Sewingandstitcheryexpo

Lylal Messinger Profile

2012-01-30T04:00:00.002-06:00

I SOOO LOVE IT WHEN PEOPLE PLAY MY BLOGGING GAME...To thank the 8 members of the IPCA for bringing their exciting "Midnight Magic" event to Sew Expo this year -- I have been "profiling" the IPCA members on this blog. I asked her to tell the Sew Expo audience something they might not know about her -- and Lyla Messinger sent picture of herself and her husband -- Zip Lining in Costa Rica!!

She also sent this:

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Lyla Messinger is the owner of L.J. Designs, of Reno, NV. She started her business in 1994. She is the author of Ordinary to Extraordinary: Terrific Treatments for Garment Sewing. She has also written numerous booklets and written articles for the major magazines. She is currently working on an article on Sewing Sheer Fabrics with Sew Stylish magazine.

Lyla’s three children are Westie Terriers! They are her sewing buddies and can usually be found in their beds in the studio while she creates!

Lyla Jean hails from Washington. She was named after her father, Lyle and her Mother, Jean. She used her initials L.J. in the name of her business to honor her parents, who always supported her sewing efforts! She grew up in Everett, WA and enjoys visiting each year for expo. Lyla started sewing around age 10. She noticed her Mom sewing doll clothes for the three family Toni dolls on a Graybar cast iron sewing machine! Her Dad took her to the store and she picked out red fabric for a vest and royal blue for a skirt. She followed the pattern instructions and proudly wore her creation. That was the beginning. She has sewn avidly since. When the sun would shine, she would move a card table and her machine to the back yard, and sew in her bathing suit. Washingtonians know you don’t pass up sun time! She made her sister’s wedding dress and all the bridesmaids dresses between grades 8 and 9. Lyla had to have 4 teeth removed before she got her braces on. When she woke up from the surgery, her Dad took her to the Singer store, where he had purchased a brand new portable Singer machine with decorative cams for her. She thinks it was less expensive for him to do that than buy a wedding dress & bridesmaids dresses! She had an awesome home economics teacher in 8th grade, who encouraged her. Her 9th grade home ec teacher was the opposite, and discouraged her from taking any more home ec classes until she went to college. She was graded down from adding eyelet lace to a small print fabric….Lyla has a rebel inside! No creativity allowed = no more home ec classes! That didn’t stop her from sewing, however. She won second place in the tailoring category in the Make It Yourself with Wool contest in 1965. That was pretty exciting considering she had never had any formal training in tailoring. The thing she remembers most about that beyond the green suit with brown trim, it the hat her Mom and Dad bought her to complete the outfit!

Lyla studied the binary system in junior high school, in a room all by herself. She loved it! Math was always a strong suit. She started out her college studies in computer programming. After spending a year punching cards to write programs, and staring at a computer that filled a room, she decided she needed a people job! She walked the campus, from department to department and ended up in the Home- ec Department, teaching knit sewing techniques. She graduated with her degree in Home-ec/Math Education.

Lyla moved to Reno in the fall of 1974. She was sought out by a professor at the University to work on a fellowship and earn her Master’s degree in Clothing and Textiles. When that was complete, she started teaching home-ec and math. She did that for 10 years, and decided she needed to move on. (She had always promised herself if she started in any way to resemble that 9th grade home ec teacher she had, she would move on!) She retired from teaching to open a Bernina dealership. She had fabrics, notions and a sewing school. In 1990, she entered the Bernina fashion show and won Best of Show for her original jacket. That would have to be at the top of the list of favorite garments sewn! She took solid color fabrics and added detail to each section with decorative techniques she could do on her Bernina machine. She spent a week by herself at her Dad’s beach house, went out for breakfast and dinner every day, and sewed the rest of the time….heaven! She met so many wonderful people through her business experience, like Marci Tilton and Gale Grigg Hazen, that she started traveling to The Sewing Workshop in San Francisco and The Sewing Place in San Jose to teach on the weekends. That is when she started to see all the possibilities in the sewing industry.

One of her favorite stories is how she met Marci. A Bernina dealer from Half Moon Bay, CA, told Lyla she needed to meet Marci, because they had so much in common. One day, a personal style consultant friend of Lyla’s asked her if she wanted to go to a consultants meeting in California. Lyla decided she could always learn something she could use, so she went. Lunchtime came and she walked in to a room with round tables. She picked a spot, didn’t see her friend, and decided to stay there. The meeting started, and Marci Tilton was called to the podium to speak. The person sitting next to Lyla was Marci herself, and they had been having a great discussion through lunch. Lyla didn’t connect the two until afterwards, when she found out that this Marci owned the Sewing Workshop and was in the sewing industry! Small world!

Her first time to Sew Expo, she shared a booth with Gale Grigg Hazen of The Sewing Place, and had only a couple of patterns. She sold her business at the end of 1993 and founded L.J. Designs in 1994. Her business has grown beyond what she envisioned when she started. Sew Expo was a place to meet people with a like love of sewing and the sewing industry. Karen from Karen’s Kreations (who has since retired) produced wonderful boiled wool. When Lyla worked on the first piece of boiled wool she got the idea to try the same techniques on fleece. She loves fleece!

Linda Kubik’s beautiful handwoven fabrics inspired Lyla to use fringed trim and embellishment on one of the jackets featured in her book….way back when. There are so many people she has met at Sew Expo, it is impossible to list them all!

Lyla has had the good fortune of traveling to Switzerland twice to see the Bernina factory. The trips were nearly 20 years apart, and everything has changed so much! She was fortunate to be able to add to the “what do you want your ideal sewing machine to have” meeting with the engineers, as they worked on the design of the new 830 machine (Lyla’s first Bernina was the “old” 830!)

Here comes Sew Expo 2012! Lyla is teaching a class called “Hourglass Accessories”. (#1067 B&D) She will show accessories and gifts you can make in an hour or less. She has been having so much fun with the development of this class that you will see some really great techniques and ideas you can tweak to make your own. You will see re-makes of existing items, fabric take on a new life, scarves, necklaces, belts, bracelets and so much more! She has used a lot of things from her stash… a side bonus! We all need those easy projects when we want to be creative, but are too tired or stressed to work on something critical, like fitting or sewing a garment. You will have plenty of ideas after this. Lyla’s creativity is contagious, so don’t miss this class!

She is also teaching a brand new class called “Fashionable, Functional Fleece.” (#1066 A & C) Lyla loves to play with fleece. It has so much potential beyond sportswear and super casual. Fleece can look sophisticated with a little bit of this and that. See new fabric combinations, 3 dimensional techniques, and joining and edging options. Find out how to take your fleece garments to the next level. As usual, this will be an idea packed, fast paced class with lots of inspiration to take home to your own projects. Fleece is so easy to sew with, and has qualities that make it a blank canvas. Open your mind to the possibilities as Lyla guides you through these techniques.

Get lots of new ideas in this NEW class! No reveals…….you need to see the whole enchilada in person….

Lyla’s Three Needle class called “Twist Me Softly Vest” is sold out. Sorry about that. (WHAT A NICE PROBLEM, EH?) You can request that she teach it again next year on your evaluation sheet! Participants with take a Pashmina shawl and make it into an interesting vest in just 2-1/2 hours! Visit her booth 523-525 to see samples. There is also a pattern available for purchase.

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Admission Tickets

2012-01-27T17:45:00.002-06:00

FYI -- if you buy your admission tickets in advance -- they are $10 per day. If you purchase them at the gate the day of the show -- they are $12 each.

AND YOU CAN BUY THEM in advance at many local stores -- saving yourself the $4 handling fee.

ADVANCE Admission tickets may be purchased at the following fabric stores:

Fabric Etc., Bellingham, WA
Fabric Depot Inc., Portland, OR
Hancock Fabrics, Tacoma, Kirkland & Lynnwood, WA
Pacific Fabrics, all locations
Quality Sewing, all locations
Quilters Junction, Centralia, WA
Quiltworks Northwest, Bellevue, WA
Rochelles Fine Fabircs, Port Orchard, WA
Sequim Sewing & Vac, Sequim, WA
Shibori Dragon, Lakewood, WA
The Quilt Barn, Puyallup, WA

Connie Crawford

2012-01-23T04:00:00.002-06:00

I AM LOVING THIS...Because this month many of you are working on your sewing projects for the IPCA challenge, Midnight Magic -- I have been profiling the designers who are IPCA members. Janet Pray (Islander Sewing) started the ball rolling...then Marsha McClintock (Saf-t-Pockets) and now Connie Crawford. WHAT FUN!!

To view complete details about the IPCA's Midnight Magic challenge -- be sure to visit the website: Pattern Companies.com

I met Connie Crawford many years ago -- I was a sewing show newbie and Connie was so gracious. I have fond memories of the time I visited her home and sewing studio in Sedona, Arizona....hey -- it's a tough job but somebody's gotta do it!

For this blog -- I asked Connie to tell the Sew Expo audience something they might not know....beyond the official "bio & headshot".....AND HERE'S WHAT SHE SENT...

From Connie Crawford....

I was born in downtown Los Angeles. I stayed in Southern California until 15 years ago when we moved to Sedona, Arizona. Eight years later, we moved to Hansville, Washington to be closer to our grandchildren.

Here's a photo of our present house. WE have 5 beautiful acres and it looks like we live in a well manicured park. We actually have a gardener (who is out of work during the winter) and he comes here in the winter and trims back everything. Anyone who lives up this way knows that everything grows wild as weeds if not cut back regularly. We have no visible neighbors and the small city cemetery is our next door neighbor.

Like many of my customers, I started sewing around 8 years old. The most memorable thing that I made was my prom dress when I was a senior in high school. It was a Vogue pattern with boning and everything to support a bustier styled dress with one shoulder strap. I modeled this dress in the "Girls Week" fashion show. When I came out on stage, the audience made a sound of "whoo". I will never forget that day.

The best thing I did was to put myself through college (working as a medical secretary) in a fashion design program. I loved the work from the get go.

During my many years in the fashion industry, I made some very good friends. Karen Kane (famous designer in Los Angles) is a very good friend of mine. I hired her for her first design job and introduced her to her future husband. Through her I met George Burns.

I was very good friends with William Pearson who was a couture designer in Los Angeles. He always did gowns for the presidential inaugural ball. I miss him very much since his death in the late 1980's.

During the 23 years I taught at The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, I taught many students who have gone on to fame and fortune. One of them is Marlene Stewart who did all of the costumes for Arnold Schwartzneger's movies.

Another is Kevan Hall who is a famous couture designer in Los Angeles.

Sometimes, we are able to travel with our friends Gene and Shirley Biehl. We met Gene and Shirley while they were vendors at many of the sewing expos that we were also vendors. They needed a ride to dinner and we were willing to accommodate them. The photo here is of Shirley and myself in Glacier Park, Montana. We love to travel with them. They are funny and love to play chicken foot dominos. Sometimes we will stay up until midnight to finish all 15 segments.

What I am most happy about is when I travel the country I meet up with ex students who have made a success of their lives with the sewing industry. Last year at Puyallup, I was crossing the street to come to the fairgrounds, and a lady said to me, "Are you Connie Amaden" (the name I used before I married Mr. Crawford). I of course, replied "yes". She then told me that she also had a booth at the show. I went over to see what she was doing. Her art talents had created a special computer program to paint by using fabric swatch any photograph you would input into the computer. I was so impressed and delighted to see such talent.

Also, last year when I was giving a special program in Chicago, another ex-student of mine came to the reception that evening. He told me that he was the lead designer for XOXO for years. He had moved to Chicago and was teaching fashion design at Columbia College.

Due to back surgery, this last fall I had the privilege of visiting my couch for 2 months. I have never had that chance to just lay down and watch tv. My favorite programs were on HGTV. I have learned how to redesign a house, select colors, see how the gourmet cooks work.

I love to bowl. I am now trying to go bowling every Sunday. The closest bowling alley is down in Silverdale. This is helping me strengthen my back muscles and get some of the fluff under my arms tighter. It is working!

My husband, Wayne, has a 1966 Squareback Volkswagon. This past two years we have had it restored. Now we can travel to car shows and show off his wonderful car. As he tells people, this car is its original owner and older than his son.

I enjoy my grandchildren very much. Attached is a photo of my son's oldest boys. They are licking the beaters after making chocolate chip cookies.

Note from Rita: Read on...because Connie is so modest, she didn't write about HOW POPULAR HER CLASSES ARE...

So I'm putting up another blog post about Connie's 2012 Sew Expo seminars. YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS THE OPPORTUNITY to take a class from Connie Crawford....

Connie Crawford's Classes

2012-01-23T03:58:00.002-06:00

Here's the thing.....I asked Connie to send some behind-the-scenes stuff for this blog. And she certainly did!! GREAT JOB, CONNIE.

Connie's three needle and four-needle classes all SOLD OUT on the first day of online registration. That's strictly the power of WORD-OF-MOUTH, ladies. Anybody who has had the privilege of taking a class from Connie knows the depth and breadth of her knowledge....and apparently -- they tell their friends, who tell their friends, and so on...

Last year -- we put her WAY OUT IN THE PAULHAMUS building...It was drizzling that day, and I provided a few ladies with a "ride"....

But Connie is like the Post Office USED TO BE...neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow...shall keep her from her mission. Last fall, she had a very serious back surgery...but there was never a doubt that she'd be teaching at the 2012 Sew Expo!!

If you've taken a class from her -- you know what a HUGE LEARNING CURVE a Connie Crawford class can be...she has provided thousands of avid sewists with their own "AH HAH" moments...

Even though Connie's hands-on classes sold out quickly (remember -- they only seat 30 people) -- you still have the opportunity to get a taste of Connie -- because we DO HAVE ROOM in her One Needle and Two Needle seminars...Here are her 2012 topics...

One Needle Seminars:

#1029 A -- Fitting Sleeves & Armholes

#1030 Princess Seams Are Your Friend

Two needle Seminar:

#2005 Styling Made Easy: Drawing from her 35 years in the fashion industry, Connie will teach you how to draft and make your favorite princess seams, collars and custom necklines. She will illustrate fitting the princess seams as well as removing the gaposis of a neckline and how to match the collar to your necklines. Connie will demonstrate the convertible collar, the 2-piece stand collar, the Peter Pan collar, various necklines with ruffles and flounces. Your handout will be a packet of 1/3 scale patterns and Connie’s extensive notes regarding specific adjustments for your personal needs.

Three Needle Seminar: #3008 Grading: Making Your Pattern Larger or Smaller (sold out)

Four Needle Seminar: #4005 Fitting the Girls (sold out)

How could she miss with a seminar title of "Fitting the Girls"...lol...

Thanks, Connie, for playing my new "MEET THE TEACHER" game...

Marsha McClintock

2012-01-16T04:00:00.000-06:00

Today, I'm going to highlight Marsha McClintock. The owner of Saf-T-Pockets Patterns -- a member of the IPCA -- and one of the companies sponsoring the Midnight Magic event. Here's a picture of Marsha at last year's Coats & Clark Pro-Am Sewing Exhibition...with her sewing rookie...

Marsha McClintock is owner of SAF-T-POCKETS Patterns where she designs patterns with hidden pockets suited for travel or every day wear. In addition she organizes and leads her Sew Many Options Tours for sewing enthusiasts to places like New York, Portland, OR and Toronto. Her experience in locating fabric and notion resources has been incorporated into her tours. She wears her SAF-T-POCKETS garments for her trips and has found the two companies are a natural combination. She enjoys traveling the country teaching at sewing shows, guides and the national ASG conferences. Marsha is an active member in the American Sewing Guild and the Association of Sewing and Design Professionals (Portland, Oregon Chapters).

I thought it would be fun to start with a few questions...(Rita in red -- Marsha's answers in black)

When did you start sewing? I started sewing at about age 10 with 4H.

How long have you been coming to Expo? 15 years and over 10 years as a vendor

How does sewing improve your life? I helps me to think outside the box. I like having the ability to making clothing that doesn't look like every other person walking down the street. I've been fortunate to turn my passion into a business.

What’s your favorite part of your job? I love talking with the customers and hearing all the wonderful, creative things they have done with my patterns.

What’s the BEST thing you ever sewed for yourself? That's difficult. It's probably a striped jacket I made while taking a couture class from Roberta Carr. I pleated out every other strip to create solid fabric for the collar, cuffs and yoke. It turned out wonderful. Isn't it great when that happens?

For somebody else? When I did custom dressmaking I made several gorgeous wedding dresses. It was an honor to create someone's dream dress and see their face when they first slipped into it.

