Houston was a lot of fun, despite being at the tale end of a nasty head cold. The cold probably could not be helped as many people where I work and elsewhere in my life had colds the week before I did. It was bound to hit.
I taught 3 Stretching for Quilters classes. I am very happy to report that the class attendance increased every day. The first day I had 30 participants, then 50, and then over 70 by the 3rd day. Everyone seemed to enjoy the class. My friend Hollis was pumping the class, both to her email list in the weeks before Houston and to her classes at Houston. I think the classes went over very well, with many people telling me that they felt strangely relaxed yet energized after and many wished for me to return next year. I sure hope to be invited back next year.
I test drove every longer arm, table mounted machine that was at the show (5 or 6 machines total). I really loved the new Bernina 830. It had the control over stitching I was used to on my Bernina 430, but had a full 12” of space to the right of the arm (instead of less than 7), great for the larger work I do. It was amazing. But, the show special, with free table included was $12,000, so there was no way I was going to be getting one of those bad boys. I also test drove several other machines, many of which I also liked. I think I liked the Bernina 830 instantly because it felt and behaved the same as what I am ready used to, but with lots of space.
Here are 2 pics of me at Houston 2008 beside 2 of my quilts. I never got a picture of me by the 3rd piece I had hanging there, but you can see Escape here. I didn’t win any prizes, but I was thrilled that my work was accepted.
Bee’s Knees
Reflection
Tags: Bee's Knees, Bernina, Escape, Hollis Chatelain, Quilt Festival, Reflection, Stretching for Quilters