My Flock Fiber Festival experience + tips for attending fiber events

Hang out while I share my experience at Flock Fiber Festival (August 9-11, 2024). I also share what I brought home and some tips throughout for creating a positive and organized experience at any fiber event.

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Mel's tips for attending fiber events:

Before the event:
1) Buy the weekend pass to the marketplace
2) Preorder merch and any exclusive items from vendors
3) Review the classes offered before the registration date
4) Check for a discounted hotel rate
5) Make a shopping list including rough cost - avoid sticker shock!
6) Check amount you can claim before duty fees apply (cross-border travel)
7) Know your garment quantities and purchase the appropriate amounts. Split a skein with a friend if you think you need another skein, but not a whole one!

At the marketplace:
8) Bring a water bottle and snack
9) Eat before and finish your take out beverage prior to entering so you have both hands free
10) Bring a wip
11) Wear comfortable shoes
12) Wear layers; keeping in mind potential chilly a/c indoors, rain outdoors, etc
13) Allow yourself plenty of time to be there so you don't feel rushed; take breaks. Some booths will be busier than others so add time for re-visits.
14) Don't go right at opening on day 1 of the marketplace if you don't like really busy crowds
15) Walk through the aisles first; take notes/pics of what you see, then go back and make your purchase (especially helpful if you're looking for a certain colour).
16) Don't feel pressured to buy the yarn; being there is also good for future reference: feel the fibers, see the colours
17) Don't forget to look at and feel the samples; try them on too!
18) Squish all the yarn
19) Have fun!

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Instagram: stringthingsbymel
Ravelry: https://www.ravelry.com/people/MelissaLu
My website: https://www.stringthingsbymel.com/