What are you teaching at this year’s Expo? My classes this year are:

Accessories A-Z (Quick and easy items you can make for yourself or friends) (Thur & Sat 2:30pm or Fri & Sun 9:30am 1 Needle

The Versatile Vest-S-Cape Thursday It's a cape, vest or scarf! 3 Needle

Sew Let's Pack Up Free Stage Fri-Sunday 2:30pm It will help you pack for your next trip!

Because I ALWAYS PERK UP when somebody says "NEW YORK CITY" -- I asked Marsha to send some pics and more information about her trips there...she sent this...

Sew Many Options Tours creates tours to New York and Portland, OR that feature fashion, fabric and fun. In New York we visit the garment district for fabrics, visit Koos van den Akker's workroom, FIT's costume collection, go behind the scenes of "Wicked" for a look at the costumes, tour McCall Pattern Company, visit a Broadway costume shop, attend a Broadway musical and lots more.

This is a picture of Marsha and her group in Koos van den Akker's workroom...HEY -- BRING HIM TO PUYALLUP, MARSHA!!
This is a picture of a group on the steps of the fabulous Metropolitan Museum of Art!

Portland, OR is a mecca for sewing & fabric enthusiasts. We'll visit many great fabric stores, see the Theatre de la Mode mannequins at the Maryhill Museum, go to the Pendleton factory and lots more. I have three tours for this spring. New York with American Sewing Expo April 15-21, 2012, New York with ASG May 20-26, 2012 and Portland, OR with Marla Kazell June 19-23, 2012.

To find out more about Marsha's great patterns and wonderful tours -- visit her Saf-T-Pockets website.

You still have time to make your garment for the Midnight Magic event!!

Midnight Magic

2012-01-09T13:45:00.003-06:00

For the next couple of weeks, I'm going to post specific teacher bios and information...Today's big winner is JANET PRAY. At the 2012 Sewing & Stitchery Expo, she'll be teaching:

4 needle on Wednesday – Double Green Shopping Bag,
1 needle every day is Galaxy of Sewing
2 needle on Saturday – moebius scarf
Sunday two needle is Sew Me the Money

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Janet Pray's bio:

President of American Sewing Expo, Inc.
Owner of Islander Sewing Systems
Executive Director of the National Sewing Council

Janet has an educational background in business and fine art. Self employed since 1981 as a Fiber Artist, Fiber Arts teacher and Sewing Instructor. Ms Pray began her career in the sewing industry creating a unique line of artistic women’s clothing. Her specialties were coats and scarves sold at fine art fairs and boutiques. While creating her clothing line she found that dyeing the fabrics became a passion and added tremendous opportunities for creativity. Janet soon began teaching dyeing and discharge techniques and created the video, “Bleach or Dye”. She also taught industrial sewing techniques developed by her aunt, Margaret Islander.

Janet’s next venture was developing the largest independent sewing expo in the United States, The American Sewing Expo held annually in Novi, Michigan. Soon after that she took over the operations of the Islander Sewing Systems Company. As the owner of this company Janet published several of her most popular patterns from her clothing line and went on to design many more garment patterns all with industrial sewing techniques included in the pattern guides. Ms Pray wrote the book, Islander Sewing Systems and co-authored the popular DVD, Easy Zippers.

Recently Janet’s enthusiasms for the sewing industry lead her to establish The National Sewing Council, a non-profit organization focused on encouraging more people to experience the joy of sewing. Janet serves as the Executive Director for that organization.
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To view complete details about the IPCA's Midnight Magic challenge -- be sure to visit the website: Pattern Companies.com

They just announced that the IPCA will be giving away $2500 worth of door prizes to our attendees who participate in the Passport-vote-for-the-winners Midnight Magic sewing challenge.

It's up to YOU -- OUR FABULOUS SEW EXPO AUDIENCE -- to determine the fan favorite. And YOU COULD BE A BIG WINNER, TOO.

BECAUSE the IPCA will be providing a gift for the first 200 attendees of the Midnight Magic show!! (Sunday -- on the Expo Runway!)

Mary Bridge Children's Hospital

2012-01-06T14:13:00.002-06:00

Here is the direct link for the Mary Bridge Children's Hospital.

Remember -- every dime of your $10 (suggested donation for Charity Event) goes directly to Mary Bridge. Once you donate, you print the receipt -- and that will serve as your ticket INTO THE CHARITY EVENT. (It is not your daily ticket into the show...)

Our goal is to raise $5000 for Mary Bridge and we're off to a great start.

The event itself will take place at 10:30 AM on Sunday morning on the Expo Runway. It is the Coats & Clark Pro-Am Sewing Challenge. Our Sewing Stars have been paired with young sewing enthusiasts -- and they'll be PUTTING ON A SHOW!!

Last year, you sewed over 2800 pillowcases for the children of Mary Bridge. That was barely a three month supply....

We will again be accepting pillowcases for the children at the show...so START WHITTLING DOWN THAT STASH...

And if you are looking for a good cause this year -- please consider our charity event. Go to the Mary Bridge link to read about what they do with your money. Then -- BRING ALL YOUR FRIENDS. It's the last day of the show -- and what a wonderful way to end the BIGGEST SEWING PARTY in America...

P.S. -- Remember -- this year -- SEWING MACHINE DOOR PRIZES. Two of them!! And in the next week or so -- I'll announce what Coats & Clark is doing. Did you know it's their big anniversary??

SOO EXCITING, PEOPLE...

Online Registration is OPEN

2012-01-05T08:47:00.002-06:00

Yes -- online registration is OPEN...

You are officially invited TO THE BIGGEST SEWING PARTY IN AMERICA!!

This year, many teachers sent pictures of their finished projects -- so you can ACTUALLY SEE WHAT YOU'LL BE MAKING.

Don't forget -- the teacher biographies are also all up on the website. Under "Speakers" -- there's a subject line that says "Speaker bios"...

So -- you can go there right now. To the show website -- and click on the "Register" button in the upper right hand side of the page.

SEE YOU AT THE SHOW!!

Coats & Clark Pro-Am Charity Event

2012-01-05T01:29:00.001-06:00

This is just a reminder..

When you register for the show -- AFTER you have checked out -- you will have the opportunity to go directly to the Mary Bridge website to get a ticket to the Sunday Coats & Clark Pro-Am Charity Event.

Please DO COME to this wonderful, worthwhile event. We are delighted to have some of the biggest names in the sewing industry mentoring our young sewists. Sue Hausmann, Pati Palmer, Martha Pullen -- well -- you get the idea.

Remember -- Mary Bridge Children's Hospital receives every penny of your $10 (suggested donation).

Be sure to print out your "receipt" FROM MARY BRIDGE -- BECAUSE that will actually be your ticket into the event!!

AND YOU WILL HAVE A GREAT TIME...please support Mary Bridge, our young sewing stars-in-the-making...

This year -- instead of goody bags (which some people actually complained about -- yes -- I know it's hard to believe!! THIS IS OUR CHARITY EVENT, PEOPLE!!). We are ramping up the door prizes!!

Coats & Clark, our wonderful sponsor, will provide valuable door prizes -- AND FOR THE FIRST TIME -- we also HAVE BOTH A SEWING MACHINE AND A SERGER as door prizes...!!

Your chance of winning a major door prize at the Charity Event is way better than any lottery or casino game!!

Shuttle from the airport

2012-01-02T04:00:00.004-06:00

Here's a question that has come up several times -- "If I fly into the Seattle airport -- how can I get to Puyallup?"

After talking to some of the local hotels -- the answer is the SHUTTLE EXPRESS. Way back when, I can remember flying into Seattle and taking this shuttle down to Puyallup. Mary Mulari made the arrangements -- and we were staying at the Northwest Motor Inn, across the street and up the road...(I think I ate every meal at Caittin's that year)

Anyway -- the shuttle is still running!! It is reasonably priced -- check the rates for sure....something like $44 one way. Be prepared -- it takes some time to get to Puyallup. And with this shuttle, you could stop at other hotels and towns along the way.

Here's the website...

www.shuttlexpress.com

Hey -- could we use Facebook, to "hook you up"?

Is there a way you could GO ON FACEBOOK -- and say "NEED A RIDE FROM THE AIRPORT" -- then maybe ya'll could build a "group" that would go directly to Puyallup? The Shuttle Express has different "group rates" -- and this might save some money. And be MUCH FASTER...

I don't know how to do it -- but if YOU DO -- email me and I can set up a page on the show Facebook page. (ritafar@aol.com)

AND -- HEY -- be sure to check on the official show website SEWEXPO.com -- tomorrow -- because Ann will be posting the updated SPEAKER BIOS.

So -- all this additional information should help you decide WHICH CLASSES you want to take!!

For example:

Becky Scellato
My love for Japanese textiles and crafts began in the 1960's when my father was stationed at Kadena Air Force Base, Okinawa. We had a mama-san who came weekly to teach us how to shop in the local markets and cook oriental dishes. She also taught me to do Bunka, Japanese punch embroidery. I had learned how to sew at an early age and felt a real excitement at being taught different hand stitching crafts. Over 15 years ago, I learned Sashiko from a Japanese woman and fell in love with the process. An easy embroidery technique using a running stitch, Sashiko is relaxing and fun and creates a sense of peace while stitching. Sashiko is elegance in simplicity. We opened our shop, Shibori Dragon, in September 2002, which specializes in Asian fabrics and other related textiles. Sashiko is one of our specialties and I have been collecting historical Sashiko pieces for the past 10 years.

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Eileen Roche is founder and editor of Designs in Machine Embroidery magazine. She is also an innovator in her field-developing products in the embroidery industry that save time and money while enabling embroiderers to fulfill their creative passion for machine embroidery.
She is a frequent guest on Sewing With Nancy and she also hosts the Embroider It Yourself educational video series. She is the author of several books including Contemporary Machine Embroidered Quilts (2004, Krause Publications) and Contemporary Machine-Embroidered Fashions (2006, Krause Publications) and Contemporary Machine-Embroidered Accessories (2007, Krause Publications) and Machine Embroidered Quilting and Applique (2011, Krause Publications).
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And here are some random pictures I haven't had a chance to write about yet...

WE SCREWED UP

2011-12-24T22:14:00.003-06:00

Okay -- this is one of those "you can't see the forest for the trees" kind of stories.

Our website is sewexpo.com

OF COURSE WE KNOW THAT...it's ALWAYS been sewexpo.com.

BUT that is NOT what we put on the front cover of our brochure...no siree....that would have been WAY TOO EASY.

We put sewingexpo.com. Which -- if you went there -- you realize is ANOTHER show. Actually, it's a bunch of shows. My friends Marlene and Stan Ingraham run those shows -- and I was delighted to speak at their Kansas City show last fall -- and Mary and I did our Ya Ya gig at their Minneapolis show...and they have a great website!! We're delighted to send our attendees over there for a little visit...

but I digress...

IT'S NOT OUR WEBSITE, FOLKS...

And -- thanks for sending ALL THE EMAILS telling us how badly we screwed up...lol...

There are no excuses coming from me. We could not be more humiliated or embarrassed... everybody in the State of Washington proofread that registration brochure before it went to the printer...

Honestly -- we ALL HAD A CHANCE to see that the website was wrong. And, yes, it is pretty darn amazing that NOT ONE OF US noticed we were using THE WRONG WEBSITE...

WE ARE SO SORRY for any confusion this horrible guffaw may have caused you....and there's nothing we can do about the PRINT brochure. I will be seeing this in my sleep...for many weeks, I'm sure...

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REGISTRATION IS NOT OPEN

2011-12-22T19:19:00.004-06:00

Dear Sew Expo fans,

Here's the deal...The online registration cannot open before our ticket office does. And we have been deliberately coy about when that's gonna happen.

But -- apparently -- coy isn't working.

THE EARLIEST POSSIBLE DATE the ticket office could open is January 5. HEY -- IT MAY NOT HAPPEN THAT DAY, EITHER...I'm just sayin' that's the BEST CASE SCENARIO...

We ARE testing the system. And this afternoon, somebody got "into" the system -- and after spending an hour, she BELIEVED she had "registered". We think her credit card was even charged...BUT SHE IS NOT REGISTERED...AND WILL NOT RECEIVE TICKETS...

What a mess, eh??

SO PLEASE DO NOT TRY TO REGISTER UNTIL YOU SEE ON THIS BLOG...OR -- ON FACEBOOK --

THAT THE SYSTEM IS OFFICIALLY OPEN FOR BUSINESS....!!

We know you're anxious....and we love that about you. But please give us a chance to work out all the bugs....

SAVE YOURSELF.........PLEASE............GIVE US A CHANCE TO GET IT READY THIS YEAR....I'LL LET YOU KNOW WHEN THE TIME IS RIGHT....

Be sure to "Like" us on Facebook -- and you will receive notification of WHEN THE SYSTEM IS READY TO GO!!

WE LOVE YOU, TOO!!
Rita & the Expo team...

Happy Chanukkah!!

2011-12-21T10:06:00.007-06:00

Well, OF COURSE WE GOT AN EMAIL....because when I said "Merry Christmas"...it offended a Jewish attendee who does not celebrate Christmas..

I am so sorry.

So -- please know that Happy Holidays is what I really meant to say...

Chanukkah started yesterday and goes for 8 days...and I certainly hope it is a joyful celebration for you.

I am sorry if anybody took offense because I was not "inclusive". My point was simply that many of us enjoy our hobby of sewing so much at this time of the year because we are making gifts for the people we love. AND that started me thinking about gifts we give ourselves...which led me to say SEW EXPO IS A GREAT GIFT.

I've learned a LOT MORE ABOUT CHANUKKAH in the last day or so -- my understanding is that giving gifts is not a big part of the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah -- but I still say -- GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF SEW EXPO..!!

HAPPY HANUKKAH TO our Jewish sewing sisters!! OF COURSE we are looking forward to seeing you at the show -- and we would love to hear about your Chanukkah sewing traditions.

Merry Christmas Sewing Sisters!!

2011-12-19T15:45:00.007-06:00

Yesterday wasn't much of a "post"...and today -- you have a LOT OF FUN READING TO DO because the actual Registration Brochure is posted on the website!! Yippee...

But as you make your plans for the 2012 Sew Expo -- I thought this forwarded email message was very timely. Thanks, Linda P. -- for reminding me of something I've known my entire life...Helen and Wendy know it...

"The Sisterhood"

A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her mother. As they talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations of adulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter.

'Don't forget your sisters,' she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.'

'Remember that 'sisters' means ALL the women...your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women always do.'

What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married? Haven't I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grown up! Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!'

But she listened to her mother. She kept contact with her sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her mother really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, sisters are the mainstays of her life.

THIS SAYS IT ALL:

Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.

BUT.........

Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you. A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach.

When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end.

Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you....Or come in and carry you out.

Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters,daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family: all bless our life!

The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.

Every day, we need each other still. Pass this on to all the women who help make your life meaningful. And there is NO BETTER SISTER than a Sewing Sister...!!

************
Have a very Merry Christmas!! I am already looking forward to seeing you -- some of my FAVORITE SEWING SISTERS -- at the show!!

It'll be here before you know it...

2012 Sewing & Stitchery Expo brochure cover!

2011-12-19T04:00:00.002-06:00

I'm telling you -- this internet stuff is easier said than done!! Hey -- that's true for just about everything, isn't it? Sewing, marriage, parenting...hummm...

Anyway -- Ann will be posting the ACTUAL BROCHURE on the show website tomorrow!! I wanted to give you a little preview...

I think, what will post, is actually a "link" that you have to click on to see the cover. If it doesn't work -- you'll just have to wait for one more day. TOMORROW THE WHOLE BROCHURE will be up on the website...

Sewexpo.com

2012 Cover Only Final

Christmas at the Puyallup Fairgrounds

2011-12-12T04:00:00.001-06:00

Dear Sew Expo Fans,

We are all busy ramping up for Christmas. Today is the day I hope to put the TREE up at my house...and the next 12 days are going to fly by.

Thanks to Laura M. -- I get to share a WAY different view of the Puyallup Fairgrounds -- and I thought her email and attached pictures would be a good way to say 'MERRY CHRISTMAS'...

From Laura...

Hi Rita
Attached are a few photos of the Puyallup Fairgrounds during the holidays. Sorry, the quality isn't better. But, nighttime and a cellphone camera.......:-) The event was the Victorian Country Christmas. This is a five-day event that has been at the fair for 24 years. It features vendors selling holiday items and gifts, entertainment at various stages throughout the day, and a Living Nativity show every evening. They use the Showplex, Expo Hall, and the Pavillion. The indoor photo is downstairs in the Pavillion. As you can see, they make the booths look like a 19th century village. All the vendors must wear period costumes. The outdoor photos are the common areas between the Pavillion and the Showplex.
Laura

(in a second email)

Another outdoor photo of the common area. The retail indoor photo is the Showplex. The other two are the Living Nativity set. It is located at the end of the Showplex where the ticket exchange would be. They curtain off the area for the show. I wish the pictures were better, but you get the idea.
Laura

THANKS, LAURA...

