Back from the TNNA Winter Market which was, as usual, an overwhelming over stimulating experience. I come away with enough ideas to last several years hoping to have time to implement a few before the next show. Things I remember which by no means were “show hi-lights” or the “best things” I saw but things I remember and thought worth sharing. Gloriana is now dyeing with a ribbon comparable to that of River Silk, thank you Anne Frazier. Sundance Designs (who introduced sequins last year) came out with what I think they are calling Sparkles; anyway its this material for needlepoint like nothing else marketing. Its about 1/2 inch in diameter and is transparent though with the sparkle and sheen some colors appear almost opaque. If left as is talk about dimension! Barbara Elmore used it for Robot Arms, pig tails, and festoons above drapery. You can pull it tight, you can iron it flat. If your not familiar with Barbara Elmore I find her to be one of the most creative stitchers out there. I think she left the “box” a really long time ago. Julie Mar has new designers including canvases that are very painterly like a Soutine and a floral one that is creative but without all the shading. Barbara Russell has new canvases that resonate of Pennsylvania history. One of my challenges attending market is remembering I have lots of basketweave customers. The amount of decorate creative stitching abounds but finding good looking canvases that are easy to stitch in basketweave and look beautiful when completed is entirely different than looking at a nothing design that requires thought and skill to turn it into something that is truly remarkable. Conversely taking a real work of art (like a Leigh or Tapestry Tent) and making it even better and a challenge for the stitcher that basketweave could only diminish if not ruin it. Its all about knowing your customers and educating those who are ready. Since I have no eye candy of “new stuff” here are pictures of the pieces I took for classes (click the images to see larger versions).
And what is that spool of Kreinik that looks like little beads? Facets? It’s lovely, whatever it is!
Thanks for the report.
I do love a keen eye! The class was taught by Alice Borge and it was a great class for learning a few new tricks. The class was taught using petite sparkle rays, teaching the ruching technique and couching down for the garland. Ugh I thought, I think the sparkle rays is too big and dense, perfect for whipped cream on a sundae though. So on the way home on the plane I played with the sparkle rays to gather it more lightly in hopes that it could appear as light as lace. But my mind kept going and I’ve been looking for a successful way to use Kreinik micro-chenille. Upon unpacking, a spool of the white micro chenille was lying around from another ditched attempt and I though ah ha! Perhaps this is the answer. Aside from the changes I see with this piece Alice was a great teacher. She was energetic (which I think she is known for) was full of ideas and new techiniques. See the candy cane in the upper left? She showed how to bead on wire and then couch the shape down. How to fold ribbon to use for bows (I’m thinking of switching to 7mm ribbon with a ribbon stitch). She kept the class positive and happy without it turning into a bitching session of shop owners. She also was helpful to all and walked around the class continuously to see where anyone might need additional help, or praise!
Hi Karen,
Thank you for such an informative report from the trade show. I love all,the classes you took. Maybe you can tell us about them when we see you next Saturday.
Linda
Hi Linda, I think this is a great idea. I have finished my fob and will post later but there is much to talk about with the other pieces. Sharon’s booth was great and you can’t believe how many new canvases she has out. Missy was there with smiles and enthusiasm so I’m hoping Sharon can share good news with us too on the 4th.