Join Darrin as he engages in a captivating conversation with Jamie Lomax, a renowned knitting pattern designer and author, and Heidi Kaisand from Hen and Chick Studio. Jamie introduces her company, Pacific Knit Co, and her innovative modular knitting patterns as well as her new book, 'The Doodle Knit Directory.' She shares her journey from corporate life to becoming a full-time designer. Heidi discusses the significance of attending H&H Americas, customer engagement practices, and offers a sneak peek at her upcoming class on customer relations. Discover the latest trends in knitting and quilt shop ownership, and learn valuable tips on growing your craft business.00:00 Introduction and Guest Speaker Jamie Lomax00:37 Jamie Lomax's Background and Business01:20 The Doodle Knit Directory and Modular Knitting04:44 Inspiration Behind Jamie's Work07:23 Jamie Lomax at H&H Americas09:10 Introduction and Guest Speaker Heidi09:33 Heidi's Background and Business10:18 Importance of Networking and Education at H&H11:48 Heidi's Class on Customer Engagement14:30 Current Retail Climate and Strategies17:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join Darrin for an insightful conversation with Heidi Kaisand from Hen & Chick Studio, a quilt shop and retreat center in Conrad, Iowa. Heidi shares her experiences and the importance of attending the h+h Americas show for networking and education. Discover her philosophy on customer engagement, the evolving retail landscape, and the value of continuous learning. Heidi also discusses her upcoming class on customer engagement and shares practical tips for shop owners. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights for your retail business.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:20 Heidi's Background and Business01:17 Importance of Networking and Education at H&H02:48 Heidi's Upcoming Class on Customer Engagement05:30 Current Retail Climate and Challenges09:06 Opportunities at H&H and Final Thoughts

Join us for an insightful discussion with Sheena Burt from Color Story Studios as she shares her expertise on transforming independent retailers into must-visit destinations. Sheena talks about her journey, the importance of curation in modern retail, and offers practical advice for creating captivating store displays. Learn about her two upcoming classes at H&H Americas: 'One Table Four Ways' and 'The Art of Retail,' where she will provide hands-on guidance to retailers looking to inspire and engage their customers. Don't miss this chance to elevate your retail experience!00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:25 Team Dynamics and Growth01:28 Challenges and Innovations in Event Planning03:12 Retail Experience and Community Building06:43 Visual Merchandising Insights12:33 Upcoming Classes and Workshops23:10 Closing Remarks and Encouragement

h+h Connect: Industry Insights and Innovations with The ScissormanIn this month's edition of h+h Connect, host Darrin sits down with Brint, better known as the Scissorman, from Specialty Product Sales Incorporated and CEO of Famore Cutlery. The episode explores a range of industry topics, from the recent turmoil at Joanne Fabrics to the vibrant, passionate world of the crafting community, including quilting, knitting, and the burgeoning cosplay segment. Highlighting key discussions on market shifts, product development, and community engagement, Darrin and Brint delve into the importance of building relationships and investing in innovation. The episode also introduces the new Fiber Plus Fabrics Craft Festival, aimed at connecting brands directly with consumers. Join us for an insightful conversation that goes beyond business as usual to touch on the core values and future opportunities in the crafting industry.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:24 Industry Overview and Joanne Fabrics Discussion01:32 Challenges and Opportunities for Suppliers08:54 Financial Struggles and Supplier Terms16:31 Cosplay: A Growing Market24:26 H&H Show and Community Engagement28:16 Emotional Impact of Cosplay28:31 Crafting the Perfect Trophy29:25 Challenges and Innovations in Crafting30:58 Adapting to the Crafting Community34:05 Exciting New Programs at H&H36:58 The Importance of Passion in Business41:31 Building Relationships in Retail47:29 The Value of Trade Shows49:01 Investing in Yourself and Your Business

Danielle Mayer introduces the Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival (open to the public), slated for May 2026 at the Donald E. Stevens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. Highlighting insights from Darrin Stern, Vice President of Koelnmesse, Inc., and show director, the event addresses a gap in the Midwest crafting market. The festival offers a diverse range of activities, including knitting, quilting, sewing, and more, with a strong focus on education, community, and creativity. It features hands-on workshops, seminars, and support for small businesses through discounted booths. The event is part of the h+h family, which is known for successfully crafting events globally. Set to become a cornerstone for the crafting community, it's designed to inspire and connect crafters from all backgrounds.

🎙️ h+h Connect Podcast: Meet the Team Behind the Craft Community 🎨✨

In this special holiday edition of the h+h Connect Podcast, we’re taking you behind the scenes to meet the incredible team bringing h+h americas to life. Join host Darrin Stern as he sits down with key staff members to discuss their journeys, inspirations, and passions for the craft industry.