Because I live in Iowa -- and I have only ever been to the Fairgrounds during Sew Expo -- it was stunning for me to see pictures of it all decked out for Christmas. I would LOVE to attend the Victorian Country Christmas at Puyallup. Maybe next year, eh?

What did you buy, Laura?? THANK YOU for giving all of us such a unique different view of this place we love so much...it looks magical -- even without the sewing machines!!

Starting the Countdown...

2011-12-05T04:00:00.001-06:00

If you regularly read this blog, you understand the work and planning for Sew Expo goes on 365 days a year. But once the Registration Brochure is put together -- time starts to move at WARP SPEED.

And we are putting the FINAL TOUCHES on the 2012 brochure. I won't lie to you. It is always painful. Because one teacher might be teaching two or even three different topics -- the seminar descriptions take up MANY PAGES...

It costs a fortune to PRINT THE DARN THING -- not to mention the postage fees. So here's our cunundrum.....

We can continue to encourage the teachers to offer more classes -- and put just the "titles" in the brochure...that would take the brochure down to a manageable 16 pages and save us A LOT OF MONEY. The complete descriptions, with photos, would all be on the website...

OR -- we can continue to do what we are currently doing -- pack it ALL IN the printed brochure. But to do that -- we'll have to limit the number of classes we offer. For example, no teacher could present more than two topics...??

What do you think?

Anyway -- they ARE WORKING ON THE BROCHURE...and here's a handful of pictures I sent -- JUST IN CASE they have room for photos...(which almost never happens)...

This one is EXACTLY how I feel about Sew Expo....

A Simplicity Style Show pic...

I would like one shot of the Hey Rita totebag...so I sent several. If you want to crop the bag -- that would be fun...it is a well known character on the show blog and would add a fun element to the brochure -- don't you think?? (I have approximately 3,000 pictures of this bag -- and the two red-headed twins are presenting a special program this year....!)

happy people taking a hands-on class -- Jan Bones is a HOT TICKET...

One of my favorite audience shots!! Eleanor Burns' class...

another Hey Rita tote possibility -- here with her two birth-mothers -- Jan & Bonne -- who are also bringing A SURPRISE to the 2012 show...

this is a real "sisters" group from Alaska -- a group shot of their fabulous pink outfits!!

My best Pillowcase Patrol picture of the kids with their pillowcases

another great pillowcase shot -- good pic of Barbara from the hospital

I CAN HARDLY WAIT for you to see the brochure!! We'll let you get over Christmas, first...

More Information...

2011-11-28T04:00:00.000-06:00

It seems to me that after Thanksgiving -- time begins to speed up. And Expo will be here BEFORE YOU KNOW IT!! So you need to get your posse together...gather up your sewing sisters -- biological and adopted -- and start to MAKE YOUR PLANS. Remember -- it's March 1-4, 2012. Remember where I was in this picture?
Yes, that's right. In Bettendorf, Iowa for the Super Seminar with Ricky Tims...the whole room was a beautiful quilt show...

And HUNDREDS of sewing enthusiasts filled the auditorium...

Sewing Sisters ALWAYS MANAGE to have a good time, don't we??

Of course, I was delighted to have a visit with Alex Anderson to talk about her 2012 Quilter's Night OUT...!!

Here's a description of what she's bringing to Puyallup:

Alex Anderson has put together a very special presentation for our Quilter’s Night Out. She likes to call it, “How in the world did that woman get a television show?” For 11 years, she served as host of HGTV’s “Simply Quilts” and she continues to be one of the most sought after instructors and lecturers in the international quilting industry. A founding partner of The Quilt Show.com and The Quilt Life magazine with Ricky Tims – Alex was chosen by the readers of Quilter’s Newsletter as “the most influential person in the quilting industry”. (okay, it was a three way tie with Ricky Tims and Karey Bresenhan of Quilts, Inc.). Alex will be presenting a “virtual trunk show” -- telling her life story through quilts.

AND -- more good news -- BERNINA is the sponsor for the 2012 Quilter's Night OUT..!!

THANK YOU BERNINA...we are looking forward to having Alex at the show.

We are putting the final touches on the Registration Brochure -- even as I write this blog post.

Excellent New Speaker!!

2011-11-22T16:27:00.003-06:00

Gail Yellen of Gail Patrice designs is COMING TO PUYALLUP!! Here she is -- teaching in Chantilly, Virginia. Her classes are sold out -- and I heard nothing but rave reviews.
Of course, she came to visit in the Schmetz Needles booth -- here she is holding the Super Needle...and wearing one of her great jackets...

A fabulous project to upcycle your old sweaters -- Gail has developed a technique to butt-the-edges-together...
And the results are FABULOUS...

Here's a description of her class -- BRAND NEW FOR SEW EXPO...

# Collage It! The Ultimate Recycling Project
Gail Yellen, Gail Patrice
Room H
Thursday 1:30 pm, Saturday 1:30 pm
Room L, Sunday 1:30 pm

With Gail’s unique approach, create one-of-a-kind jackets from recycled wool sweaters using template sets as the collage "puzzle pieces". She will explain how to felt old sweaters, when and how to interface, combine colors and textures, then put it together with perfectly flat butted seams. Gail will share her collage jacket trunk show – each one a unique work of art. From initial sketches to the finished jacket, see the step-by-step process of how to make your own collage jacket.

Welcome to Puyallup, Gail! Our attendees are GOING TO LOVE YOU...

Sewing Sister Story

2011-11-14T04:00:00.001-06:00

It is SO MUCH FUN for me to hear your sewing sister stories. As I'm writing this, I'm working for Schmetz Needles at a show in Minneapolis. And Jan -- a woman who regularly reads my blogs -- walked right in the booth to introduce me to her crew of sewing sisters. Hopefully -- I'll next be writing about them when they COME TO PUYALLUP.

This is an email I received last week...from another one of our sewing sisters...and she is actually PICTURED in the photograph at the top of my RitasSewFun blog. Can you spot her? She writes...

Dear Rita,

I have a couple of 'Sewing Sisters' . Chris and I met back in the 70's when we both volunteered at our local art center, The Old Hotel. I was into sewing and painting back then. Chris was with a group of sewists and needleworkers who rented a room in The Old Hotel for their shop. It was a co-op called 'Cozy Corner' We both were farm wives and volunteered on Saturday, as that was a hard day to find volunteers....and the day made no difference to us.

After Cozy Corner closed I didn't see Chris for a while.....till we ran into each other at a 'Clotilde Seminar' in a nearby town.... Soon after, I heard about Sew Expo, and a bus was taking a group from nearby Tri-Cities, Wa. I called to see if she would be interested.....she was, but not on the bus.....:)

She wanted to drive....the rest is history....we have been going to Expo for over 20 years, now! Along the way we have bonded with a few other Sewing Sisters -- (including the Yahoo group -- right, Linda?). Chris lives 30 miles away....and when she goes to the city, it is in a different direction than me.....so we don't get to see each other often. Expo is our Getaway together!!!

Another 'Sewing Sister' is my beautiful Step-Daughter, Debra! Actually, that's the first time I ever called her my step-daughter.....I have shared her with her birth-Mother since she was 8 years old and I was 19! I hope she got her love of sewing from me....we have different interests...she loves machine embroidery and I love hand work and applique & 'wearable art'. Several times she has either came home and went to Expo with Chris and me or met us there. Last year she went with us.....what a great time we had.

All the best, Linda B. in... Othello

Linda -- I WAS HORRIFIED when you wrote that you and Chris had actually talked about going SOMEPLACE ELSE for your "Sewing Sister" weekend!! PERISH THE THOUGHT.

And OF COURSE I REMEMBER YOU.

Hey -- You are the reason there was a sock monkey invasion at my house starting two years ago...!! Mary and I LOVE THE PICTURE of you, wearing the fabulous apron you made out of the "kitchen towel" door prize the last time we did the Midwest Ya Ya Sister show.

Thanks for sharing your Sister Story, Linda. It really is what Sew Expo is all about. Whether you have any real, biological sisters is not the point. It's our love of sewing and our need to share with others that brings us together... and that makes us a Sisterhood...

WE'LL SEE YOU AND CHRIS AND DEBRA AND THE YAHOO SISTERS at the 2012 Show....it'll be here before you know it!!

The Heart of Expo

2011-11-07T02:40:00.003-06:00

Laura is a wonderful example of what Sew Expo is all about. She won a hot pink sequins sweater at Friday Night LIVE (Mary and I were giving out tacky door prizes) -- and in the true SPIRIT OF CREATIVITY -- she made this...

She recently wrote me...

Hi Rita,

So, you want "sister" Expo stories. Well, how about mom/daughter instead :-) My mom (Charlotte Lee) and I have been to every Sew Expo except the first one (and one year she was sick). We started out going just one day and shopping. Even when I worked the Fabricland booth, we always had one day for just the two of us to do Expo.

We then started adding two seminars to our day. In 2006, Mom and I joined CTA, and our Expo world changed. We now go to Expo every day, but still only have one day just for us. We spend Wednesday helping with the fashion show prep. Thursday/Friday we shop or attend seminars in the morning and are fashion show dressers in the afternoon. Saturday is still our play day. That's when we see everything and maybe do a seminar or two. On Sunday, we go to the charity event and then do seminar room hosting in the afternoon.

We also did Pacific Fabrics Thursday night, Friday Nite Live, and Quilters Nite Out. And, of course, we now do the Annual Sew Expo Yahoo Groups Wednesday Night Dinner :-)

Here's another Expo story. Through the Yahoo Groups, I have made several new friends. One of my favorites is Anna from Albequerque, NM. We have become very good friends, even though we only see each other once a year. We do communicate with each other all the time.

Laura
You can't use up creativity; the more you use, the more you have.

**********

You are EXACTLY what Sew Expo is all about, Laura. Thanks for taking the time to write -- and for being such a huge fan -- always having that wonderful energy and smile -- YOU are the reason there is a Sew Expo.

SO THE REST OF YOU -- take a lesson from Laura. CALL YOUR SISTER, YOUR MOM, YOUR GIRLFRIEND -- mark your calendars -- the countdown has begun.

March 1-4......SEE YOU AT THE SHOW, LAURA!!

Quilt Market

2011-10-31T04:00:00.001-05:00

This week -- we were all busy doing the FINAL EDITS for the Registration Brochure. Well, at least most of the seminars were picked and the initial grids have been built. We have SO MANY EXCITING CLASSES to pick from -- it's always hard to make the final selections. And we have some new speakers and vendors -- it'll be fun to introduce you to them in the coming months...

As I write this -- I am NOT in Houston at the International Quilt Market. But thousands of people from the sewing industry ARE...at the George R. Brown convention center...

Everybody who is anybody is in Houston this week....I usually work in the Schmetz Needles booth -- it's a great opportunity for me to touch base with our speakers and vendors. Here's a picture of Luveta Nickels at her booth last year...

And in 2009 -- I had lunch with Eleanor Burns to talk about her Quilter's Night OUT...

Lynn Browne from Coats & Clark -- we enjoy brainstorming the new twists to the Coats & Clark Charity event on Sunday morning...(the spear in her hand is actually the Schmetz Super Needle)

I am laughing with Eileen Roche of Designs in Machine Embroidery Magazine -- and Rhonda Pierce from Schmetz...as I write this -- they're both in Houston...WITHOUT ME...

This picture from the Moda booth (two years ago) gave me a great idea...

Wouldn't it be fun to set up one of those 'PHOTO BOOTHS" at the show this year? Since we have a "Sewing Sisters" theme -- you may want a souvenir pic, eh? My sister Deb is coming... aa RARE OCCASION...I'd love to have a picture of us...

Do you know anything about setting up a Photo Booth? Email me... ritafar@aol.com

Look Who's Coming

2011-10-24T04:00:00.002-05:00

Eileen Roche—Meet the person who wrote the book on embroidery!

Eileen is the founder, publisher, and editor of Designs in Machine Embroidery magazine. She is also an innovator in her field—developing products in the embroidery industry that save time and money while enabling embroiderers to fulfill their creative passion for machine embroidery. Eileen is a sought-after teacher whose enthusiasm for embroidery and sewing is contagious.

She is a frequent guest on Sewing With Nancy and she also hosts the Embroider It Yourself educational video series. She is the author of Contemporary Machine Embroidered Quilts, Contemporary Machine-Embroidered Fashions, and Contemporary Machine-Embroidered Accessories.

Eileen and her family call Dallas their home. And it's been a long time since she taught at Sew Expo!

Here's what Eileen has planned...

Eileen Roche
Two needle – Quilting With An Embroidery Machine
Learn revolutionized quilting techniques that turn traditional quilting upside down. You’ll quilt, then appliqué and finally piece instead of piece, appliqué and quilt. The secret to successful machine embroidered quilting and appliqué lies in four key factors. Embroidery expert Eileen Roche demonstrates how to select the right fabrics, hoop a quilt sandwich, stitch continuous borders and piece with reversible piecing.

Three Needle – In the Hoop Posh Pincushion
Worse than potato chips – you can’t make just one of these addictive, charming in the hoop pincushions. You’ll learn easy editing right at the machine and then “sew” with an embroidery machine. Finish by adding a trio of one-of-a-kind trims and learn how to ‘tuft’ with two shank buttons. This Posh Pincushion will be your new go-to gift for 2012.

We are DELIGHTED to have Eileen returning to Sew Expo!

As we put the final touches on the class grid -- in the next few weeks, I'll tell you who's coming to the show and who's teaching what.

Read this show blog on Mondays for the latest announcements -- AND some information on new teachers and vendors who will be coming to the show next year...

My Newest SEWIST

2011-10-17T04:00:00.001-05:00

This is a picture of a piece of homemade Shoofly pie. It could just possibly be the most delicious thing I've eaten this year. And believe me -- I'VE EATEN A LOT OF DELICIOUS FOOD IN THE LAST 12 MONTHS...

The baker of this delicious pie was my friend Kathy Keefer. We were visiting John's family in Pennsylvania -- and while John is golfing I always look forward to spending a day with Kathy. She is the BEST COOK I know. Her baked goods are legendary....

But the most exciting thing is that Kathy just STARTED TO SEW!! Here's a picture of the curtains she made for her bedroom....(out of an old bedskirt)...

And the cute new curtains for her kitchen...

GREAT JOB, KATHY!!!

Kathy was so delighted with her newfound creative sewing skills -- it made me realize how lucky I am. Because I have always loved to sew. And sewing is one of the few things I can think of that only brings joy...

And -- HEY -- it's not fattening...

Really. It is the PERFECT HOBBY...

And you should invite your sewing buddies -- from wherever they are -- if they're experienced sewers or newbies -- TO SEW EXPO...Mark your calendar...March 1-4, 2012...!!

The Sewing Sisterhood

2011-10-08T19:13:00.008-05:00

I believe that sewing makes me a better person. I'm not kidding. I also believe that women who sew are the most giving, generous people in the world today. We sew mostly so we can MAKE THINGS for the people we love...

And you don't have to be biologically connected to be a Sewing Sister...Mary Mulari is the reason I know this for sure...And it seems to me that the Sewing & Stitchery Expo has always brought sewing sisters together....like our friends the Inspired2Sew duo -- Jan and Bonne

Here I am again with the Ya Ya Stalking Sisters....Chris and Judy...

There are sewing sisters ALL OVER THE SHOW...
Sometimes -- LARGE GROUPS of sewing sisters -- coming from another continent, even...

And two of the show favorites -- Helen and Wendy. Who come together in Puyallup every year, even though Wendy now lives in North Carolina (I think...)

Next year -- for the first time -- I've been bugging my ACTUAL SISTERS...Deena sews, and so does Ronda. They would SEW LOVE EXPO...and we could stay at Gail's condo in Tacoma...we would have such a great time!!

But I'm pretty sure DEB IS THE ONLY ONE COMING...she already has some friends in Nashville who come every year...

And she has been embroidering my Expo jackets for several years now...For the 2012 show -- we'll have to make some look-a-like outfits...

THIS IS GOING TO BE SO MUCH FUN...

Send me your sewing-sister-stories! I'd love to write about you and what brings you to Sew Expo!! ritafar@aol.com

Mary Bridge Children's Hospital

2011-10-03T04:00:00.001-05:00

DO NOT FORGET to make some pillowcases for the children at Mary Bridge! The other day I got an email from Chris (of the Judy & Chris Ya Ya Stalker duo) -- and she wanted to know if we were still doing the Pillowcase Patrol.

The answer is a resounding YES, YES, YES...

They used up every single one of our pillowcases, ladies!! SO START SEWING THEM RIGHT NOW...I can't imagine a better use for your sewing talent...!!

