The most amazing thing about walking the show with other editors is how we visit the same booths at the same time and blog about different things. So be sure to check out the Memory Makers blog at www.memorymakersmagazine.com 
to see some photos and more information on what my sister editors Beth Williams and GenaMarie Reda liked at the show.

The second day has not altered my opinion of the 1970s redux. I saw more versions of the trends previous noted and want to add the following....

• flamingos- check 'em out at BasicGrey
  
• Circus animals (giraffes and lions especially)- especially on youth novelty lines
• Beach themes- shells and surfing
  

In fact, the only thing missing is a big surge in avocado/brown color combos although we are seeing those colors paired with other hues- avocado with rich teal, plum and russet and brown with wine-colored  pinks.

Another thing I noticed which I am informed is not new but seems to be picking up steam is mini albums with different sizes and die cut shapes of filler paper so you don't have a neat paper edge but some sticking out further than others. Adds to the  texture.

Now... folks have asked me about a  breakout product. I've seen a lot of line extensions and variations or improvements on tools at this show. But truly breakout for this show would have to be Kathy Cano Murillo's new Crafty Chica line with Duncan Enterprises. Kudos to Larry Duncan for letting his team execute a vision that is unlike anything on the market.

Esta cosa is muy muy interesante and no debes ser una latina a comprarla. (Pardon the college Spanish but I am excited)

This line includes religious statues than can painted and glittered, little shrine kits and products sporting artwork designed by Kathy's husband that  incorporates Mexican imagery. The kits are based on Kathy's best selling classes over the years. If you know about the Sacred Heart, Frida Kahlo or Dia de los muertos this line will interest you. Iconography at its best.

Plus... Kathy could not be more generous spirit. Considering her MySpace friends list just passed 10,000 people, I'd say she is doing something right. Buena suerte Crafty Chica.

Other interesting products- so many to mention...but here are a few.

At the Amate booth were all these silver or nickel- not sure jewelry components with cups to add scraps that are then covered with a resin or wax to create scrapped jewelry. I liked the wide range of choices particularly a ring with a long vertical rectangle opening. That's the one I want to make.

New lines from Teresa Collins incorporate office supply themes and biker tattoos. Fun and much talked about.

The Ring Ring from Carla Craft. If you like to make spiral bound books this is a great tool for the system punches 5 sheets of 20lb copy paper, it's easy to squeeze and the colorful ring choices vary in size and color.

EK always has great tools we liked the powder brush, the Zig Zag Piercing bug and the 3-D card punches.

Making Memories is making a lot of noise with their Slice machine. Digital die cutting plus scaleability in an attractive compact package.

In our own F+W Publications booth the PageMaps book from Becky Fleck is a runaway winner and Michael DeMeng's in booth workshop had folks blocking the aisle to take a look.

Before I sign off I'd like to say THANKS to all of you who have made a point to stop by and tell us you love Scrapbook Retailer magazine. We value your story ideas and  your positive feedback inspires us to keep getting better. Thanks for the vote of confidence.--Beth