Press Releases
December 2025
A New Era Begins: Koelnmesse Brings the h+h americas Fall Edition to Houston in 2026
PRESS RELEASE - DOWNLOAD December 17, 2026 A New Era Begins: Koelnmesse Brings the h+h americas Fall Edition to Houston in 2026 Koelnmesse, organizer of the globally recognized h+h cologne and h+h americas, is excited to announce the launch of the h+h americas Fall Edition, debuting in Houston, Texas a city with a long, meaningful, and cherished place in the craft industry’s history. For decades, Houston has been home to fall gatherings in the crafting world. With this new edition, Koelnmesse aims to honor that legacy, carry its spirit forward, and build a modern, energizing, business-driven event that reflects where the community has been and where it’s going next. A Message from Koelnmesse Leadership “The new h+h americas Fall Edition in Houston reflects our global growth strategy of expanding our strong global brands with deep local relevance. With this new edition in Texas we are creating additional opportunities for brands, retailers, and creators to connect, collaborate, and grow. We're proud to strengthen our U.S. presence and create another high-quality platform for the vibrant craft industry." Gerald Böse, CEO, Koelnmesse GmbH “As we introduce the Fall Edition in Houston, our priority is simple: respect the legacy of this city, support our community’s growth, and create an event that genuinely moves the industry forward. We’re building a show that’s inviting, energetic, collaborative, and crafted for real business impact. The early enthusiasm we’re seeing from the long-standing partners and companies returning to Houston tells us one thing Houston is ready, and the industry is ready [...]
Koelnmesse Inc. Announces Transition in Leadership as Mette Petersen Retires After 22 Years of Distinguished Service
Koelnmesse Inc. Announces Transition in Leadership as Mette Petersen Retires After 22 Years of Distinguished Service Koelnmesse Inc. is entering a new chapter with a structured and collaborative leadership transition. Effective January 1, 2026, Darrin Stern will become President and Managing Director, succeeding Mette Petersen, who will retire June 30, 2026, after 22 years of remarkable leadership. Mette will continue in an advisory capacity through the first half of the year to ensure a smooth handoff, mentoring team members and supporting key initiatives with Koelnmesse’s headquarters in Cologne, Germany. This planned transition reinforces Koelnmesse’s commitment to continuity, growth, and long-term success in North America. Over the past 22 years, Petersen has grown the U.S. office across all key performance indicators—including profitability, personnel, exhibition square footage, and specialized exhibit options. She also introduced and successfully launched three major trade events in North America, and under her leadership the team earned consecutive Fastest 50 recognitions and two Gold 100 finalist honors from the magazine Trade Show Executive. Her leadership has forged a legacy of strong events, enduring industry relationships, growing Koelnmesse recognition in North America and a resilient team positioned for continued success. “It has been the honor of my career to lead Koelnmesse Inc. for more than 22 years. Together with an incredible team, we introduced new shows, expanded our reach, and secured our place in one of the most dynamic exhibition markets in the world. I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished, and I leave with full confidence that the foundation we built will carry Koelnmesse forward for decades to come.” — Mette Petersen, [...]
November 2025
Discover the 2025 h+h americas Lookbook – “Made for YOU!” | Free Download Now Available
The wait is over—our 2025 h+h americas Lookbook: Made for YOU! is here!Explore the heart of the handmade industry through this exclusive digital edition, now available as a free download from our all-new merch store: shop.handicraft-worldwide.comPacked with inspiration, innovation, and community stories, the Lookbook captures everything that makes h+h americas the premier craft industry event in North America. Flip through 80+ pages of highlights from our 2025 show in Rosemont, IL—including the Creator Summit, Fashion Show, Golden Scissors Awards, and Cosplay Competition, plus features from top brands such as Brother, Riley Blake Designs, Shannon Fabrics, Círculo, and more.Inside, you’ll find:🌟 A Letter from the Director – a message from Darrin Stern on how collaboration fuels creativity🧵 Trends from h+h cologne 2025 – sustainability, innovation, and the future of local retail👗 Highlights from the show floor – 558 exhibitors, 5,188 professionals, and 318 education sessions🧶 Award-winning creators who are shaping the next era of craft and design💫 Inspiration from installations and exhibits, including Kaffe Fassett, Cherrywood Challenge, and moreWhether you’re a retailer, maker, designer, or educator, this Lookbook was made for you. It’s a visual journey through the creativity, passion, and community that power our industry.👉 Download your free copy today: shop.handicraft-worldwide.comFollow us on Instagram @hhamericas for more inspiration, updates, and behind-the-scenes looks from the show.