According to Barbara -- our contact at Mary Bridge -- your pillowcases PUT MANY SMILES on the faces of children who are in a very scarry place.

Barbara said, "sometimes, we have to tell the kids that their Mommy or Daddy can't go in the room with them -- but they can take this pillowcase..."

2012 Coats & Clark Pro-Am Sewing Exhibition

2011-09-26T08:58:00.006-05:00

2012 Sewing & Stitchery Expo
Coats & Clark Charity Event
Pro/Am Sewing Exhibition

WANTED: Youth sewing enthusiasts!

Twenty lucky young sewists will be paired up with a Sewing Star mentor for a fun and creative sewing experience.

Who: YOU. If you are interested in sewing, and are between the ages of 8 to 22.

What: A Pro-Am Sewing Exhibition, sponsored by Coats & Clark.

Where: The 2012 Sewing & Stitchery Expo, at the Puyallup Fairgrounds.

When: Sunday, March 4, 2012

Why: THREE GOOD REASONS!

1. You are creative! Sew your own outfit to be modeled at the charity event of the biggest consumer sewing show in the USA. You will be mentored by a local sewing expert and a national sewing star.

2. You like free stuff! Each sewist will receive a “Swag Bag” from Sew Expo and the Pro-Am Sewing Stars.

3. You are generous! All the money raised at the charity event will be donated to the Mary Bridge Children’s Hospital. This is a VERY GOOD CAUSE…and your participation can make a difference in the life of a child.

If you are interested, contact: Ryliss Bod—253–380‐6915 or Ryliss@comcast.net

Create a Free Slideshow

Sister's Sew Expo

2011-09-19T04:00:00.000-05:00

My sister Deborah is the best. As you know -- she embroiders ALL MY EXPO SHOW CLOTHES. She is the Empress of Embroidery...and like many of you -- every single thing she sews or embroiders ends up being a GIFT she gives to somebody...

A couple of months ago, we had a chance for a rare dinner out -- and before I knew she did it, she PICKED UP THE BILL...which was sooo wrong....and I'm still kicking myself that I let it happen...

Deborah is always planning the NEXT thing she can do for somebody. Remember the "Deborah New York City Trip"? Here she is with her granddaughter Ally...

She paid for ALL OF US to have dinner at The American Girl...

Deb's posse of girls in NEW YORK CITY...it was a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Deb embroiders more than anybody I ever personally met...every single day....jackets, shirts, blankets, quilts, cars, water heaters. You name it -- and SHE HAS EMBROIDERED IT...

Deborah is one of the most generous people I know. Even though she doesn't talk about it -- she does something kind for another person every single day. Here I am, wearing one of the MANY outfits she embroidered for me. (it says: I'm creative, you can't expect me to be neat, too)

Guess what -- DEB IS COMING TO SEW EXPO!!

I am soo excited!! It's going to be wonderful. I'm PUTTING HER TO WORK...and in the next coupla months -- you'll hear about some projects or events she will be attending.

Because -- at Sew Expo -- WE'RE ALL SEWING SISTERS...!!

Look Who's Coming!!

2011-09-12T04:00:00.002-05:00

Things are moving at lightening speed for the 2012 Sewing & Stitchery Expo.

If you VISIT THE WEBSITE -- you'll see the cover for the 2012 registration brochure. Hey -- the cover is not the hard part...

Of course -- the HARD PART is picking the hundreds of vendors, seminars, style shows, and free stage events that will make up the biggest and best jam-packed, action-filled-four-day-sewing party IN AMERICA.

We're off to a great start. Two of the biggest names in the sewing world will be coming to the 2012 show. It is with great pleasure that we are officially announcing our special event roster:

Alex Anderson will be our special entertainment for Quilter's Night OUT.

AND -- drumroll please -- the fabulous Martha Pullen will be doing our Friday Night LIVE event!

You know it is our mission to make every Sew Expo BETTER THAN THE LAST ONE...and we're working night and day to come up with exciting topics, new seminars, and interesting topics and techniques. Our intention is always that Sew Expo will provide you with the sewing inspiration you need to keep your creative juices going for THE WHOLE YEAR.

I'll keep you posted on what's happening with the show -- and your ONLY JOB is to get there. So mark your calendar -- it's March 1-4, 2012. Bring your friends...plan an outing...make it a sister event.

2012 is the YEAR OF THE SISTERS. Because my sisters, Ronda, Deborah and Deena are all planning to come to the show. I AM SO EXCITED...we are going to have the BEST TIME EVER!! BRING YOUR SISTERS...maybe we should have a Sister Celebration??

Cuz, after all -- we ARE ALL SISTERS IN OUR SEWING...

IPCA Passport Event

2011-08-28T17:34:00.005-05:00

INTERNATIONAL FASHION SEWING COMPETITION
PRODUCED BY INDEPENDENT PATTERN COMPANY ALLIANCE (IPCA)

A fashion sewing competition produced by IPCA, themed “Midnight Magic” launches September 6, 2011. Contestants will create a garment from any of the eight IPCA pattern company’s collections and submit photos with an application form by January 26, 2012.

March 1-4, 2012 semi-finalists entries will travel to the fabulous Sewing Stitchery Expo in Puyallup, WA where attendees of the expo will be invited to vote for their favorite. Each of the IPCA members will display up to 3 semi-finalists with one winning the “People’s Choice” award of a $100 gift certificate from that pattern company. On Sunday, March 4th a very special fashion show with door prizes will be presented at the expo and the People’s Choice award announced.

March 6-16 semi-finalists will be presented in a slide show on the very popular modern sewing site, BurdaStyle.com, where thousands of international visitors will be able to vote for their favorite garments electronically.

March 19 - 21 all semi-finalists will be presented in Las Vegas at the exclusive trade show, International Textile Expo. Entries will be featured in the annual IPCA fashion show produced for the textile trade professionals. During the expo, a fashion exhibit will showcase the garments for attendees to get an up-close view. Grand Prize winners will be announced and prizes awarded during this event.

For complete rules and application go to: www.patterncompanies.com

The Independent Pattern Company Alliance is made up of Independent Fashion Pattern companies who have joined forces to increase awareness of quality independent pattern companies. These fine companies are: Dana Marie Designs, Fashion Patterns by Coni, Great Copy Patterns, Islander Sewing Systems, Kayla Kennington Pattern Collection, LJ Designs, Petite Plus Patterns, and Saf-T-Pocket Patterns.

Sponsors of this contest include. Baby Lock providing the grand prize of a Baby Lock Symphony sewing machine, Sewing and Stitchery Expo, American Sewing Expo, Fine Fabric Stores, Distinctive Sewing Supplies, Waetcher’s Fine Fabrics, Kai Scissors, Supreme Novelty Fabrics, Bosal, Schmetz, BurdaStyle.com, Professional Sewing Supplies, Superior Thread, Rowenta, Dress Rite Forms, Fabulous Fit, Pendleton Wool and Gold Star Tool.

2012 Registration Brochure

2011-08-22T04:00:00.002-05:00

THIS IS ALWAYS SO EXCITING. The teachers have sent in their seminar proposals -- if you know of a new, exciting teacher -- be sure to tell Ann Sagawa (asagawa@wsu.edu) because there is still a little time. (altho, the deadline was Aug 2).

We are working on the cover for the new brochure. Maybe a "shopping picture" would be good. I love this one...
But, for the cover, it needs to be"vertical"... so here are some of my favorite 2011 shopping pictures. Do you see yourself in any of these pictures?

You get some VERY SERIOUS SHOPPING done at Sew Expo...

Thanks again for playing our shopping game...

This is a great picture...of our crowded aisles...

Maybe your picture will be on the cover of the 2012 Registration Brochure...

LOADING up on some fabric bargains...

Rushing to your next class?

Spending time with your best friend? Like Helen and Wendy...(just in case they read the blog today)...

Our vendors work hard to bring colorful, creative booth decorations...

Pacific Fabrics always has an exciting theme going....

The weather was nearly perfect...(if you live in the Pacific Northwest, that is...)

You came out in droves....THANK GOODNESS.....

AND, there was something for everybody!! I hope you've enjoyed my review of "vertical shopping pictures"....

And one of these days --I'll have to post some pictures of what I made out of the zebra fabric!!

Mystery Speaker

2011-08-15T04:00:00.000-05:00

I AM SOOO EXCITED.

Every year, we try to top ourselves. If you come to Sew Expo, you know we added special "evening events" several years ago.

Last year, we had two blockbuster nights. Nancy Zieman was our entertainment for "Friday Night LIVE" -- and Ricky Tims presented his show for our "Quilter's Night Out" on Saturday night.

Both events were sold-out. Do you know where you were sitting?

Can you find yourself?

AND -- can you guess who will be our special entertainment for 2012??

Oh, yes, this is really going to be fun...

Mary's Stalker Gift

2011-08-08T04:00:00.000-05:00

You will remember that the Ya Ya Stalkers came to the 2011 show loaded with GIFTS...

Mine was a zebra-striped ironing board cover, complete with t-shirt FRINGE!! There is no end to the imagination of these two inventive sewists...

Here's my favorite group shot...the four of us standing behind MARY's special gift...

Once you get a closer look -- of course, you can see Mary's ironing board cover is made out of sewing fabric...and can you see what the fringe is made out of??

A thousand PONY TAIL HOLDERS!! They are attached with golden metallic fasteners...

That's right -- SAFETY PINS...!!

WAY TO GO, GIRLS!!! Mary and I were completely stunned by your creative efforts. It ALMOST makes me want to iron something...

Zebra Book Journey

2011-08-01T04:00:00.001-05:00

In 2009, we had a Sew Expo design contest. John Deere developed some embroidery designs -- and the projects were amazing. One of our favorites -- Sandra -- made this awesome umbrella. In this picture, with John Deere and Rhonda Pierce of Schmetz needles...receiving her prize...

Fast Forward. I got bit by the Zebra bug...and I was writing about it all the time. In 2010, Ann Sagawa gave me my favorite Zebra watch and a Zebra purse...and SHE had a zebra manicure!!

Last week, you heard about my Zebra ironing board cover from Judy & Chris -- the Ya Ya Stalkers...

The most amazing KARMA "zebra gift" story is about a zebra book I received at the 2011 Sewing & Stitchery Expo. I was rushing from one building to another (yes, I am capable of rushing -- in short spurts). Umbrella Sandra was in a class, and she surprised me with a zebra journal. PERFECT -- right?? Shockingly -- London actually took this picture at the MOMENT Sandra was giving me the zebra book. You can see the top of her head...I didn't even realize I HAD this picture...

Remember -- Sandra gave me the zebra book at the 2011 Sew Expo in Puyallup. I had no idea where Sandra lived. And she could have had no idea that I'd be using the Zebra book when I attended the 2011 Spring Quilt Market two months later -- in Salt Lake City...

Well -- guess what? Sandra LIVES IN Salt Lake City. And -- furthermore -- she CAME TO QUILT MARKET...

I was working in the Schmetz booth when Sandra came up to say "hello"...and I SHOWED HER THE ZEBRA BOOK...

Which had come full circle. Sandra bought it in Salt Lake City and took it with her to Puyallup to give to me. I took it back to Iowa, and two months later, it went with me to Salt Lake City. Back where it started. And, without even trying -- I bumped into the WOMAN WHO BOUGHT IT...right there in Salt Lake City...

I am telling you. It's the magic of the Zebra stripes...!! Karma is a wonderful thing...

CTA's Rock!!

2011-07-25T04:00:00.002-05:00

Yes -- this is going to be another one of those "it takes a village" posts. If you are reading this blog, you are a fan of the Sewing & Stitchery Expo. So you already know how important the CTA's are...They are the backbone of the show...

Women who give their time and their energy all year long -- because of their love of sewing. Women like Cathy Swenson....here at last year's Expo....

She wouldn't want to be singled out -- so I'm posting some pictures of other CTA's -- our unsung heros...I know Darlene is doing something important here...

And, the Inspired-2-Sew show needs TWO CTA dresser-helpers to stay on their schedule...

Connie and friend are guarding the back of a seminar room...

Behind the scenes, every model for every style show has her own "dresser"

At the 2010 Ya Ya show -- we gave a special recycled wool gift to Cathy -- who was in the middle of cancer chemo treatment...

Princess is helping people donate their pillowcases...

CTA Laura played our Ya Ya recycling game -- and her "2009 doorprize" garish hot pink sweater turned into an adorable 2010 mascot moose.

It was Laura who sent me some great photos of the Coats & Clark Pro-Am Sewing event -- so many of the young sewists spent time in Cathy Swenson's LARGE BEAUTIFUL sewing studio...Cathy's smile lights up the whole room, she is so pleased to see the young sewists' enthusiasm. And from what I've heard over the years -- Cathy is the first one to share EVERYTHING she loves....especially her love of sewing...

I will never be able to meet ALL the CTA's. It took me years to understand what they do -- and I still don't know EVERYTHING they put into SewExpo. In so many important ways, this has always been THEIR show. They volunteer their time -- they come, they work, they hostess, they smile, they help...

They do it throughout the year -- and they do it for very little thanks.

Here's a little bit of thanks. CTA'S ROCK. Cathy Swenson rocks. Cathy's cancer is back. This blog post is my "thinking of you" card. If you have snail-mail skills -- and want to tell Cathy how much you love Sew Expo -- she would love to hear your Expo stories...

Cathy Swenson, PO Box 131, Kapowsin, WA 98344

If you would rather email -- send it to me and I'll forward it: ritafar@aol.com

Everybody is dealing with something. Health problems, economic issues, natural disasters. We ALL DEAL WITH BAD STUFF...it's a part of life. But Expo has always been that once-a-year-oasis. That brief moment in an entire year when women who love sewing could come together -- put their bad stuff on a back burner -- and simply wallow in our mutual love of sewing. I know you would hate to be singled out, Cathy. But what you do for other people really is exceptional -- because you share everything...

I wanted to say THANK YOU to Cathy Swenson and all the other unsung CTAs who help to put together the Sewing & Stitchery Expo. Please know that we ARE grateful.

And, Cathy -- we are sending up our collective Sew Expo prayers...

Ricky Tims Comes To Town

2011-07-18T04:00:00.002-05:00

Most of the time -- I have ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA what I will write about in this weekly blog post. But this week was a no-brainer. Today, I get to write about the fabulous Ricky Tims.
He was our special entertainment for the 2011 Quilter's Night Out. Here's a picture of Ricky, along with Becky Keck of Bernina (THANK-YOU, BERNINA)...and me. Ricky was about to put on his hat and begin the performance...

Of the 1200 pictures I have of the 2011 Sewing & Stitchery Expo -- this is one of my favorites. London used her long distance lens to get this shot. Ricky is already lost in his music -- you can see the audience behind him. AND the other side of the audience is reflected in the mirrored piano. Wow...

It was THAT KIND of an evening...Ricky's music was haunting and unforgettable...

And his story-telling was world-class.

At the end of the evening, I don't think there was a dry eye in the place. AND THIS WEEK, I GET TO DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN. We all have the chance to see Ricky's concert this Friday night -- July 22, at the Waterfront convention center in Bettendorf, Iowa. And I am being joined by some of my family and friends. Sisters, cousins, sewing buddies.

Ricky is coming to Bettendorf, Iowa to do a 3 day quilting retreat with Alex Anderson and Libby Lehman.

It will be a very special event - and if you have any chance to attend Ricky's concert on Friday night -- JUST DO IT..!!

It will be an evening you will never forget...maybe I'll see you there.

And -- stay tuned -- because next month, I hope to announce who will be hosting the 2012 QUILTER'S NIGHT OUT!!

2011 Stalker Surprise!!

2011-07-11T04:00:00.000-05:00

Because Chris and Judy have attended EVERY SINGLE YA YA SHOW Mary Mulari and I ever presented in Puyallup (one year they came to the SAME seminar three times in one day)....we started calling them "stalkers"...

This is a picture of me with them at the 2009 Expo...(who knew this would be my THIN picture?!) They brought me a BIG PACKAGE of various gifts...I was deep into my Pink Flamingo phase...
When we did our evening Ya Ya show -- they went undercover...disguised as the Blues Brothers...

They ALWAYS PLAY ALONG -- enthusiastically planning their outfits for every event. That year, at the Pink & Red charity event.

At this year's show -- they were the first to line up with a passel-o-pillowcases for the children of Mary Bridge...
And -- YES -- THEY ALWAYS COME WITH GIFTS...Can you see what they made for me? It's something custom...this year, they honored my devotion to the zebra stripe...

NO KIDDING -- it's an ironing board cover!! HOW CLEVER IS THAT???

Hey -- a girl can NEVER have too many zebra striped ironing board covers...

