Wonderwool Wales 2026 is one of the most anticipated wool and natural fibre craft events in the United Kingdom. Set for April 25th and 26th, 2026, at the Royal Welsh Showground in Builth Wells, Powys, this festival will mark its 20th anniversary, drawing thousands of visitors and exhibitors from across the UK and beyond.
The festival has grown steadily over the years, becoming the largest wool and fibre event in Wales, celebrated for its vibrant community, creativity, and wide range of craft displays. It’s an experience that appeals to beginners, seasoned artisans, and international enthusiasts alike.
A Festival That Started With Passion
Wonderwool Wales 2026 continues a tradition that began more than twenty years ago. Originally a small gathering of wool lovers and fibre producers, the event has transformed into a nationally recognized celebration of wool and craft.
The festival was founded by Chrissie, Sarah, and Olwen, three passionate advocates for natural fibres and quality craftsmanship. Their vision was to create a space where creativity, heritage, and community could come together — a place where wool production is celebrated, supported, and shared with others.
Today, Wonderwool Wales 2026 is more than a craft show. It’s a hub for artisans, learners, and visitors to connect over their shared love of fibre arts and Welsh culture.
What Makes 2026 Special
The 2026 edition of Wonderwool Wales 2026 is particularly significant as it celebrates 20 years of creativity and community. This anniversary show promises to be larger and more engaging than ever before, featuring over 200 exhibitors from across the UK and internationally.
Visitors can expect traditional displays of wool, yarn, and natural fibres, along with new attractions that highlight the cultural heritage of Welsh textile artistry. The festival combines exhibition, education, and interactive experiences for all ages, making it a truly unique event.
Where It Happens: A Unique Venue
The Royal Welsh Showground in the heart of Mid Wales is the perfect venue for Wonderwool Wales 2026. Its expansive halls and grounds allow exhibitors to showcase their work in a spacious, accessible environment, while visitors enjoy wide aisles, refreshment areas, and outdoor spaces for breaks.
Accessibility is central to the festival’s ethos. Free parking, shuttle services, ramps, and resting areas ensure that everyone can enjoy Wonderwool Wales 2026 comfortably, regardless of mobility.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Wonderwool Wales 2026 |
| Type | Wool & Natural Fibre Craft Festival |
| Date | 25–26 April 2026 |
| Location | Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Powys, Wales |
| Founded By | Chrissie, Sarah, Olwen |
| 20th Anniversary | Yes |
| Number of Exhibitors | 200+ |
| Activities | Workshops, live demos, “have-a-go” sessions, sheep walks, fashion showcases |
| Special Projects | Calico Dress Cymru community embroidery project |
A Celebration of Wool and Natural Fibres
At its heart, Wonderwool Wales 2026 is about celebrating natural fibres at every stage. This includes:
- Raw fleece and fibres from sheep and other animals.
- Hand-dyed yarns in countless colors and textures.
- Tools and equipment for knitting, spinning, weaving, and felting.
- Books, patterns, textiles, and patchwork kits for every skill level.
Whether visitors are experienced textile artists or curious beginners, each hall offers colours, textures, and creativity that inspire learning and discovery.
Craft Workshops and Activities
Wonderwool Wales 2026 is not just about viewing and shopping — it’s hands-on and interactive. Visitors can try spinning, weaving, dyeing, and other fibre crafts in “have-a-go” sessions led by skilled instructors.
The Woolschool workshops allow attendees to dive deeper into specific techniques such as willow weaving or advanced spinning methods. Spaces often fill quickly, so early booking is recommended for those attending Wonderwool Wales 2026 workshops.
Community Projects: Calico Dress Cymru
A major highlight of Wonderwool Wales 2026 is the Calico Dress Cymru project. This community textile initiative celebrates Welsh heritage and storytelling through embroidery.
The project is inspired by the global Red Dress project by artist Kirstie Macleod. Participants from across Wales contribute motifs and personal stories to create a unique community artwork. During the festival, visitors can add their own stitches under the guidance of textile artist Menna Buss, becoming part of a symbolic artwork that connects tradition, personal stories, and community creativity.
Exhibitor Diversity: Local and International
Wonderwool Wales 2026 prides itself on diverse exhibitors. The event features local wool growers, hand-dyed yarn producers, artisan craftsmen, toolmakers, and textile artists.
Some international exhibitors also attend, bringing fresh perspectives and unique products. This mix of local Welsh producers and global talent offers visitors a broad view of contemporary fibre artistry and innovation, making the festival an inspiring experience for all attendees.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets for Wonderwool Wales 2026 are available online and include day passes and weekend options. Children under 16 often attend free with an adult, making it a family-friendly event.
Ticket prices are designed to ensure full access to exhibitions, workshops, and activities. Early booking is recommended to secure entry, especially for popular sessions and workshops.
What to Expect on the Day
The festival runs from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm on Saturday, and 10:00 am to 4:30 pm on Sunday. Visitors can enjoy:
- Street food and refreshments across the showground.
- Live demonstrations and crafting sessions showcasing traditional and modern techniques.
- Sheep Walks and fashion showcases, highlighting wool in various forms.
Attendees are encouraged to explore at a leisurely pace, meet the makers, and engage in conversations about fibre crafts. The atmosphere is friendly, welcoming, and deeply creative, making Wonderwool Wales 2026 a memorable experience.
Community and Recognition
Over the years, Wonderwool Wales 2026 has received recognition for its cultural and tourism impact. It was awarded Best Event at the Mid Wales Tourism Awards in 2019 and 2020.
Visitors describe it as more than a festival — a place where creativity, heritage, and social connections thrive. It’s a celebration of Welsh identity and craftsmanship, where both locals and international guests feel part of a vibrant community.
Final Thoughts
Wonderwool Wales 2026 is not just another craft show — it’s a vibrant celebration of skills, creativity, and community. From families and beginners to professional artists and international visitors, it offers a meaningful and inspiring experience.
Whether you want to explore handcrafted yarns, join interactive workshops, or participate in community art projects like the Calico Dress Cymru, this festival is a must-visit event in spring 2026.
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FAQs
Q: What is Wonderwool Wales 2026?
A: Wonderwool Wales 2026 is a wool and natural fibre craft festival held in Builth Wells, Wales, featuring exhibitors, workshops, and interactive activities.
Q: When and where will Wonderwool Wales 2026 take place?
A: It will be held on 25–26 April 2026 at the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Powys.
Q: Who can attend Wonderwool Wales 2026?
A: The festival welcomes beginners, families, professional fibre artists, and international visitors interested in wool and crafts.
Q: What activities are available at Wonderwool Wales 2026?
A: Visitors can enjoy workshops, live demonstrations, “have-a-go” sessions, sheep walks, and community projects like Calico Dress Cymru.
Q: How can I get tickets for Wonderwool Wales 2026?
A: Tickets are available online on the official website, with options for single-day or weekend passes. Children under 16 often attend free with an adult.