Through candid and heartfelt conversations, you’ll hear from:

• Jessica Bowick, sharing her love for creating memorable experiences in the trade show world.

• Eileen Lynch, reflecting on the unique energy of the crafting community and her passion for connecting people.

• Nadine Schwartz, diving into her decades-long trade show career and her admiration for the kindness and creativity of the crafting industry.

• Leslie Fleck, exploring the global reach of crafting and the importance of international collaboration.

• Marisa Goldberg, revealing the meticulous behind-the-scenes operations that make the magic of h+h possible.

Discover what makes the crafting community so special—from the small businesses driving innovation to the shared passion for creativity that connects us all. Whether you’re an exhibitor, attendee, or just curious about the craft world, this episode is full of insights and inspiration.

🎄 Happy Holidays from all of us at h+h Connect! We can’t wait to see you in May for our biggest and most exciting show yet. Until then, stay inspired, stay creative, and stay connected. ❤️

Crafting Dreams into Reality: Nichole Schneider's Inspiring Journey | h+h Connect Show In this episode of the h+h Connect Show, host Darrin welcomes special guest @NicholeSchneider, a multifaceted entrepreneur, creator, artist, and businesswoman. Nichole, the founder of @ColeyCraft (www.coleycraft.com), shares her remarkable origin story, drawing from her family's rich heritage in fashion design and business. She discusses her educational background, professional experiences, and the evolution of her career from a buyer to owning a successful crafting business. Nichole also emphasizes the importance of following one's passions, spotting trends, and the pivotal role of trade shows like h+h americas in her business journey. Join us as we explore Nichole's journey of blending creativity with business acumen to achieve her dreams. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 00:43 Nichole Schneider's Early Life and Career Beginnings 01:36 Professional Journey and Achievements 03:35 Balancing Creativity and Business 08:20 Spotting Trends and Product Development 14:50 The Value of Trade Shows 19:11 h+h americas and Its Impact 33:19 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

h+h americas, a prominent trade show for fiber craft retailers, has unveiled plans for a new pavilion dedicated to beads, buttons, tools, and items for jewelry making and crafts. This initiative responds to growing demand from industry professionals seeking specialized vendors in these categories.

Responding to Industry Demand

The decision to launch the new pavilion comes after careful consideration of feedback from the event's core audience. Retailers and professionals—including yarn shops, needlepoint studios, sewing and quilting stores, fabric shops, sewing dealers, designers, educators, professional makers, importers, and exporters—have been requesting greater access to suppliers specializing in beads and buttons.

"Listening to our buyers and observing the competitive landscape, we recognized the need to expand our exhibition to include more crafting elements," said Darrin Stern, Vice President of Koelnmesse Inc. and Director of h+h americas. "Our new pavilion is a direct response to that demand, aiming to provide a comprehensive sourcing platform for the crafting community."

Strategic Naming for Clarity

The pavilion's name was carefully chosen to be descriptive and straightforward, eliminating any confusion about what attendees can expect to find. While acknowledging the historical significance of these terms and previous organizations that supported this product segment, the focus remains on clarity and ease of connection for both vendors and buyers.

"Our sole intent with the naming is to make it easy for people to understand and engage with this new space," Stern explained. "We want vendors to quickly recognize their representation and presentation within the pavilion."

Enhancing Retail Offerings

The addition of beads and buttons is seen as a natural extension of h+h americas' product offerings. These items are integral to the fiber community and offer retailers opportunities to create add-on kits and gifts, thereby expanding their in-store and online product ranges.

"We believe that incorporating beads and buttons allows retailers to extend their offerings and cater to a wider audience," Stern noted. "It's all about providing value and inspiration to both our exhibitors and attendees."

Invitation for Industry Collaboration

h+h americas is actively seeking input from the crafting community to ensure the pavilion meets industry needs. The organization invites professionals to share their thoughts and suggestions, either directly or through social media platforms.

"We are extremely excited about launching this special pavilion," said Stern. "We look forward to collaborating with the industry to further its growth, reach, and importance. Together, we can create a vibrant, inspirational, and thriving marketplace."

Join the Conversation

Industry professionals are encouraged to provide feedback and engage with h+h americas to help shape the future of the event. The management team values community insights and is committed to fostering an environment that supports business growth and innovation.

About h+h americas

h+h americas continues to be a leading platform for business-to-business interactions in the crafts industry. By expanding its offerings and responding to market demands, the event aims to support individuals and businesses in sourcing diverse products for their retail and professional environments.