THANKS AGAIN, CHRIS AND JUDY...you are the best stalkers anybody ever had. Awesome job...

Wait until you see what they made for Mary!!

Look Who I Ran Into!!

2011-07-04T04:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Fourth of July!! I hope you had a picnic with the people you love -- and don't get around to reading my boring blog until at last the day after...lol...

THANKS again for your kind remarks about the post-show newsletter. We DO KNOW that the large majority of you are very, very happy with Expo and it is heartwarming to read all the positive emails that followed that newsletter. Please be assured, once again, that the complaints are few and far between -- and we know what we can change and what we can't. Thanks for being so supportive...

As you know - I attend a lot of sewing events, all over the country -- and it is always fun for me to run into Expo speakers. In May at Sewing Weekend in Beaver Dam -- I heard somebody holler, "HI RITA" -- and I turned to see the smiling faces of Cindy and Ron Losekamp...

One of these pictures was from Puyallup -- the other is from Beaver Dam...I'm telling you -- always smiling no matter where I see them.

Cindy's Beaver Dam classes were packed -- and I thought I should ask her what's new...

THEN I remembered -- I have the power to do a little video!!

To see what new stuff Cindy is working on -- be sure to visit her website: Sew Artfully Yours

Post Show Newsletter Feedback

2011-06-27T04:00:00.002-05:00

Dear Expo Fans,

YOU ARE AMAZING!! Every year, when Joanne writes the "post show newsletter" -- she responds to the complaints and/or suggestions we received after the show. And you, in turn, respond by telling us how SHOCKED YOU ARE THAT ANYBODY WOULD COMPLAIN ABOUT THE SHOW!!

Relax...

We KNOW how much you love the show. And we KNOW the complaints are actually few and far between -- and frequently about things we do not control...

The point is -- YES --we DO READ every single suggestion. But NO -- we're not fishing for compliments.

But HEY...it's been wonderful to get all your fan letters, telling us how much you love the show and appreciate everything about the Sewing & Stitchery Expo. We know you understand how hard we work to keep the cost down, while providing world-class special events, hundreds of seminars, a wonderful vendor floor, exciting FREE style shows, FREE parking, etc.

I'll be sharing some of the wonderful, positive emails we've received...this is one of my favorites:

********

Hello Rita,

I just finished reading your newsletter. I attended the Expo in 2008 and 2009. I would love nothing better than to be there every year, but I live in the Toronto area. So it just isn't possible.

Having read the many suggestions, I have to write and tell you how Sew Expo compares to the Toronto shows. While of course there are many positive suggestions, in many cases I think the ladies who attend Sew Expo really don't appreciate how good they've got it! The fall Toronto show is "downtown." Parking is outrageously expensive. I can't say how much it costs, because I don't drive down there. It is just too scary! If you can park for $20/day I would be amazed. $30 or more is more likely! I either take the GO Train down or more often, I have someone drop me off a hotel the night before and pick me up at the end of the show, or after the day or two that I attend. (Yes, I am counting my blessings... grateful to have both friends and relatives to ferry me back and forth!) The spring show has been at the International Centre near the airport for several years. Traffic is very busy down there, but I manage it. Parking is free, but the lots are huge! They surround the building. As there are usually multiple events taking place there at the same time, parking is scarce. Handicapped spaces (I also have a permit, as does my daughter) are hard to find. The one thing they do there that gets them a gold star is that they set aside some of the closest regular spaces near the main doors as temporary handicapped parking, and if you are fortunate you may get one of those spots. Otherwise, bring your hiking boots and your cane!

While we have had some good classes and wonderful teachers, there are oodles of teachers that we have never seen in Toronto!!! The number and variety of classes here can't hold a candle to Puyallup!

Now I have read, and heard personally, some complaints both about the quality of the food, and its costs. I hope you will tell all of the Puyallup attendees that they are dining on gourmet fare compared to Toronto. And we are paying three times as much for about the worst food imaginable!

The Toronto show is put on by a private company. They are interested in only one thing: money. I will relate an experience that underscores this fact and should help to show how your show is superior! One year, fall show, I planned to go for either two or three of the four days. I selected my classes and sent in my registration and class fees. One of the classes I elected to take was available on two days. I would only be at the show on one of the days, so of course that is when I scheduled it. Shortly before the show I received a phone call, telling me that my class had been moved to Monday, I think it was... which was a day I would not be attending. I told them that, and they suggested I choose another course. I replied that I had already taken all of the classes I wanted, and there simply wasn't another one I was interested in. I asked for a refund. They refused and told me I would have to take the class on the Monday. While they have a strict "no refund" policy, I thought applying it when they had changed the class was beyond unfair. I told them so, and they refused to budge! My daughter ended up taking the class in my place while I looked after my grandson. Contrast that with your policy which lets you exchange the lecture tickets, and cash in the class tickets at will, within a certain reasonable time frame if I am remembering correctly!

Well, there are lots of other reasons I prefer the Puyallup show, but those are the main reasons. While I didn't linger long on the subject, the wonderful classes and teachers offered are the first and foremost reason... nothing like that here! While I know it's human nature to, well, complain a little ;) and indeed there are probably some who would love to attend the Toronto show and would dismiss my complaints, I just had to write and tell you what a good job your group is doing with the Puyallup show. Maybe if these ladies realize that they are already on the side of the fence with the greener grass they will count their blessings, and as Ann Landers used to say, "kwitcherbeefin'".

I'll be back as soon as I can... happy knees would be nice, and no urgent family issues and no more renovations... those are what held me back these last two years!

Happy Stitching!
A Fan in Canada!!

Post Show Newsletter

2011-06-22T12:26:00.003-05:00

Joanne sent out the official post-show newsletter. If you did NOT receive it in your email, you are NOT on our official email list. Go to the show website to sign up: Sewexpo.com

I am putting the newsletter in this blog. Sorry I could not make the "header" come up properly...

Although it sounds like there was a lot of complaining -- that's really not true. Don't worry!! We KNOW 2011 WAS A GREAT SHOW and WE HAVE THOUSANDS OF VERY HAPPY ATTENDEES!! But, as you know, we do review every single suggestion...and we're always working to make NEXT year the best Expo ever...!!

________________________________________

Now that we've caught our breath...

Summer greetings to Expo fans,

Since my winters are spent in Arizona these days, it has taken me a couple of months to get back to you regarding all of your suggestions. We never tire of reading your comments and we take them seriously. Below are the issues you raised about Expo 2011, and our responses. The categories are in alphabetical order.
ADA
One request repeated each year is for a shuttle between the fairgrounds and the parking lot. I know only too well how nice that would be, but the high cost of liability and insurance is not something the Expo or the University wishes to take on. As for the handicapped parking spaces, that is a fairgrounds issue. We do not assign those spaces but we will share your comments with the management. And the fairgrounds will not allow tour buses inside the gates. But we will find a bench to put outside the theater for those who cannot stand.
ADMISSION
Children 10 and under get in free, but they must have a ticket to attend seminars. In most seminars seats are limited at best.
As for prices, we did not raise prices last year and will not raise them this coming year. We work really hard to keep costs down. And we rent the parking lots so you have free parking. We will not have a multiday entrance ticket because it is too hard for the gates to handle and simplicity keeps our costs down.
AV
Yes, at times the sound system doesn’t work perfectly, cameras don’t always aim at the right thing, and the lady in front has a hat that blocks the view. It is certainly not the way we planned it and we do have sound guys on the grounds at all times, but we are in a fairgrounds and we do the best we can. Please forgive us, we will try to improve as always.
BOOKMARKS
Yes, we will put the rule back on them. Enough said.
BOOTHS
We request that vendors prominently display their booth numbers where they are visible. BUT we can only let them know it is to their advantage. We have made the aisle signs very visible and we hope that helps. We are passing your comments on to the vendors.
BROCHURE
The address for the fairgrounds is on page 36, where the map is for all you GPS users. I have requested that it be more visible next year…like on the front page! It is also on our website.
For all of our old friends who did not receive a brochure in the mail, I do apologize. It was not our intent to leave you out. There may be several reasons for this but to make sure our mailing list is correct, we will be sending a postcard this summer to each of you via first class mail. It will not require any action if you receive it and your address is correct. If you do not receive the postcard, in August, please go to the website www.sewexpo.com and sign up for the mailing list.
When you look at the class schedule in the brochure, the days for the classes are listed. For example: Thursday/Saturday. This means the class is NOT available on Friday unless Friday is listed.
You still may use the registration form from the back of the brochure or from downloading one off the website. We still process snail mail.
CARTS/STROLLERS
This topic generates our greatest number of complaints. We request NO CARTS or STROLLERS. But we must accommodate any ADA requests. Sometimes when you see roller carts or computer carts on wheels, they are vendors bringing in merchandise. We know carts are dangerous. We offer package check in the State Patrol Building directly next to the Pavilion.
WE BEG YOU to leave those carts at home and avoid hurting someone. If you receive a look or negative comment, you can be assured it will probably be related to your cart!
CHILD CARE
I am sorry, but we cannot offer child care. Our focus must remain on providing the best sewing show possible.
CLASSROOM SET-UP
I know those chairs are too small and too close together. BUT the blame is on the fire marshal. Fire code requires that those chairs be hooked together.
No, we will not use the Restaurant Building next year. In fact, we are going to look seriously at all the available space and do some minor revisions to make our available space accommodate the seminars in a better way. We are trying to do the best we can with the facility we have. If you think this is bad, remember when we didn’t have the ShowPlex?
All other suggestions are being considered and our goal is to find ways to suit your needs.
CLOVER HALL
It seems you need more ironing boards. That means more space for them. We are looking at a fix for this problem with perhaps more smaller ironing spaces in each classroom. I am sure you will see a change next year.
COUPON BOOKS FOR SUNDAY ONLY
Yes, you loved them and we are looking to do a better job for 2012. Rita has taken on this task and I am sure you will hear about it in future newsletters.
CTAs/VOLUNTEERS
I know these ladies are absolutely the best. For years they have been the heart and soul of the Expo. One of us can have a bad day now and then, but trust me, these volunteers don’t get any better.
DOOR PRIZES
I have heard your suggestions. From now on there will hopefully be door prizes in all seminars. BUT PLEASE hear me on this one. All door prizes are given by vendors and speakers. We are very lucky to have them and as the economy has worsened, the vendors have felt the pinch too. Being in a show of this caliber is quite expensive for vendors. They have to pay for travel, shipping goods, hotels, food, booth space, etc. I am not sure if you really know how expensive it is to just be in a show of this caliber. So my guess is that before anyone can start to sell, they have around $2,000 or more invested. And then there is the cost of what they are selling.
So please realize that door prizes are the icing on the cake. Like a birthday gift, it is wonderful to receive but should never be expected. And a BIG THANK YOU to those vendors who have supported us through the years.
FAIRGROUNDS/FOOD
All your comments related to the fairgrounds and food are forwarded to fairgrounds management. They control the food vendors, restrooms, doors, and all facilities. We do not choose the food a vendor sells, the prices they charge, or their schedules. We just rent the facilities but we do pass on your comments.
Yes, we know there is cold water in the bathrooms. Again, this is what the fairgrounds provide. And, considering there are as many as 8,000 folks trying to use the bathroom facilities each day, there could be some bad smells although none of us would take responsibility for them.
FREE STUFF
What free stuff? If you mean shopping bags, they were never free. In fact they priced themselves pretty high. And we made the decision to go green. We all have many tote bags, shopping bags, grocery bags, etc. Let’s use them.
Someone said, “Tough times, more freebees.” I can only respond by saying nothing is free. It costs someone and we are trying to keep our costs low as well. We thank those vendors who support goodie bags, etc. But they are feeling the squeeze too.
FUTURE EVENTS
Your suggestions for a fabric exchange sounded good until we analyzed it. I am not sure where we could do that. And who would take all those polyesters that no one wants when the Expo is over? I think you had better do this event in your local community.
Having a quilt contest would be a large burden for us. It would require a lot of organization, space for display, judging, etc. We want to leave that to the county fairs and quilt shows.
HANDS-ON CLASSES
For those of you who take the pre-Expo classes, we will try to have coffee and tea available in the future. As I said, we are trying to solve the ironing board problem.
Kit fees are determined by the instructor. We try to make sure kits are worth the price and that you know about it. It is listed in the brochure. When we send out tickets, we included a bright orange “kit-fee/supply list” with the order. It is also listed online. You must read carefully.
When there are scheduling problems (i.e., a Pfaff machine was listed and you ended up on a Brother machine, and you specifically wanted to learn to use your Pfaff) you need to let us know right then. Perhaps we can put you in a different class. BUT, these classes are NOT offered so you can learn to use your machine. They are offered so you can learn a technique and/or a process. We may never have the brand or model of sewing machine you own anyway. I am sorry if this happened to you. We did try to contact all students before the class. The dealers graciously loan the machines for your use and usually they bring what they say they will.
HUSBANDS
We have tried the TV area for husbands…no one used it. WiFi is free and available at the Fairgrounds.
MARY BRIDGE CHARITY EVENT
Wow, you were just wonderful in supporting this event with more than 2,400 pillowcases! That is a lot of sewing and at least some of your stash must be gone now. We are going to do it again, thanks to your enthusiasm and generosity. So, keep on sewing and digging into the stash.
MISCELLANEOUS
This section is always full of a wide range of topics. I hope I address the most important ones. First, the clocks. I would guess most of us have watches, or a cell phone. The fairgrounds doesn’t provide clocks. But we will ask about it.
We cannot change the dates of the Expo! We are locked into the ninth weekend after the holidays with the fairgrounds every year. We are not their only event and the fairgrounds have a schedule that not even I can change.
Gates open one-half hour before any class starts. So, I am not sure what the problem is for getting to a class. Gates open at 8 a.m. normally. Workers are allowed in earlier.
Lost and Found is at the Information Booth in the Pavilion. I will request that it be mentioned on Page 36 of the brochure.
We will start announcing when the show is closed in each building. But when we do announce it, it means the show is really over!
When you have a comment or suggestion, please be specific about the time and place, etc. Even a name and phone number would help so we can get more information. We have received several comments we would love to follow up on, but we have no idea who wrote them and we need more information. And please don’t stuff the suggestion box; it is always obvious to us.
ONLINE REGISTRATION/ADMISSION TICKETS
If there was ever a time when I wanted to run for the hills, it could have been the first day of online registration. And may we all give a big round of applause to the Ticket Committee and Ann Sagawa for making this happen and working out all the flaws and details. Yes, I will take the credit for the computer crash because I am the one who made the decision to go online at 10 a.m. Monday. How could I have said that? And then 2,000 people wanted to buy tickets at the same time.
We know there were glitches. We learned, we corrected, and we also know there will no doubt be some glitches in the future. We don’t know what … but we will never announce a start time again. It will be a secret until I die!
Our intent is to charge a $4 handling fee per ticket order. However, that fee may change if the order is for more than one person. This is why we don’t use big ticketing companies because they charge for each ticket purchased ($10 each).
So, we have heard all the complaints regarding registration and we hope to have all those pesky little things taken care of for 2012.
We DO NOT take credit cards at the gates because of the time involved when hundreds of you want to enter at the same time. Please bring enough cash to pay the gate fee.
Thanks!
Again, if you did not get a brochure in the mail, it had nothing to do with online registration. If you are on our mailing list, you will get a brochure.
BUT LISTEN TO ME, PLEASE: Our mailing list is a result of your ordering seminar tickets in past years. This list is purged each year. If you have not ordered seminar tickets through the mail or online prior to the Expo for the last five years, you may not be on the list. You must sign up on our website, www.sewexpo.com.
PACKAGE/COAT CHECK
This is run by volunteers who do it for a nominal fee. We can ask they stay open longer but the Expo officially closes at 6 p.m. most days and 4 p.m. on Sunday. We ask that you give those folks a break too.
There simply is no space inside the Showplex for a coat check booth.
PARKING
I know the parking lot can get full quickly. I also know some of you think the attendants are of no help while others think we should hire some (we do hire them). The reality is, we rent the lots and give you free parking. The only other solution (since we are not in the parking business) is to let the fairgrounds charge for parking and run the lots. I don’t like that option.
There are NEVER enough handicapped spaces. I know this because I have a handicap placard too. It doesn’t matter if I go to the grocery store, the mall, or a restaurant … there are never enough handicapped spaces. And I cannot invent them or change them, though I truly wish I could.
RESTAURANT BUILDING
I hear you! We will not use this building again. It is too noisy, too cold, too light, etc.
We are working on a plan to offer fewer classes and eliminate the building. I am sorry that we put you all though that misery. I apologize. We are currently taking all the heated buildings the Fair has to offer. We have no other options.
SEMINARS
I apologize again for any teacher who started early or ended early. That is not what we expect to happen. Again, if you let us know who it was, we can talk with them. We also expect they teach the entire 45 minutes or whatever the length of the class is.
We do our very best to describe the classes the way the instructor wants it done. They are required to give us a detailed description of their class offerings and when we don’t understand them, we call them. Sometimes instructors change their minds between the time they send us the information and the time the class occurs at the Expo.
We have taken note of the feedback you gave us about particular speakers and sent your comments on to them.
VENDORS AND SPEAKERS
We know there are not enough needlework vendors. We appreciate your suggestions but they are hard to find. So, if you know them, ask them to contact us.
We have received several complaints about a couple of vendors being rude. We are taking steps to eliminate the problem.
As for beginning classes, the reason there are not more of them is because they don’t fill up and teachers don’t want to teach them. It is as simple as that. We need full classes to make the Expo budget. This year we offered “Basics for the Beginning Seamstress” on Wednesday. It was an all-day class and only five people bought tickets. When we offer similar classes during the Expo, only a handful of people take them.

