Trade Show visit

I went to the TNNA trade show in Columbus, Ohio, on Monday. What inspiration. The TNNA show is for "people in the needlework business". I haven't gone in a few years, so it was fun just to feel a part of the industry again -- even though I don't have a "bricks and mortar" store. All of the yarn companies, button companies, needle companies, etc, were there.

I want to continue experimenting with freeform knitting and was looking for some specific small companies whose products aren't usually available in yarn stores. People doing unusual yarns (specifically handdyed silk yarns and ribbons) so that I can mix many colors and textures in my wraps.

My favorite company is Tilli Tomas. I already had a few skeins of her wonderful handdyed silks with beads that I picked up in my travels, and I was familiar with some great projects knitted using her yarns. Tilli is delightful and very helpful. I ordered some of her wonderful Dupioni silk ribbon strung with glass beads. Each color was more beautiful than the next. I also ordered some of the beaded silk yarn. Absolutely gorgeous.


I also love the Hanah handdyed silk ribbons. Stunning colors. These gorgeous ribbons are offered in a variety of widths and colors. They could be knit, used in fringe, and also used to make silk ribbon flowers. A few years ago I did a lot of embroidery using silk ribbon and also made silk ribbon flowers. These ribbons inspire me to play with the silk ribbon flowers again, both in my knitting and jewelry making. How about a beautiful cabbage rose, maybe beaded and with some delicate wire embellishments, on a velvet ribbon worn as a choker? A vintage look but with a twist. These ribbons are a real inspiration.

What fun to see all the creativity and energy of the wonderful folks in the yarn business. Makes me want to knit non-stop to get all my ideas translated into finished products!