May 2025
h+h americas 2025 Unites the Creative Industry with Record-Breaking Engagement and Global Reach
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE h+h americas 2025 Unites the Creative Industry with Record-Breaking Engagement and Global Reach […]
April 2025
TV Personality and Sewing Entrepreneur Craig Conover to Headline Fireside Chat at h+h americas 2025
TV Personality and Sewing Entrepreneur Craig Conover to Headline Fireside Chat at h+h americas 2025 […]
Countdown Begins: h+h americas 2025 Promises Unmatched Excitement with Record-Breaking Exhibitors, Competitions, and Events
Countdown Begins: h+h americas 2025 Promises Unmatched Excitement with Record-Breaking Exhibitors, Competitions, and Events […]
March 2025
Koelnmesse and Synchrony Announce Strategic Partnership for h+h americas and Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival
Koelnmesse and Synchrony Announce Strategic Partnership for h+h americas and Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival […]
January 2025
Koelnmesse Elevates the Crafting Experience with the Launch of Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival
Koelnmesse Elevates the Crafting Experience with the Launch of Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival […]
December 2024
h+h americas Announces Jonah Larson as the 2025 Next-Gen Artist
h+h americas Announces Jonah Larson as the 2025 NexGen Artist h+h americas, North America’s leading trade show for the creative handicraft industry, is proud to announce Jonah Larson as the 2025 NexGen Artist. Jonah, a crochet prodigy from LaCrosse, Wisconsin, embodies the innovation, artistry, and inclusivity that define the future of fiber arts. At just 11 years old, Jonah has captivated global audiences with his exceptional talent, philanthropic work, and inspiring story. His crochet creations and community-driven initiatives have earned recognition from The New York Times, Forbes, Oprah Magazine, and People, along with appearances on The Today Show, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and The Drew Barrymore Show. Through his business, Jonah Hands, LLC, he empowers others to explore their creativity and embrace fiber arts with his signature motto: “Crochet Brings the World Together One Stitch at a Time.” In addition to his artistic achievements, Jonah is a passionate advocate for giving back. His philanthropic efforts include building Jonah’s Hands Library in Ethiopia, where he was born, and raising funds to construct a science lab for the same community. His books, Hello, Crochet Friends! and Giving Back Crochet, inspire others to make a difference through their talents. “Jonah Larson is the embodiment of what h+h americas stands for: creativity, community, and a passion for crafting,” said Darrin Stern, Show Director of h+h americas. “We are honored to collaborate with Jonah to promote fiber arts as a meaningful medium for makers of all ages.” Join us at h+h americas, May 7–9, 2025, in Rosemont, [...]
October 2024
h+h americas Unveils the 2024 Lookbook: A Free Resource for the Crafting Community
h+h americas Unveils the 2024 Lookbook: A Free Resource for the Crafting Community […]
September 2024
h+h americas 2025 Setting Records with 310 Exhibitors and Expanded Halls, Poised for Continued Growth
h+h americas 2025 Setting Records with 310 Exhibitors and Expanded Halls, Poised for Continued Growth […]
May 2024
Cosplay Fashion Show Competition presented by Famoré Cutlery presents award winners selected during h+h americas 2024
Cosplay Fashion Show Competition presented by Famoré Cutlery presents award winners selected during h+h americas 2024 […]
h+h americas 2024 sets new records
h+h americas 2024 sets new records […]
Golden Scissors Awards Recognizes Outstanding Achievement in the Crafts Industry
Golden Scissors Awards Recognizes Outstanding Achievement in the Crafts Industry […]
March 2024
Koelnmesse’s h+h americas show listed among TOP 50 fastest growing 2023 trade shows in the U.S.
Koelnmesse’s h+h americas show listed among TOP 50 fastest growing 2023 trade shows in the U.S. […]