Well, that sums up the really big concerns. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at the changes we are making for next year as a result of your comments. And some of your favorite speakers are returning too. We will have some really big announcements later this summer and we hope you have already made plans for attending the 2012 Expo.

I thank you for your patronage and wish you the very best summer and fall possible. Now it’s time for me to go pick my peonies and enjoy the summer fragrance. They are one of my favorite things.
See you in 2012,
Joanne Ross
Director

Technology Planning Meeting

2011-06-20T04:00:00.000-05:00

When you think about it, technology has absolutely CHANGED THE WAY WE DO BUSINESS. Hey -- that's no surprise to YOU (cuz you are, after all, READING THIS ON A BLOG, ON YOUR COMPUTER...)

But during our May planning meeting -- it was evident from the first moment....here's Janet, hooked up to her computer...which, incidentally, looks exactly like my computer...

And, of course, our resident 'techie" -- Ann -- looking at her computer -- with her new I-Pad also set up and ready to do some advanced work for Expo...

Of course, WE ALL HAVE OUR CELLPHONES....and ya'll know I LIVE ON MY COMPUTER... Most of the time, if you send me an email, you get a reply before you have a chance to eat a Twinkie...

This is my FAVORITE techie shot of the day. As I was getting ready to play a PowerPoint of "possible new vendors" -- we have the camera working, but not my laptop. Janet is trying to fix it when I realize the two of us are up on the big screen...so I took a picture OF ME TAKING A PICTURE...how cool is that?

This is my FAVORITE PICTURE of the 2012 Planning Meeting. We worked really hard on this day...going over every single thing. We analyzed the 2011 show -- which was amazing...but, of course, we want to make 2012 even better. We need to figure out what went wrong with the mailing of the Registration Brochure last December....we want to improve our online registration system....and we need to deal with decreased attendance of the One-Needle classes...it would be great if we could improve our Sunday attendance...
SO -- WE HAVE COME UP WITH SOME new plans. We are excited about the new vendors who have applied to the show. There will be some new style show events, and a new Nooner show, and the IPCA is working up an event...and, believe it or not -- we've already hired our Friday Night LIVE and Quilter's Night Out speakers...

As soon as the contracts are signed -- I'll make the announcement...because I AM BURSTING TO TELL YOU. If you are on our "mailing list" -- there will be a first-class postcard sent out this summer, so that we can clean that list up. So -- if you aren't sure -- please go to the SewExpo website right now and SIGN UP...so that you will receive the 2012 Registration Brochure in the mail (in December)

Mark your calendars -- March 1-4, 2012...

SEE YOU THERE...

We Love-Hate the Tents

2011-06-13T04:00:00.002-05:00

As you know -- at our recent planning meeting, we reviewed every single comment we received from YOU -- our valued attendees. There are some things we simply cannot control -- like the WEATHER. And, of course, the first week in March -- you can put your money on cold and damp...

And, as hard as we try (we rent the biggest heaters available) there is an element of cold and damp inside the tents...

But the tent classrooms SEAT A LOT OF PEOPLE...and, it's only possible to keep the One-Needle classes at $5 because we can SEAT A LOT OF PEOPLE...

If we moved the show to a convention center the rooms would be perfectly heated and/or air-conditioned -- and the $5 One-Needle classes would cost $20 each.

By using the tent -- it's just a two minute walk for you (from either the Pavilion or the Showplex) to get to the "L" classroom -- where popular speakers like Nancy Zieman and Eleanor Burns were able to teach to a packed house..
Right out the side door of the Showplex -- the Centennial Building has two large classrooms. Mary Mulari taught in one of those tent classrooms. Her class SOLD OUT -- thank you very much. Those ticket sales help us pay the rent...not to mention our six-figure AV bill...

So, as you can see -- there are two big advantages to our tent classrooms. First of all -- they seat A LOT OF PEOPLE... Secondly -- THEY ARE CLOSE TO THE ACTION. Because you only have 15 minutes between classes -- using the tents makes it possible for you to TAKE MORE CLASSES....

This year, for some pre-show classes, we rented another building. The Pauhamus building. It is a lovely building...with real walls and actual temperature control....

BUT if you took one of those classes -- you know HOW FAR AWAY this building is. Renting the Paulhamus building costs way more than renting the tents (yes, we must pay for every space we use)...and it's so far off the reservation -- if we were to use it during the show -- we'd have to provide a shuttle service. Even if we did that -- it wouldn't replace all the seats we have in the tents...so we'd have to raise the $5 ticket price...

See what I'm sayin'?? We discussed all of this during our planning meeting. IT IS COMPLICATED. But, during these tough economic times, we are working hard NOT TO RAISE ticket prices...which is only possible if we continue to use the tents...

So -- you should know that we do read all your suggestions. But we don't control the weather. And we hate it that the tents can be cold and damp.

But we love it that they are big and near the action...

Maybe we should rent sweaters??

Sew Expo @ Quilt Market

2011-06-05T04:00:00.001-05:00

The mission of this blog is to show you the "behind the scenes" of the Sewing & Stitchery Expo. People work 365 days a year to make sure the S&SE is the biggest and best consumer sewing show in America. It is a joy for me to represent Expo at industry trade shows like the International Quit Market. This is a picture of me in Salt Lake City -- showing off one of my 2011 S&SE jackets

I had a lovely meeting with the Kwik-Sew people...here I am with Ellen...they were BRAND NEW vendors at the 2011 show and YOU BLEW THEM AWAY. It will be exciting for me to tell you, in future posts, what they are bringing for 2012...

I'm not the only one who decided to wear a message on my back...Here's Sean and Brian of the LikeSew Website company.....these guys are actually FROM Salt Lake City....so they owned this year's Spring Quilt Market...

I found Peggy Schafer, a wonderful friend to Expo -- in the Prym-Dritz booth. I got some great video of a new product that they'll be BRINGING TO THE 2012 show...(You have to keep reading this blog, of course!!)

And here's a picture of the FRONT of me and Sean. He was THE MAN who programmed our online registration...

As you know, there were some problems -- but SEAN IS GOING TO FIX ALL THAT...The first year is always a learning curve. His exact words to me were, "I didn't fully understand the scope of the show..."

Imagine me, rolling my eyes, and saying, 'I TRIED TO TELL YOU!!"

Believe me -- NEXT YEAR IS GOING TO BE AMAZING...

Hands-On Classes

2011-05-31T04:00:00.001-05:00

Wednesday is "set-up" day at the show. It is UNBELIEVABLE how much work goes into building a vendor floor. There are hundreds of trucks, moving in and out, taking their turns offloading the shelving, tables, displays, boxes and crates of merchandise...this is what it looked like in 2011:

We decided, several years ago, to do hands-on classes on Wednesday. WOW! What a great idea! Our hands-on sewing machine classes sell out very quickly. AND YOU LOVE THEM..!!

Of course, a big reason for the success of these classes is the machine companies that provide the sewing machines for the rooms in Clover hall...

Thank you, Pfaff...

And Thank-you, Baby Lock...
(Yes, we know you loved Candace Jewett...she is amazing...)

Thank-you, Brother...

And Thank-you, Bernina....
Here's the way it works. These wonderful sewing machine companies equip a room in Clover Hall with 30 machines AND they provide a tech.

SewExpo teachers are all encouraged to submit topics (some have favorite companies) -- and Ann & Joanne do their best to "match them up". Because we only have 30 seats in each classroom, many of these classes sell out on the first day. Some topics are wildly popular...

If you took one of these three-needle hands-on machine classes -- you know how much work goes into it. The teachers plan their project well in advance, assemble and ship their kits to Puyallup, etc.

During our recent 2012 Planning Meeting, we reviewed every single class. We'd like to thank you, our fabulous attendees, FOR SIGNING UP, and of we'd also like to thank our wonderful teachers for BRINGING IT.

The Sewing & Stitchery Expo provides more hands-on classes than any consumer show in America. It is a lot of work for everybody involved -- but your enthusiastic response to our class schedule makes it ALL A WORTHWHILE EFFORT!!

Day One: 2012 Planning Meeting

2011-05-23T04:00:00.001-05:00

This is just a random airport picture. It feels like I spent most of the month of May in a plane, train or automobile -- traveling. (actually, there were only pictures of trains -- no actual rides)...

On my first day in Puyallup -- we hit the ground running -- with a meeting of all the committee heads. As you can see -- IT TAKES A VILLAGE...EVERYBODY in this picture has a job. Ticket committee, CTA organizer, Door Prize chairman, etc. It was very interesting for me to be a part of this recap meeting. Thanks for inviting me, ladies!!

During the lunch break, Mary Collen (Style Show manager) is trying to show me and Ann how we can download a free QR reader to our smartphones...to receive advertising, special offers, coupons, etc. Don't get your hopes up -- we're still a coupla years away from actual smartphone marketing.

Or -- maybe I'm wrong! Do you have a smartphone? Do you know what a QR reader is? I have a new "smartphone" -- but the problem is -- a phone is only really as smart as the person operating it. So my poor phone doesn't get to show off very often...

Somebody should be selling a "smartphone for dummies"...

Anyway -- on Day Two -- the Expo team got down to brass tacks. (that means, yes, it was painful)...We started off by reviewing EVERY SINGLE SUGGESTION OR COMPLAINT. In Joann's after-the-show newsletter, you'll get to read all about it.

Guess what the #1 complaint was?? Truly, it was a tie....

#1: The bathrooms stink......or,

Also #1 complaint: Room (tent so & so) was too cold.

If those are the two biggest complaints -- maybe we did good, eh?? Obviously, there isn't much we can do about bathroom odors -- but if we could fix everything for you -- WE CERTAINLY WOULD.

Because we pay very expensive rent for every single room or building we use during the show -- it's important that we utilize ALL THE SPACES TO THE MAX...and, depending on the weather, we always know the tents will be a challenge.

And the very best thing about the tents is that they are SO CLOSE to our main buildings. They seat a lot of people, the teachers get a large audience, you can get from the tent to the Showplex in your 15 minute change-over...

But, oh yes, controlling the temperature is a big problem. If we don't use the tents, we'd lose thousands of possible seats each day. Then what? Would we have to raise the price of those $5 one-needle classes?

See the problem?

Yes, we feel your pain. We hate the tents, too. But, on the other hand, we THANK THE EXPO GODS that we have them. Those tents allow us to bring you the biggest, most complete class schedule in the country...for the bargain price of $5 for a one-needle seminar.

2012 Planning Meeting

2011-05-16T04:00:00.000-05:00

I am going directly from the Spring Quilt Market to Puyallup for the 2012 Planning Meeting. Hopefully, I'll be able to connect with some speakers and/or vendors...

Last year, I had a chance to visit with Mark Lipinski. We are friends on Facebook -- and I go to his page every week to watch "American Idol" with Mark and 300 of his closest friends...

This was the first time I got to touch somebody's "I-pad". This year, Ann Sagawa will be bringing her NEW I-PAD to the planning meeting. I can hardly wait!! (John gave me a color Book Nook for Christmas -- and it's official name is "you are not an I-Pad")...

It's always fun to bump into Sew Expo vendors. Here's Luveta Nickels at last year's Spring Quilt Market.
AND, it was during that show I got a chance to sit with Becky Keck and the Bernina team about bringing Ricky Tims to the 2011 show...

WHAT will we come up with for 2012?? 2011 was such a great show -- it is going to be a hard fact to follow!!

Spring Quilt Market

2011-05-09T04:00:00.000-05:00

This week, I leave for the Spring Quilt Market -- which was in Minneapolis last year. I was working in the Schmetz booth -- here's Rhonda Pierce, the Marketing Director for Schmetz needles...

This year -- Spring market is in Salt Lake City!!

It is always so much fun for me to run into friends from Puyallup -- like Sharon Stoffel from Pacific Fabrics!! We usually hook up for breakfast at the hotel....or maybe lunch at the show...

It's fun to walk the show to see if there's anything new -- last year I discovered the FLOOR MAT GIRLS...did you take their class? It quickly sold out -- next year we'll move them to a much bigger room!!

Here I am, sitting on Amy Butler's sofa -- waiting for an appointment? Worried about missing lunch? Hoping the show is about to close for the day?
Or -- NOT WANTING TO BE LATE FOR MY DATE with handsome Simon!! It's always fun to see what new stuff he'll be bringing to Puyallup...

And, of course, my sister Deb is always GREEN WITH ENVY. Simon is her hero -- and she even took a class from him this year.

Maybe next year, Deb will actually get a chance to COME TO THE SHOW!! We're talking about putting together a "sister's trip" -- and SEw Expo would be a GREAT PLACE for us to kick it off!!

Totebag Challenge

2011-05-02T04:00:00.000-05:00

London took some great pictures of the various TOTEBAGS at the 2011 Sewing & Stitchery Expo. I love, love, love this one...

Creative DRAWings took pictures in their booth of many, many fabulous totebags -- and gave a prize worth $600 on Saturday...

We can always count on Linda B. to play our sewing games...

The crew from Creative DRAWings -- right before they drew the name for the grand prize...

One of the most unique bags at the show...

THANKS AGAIN for playing our sewing game! You brought it, ladies!!

Guess what? NEXT WEEK I leave for the International Quilt Market in Salt Lake City -- then on to Seattle for the REAL PLANNING MEETING...

I am so excited about next year's Special Events...KEEP YOUR FINGERS CROSSED...because this could be REALLY BIG...!!

Letter from Bates

2011-04-25T07:58:00.005-05:00

I hope ya'll had a nice EASTER. Things are beginning to pop for next year's show...many exciting thing things are starting to happen...after the last post, about the sewing program at Bates, I received this email:
**********
Dear Rita,

I am so proud of my students at Bates Technical College. All of the garment patterns in the fashion show were altered to their measurements prior to cutting and constructing. Adults shy away from sewing for themselves because the sizing chart for commercial patterns is nowhere near their measurements and nothing fits. It only takes a few easy alterations and like magic, the clothes fit real bodies. We also stress the garment construction needs to look professional enough to be marketable.

Sewing is gaining popularity again and let’s hope that this need is recognized by our local schools, technical colleges, community colleges, and universities. It is critical for anyone desiring to be a fashion designer and attend a fashion school that they have basic sewing skills. The fashion industry is also recognizing the need to offer customized garments for all types of body shapes in addition to the “standard sizes” of yesterday.

For those individuals wishing to be successful in the fashion business; whether it is customized sewing, alterations, designing or merchandizing, it is critical to know your craft inside and out. Education from trained instructors is the best resource for this.

Sew on that note, the Bates students will continue to stitch straight ahead to fight for their sewing program.

Ryliss J. Bod
Fashion Construction and Design Instructor
Bates Technical College

Bates Technical -- SAVE THE PROGRAM!!

2011-04-20T15:19:00.003-05:00

Bates Technical put on a wonderful fashion show -- remember?? here's some behind the scenes pictures...

Ryiss Bod sent me a link to an article that was written about the sewing program. Please share the news with your friends, students and anybody who has a passion for sewing. Please go to the following link.

You must GO READ THIS ARTICLE

Behind the Scenes of FNL

2011-04-18T04:00:00.002-05:00

Do you see yourself in this audience? From Friday Night LIVE -- Nancy Zieman is about to start the show...

After working in the Baby Lock booth all day, Nancy rushed backstage to spend a frenzied hour or so doing the sound check and getting her many samples unpacked and in the proper order...

Then, I had my bad moment -- I realized none of us had time to eat lunch -- and now we're going to miss supper as well. So I hit the snack bar...but it was SLIM PICKINS...

As hungry as we all were -- stale beef jerky was not the answer. I'd have to be on a desert island, starving to death before I'd take another bite of this shoe leather...

So now you know how Nancy Zieman stays so slim and trim. NOBODY FEEDS HER!!

