I recently got back from Creativation. A Creata-what now? #Creativation is the newly branded way of saying CHA, which is the Craft & Hobby Association trade show. Once a year, we’re treated with a massive show-and-tell, where your favorite brands show up with their new releases. What a treat! It’s even more fun with friends by your side. I went with our Publisher, Catherine Tachdjian and Design Team member Nicole Nowosad.

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Together, we walked up and down many aisles, participated in several meetings, and even snuck away for a few business lunches. All, in an effort to bring you more of what you love. (I know, twist our arms, right? ;) )

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First, I couldn’t be more excited for two of our own team members, who both revealed new releases at this show. This is a glimpse at Vicki Boutin’s new line with American Crafts. It’s very colorful and happy, like her, with a mixed media emphasis.

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The very talented Paige Evans, our newest design team member, was back with her third release for Pink Paislee. Her collection, Oh My Heart, is yet another stunning example of what it must be like to look at the world from her colorful point of view.

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Congratulations, Vicki & Paige! We’re thrilled for you! (Sweet Paige was unable to attend this show for personal reasons, so we had a toast in her honor.)

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If enamel dots are your thing, PinkFresh Studio is going to be your new best friend. Look at these MASSIVE sheets of dots they’re releasing!!! Heaven!

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Who needs the pot o’ gold when you can have the rainbow? Taylored Expressions was full of hue happiness. Isn’t this rainbow die divine?

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Lots of shapely coolness going on at the Spellbinders booth. Love the geometric trend!

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If taking your art up a notch sounds like fun – up on the wall, that is – Jillibean Soup’s Mix the Media collection has much inspiration to offer!

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There are two things that get me every time—bitty and organization. So these bitty storage drawers at Maya Road had me looking like the heart-eyes emoji. SWOON!

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Speaking of emojis, this release from Simple Stories was sure full of character!

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You might say, the stamps and dies at Lawn Fawn were out of this world! This particular Lawn Cut is designed to create an interactive card that rotates. Weeee!

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Yes, it was one big creative party in Phoenix, AZ, a couple of weeks ago. Oh, sure, you walk for hours and hours and leave with a scratchy voice from all of the talking that’s done, but it’s 100% worth it. The inspiration around every turn was all the momentum needed to keep us charged. While the hugs and love from those who work so hard behind the scenes is always an added bonus.

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We can’t wait to share more of what’s coming to your stores soon in our Spring ’17 issue. Until then, I’d love to know what #Creativation items you’re most excited to learn more about (on my list or otherwise). Thanks for your thoughts!

Cheers!
Megan Hoeppner

editor-in-chief