Winter CHA (Craft and Hobby Association) brings together manufacturers, resellers and designers in soooo many wonderful ways!  On my flight today I met a scrapbooking writer, a new owner of a scrapbooking store, and a manufacturer of imprinting machines. All it takes is one random person waiting at the gate who says a word like “scrapbook” and five heads turn to ask “are you going to CHA?”  One of the many things I love about this industry is the instant camaraderie…we all swapped cards and talked about crafting at large. 

So many fabulous shapes and sizes to choose from - and this is only about half the selection!

By the time I arrived, set-up was nearly finished. Thanks to our awesome set-up team, the booth was ready in only about 8 hours! I’m always amazed at how completely torn up the exhibit hall looks during set-up days, and then how transformed and exciting it becomes on opening day.

Our booth is on a corner this time, it’s really open and airy. We are featuring so many incredibly fun books and products!  I’m particularly fond of our new Ready-to-Go!® products — the Blank Canvas Books and  Cupcake Blank Board Books!  Also recently released are Blank Board Books in the shape of a bone, a circle and a scallop…..too CUTE!

We attended the Designer Showcase in the evening and saw some incredible talent!  From papercrafters, needle felters and knitters, to mixed media artists, jewelry makers and surface designers – this room was PACKED with some serious creative mojo.

Lauren's work has that "wow" factor!

We did a lot of business card swapping, and ended our time at the Showcase with a visit with the eternally enthusiastic Lauren Ferguson. Her rich, textural handmade cards and books were simply yet creatively displayed on stacked boxes with dried beans strewn all about.  Lauren did a project for us that we are so proud to have displayed in our booth – but more on that tomorrow!

And then it was back to our room – we’re on the 9th floor with a nice view…the skies are overcast and threatening to rain here in Anaheim…but the convention center is filled with sunshine!

Who says it never rains in Southern California?

Related posts:

1. CHA – First day of the show!
2. On my way to CHA!
3. TAP® Wins Most Innovative Product at Winter CHA!
4. CHA – Opening night reception