HEY -- if you are experiencing withdrawals during my Rita-blog-break -- I'm sending you to one of my favorite sewing blogs - Nancy Zieman's.

AND -- here's another benefit. Nancy recently put up ALL THE EPISODES from Sewing With Nancy!! So you can go to the internet now and watch Nancy's shows to your hearts content!!

I'm trying to learn how to link to OTHER SEWING blogs to help promote the show, and, of course, the bigger issue -- OUR LOVE OF SEWING...!!

So -- if you have a favorite sewing blog you follow -- please let me know!! Send me an email -- ritafar@aol.com with a link and why you like it!

THANKS, NANCY...Great Job on Friday Night LIVE -- and THANKS, too, for putting all your episodes of Sewing with Nancy online!

TOTALLY FREE, PEOPLE...here's another picture of YOU...waiting to get into the FNL event..

We're working on the 2012 Sewing & Stitchery Expo -- so if you have any ideas or special requests -- SEND THEM TO ME...

ritafar@aol.com

Denise Holquin Interview

2011-04-11T04:00:00.000-05:00

This is a picture of Denise Holquin, managing editor of Designs in Machine Embroidery magazine -- sitting in the VERY LAST ROW of the Friday Night LIVE audience...yes, I know...it wasn't a GREAT seat...

But it was a GREAT SHOW -- and the next day, Denise did this fabulous interview with me...which I just never get tired of watching...

THANKS for coming to the show, Denise -- and thanks, too, for the great interview and publicity.

Remember -- NEXT YEAR -- we need Eileen to come to Puyallap and do an embroidery fasion show..

Planning for 2012

2011-04-04T04:00:00.001-05:00

2011 was a GREAT SHOW. You came, you shopped, you attended classes, you enjoyed the special events and YOU SENT ME AN EMAIL!! LOL...HEY -- thanks for BEING THERE.

THANKS for sewing over 2300 pillowcases for the sick children of Mary Bridge...As we move into the planning stages for the 2012 show -- we just HAVE to do the pillowcase challenge again, don't you think?
But it does get more difficult to "top ourselves" every year. If you attended the Quilter's Night Out -- you know what an inspirational evening it was with Ricky Tims. I don't think I'll ever forget that night...

We know how much you ALL look forward to the Sewing & Stitchery Expo -- here are two best friends, Helen and Wendy. Remember their story? They met when their kids were in preschool -- sewing brought them together. Now, Wendy comes to Puyallup every year all the way from North Carolina (I might be putting her in the wrong Eastern state?)...
Any ideas for next year's show? Here I am, on Sunday afternoon, having a chat with one of our BRAND NEW VENDORS -- Kwik-Sew. This was their first year at Sew Expo -- and they were very impressed!!

So -- what can they do for 2012? Maybe they'll teach some new classes? Have a challenge? Sponsor a style show? Their kids patterns are so awesome...hummm...

Believe me -- ALREADY IT STARTS!! We are planning next year's show right now, even as you read this...

I'll keep you posted!!

Completely Random Pictures

2011-03-28T04:00:00.002-05:00

Okay -- this was fun! I basically opened my "2011 Expo" picture file and scrolled down, with my eyes closed, and picked five pictures. (which is all I can upload at one time).

In this first shot -- filling the room for Friday Night LIVE (you were a rambunctious audience) -- Eleanor Burns, Lana and Sue are handing out the Baby Lock Goody bags...

I probably was NOT supposed to take this picture! This is Deanna Springer, in her secret "office". Cellphone, laptop, coffee -- and she's good to go! Deanna is on the "Z Team" -- and she was working in a corner of the Clover lounge -- to meet YET ANOTHER DEADLINE...

I took this picture in Mary Mulari's class -- over in the Centennial tent...do you see yourself?

It was a packed house -- STANDING ROOM ONLY...
This is a snapshot of the vendor floor in the Showplex. ...
2011 was a REALLY GREAT SHOW!! THANKS AGAIN FOR COMING...you are the best....

I have enjoyed getting your emails -- and am already looking forward to NEXT YEAR.

Here's a link to an article WSU wrote about our fabulous Pillowcase Patrol Thanks, Richard!!

Pillowcase Patrol

2011-03-22T13:36:00.005-05:00

Be sure to jump over to my personal blog, Rita's Sew Fun to watch the SLIDE SHOW for the Pillowcase Patrol!!

Scroll down to Sunday -- March 20...

YOU WERE AMAZING...

AND -- ON WEDNESDAY, March 23 -- I'm posting a video "interview" with Designs in Machine Embroidery magazine.

CHECK IT OUT...

A FINISHED PROJECT!!

2011-03-21T04:00:00.000-05:00

Just one week after the show -- I received this surprise email:

Hi Rita...Thought you might like to see the Quick Zip Bag I made for my Granddaughter's trip to Okinawa. My Marine Grandson is stationed there. I found the perfect black and white zipper for it at the Ghee's booth at SEW EXPO!!!

Bonne and Jan did a great job designing this bag! I missed Friday Night Live this year, as we couldn't attend on Friday....but really enjoyed Ricky Tims on Saturday night....:)

Oh...my Granddaughter LOVES the bag! Hope she gets to use it, in light of recent events. We had a great time at Expo this year....our 21st year to attend...and my Daughter got to go with us this year! Love your blog! Thanks.....Linda B. in Othello, WA.

Thanks so much for sharing, Linda! I am not surprised your granddaughter loves her new tote bag.

AND thanks, too, for reading my blogs. Your smile is what Expo is all about...and our Inspired2Sew duo will be DELIGHTED to see that their new totebag pattern is the very first FINISHED project from the 2011 Sewing & Stitchery EXPO.

Lynn Browne's Sewing Rookie

2011-03-18T09:13:00.002-05:00

Coats just posted some GREAT PICTURES from the 2011 Pro-Am Sewing Exhibition

I LOVE THE ZIPPER attitude!!

Random Shots from 2011

2011-03-14T04:00:00.002-05:00

Friday Night LIVE audience...I see ONE of the Ya Ya Stalkers...where's Chris? And what did she do with Judy?? More about their CRAZY gifts for me & Mary in a later post...I'm trying to get my Expo pictures in some kind of shape so I can FIND THINGS

Here are a few of our Australian visitors! I HOPE London got a picture of their whole group...time will tell...and there will be lots more about this group coming in future posts...

Jan and Bonne helping Linda McGehee in the Pfaff room on Wednesday. Right? Wow. those three-needle classes SELL OUT IN A HURRY...OF COURSE you know you'll be seeing many more pictures of our Inspired2SEW duo!!

IT WAS A REALLY GREAT SHOW!! Although our attendance was down by 800 -- in today's "new economy" -- that was actually a HUGE victory. The evening events were both sold out, and we had over 600 attending our Sunday morning Coats & Clark charity event.

THANKS FOR COMING...keep reading this blog to see if I got good picture of you!

Pillowcase Patrol

2011-03-11T09:14:00.004-06:00

Yes -- OVER 2300 PILLOWCASES...!!

Coats & Clark put up some great pictures -- check out their BLOG

Seattle Television

2011-03-08T10:39:00.002-06:00

IT WAS A GREAT, GREAT SHOW. Wow. I'm beat. It was amazing.

Our very own Princess brought her friend Jim to the show -- and they did a story about it on the Friday K-5 Evening Magazine. As I'm sitting in the Seattle airport, working my way back to Iowa -- I thought I'd try to post a link.

Jan & Bonne and CLARE

2011-02-28T04:00:00.001-06:00

You only have TWO CHANCES to see the Inspired2Sew duo. The first two days of the show -- at 12:30 on THURSDAY AND FRIDAY ONLY -- on the Expo Runway (upstairs in the Pavilion). Jan Potter and Bonne Swett have more fun than anybody I ever met. They are longtime friends and Expo fans. Every year, they buy the same fabric, pattern, or new notion -- and then CHALLENGE each other to create something original. Here I am with them, wearing last year's Pink & Red challenge...

It was such a delight to have one of our young sewing enthusiasts, Clare meet Jan & Bonne -- (pictured here with me and her Mom) .

Clare really got into the Inspired2Sew SWING of things...Jan & Bonne included her in a challenge -- and I believe there was a lot of email trash-talking ramping up to the show...! I asked Clare for a little bio -- she wrote:

"I am 13 and have been sewing for 6 years. I am starting to really enjoy it. I knit and embroider. My other interests are reading, cooking, being with family and friends.

I am so happy to have met Jan and Bonne. I had had previous sewing experiences that were not fun. Last year after meeting them I was again interested in sewing and it has been great to be in touch with them. I really feel like someone cares about making sewing fun.

Looking forward to seeing you.
Sincerely,
Clare"

THANKS, CLARE...for playing our sewing game!! And I love, love, love the picture of you in your "make it with wool" entry!!

This certainly looks like a winner to me! We are all looking forward to seeing what you came up with for the Inspired2Sew challenges, Clare.

THANKS AGAIN FOR PLAYING OUR SEWING GAME!!

Show TIPS

2011-02-23T04:00:00.004-06:00

Okay -- I'm packing my bags here in Iowa. Excited about my GREAT NEW SHOW CLOTHES!! Thanks again, Deb. I am sending you a thank-you-box of treasures today. (well, okay, maybe it's also MORE embroidery projects for you to do...)

Laura had a great idea! NEWBIE TIPS.

HERE are Rita Farro's Top Ten SewExpo TIPS:

Wear comfortable shoes. If you're doing it right -- you will walk miles and miles...
Have your class schedule print-out handy -- maybe in a side pocket of your totebag.
Oh yeah -- BRING A BIG TOTEBAG. Remember -- we do not provide totebags. AND we are having a TOTEBAG CHALLENGE. Go to the Creative DRAWings booth -- and enter to win $799 embroidery software!!
CHECK OUT THE FREE STYLE SHOW SCHEDULE. Remember -- on the Expo Runway -- on Thursday, Friday and Saturday -- there are SIX FREE FASHION SHOWS every day. It's a great place to go and sit in a comfy chair for a bit...(the Expo Runway is upstairs, in the Pavilion).
Make sure your cellphone is fully charged. It's the #1 way to hook up with your people -- but it doesn't do you any good if the battery is dead...
Carry your credit card and/or cash -- in a small "neckpurse". The easier it is to get to it -- the better off you'll be. The booths get very busy during the class breaks, and you don't want to spend time fumbling for your credit card or money.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE BAG CHECK. It's conveniently located between the Pavilion and the Showplex. You DON'T NEED TO CARRY YOUR PACKAGES AROUND ALL DAY LONG.
If you want it -- BUY IT WHEN YOU SEE IT. Remember, our vendors ship their merchandise in for this show -- and when it's gone, it's usually "gone". In many cases, they only printed or produced a certain number. They use Sew Expo to market their newest and latest patterns and books...the hot items ALWAYS SELL OUT...
Pack some healthy snacks but do save room for some Fischer Scones. I mean -- IT'S SEW EXPO!!
Another great place to take a sit-break is the Free Stage. Located in the Showplex -- there is a different presentation every hour -- and you just might accidentally learn something!
Did I already say -- WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES? (it would have been 10 tips if I had left out the Fisher Scones tip...I mean...really??)

DO NOT MISS Ricky Tims!!!

2011-02-18T04:00:00.000-06:00

It is always exciting when we have a very big name in the sewing/quilting world come to Sewing & Stitchery Expo for the VERY FIRST TIME...

And this year -- of course -- it is Ricky Tims. He will be presenting his special musical program on Saturday night at our Quilter's Night Out...

And -- as famous as Ricky Tims is for his musical talent -- the Grand Piano and fabulous singing...make no mistake. This guy is a world-class quilt teacher!!

And there has been a little confusion about what Ricky is teaching on Sunday morning. Sunday morning -- Ricky will be UPSTAIRS IN THE PAVILION -- on the Expo Runway. This room is set up with two screens -- and Ricky is used to a large room -- so we are taking advantage of our best facility to showcase Ricky's world-famous quit techniques.

TO BE CLEAR -- Ricky will be presenting his special "CONVERGENCE & RHAPSODY QUILTS" as a two-needle class on Sunday morning. ($20 fee -- from 8:30- 10:00 AM)

Here is the description:

Exciting quilting explodes when Ricky combines two of his popular methods
in this presentation. Harmonic Convergence will teach you to create magical,
mysterious and fun art quilts that open up creativity in an instant. Then
take an even bigger leap forward as Ricky teaches you how to design and
create your own Rhapsody Quilt similar to his multi-award winning quilts.
Ricky will show you how to design your original medallion block, demonstrate
some of the techniques that have made his quilts so memorable, and
give you the knowledge and confidence to create your own.

Yahoo Sew Expo GROUP...

2011-02-14T04:00:00.002-06:00

SO MANY PEOPLE all over the country are working to get ready for Expo...there are just a few weeks left...

Laura Mendoza is helping some of the rookies getting ready for the Coats & Clark Pro-Am Sewing Exhibition...

Laura belongs to the Yahoo group -- here's one last shout-out...

One last shout-out for our Sew Expo Yahoo Group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PuyallupSewExpo/ This is a totally awesome group! If you want to meet others going to Expo, want a ride from the airport to Expo, looking for carpooling from your hotel, looking for a hotel, wanting Expo tips/hints/advice, looking for someone to sit by in class, or just want to chat about sewing & Expo this is the site for you. This group was started by an Expo attendee a couple years ago (not me BTW). We are getting close to 300 members now. Many of us meet for dinner the night before Expo. Okay, let's make that a LOT of us meet for dinner. As of this writing, we have 87 people signed up for this year's dinner. If you want to go, you need to go to our yahoo group and sign up. All the details are on the group site.
Come join us, and, hey, you get to meet me too :-)
Laura in Puyallup
Sew Expo Yahoo dinner coordinator

Buzz Tool DESIGNS...

2011-02-10T04:00:00.000-06:00

Lisa Shaw of Buzz Tools -- has graciously volunteered to provide fun, juvenile embroidery designs for your Mary Bridge pillowcases. I took this great picture of Lisa at the 2009 Quilt Market in Houston -- and am DElighted to have an excuse to use it!

Here's the link for the cute designs -- PILLOWCASE PATROL FREE DESIGNS

Of course, your pillowcases do NOT have to be embroidered -- we just thought this would make it more fun for those of you who are hooked on embroidery.

And, certainly -- you are free to use any embroidery designs you already have. That's how this all started! Lisa heard about what you were doing -- and offered to size something specifically for pillowcases.

I have SEEN some of the pillowcases ya'll are making for the children of Mary Bridge. One woman told me she's cleared out an entire closet of her "stash" fabrics. Once she got started, she just could not stop...she told me, "I couldn't think of a better use for my beloved fabric collection."

And now she can buy MORE FABRIC -- RIGHT??

Remember -- Coats & Clark will be giving a spool of thread to every person who donates pillowcases (one per person, please).

AND you will receive a "door prize ticket" for every pillowcase you donate....for our "Grand Prize" which will be announced next week. (Rita said hopefully).

Which means that Leanne, who is making 100 pillowcases for Mary Bridge -- will have 100 chances to win the GRAND PRIZE...(which will be announced next week -- remember -- she said hopefully)...

Second Wave Waive Sale

2011-02-07T04:00:00.000-06:00

We're coming down to the wire...the show is gonna be awesome...we are happy that we've made the leap to online registration...thanks for your support and your patience.

But guess what happened? Maybe -- just maybe -- you ordered your seminar tickets but forgot to order your "daily" tickets. Yes -- I'm talking to you...

PLEASE CHECK YOUR TICKETS. Please make sure you have a "daily" ticket for every day you'll be attending the show. ($10 in advance, $12 at the gate)

Because we realize there was a "learning curve" on this new process -- we don't want you to have to pay another $4 online registration fee if you need more tickets. SO WE ARE GOING TO WAIVE THE FEE...

Here's the deal. STARTING ON FRIDAY, February 11 -- through FRIDAY, February 25 -- WE ARE WAIVING THE $4 Online Registration FEE.

That's right. You can go back into the system and order the daily tickets (that you may have forgot the first time) -- and ANY OTHER TICKETS YOU'D LIKE...

Since this the second wave of ticket orders - we're calling it the "Second Wave Waive Sale"...(yes, that Ann Sagawa is a very clever girl...)

The only classes sold out across the board are the 3-Needle hands-on machine classes...

But our fabulous, more detailed, intense 2-Needle classes are still available...And 90% of our 1-Needle classes, because most of them are in large rooms that accommodate 200-300 attendees -- ARE STILL AVAILABLE...

Friday Night LIVE is sold out -- but there are still tickets available for Ricky Tims and his fabulous musical concert -- ON A GRAND PIANO...so you can still purchase your tickets for QUILTER'S NIGHT OUT...

