West coast, here we come

As the new year opens, we are getting ready for two shows on the west coast. We'll be at Madrona Fiber Arts from the 12th through the 15th of February. If you've never been to a fiber retreat and want a warm welcoming experience with lots of people who are passionate about knitting and crocheting this is an event you really need to consider. They offer regular classes, mini classes, an amazing group of vendors, and several wonderful areas to sit down, relax, and knit or crochet away in the company of lots of other fiber folks. The event is held at the Hotel Murano which is visually stunning. Even if you don't stay at the hotel, take the time to ride the elevators and get off at different floors to see the beautifully displayed artwork on each floor.

 After an all too brief stay in Washington, Bead Biz will head south to Stitches West in Santa Clara, CA. A much bigger and more fast paced event than Madrona, Stitches has many more vendors as well as more classes. It also has more giveaways. If you go, remember to get a ticket for the grand prize drawing every time you make a marketplace purchase. (Pro tip: Bring those sticky address labels you get in the mail and use them instead of writing your name and address on every ticket. That way you only end up writing your phone on each one.)

 We have lots to do before we can leave for the west coast including getting together some fantastic new kits. We have 2 new knitted patterns from Lynn Wilson: beautiful lacey beaded shawl and an amazing beaded cowl.

Beaded Shawl

Beaded Cowl

We also have a brand new crochet shawl from our newest designer Linda Dean. It’s so new we don’t even have a photo of the completely finished project yet, but here is the latest in progress photo:

Beaded Crochet Shawl

We can't wait to see all of our West Coast friends, and not just for warmer and less snowy weather!

Love,
Bead Biz