A York business has been voted the winner of a prestigious craft award.
York craft shop Bugweed’s has won first prize in the 9th Annual Local Quilt Shop Contest run by ByAnnie, a world-renowned quilting and bag-making pattern manufacturer, after hundreds of supporters voted for the independent business.
Based in York since 2017, it was announced as one of the winners during the live ByAnnie broadcast on Wednesday 11 March.
The ByAnnie award is Bugweed’s latest recognition, as the shop has previously been awarded Best Independent Retailer at the The Stitch Awards.
The Bugweed’s team
The annual contest invites sewists, quilters and craft enthusiasts around the world to nominate and vote for their favourite local quilt shops.
Voters must include a personal comment explaining why their chosen shop deserves recognition, with winners chosen through a combination of the number of votes and the strength of customer stories. In particular, Bugweed’s was commended for its commitment to supporting the wider community through its social and charitable projects.
Many voters praised Bugweed’s welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable team and wide range of fabrics and crafting supplies. One customer described the shop as “a crafters’ paradise”, while another called it “my happy place”. As part of the voting process, customers shared how Bugweed’s provides emotional support and care that goes above and beyond usual customer service.
Owner Rebecca Butler said the award reflects the strength of the shop’s creative community. “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who voted. Bugweed’s has always been about creativity, friendship and bringing people together.”
The shop hosts workshops, courses and social crafting events, including its popular Chat and Craft sessions, and supports charitable initiatives such as Quilts for Care Leavers and the local food bank.
Each Friday morning, Bugweed’s also supports its online community with Elevenses on Facebook Live – a simple concept where staff share a cup of tea and a lively chat with followers.
To find out more about Bugweed’s, visit their website here.