Look What I Found at TNNA!

I just returned from an exciting time in Long Beach, Calif., this past weekend attending The National NeedleArts show.  It's a wonderful opportunity to connect with designers, yarn companies and other industry professionals all in one place. There's something so magical about being under one roof with a bunch of people that all share the same passion!

Long Beach marks the first time in several years that Creative Knitting magazine had booth presence. The goal was to increase brand awareness for both Creative Knitting and Crochet!, both published by DRG Publications, and to bring attention to our popular knit and crochet pattern books.

Me with Carol Alexander, editor or Crochet! and Crochet World meeting attendees

I'm constantly amazed by the new products featured at TNNA. This time around, I couldn't get enough of all the new finds that will be coming our way in the months ahead. Here's some eye-candy for your viewing pleasure!

New from Lantern Moon:
Here are some exciting new confections from Be Sweet. Bambino Taffy is a fun cotton and bamboo self-striping yarn. All you need is one skein for the Sweetie Pie hat pattern included on the label.
 Also from Be Sweet: Bubble Ball yarn, made with merino baby weight yarn, strung with 25 felted balls per skein. Perfect for embellishing scarves, accessories or garments.



And then there was an inspiring collection of knitting bags and notion keepers at Namaste. This spring, Namaste is partnering with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, by donating 10% of each light pink product sold.

Let's not forget the people who make these shows so inspiring! It's not often that we get to see little ones on the show floor. Here's Owen, who really stole the show with his felted fedora. He was mesmerized by looking into the camera, as babies often are. But finally, I got a side shot of his memorable little hat. 
Last but not least, my eye caught this super-funky felted ring. I just couldn't resist asking for a shot of this striking little creation!