Explore quilts and fiber art by local artisans at Fischer Farm May 16-17

The Fischer Farm Quilt & Fiber Arts Show returns for an expanded showcase of craftsmanship and creativity from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 16-17, at Fischer Farm, 16W680 Old Grand Ave. in Bensenville.

The annual event highlights the artistry, history and personal stories stitched into quilts and fiber pieces created by local and regional makers. The 2026 show features an expanded display with dozens of quilts, textiles and handcrafted items spanning generations, cultures and techniques.

Visitors can explore a wide variety of works — many of which are for sale, from vintage and antique pieces to contemporary designs.

Among the featured items are the Red and White Turkey Tracks quilt, uniquely designed to fit around bedposts; Ohio Star with Broken Dishes, a circa 1930 piece purchased from a Peoria estate; and Toile Squares, showcasing traditional French-inspired fabric patterns dating back to the late 18th century.

Other highlights include Purple and Turquoise Stripes, a bold example of fabric-driven design, and Pink and Green Lilies, a vintage quilt reflecting timeless floral patterns.

The show also includes distinctive fiber arts such as crocheted collars, lacework and embroidery, as well as culturally significant textiles like mola appliqué pieces from Panama and embroidered works from Mexico and China. Historical garments, including intricately detailed christening dresses from the late 1800s and early 1900s, offer a glimpse into textile traditions of the past.

Local quilters and artists are prominently featured throughout the exhibit. Jean Baker’s Seasonal Silhouettes and After the Storm (At Sea) reflect personal creativity and storytelling, while Laura Bushnell’s 7,000 Pieces demonstrates remarkable precision with thousands of fabric elements.

Ladelia Berger’s Windblown Tulips highlights traditional needle-turn appliqué techniques, and Elizabeth Benatti’s Drunkard’s Path incorporates meaningful fabric scraps from family life. Multi-generational artistry is also on display, including the Esposito Quilt, originally created in 1956 from tailor shop fabric scraps and passed down through generations, and Pinky’s Day at the Park, a first quilting project by a local high school student.

The exhibit further celebrates community collaboration through the work of the Queen Bee Quilters, a local group that meets regularly in Bensenville. Their collection — including quilts such as Baby’s Zoo, I Spy and Bears Win! — will be both displayed and available for purchase, offering visitors the opportunity to take home a handmade piece.

Fischer Farm Manager Christine Shiel said this year’s event reflects growing participation and appreciation for fiber arts in the community.

“We are thrilled to expand the Quilt & Fiber Arts Show in 2026 and showcase the incredible talent and dedication of our local artisans,” Shiel said. “Each piece tells a story, and we are grateful to everyone who has contributed their time, creativity and treasured works to make this exhibit so special.”

In addition to the displays, guests may encounter live demonstrations, including lace-making, providing insight into the techniques behind these intricate crafts. Visitors can also browse the Granary Barn, located behind the farmhouse, which will offer a variety of quilting-related items for sale, including fabric, books, patterns, blocks and quilts. Selecting the right fabric is a key part of quilting, as it influences the finished piece’s appearance, durability and overall feel.

Lynn Contri, an A.Q.S. Certified Appraiser, will be on-site Saturday to provide quilt appraisals for a small fee.

Appointments can be made by calling 630-254-5511 or emailing quilter124@sbcglobal.net.

Admission is $5 for adults, $2 for children ages 4-12 and free for children ages 3 and under. All sales are final and no refunds will be issued.

The Fischer Farm Quilt & Fiber Arts Show is open to the public. Additional information about the show and related activities is available at BvilleParks.org/QuiltShow.