I'm here in Salt Lake City attending the International Quilt Market. I've never been to a place where it could be 85 degress one day and 50 degrees the next day with intermittent hail storms. If you haven't seen the mountains here they are pretty amazigng.
The show is a bit earlier in May than usual and I know fabric vendors in particular were challenged to get their lines ready. A few weeks mean everything when you have to bring your fabric over the water then get a quilt made. But with a little magic known as overnight freight and digital imaging they made it work- once again contributing to a beautiful show.
Marie Osmond has created some excitement with her new line of fabrics for Quilting Treasures. I had the opportunity to record an interview with Marie, so look for that at www.cnamag.com in the coming weeks!
So far the 'next big thing' hasn't jumped out at me yet but some "item" trends are emerging:
Overall color scheme- Incoming trend is yellow and colors with yellow undertones. Also greens and blues.
Yo-yos (not the ones with the string, but the little fabric circles drawn up with thread)-Clover Needlecraft has a tool that makes it easier. Indygo Junction had adorable little animals- a dog and an elephant with yo-yo bodies.
Aprons, and yes... they are just like the ones your grandma used to make. Patterns from Mary Mulari, Amy Butler and Indygo junction feature vintage silhouettes updated with contemporary fabrics. they make attractive and functional uniforms for store employees. Plus in some urban areas young girls are wearing them over tee shirts and jeans as a fashion item... a la the apron dress.
Plenty of wool here- lots of applique. But, friends where are the wearables I had hoped to see trending in last year? There are plenty of patterns from fashion patterns that serve the quilt community. Let's see some great clothes!!!
Purses power on. The lastest incarnations are soft slouchy fabric bags with self- fabric or cord handles.
Today's my day to dig in to products and trends so tune in tonight for more from the show!- Beth