, I highly suggest going with a medium-size suitcase that is on wheels.

For 1 week of travel , here is what I suggest you pack:

• 2 pairs of pants
• 1 pair of shorts for warmer climates
• 1 pair of good walking shoes
• Bathroom products kit (travel-size bottles)
• Any medications required for the full length of your quilt tour
• Light rain jacket that can squish into your day bag
• Regular jacket for colder climates
• 1 – 2 items and/or projects to keep you busy during down times. For this I highly suggest a hand quilting project, a smaller-sized book, or perhaps an electronic tablet for playing games or watching movies.

PRO TIP: To save space in your luggage, roll your clothes instead of folding them. This technique has been used by military personnel for generations to fit all their gear inside one duffel bag.

To save space and time, there are a few things I recommend you leave at home:

• Laptop. As useful as they are, laptops can be heavy and take up a lot of room, especially when you add in their cords and mouse. However, if you have one, an electronic tablet would be a much better space-saving option.
• Full-size bathroom product bottles. These are bulky and you will not need that much product for such a short time of travel.
• Too many projects. On your tour, you will have very little down time. Therefore, the only projects you should need are things to keep you busy on the plane and/or at night before bed.

Related Posts:

• Who are US Quilt Tours?

What to Expect on an Iceland Quilt Tour

• Hotel Safety Tips for the Traveling Quilter
• Check out my Travel Safety Tips When You Fly
• Complete Lists of Quilt Shops in the US
• More Travel Tips!

Do you know someone who would love to learn about Quilt Tours? Click the buttons below to share the list with your friends! Then be sure to join us in the  Traveling Quilters group  on  Facebook  for more travel adventures!

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About Rona the Ribbiter

I'm Rona! I’m an author, pattern designer, teacher and Vlogger with a passion to see and experience all that life (and quilting) has to offer. Using travel to stitch life's quilt one adventure at a time!

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