The ETA Sew Expo is well coordinated by Peggy Sagers of Silhouette Patterns; however, a multitude of independent fiber artists, pattern designers, and shops were there as instructors and vendors.
Pricing:
The all day workshops and the classes were very reasonable to gain access to the expert instructors. I chose a package deal that included a lovely hotel suite and as many of the Sat-Sun classes as I wished to attend. It was very convenient to stay at the hotel and have everything in one place.
Schedule:
On Friday, there were all day workshops for fitting and sewing a completed garment. On Saturday and Sunday, the schedule was set for 1 to 1-1.5 hour sessions with 30 minutes in between for a break and for shopping -fabrics, notions, patterns. You had a restful 1-2 hour break during the midday lunch. My only complaint? I couldn't do it all! There were 4-5 classes that went at the same time. It was hard to choose.
Class topics:
handbags; knitting; fabric painting; wardrobe colors; personal style; fitting and sewing tips for bras, tops, pants. My personal favorites were fabric painting, wardrobe colors, and binding tips.
Vendors:
Things you do not find at JoAnn's. Notions, how to booklets, kits, exquisite fabrics, and meet the independent pattern designers to ask your questions.
Misc:
Saturday evening was a Fashion Show Challenge -fun, inspired creativity, and free chocolates and ice cream. Sunday afternoon, at the end of the Expo, was a Door Prize Give Away. I won an Elite Camisole pattern!
Eating:
The hotel food was good. The package price ticket included a free breakfast buffet. Friday night we used the hotel shuttle and the concierge recommended a restaurant called Asian Fusion. Oh, my. If you are ever in Dallas, you must go there. Don't let the outside of the strip mall fool you. The restaurant is decorated beautifully, the staff is gracious, the food presentation is elegant, and the taste is A+++.
What would I do different?
I went to 1 hour classes all day Sat and Sun. My head was spinning from info overload. Next time I would do the Friday all day session, so there is more time to cover all the hands on details. Then select a few of the 1 hour classes, giving myself time to digest each one and perhaps go to the room and practice sewing what I had learned. |
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Sounds like s0 much fun!!!
2/27/13 8:26 AM
Thanks for the detailed review and advice for next time.
2/27/13 10:25 PM
thanks so much for the review. I hope to go next year!
3/5/13 8:35 PM
thanks for the review...I missed it this year.
3/22/13 1:06 PM