Replies

1. 
   carolfresia | Sep 28, 2004 06:03pm | #1

   Lize,

   You don't have to register or attend classes; most expos sell tickets at the door, and you pay for admission to the vendors' hall. This is still enough to keep an avid sewer busy for a good part of a day: there are often hundreds of vendors' booths, with everything from patterns to fabric and notions to yarns, embellishments, etc. etc. etc. Also, you'll often be able to attend style shows offered by independent designers and teachers, and these are a great way to get inspired. I haven't been to the Chicago expo, but I will confess to having spent a good bit of money at the Vogue Fabrics booth at several other expos! There are sometimes hands-on booths where you create something for charity--chemo caps, teddy bears, quilts, etc.

   To go to classes, you usually need to pre-register, and the best way to find out how to do so is to go to the website. They should note which classes are sold out there, and which still have openings. Some of the classes will be hands-on ones, others will be lectures and trunk shows.

   Have a great time!

   Carol

2. 
   suesew | Sep 29, 2004 03:30am | #2

   Are you going to the Original Sewing and Quilt ing Expo? They have their own web site and you can order or look at the classes offered. If you are going to take classes or go for more than one day you can save money by preregistering. There is so much there it will make your head spin. Don't take little children. And have a great time. (bring $)

3. 
   AgnesD | Sep 29, 2004 05:13pm | #3

   Lize, I will be attending the sewing expo in Chicago this October.  I have attended only one before and found that I was able to pick up some new tips.  As previously stated you don't have to attend any classes and can register onsite if you choose.  For me at this late date I will have to register onsite.  Most of the classes are about an hour and are technique classes only, with the instructors showing samples with their discussions.    If you can get into a studio class, usually Viking or Pfaff, they are fun.  There are many free demonstrations, so check the schedule each day because they too offer good information.  As far as fabric selection, I can't give advice as I don't look for fabric as I live very close to NYC.

   Hope you have a great sewing adventure.

1. 
   SewTruTerry | Oct 01, 2004 08:16pm | #4

   Deb and Lize I am also attending the Sewing And Craft Expo in Chicago (technically it is Rosemont) I will be taking Cynthia Guffees class the day before.  I know that she has several other shorter classes that she offers on the other days but I have already taken most of them. It would be fun to try to meet up somewhere.  Also I have found that having lunch at the Sofitel is so much more relaxing (although perhaps more pricey) and offers that little bit of time away from the HooHaa! that will give your brain a chance to refocus.  Also remember to leave the husband at home but not the credit cards and wear comfy shoes.

4. 
   rjf | Oct 08, 2004 02:52pm | #5

   Lize, I've just come back from the American Sewing Expo in Novi, MI.  Had a wondeful time!  Take an empty suitcase and an extra credit card.  They tend to get limp after a while.  I tried to look at everything first and then go back and buy what I remembered I liked.  That's a little dangerous because if the place is very big, you might not find your way back.  And leaving a trail of breadcrumbs doesn't work either.

   And the fashion show, "Inspired by Threads", was great!        rjf

1. 
   Jean | Oct 08, 2004 07:43pm | #6

   .Green with envy here.

   Probably will never be closer to where I live, but with my circulation problems I would need a motorized chair to get around. Glad it was wonderful though!