You can still sign up for classes with Eleanor Burns, Mary Mulari, Nancy Zieman -- the biggest names in the sewing industry are bringing you their newest and latest...
So -- HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO Do:

#1: Please check your tickets to make sure you have a daily ticket for each day you plan to attend.

#2: Make a list of any OTHER CLASSES you want to attend.

#3: Starting on Friday, February 11 -- we will waive the $4 handling fee for any online registrations...!!

P.S. On Friday, February 25, we close down the online system.

Motel OFFER?

2011-02-03T13:39:00.005-06:00

This is an email I received -- and I'm just passing it on....this is EXACTLY what this blog is for...it sounds like a great offer -- and if Sig worked in my rooms many times before -- she must be an honest, trustworthy person who I'd enjoy sharing a room with!! (although, I'm staying in Gail Brown's condo this year...and can hardly wait!!)

GREAT RATE, SIG -- and thanks for getting the information to me...

Rita,
I doubt that you remember me, but my name is Sig and I am one of the CTAs that have worked your rooms before - actually many times before :)

I stopped by a motel in Fife on my way home (Seattle) from Tacoma a few weeks ago and reserved a room so I can get more sleep during Expo this year.

As I was talking with the manager, she made an offer. I don't know if you can add this to your blog or not, and I have not been in the rooms so do not know what they are like, but it sure sounds like a good deal for the attendees.

If we can get 20 rooms filled with Expo attendees, she will provide FREE SHUTTLE service to Expo! That is virtually door to door service! No lugging packages all the way to those parking lots. And for those flying in, this could solve their transportation problems. Or at least maybe save them the cost of renting a car. And for those that live a few hours away and normally
drive, if they split the room with a friend, well the cost of gas and the lack of sleep make this a serious consideration.

Anyhow, the deal is that this motel is only 15 minutes away by the back roads. (on the yahoo list, people have mentioned that they are staying as far away as Federal Way!) $44.99 for a single, $54.99 for a double. This is NOT the price they will get if they book through the website or the 800 number. They need to book with the manager and mention I told them about it or write to me at sig@sigscreations.com and I will get them in touch with the manager.

The motel used to be an EconoLodge but is now a Rodeway. http://www.rodewayinn.com/hotel-fife-washington-WA154

So would you consider adding this to your blog?

So they can email me if interested at sig@sigscreations.com and I will give them Karla's info.

thanks so much
Sig

(I know and I am sure you do too, how hard it can be to find a place to stay when you are unfamiliar with the area, and "helpful" people at hotels/motels will say they are really close to where you want to be, only to find out that they are definitely NOT close at all (like those poor people staying in SeaTac and Federal Way).

MISSING TICKETS!!!

2011-02-02T15:43:00.002-06:00

RAISE YOUR HAND IF YOU’RE ABSENT…

Thank you for your patience. The ticket office has now processed ALL THE ORDERS from the first week of online registration. However -- it was pretty crazy – and some orders may have dropped through the cracks. So – if you have NOT RECEIVED your tickets in the mail – please send an email to Ann Sagawa at:

asagawa@wsu.edu

Write “Missing Tickets” in the subject line. Be sure to include your contact information: (full name, mailing address and phone numbers).

The ticket office will contact you. THANKS AGAIN for being so patient…

Pillowcase Patrol

2011-02-01T04:00:00.000-06:00

Our 2011 Charity event is the Coats & Clark Pro-Am Sewing Exhibition. Because our charity this year is the Mary Bridge Children's Hospital -- we are ALSO collecting pillowcases for the patients and families of Mary Bridge. Here's more information...

Mary Bridge is Western Washington’s only state designated Level II Pediatric Trauma hospital. With 72 inpatient beds and a busy outpatient clinic, Mary Bridge specializes in advanced care for children offering services to patients for everything from open-heart surgery to asthma treatment, cancer care to diabetes. Their mission is to provide compassionate and exceptional care for all children, regardless of a family’s ability to pay.

One of Expo's attendees, Leanne -- had a goal of making 100 pillowcases...and she is well on her way...

When I sent a picture to Barbara Bartolatz Littrell, our contact person at the hospital -- she wrote back, "Wow, 100 pillowcases from one donor! That is fantastic. We see about 4,400 patients in the hospital each year and 80,000 patients in our outpatient clinics. When a child comes to Mary Bridge for a day surgery or a stay in the hospital, we like to have their room be a friendly, welcoming place. Colorful soft pillowcases and small stuffed animals on each bed help to make the unfamiliar surroundings more comfortable and less frightening for our patients. We joke that moms and dads cannot go into the operating room, but pillowcases and beanie babies can."
I'd like to thank Annette, here with her Mom, Leanne -- for sending me the great pictures!! I interviewed them for the Seattle Times -- and if you see them at the show -- be sure to say "THANKS FOR MAKING ALL THOSE BEAUTIFUL PILLOWCASES."

Remember -- every person who drops off pillowcases will receive a "thank-you" spool of thread from Coats & Clark (one per customer, please). AND for each pillowcase, you'll receive a door prize ticket for our GRAND DOOR PRIZE DRAWING -- which will take place on Sunday.

Mary Bridge has not imposed a lot of rules and regulations about the pillowcases. We think this is a wonderful project -- and -- hey -- most of us have bought way more fabric than we need -- what A GREAT WAY TO USE UP YOUR FABRIC STASH!!

If you need a pattern -- Ann has a pillowcase pattern from Pacific Fabrics posted on the show website -- or, of course, you could go into any Pacific Fabrics location to pick up their pattern directions.

You might also find free pillowcase patterns online. We don't care what pattern you use. Remember -- the pillowcases are for the children -- or they will be used at the Mary Bridge Tree House -- where families can stay while their children are undergoing treatment.

One of our vendors, Buzz Tools -- has created some beautiful juvenile embroidery designs. So, if you have an embroidery machine -- you can go to the BuzzTools website and download the designs.

She sent me this link -- PILLOWCASE PATROL FREE DESIGNS

THANKS COATS & CLARK, THANKS BUZZ TOOLS...

It's going to be AWESOME...

Nancy Zieman's Blog

2011-01-28T08:38:00.009-06:00

Nancy Zieman wrote in her blog about "happiness" -- and how having "experiences" is way more important than having money or things...

You knew that, right? Isn't that why you come to Expo every year? We often come with your friends -- for many of us -- it's our annual "girlfriend getaway".
This group of friends did the ultimate jacket challenge...

I come out to Puyallup every year to spend time with my friends who live there all year around..

Do you see yourself in this audience? Did you come with an old friend? Or make a new one?

Steve Jeffery from Baby Lock will be at our Friday Night LIVE event again -- and there is a good possibility that SOMEBODY WILL WIN A SEWING MACHINE...(I'm just guessing...they've done it for the last two years!)

Our FNL presentation will be "Nancy Zieman Celebrates 28 Years of Sewing" -- and here's my favorite picture of Nancy, with the Hey Rita Tote...

Nancy has a new website -- NancyZiemanTV -- with new educational video sewing topics every month. The topic this month is "Serge & Merge" quilting. AND on her blog -- she writes about her new Super-Size Tote -- which would be a perfect candidate for our 2011 TOTEBAG CHALLENGE..

Thanks, Nancy, for writing about the Sewing & Stitchery Expo! We'll see you soon!!

Totebag Challenge -- Show Logo

2011-01-24T04:10:00.001-06:00

Yes, Laura, there will be a Totebag challenge this year!!

It always takes some time to put these things together -- but here's what we know so far.

We are no longer able to give away the large paper totebags...and this year we'll be telling you that many, many times as we ramp up to the show...

And -- Since SO MANY OF YOU are into making totebags -- and you know what a big fan I am of carrying a fun totebag AT ALL TIMES...YES -- we want to have a TOTEBAG CHALLENGE...
AND -- so that you can MAKE YOUR OWN 2011 SOUVENIR TOTEBAG -- one of our vendors offered to digitize the show logo -- isn't it beautiful? Creative DRAWings did both the lettering..

AND our famous hat-lady...

They've been working to include all the formats, and various sizes...and we have tested the embroidery design...IT IS STUNNING...

SO -- WE ARE READY NOW...the embroidery design is beautiful -- and it is totally FREE TO YOU.

All you have to do is send an email to: Soni Grint at:

info@creative-drawings.com

Creative DRAWings®.

In your subject line, write: FREE Sew Expo logo designs

Soni will send you the designs, in a zip file...with all the different formats & sizes.

Here are the "rules" for the Totebag challenge: Your totebag does NOT HAVE TO BE EMBROIDERED.

1. there are no rules
2. go to the Creative Drawings booth to have your picture taken, and enter to win a HUGE PRIZE
3. We'll be taking a "group photo" at 5:00 every day -- location for the picture to be announced at a later date...
4. the drawing for the wine rof the Grand Prize will take place on the last day of the show...

THIS IS WHO WE ARE. IT'S WHAT WE DO. CREATE. SHARE. SEW.

P.S. -- The Grand Prize IS Creative DRAWings -- a $799 retail value!!

P.S.S. -- you can use ANY TOTEBAG PATTERN -- or create your own. My favorite totebag artists -- Jan Potter and Bonne Swett -- the Inspired2Sew duo -- have THEIR OWN TOTEBAG PATTERN NOW -- with Ghee's!!

Again -- email Soni for the designs at:

info@creative-drawings.com

Pro-Am Sewing Exhibition

2011-01-24T04:00:00.003-06:00

This is Cathy Swenson, with one of our sewing rookies. Cathy was the first CTA I ever met. I've always known that she was an avid sewing enthusiast, a cheerful and funny lady -- but I never quite understood how BIG HER SEWING STUDIO WAS...
From another angle...
Laura Mendoza (who sent all these great pics) -- helping another rookie with her project...
THEY ARE BUSY, that's for sure!
And -- yes -- this is STILL CATHY'S SEWING STUDIO...from yet another angle...
Cathy -- the next time I'm in town -- can I come to your house to play a sewing game??

THANKS for the great pictures, Laura!!

It's going to be SO MUCH FUN..!!

And -- remember -- this year, there are two different sessions for the charity event. So, the Coats & Clark Pro-Am Sewing Exhibition will be happening Sunday at 11:30 or 12:30. AND the biggest change is that you will be able to BUY YOUR TICKETS AT THE SHOW.

The tickets are $10 each, and will be available at the Mary Bridge Children's Hospital booth (in the Showplex). They can take cash, check or credit card...

Later on this week, I'll put up a blog post about the PILLOWCASE PATROL....

PROJECT RUNWAY on the Expo Runway!!

2011-01-17T04:00:00.007-06:00

We just found out that "Suede" is coming to Sew Expo!! I'm not talking about the suede your dressy boots are made out of...

I mean "Suede" -- the PROJECT RUNWAY DESIGNER..!! The one I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED. Even though he did talk about himself in the third person a lot. Since I started doing the show's Facebook page -- I understand why he enjoyed that so much.

Hey -- Simplicity recently inked a deal with Suede -- and they're bringing him to SEW EXPO TO LAUNCH HIS NEW LINE..!!

His bio, from his website:

"Suede" is best known as being a contestant on Project Runway Season 5. He was known for his talent, style, and strong kind character. "Suede" also generated much conversation about his tendency to speak in 3rd person, as well as his signature colored faux-hawk. As a semi-finalist on Project Runway, making it to the top five, Suede was asked to show a collection at Bryant Park.

Long before his Project Runway fame – Suede was an experienced designer, working for Jordache – or dressing well-known names such as Britney Spears, Brooke Burke, Lil' Kim, Destiny's Child, Mariah Carey, Jennifer Aniston, Jessica Simpson, Christina Aguilera and Mandy Moore.

Suede recently signed an exclusive deal with Simplicity Creative Group and will be personally commentating his premiere pattern collection at the 2011 Sewing & Stitchery Expo, March 3-6, in Puyallup, Washington. His new Simplicity designs will be featured on the cover of JoAnn’s Fashion Fusion magazine in February. Suede’s patterns feature modern silhouettes with multiple styles featuring classic, edgy and feminine flirty looks.

We'll post the exact where and when as those details become available!!

THANKS, SIMPLICITY!! Suede rocks!!

Pay Pal Orders

2011-01-15T18:57:00.002-06:00

Janet asked me to post this note...

IF you think you paid for your online registration via Pay Pal (which was not supposed to happen) -- please send an email to Janet so she can reorganize your ticket order. (jyork@wsu.edu)

Include your daytime phone number and she'll take care of it as quickly as possible.

Please put "pay pal" in the subject line of your email

Yahoo Group

2011-01-15T09:53:00.004-06:00

Laura Mendoza (here, in her prize winning wool jacket) is the local sewing coach for MANY of our Pro-Am sewing rookies...

Email from Laura Mondoza,

Hey Rita
Can you do a plug for the Yahoo Groups in your next Sew Expo Newsletter?
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PuyallupSewExpo/
We already have 49 signed up for our Wednesday night dinner. Had 45 the first year, 70 last year, and hope to break 100 this year :-)
Laura

***********

It's my pleasure, Laura! Tell them more about the dinner -- where and when?

On Monday, I'll post Laura's pictures of our sewing rookies...

Your Ticket Printout

2011-01-12T10:22:00.003-06:00

Okay -- the ticket office is working as hard as they can to put your tickets into an envelope and SEND THEM TO YOU.

But, they are being way-laid by a lot of phone calls from you asking if they can email you a printout of the classes you got. WHICH THEY CANNOT DO....

WHEN YOU REGISTER -- here's how it works:

From our web developer:

When the customer finishes checking out, they are taken to a page that lists all the details of everything they order and in big bold etters at the top they are encouraged to print it out for their records.

For those of you who already registered, and did not print that page -- it will be sent to you WITH your tickets -- and they WANT TO STUFF THAT ENVELOPE...but they're too busy taking your phone calls.

The web guy is trying to build in a "search" function so you CAN go back into the system to look up your order.

But we hope YOU RECEIVE YOUR TICKETS BY THEN...(if they can get off the phones long enough to fill our orders!)

Security Question

2011-01-11T13:36:00.003-06:00

Although I posted this in one of the "comment threads" -- I think it's worth having it's own BLOG POST ...I received this email from Kelly Newell, the Director of the WSU Conference Management:

Dated January 11, 2011

"It is secure, but they are coding it now to show up on an https site, which will help our users feel more secure!"

Really Good Questions

2011-01-11T13:16:00.004-06:00

Hey -- it's 1/11/11. I don't know why that tickles me, but it does.

I hate to bother the people in Puyallup who are actually ANSWERING THE HELP LINE...but ya'll have been asking some very good questions -- and I want to assure you that as soon as I know a REAL answer -- I'll let you know.

#1 question: you registered online, but did not push "print" when your classes were on the screen. The receipt you received was for the money only, without a detailed listing of the classes. AND you want to know if there is a way you can go back in and print out your class list.

I DON'T KNOW THE ANSWER to that question. BUT -- AS SOON AS I GET A REAL ANSWER FROM SOMEBODY WHO KNOWS WHAT THEY'RE TALKING ABOUT -- I'LL POST IT HERE...

#2 question: if you are having trouble registering online, would you be better off sending your registration in via snail mail or faxing your order?

I KNOW THIS ANSWER!! No. Your best chance is still online registration. Those tickets are pulled from the inventory as you register. So you know whether or not you got the classes you wanted RIGHT AWAY -- regardless of how long it takes the ticket office to pull your tickets and send the envelope to you.

All snail mail and/or faxed orders, although they are being processed even as we speak, will be handled IN THE ORDER they are received -- so you won't know which classes you got...which is why we ask you to list your second and third "choices"...

See the difference??

We know it has been frustrating...but we're learning A LOT...and it really is time for this to happen. Thanks again for your patience.

P.S. -- don't worry, Agnes -- I'll still post EVERYTHING on this blog...so thanks for tuning in!!

The Day After

2011-01-11T04:00:00.001-06:00

As you know -- you melted down the online registration system.

Good job. I have never been SO PROUD...of you -- BECAUSE -- YES -- THOUSANDS OF WOMEN ATTEND THIS SHOW...

AND of the Expo team...they kept at it --with the web company -- and they brought it back, made changes and improvements ALL DAY LONG.

The truth is -- most of you did manage to get in (eventually) -- and register for the classes you wanted. As far as I know -- nothing sold out on the first day. So that's pretty much all good news, right??

In the meantime -- you have been asking some very good questions...and I'm trying to ask the right people and get timely answers....

The Sewing & Stitchery FACEBOOK page has been awesome. Ya'll have been posting your own registration experience -- and helping each other through the process...and that's where Janet and I will post new information, updates, tips, etc.

So -- the official report is that "online registration went great."

Just between you and me -- there were some issues. lol...

LIKE YOU DON'T ALREADY KNOW THAT...!!