Vogue Knitting Live 2020

This weekend I had the opportunity to attend Vogue Knitting Live in New York City. This was the first time I was able to attend. All I can say is wow! I have really missed a lot over the years.

As a crocheter, I wasn’t sure what to expect, however, I was very happy to see many crochet offerings in addition to knitting, despite the name of the event. There were two levels to the marketplace. There was a nice crowd; busy, but not so busy you couldn’t walk. Some of the names in the marketplace were familiar, but many of them were new to me. I am quite happy I have learned about these businesses.

First up was AT Haynes House Yarns. I had the pleasure of chatting with Terri and her husband. They offer beautifully dyed yarns in a variety of colors. They were part of Launch Pad: A Small Business Development Program.

Next up I picked up a new crochet hook (of course!). This was the first time I ever heard of this company, however, I was told they have been around for quite a long time. The hook from Prym has an ergonomic design that is quite comfortable. It offers an interesting head – something between a Bates and a Boye. To me, it looks like a Boye hook, but responds like a Bates hook – my preference of the two. It has a very comfortable grip that feels like silicone. An added bonus; they come in some really cool colors!

Of course I couldn’t leave until I picked up a new project. This one is from Bead Biz – a crochet beaded necklace kit. The design is from the lovely and talented Yvonne Tate (if you haven’t checked it out, I highly recommend you peruse my blog interview with her).

Speaking of Yvonne, it was great to catch up with her in person! She was teaching several classes. If you have the opportunity to attend one of her classes in the future, I suggest you check it out!

VKL also offered plenty of lectures and fashion shows that came with the marketplace entry fee. I made sure to attend a lecture on the use of Instagram for Handmade Business from Samantha Brunson. It was very information packed for such a short lecture!

There were plenty of artisans at VKL. One I was really looking forward to meeting was Carol Milne. I have long admired her knitted glass sculptures. It was a wonderful opportunity to finally get to meet her and see her amazing sculptures in person! I hope one day to own one of her amazing pieces.

My last purchase of the day came from Dusty’s Vintage Buttons. Her offering of buttons from the 1800s all the way to today is nothing short of spectacular. Unfortunately, she doesn’t have a website or other online selling venue. She only sells at shows. If you attend a show where she is vending, her collection is definitely worth a look. I dare you to visit her booth and not make a purchase; it is absolutely impossible!

I definitely enjoyed my day at VKL and hope to attend next year. If you have never attended this event, I suggest you check it out!