It seemed a shame, though, to miss the marketplace. When would a big show be so close again? I stopped by the hotel after work on Friday. Admission to the marketplace costs $5, and everyone received a reusable shopping bag from Skacel and an entry for a door prize.
The marketplace wasn't huge, but there were quite a few vendors. I promised myself I would make one complete trip around before buying anything.
Lion Brand was there, and they had all their LB Collection yarns there. These are fancier yarns than their standard line, and I was glad to get to pet them in person.
Newton's Yarn had a giant booth, and that's where I had to be careful not to have a falling down. They had tables marked 50% off, one marked 60% off, and then $5 and $10 tables. I looked carefully twice, but ultimately decided that I would be buying yarn because it seemed like a good deal rather than because I really loved it and wanted to knit with it. The fact that many of their skeins were gigantic--over 1000 yards-- helped. That much yarn is a big commitment. I walked away.
Ultimately, I only bought from one booth, and, because I love you, I'm going to show you the awesomeness.
Jennifer of Bur Oak Studios is from a suburb of Indy. She makes cool stuff out of old, metal knitting needles. I bought a bracelet and an ink pen, and I was sorely tempted to buy more (like this). Here's her etsy shop. She told me that she's happy to make custom items as well.
The bracelet has tiny rings made from the cross-section of knitting needles hooked together with jump rings. Even the clasp is cool and knitterly.
I like the bracelet a lot, but I love the pen.
I think it's beautiful. I would love it even if it had no knitting connection at all, but the fact that it does makes it even better.
The show was well worth the trip and the $5 admission!
I have to admire your restraint. the bracelet is very cool. looks like you with gray/pink. and the pen is fantastic!
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