A Day at Printwear & Promotion LIVE — Learning, Laughter, and a Little Too Much Coffee

Yesterday I headed to the NEC for the Printwear & Promotion LIVE show, one of those days that reminds you just how energising it is to step out of the studio and immerse yourself in a world of ideas, innovation, and people who truly understand the tools we work with.

As many of you know, my work at Eau Brink Studio increasingly sits at the meeting point of photography, digital processes, and stitch. I went with a clear intention: to deepen my understanding of the software I use to translate images into embroidery, so I can continue developing new work and working with greater confidence.

Meeting the Team

I was fortunate to spend time with a wonderfully knowledgeable group, including Robert Smith, Director of Wilcom Europe, who, along with his colleagues, was not only technically brilliant but incredibly generous with their  time. They listened carefully, answered every question (and there were plenty!), and guided me through processes with genuine enthusiasm.

We talked through real challenges,  how to refine workflows, improve results, and make the most of the tools available, all of which will directly feed into both my own creative practice and the way I support others learning digital embroidery at the studio.

There’s something very reassuring about being supported by people who clearly care about helping you succeed, rather than simply demonstrating features. Their patience made a real difference, and I came away with renewed clarity and motivation.

The Coffee Incident…

Now, a small confession.

Before meeting them, I made the questionable decision to drink a large Americano. Those who know me well will be smiling at this point because I already know that caffeine and I are not the best combination. It tends to send me into a slightly over-enthusiastic, fast-talking, hand-waving state, and yes, the tell-tale shaky hands made an appearance too.

As we talked, I did quietly wonder what impression I might be giving. Was I coming across as intensely passionate? Slightly overexcited? Or simply someone who should have ordered a decaf?

Whatever they thought, they remained unfailingly kind and professional , which only reinforced how supportive the experience was.

Why Days Like This Matter

Events like Printwear are about far more than products on stands. They’re about connection sharing knowledge, solving problems, and reminding ourselves that behind every piece of software or machinery are real people who want to help us do our best work.

For me, the learning doesn’t stop at the exhibition hall. It travels straight back to the studio, into new experiments, improved techniques, and ultimately into the workshops and conversations I share with the creative community around me.

Bringing It Back to the Studio

I returned to Eau Brink Studio full of ideas, excited to refine how I turn photographs into stitched artwork, explore new possibilities in digital embroidery, and continue bridging traditional textile skills with contemporary technology.

To Robert and the team,  thank you for your patience, your warmth, and your generosity in sharing your expertise. And next time… I promise, I’ll stick to tea.