The American Craft Council and me.

Five years ago I went on a college field trip to the American Craft Council show at the Baltimore Convention Center. I remember having two distinct thoughts, “Holy cow, this is the most amazing show that I have ever seen!” and “Wow, I would never want to do a craft show.” We all know that I changed my mind on the latter thought, but the first impression remained.

In 2006, I did my first craft show, Handmade Arcade in Pittsburgh. I had  a TERRIBLE set up, no cords for my pendants and really sub-par soldering skills, but the feedback and love that I got was overwhelmingly positive. I remember one guy looked at my stuff and told me that I should apply to the American Craft Council show in Baltimore, that my stuff would fit in perfectly. I said thank you, but as soon as he was gone, I had to laugh. I said to my sister “Ha did you hear that guy, that is hysterical!”

Photo from my Demo taken by Tigerlillyshop

Fast forward to 2009, I got a call to do a demo of my process for ACC! I was shocked, and nervous about it because she mentioned using a microphone. I was going to be like the guy doing a cooking segment at the home show, too much! I gave in and took the opportunity, and it actually was not scary. It was pretty fun. I did my demo twice, made a little girl a necklace, and added ACC demo to my resume.

When it came time to apply for the 2010 show, I was not entirely confident, but wanted to give it a shot. I applied for both the main floor and for AltCraft, the new section which highlights new indie designers. I was wait listed for the main floor and accepted into AltCraft! My buddies in craft, Greenstar Studio, Elisa Shere, DandelionBlu, and Bowerbox Press were also in! SO exciting! I was offered a spot on the main floor last week, and although it was flattering, I did not feel like I had enough time to plan a fill 10×10 booth in 2 weeks, during a blizzard. I guess I am lazy, ha! Plus, I feel like I fit in in Altcraft the most, and I only get one year to be there. So Altcraft, it is!

So, thanks for listening to my ACC rambling. I am patiently awaiting the last of the parts that I need to make the cufflinks for the show, so I am kind of at a standstill. I hope to see some of you there! Here is all the information you will need. I will be in AltCraft booth 4