Many, many moons ago there used to an annual consumer show in Chicago. This year, the idea has been resurrected by the folks who put on the h+h americas trade show and we’re at the inaugural Fiber + Fabric Craft Festival in Rosemont (very near O’Hare).
Classes started on Thursday and run through the weekend, along with vendor booths from all sorts of folks. You’ll find pantograph patterns from The Quilting Mill, quilted shoe kits from Patchwork Kicks, curated bundles from Amy Butler Designs, FQ bundles KC Maker Studio, machines from Linda Z’s and sooooo many more folks.
I had the opportunity to teach two classes on Thursday–a hurried version of the Quilt to Coat workshop and the Adding Patchwork to Apparel workshop. The quilt coat class started with everyone pre-ordering a kit and making it together in the classroom. There were only a few hiccups and thanks to help from Patti, Flori and Hawke, it all worked out. By the time class was over, everyone had pockets in, sides sewn and ready to put their collar or hood on, then bind when they got home. Three cheers for everyone working so hard and so fast to make it happen.
Later, we explored patchwork additions and everyone got so creative! I loved seeing what folks did with the shirts and patchwork that they’d brought in. We had woven shirts and knit sweatshirts and tees. Turned edge appliqué and reverse raw edge appliqué. Mostly we had a lot of fun making unique garments that really showcase everyone’s love of patchwork.
Thanks to everyone who joined me and especially to BabyLock for inviting me to teach in their classroom. I’m grateful every time I get to work with folks personally–it brings me so much joy.
Now, for three days of festival and running the Crinkle Dreams booth. If you are coming to the show, find us in booth 1536, right behind Andover Fabrics.
I can’t wait to see what you make!
