Rhinebeck Notes 1

Miss Colleen (with Lupe) @NYS S&W

The NYS Sheep and Wool Festival, affectionately known as Rhinebeck, was held last week.  There were 4 days of workshops and 2 general public shopping days in what is the largest (though temporary) knitting, weaving and crochet specific mall in the world.  And every year, people come from all over the country and world to participate.

My intrepid and magical assistant, Colleen Croce, was able to make the trip with me.  Here she is setting up the classroom with Lupe, my daughter's ragdoll.  (Lupe makes all my business trips with me.  Long story.)

The town of Rhinebeck is an old rural town nestled in the Catskills.  The fall color was vibrant and beautiful, and the Fairgrounds hosting the event were as picturesque as any little New England town.  The grounds are beautifully groomed, and when they fill in with avid fiber fans, they're still stunning.

The best vendors, both food and fiber, quickly draw a crowd, and then a line.  Time in line passes quickly, though.  Folks read each other's Ravelry IDs off buttons on their chest.  They discuss the knitwear everyone is wearing.  And before you know it, you're dining and shopping with new friends.  More to come tomorrow!