We spent part of each day in classes with designers and other experts to learn what's new in our industry. I spent two days with Martin Storey, long-time designer for Rowan, learning about beading cables in your knitwear and different twisting and knot techniques to decorate your knitting. I spent another two days learning how to grade and size patterns taught by two designers - Jill Wolcott (http://www.jillwolcottknits.com/) and Jean DeCoster - with two different perspectives to achieve the same result. That class was full of well-known designers, and I did feel that I might be out of my element when I walked in the door. I hope to put the things I learned to good use helping all of you make better fitting knitwear, and hopefully do more designing myself.
Laura learned a new crochet technique that I am fairly certain you will see in her upcoming class calendar. She also spent time listening to Trisha Malcolm of Vogue talk about all the trends we will be seeing this fall! I can tell you that bling seems to be the thing along with color-blocking! And we found some stuff that isn't really knitting or crochet, but it is just plain fun! I'm sure Laura will put up her own blog about her experiences at TNNA so watch for the link on our Ravelry page!
We also took the time to look at the counted cross-stitch and needlepoint offerings at the show. Does anyone do cross stitch or know anyone who does? I picked up a brochure for beads too so I'd love to know if beads on your knitting or crochet is your thing. I haven't committed to buying anything yet, but did decide I would ask if there's any interest. So if counted cross-stitch or beads would interest you or someone you know, please drop me a word, a line or even two,and let me know!
And I realized that I did not take one picture the whole time I was in Columbus - mostly because my phone was acting up and I kept forgetting the camera! So you will all just have to wait and see what we bought!!!
