Where Everybody Knows Your Game, Part I

I got back from the Madrona Fiber Arts Festival earlier this week. It was so much fun, and I highly recommend it! I had never even taken a knitting class before, let alone attended a convention, so I had no idea what to expect. Well, was I pleasantly surprised! I wish I had brought along something other than an old, worn out camera, though (our regular camera is just not that portable). Where to start?

Well, there were knitters everywhere.


And spinners and weavers, too.


This was undoubtedly the only time I'd ever seen a spinning wheel set up in a hotel bar! It was really neat to just be immersed in all that fiber goodness. I met many great people and like-minded souls. I even met a woman who went to my same high school--small world!

It was also interesting to see what the non-knitters thought of us. There were lots of bewildered looks, to be sure, but many people showed a lot of interest. One European tourist took pictures of us because she was surprised to see so many American women knitting. The best story, though, was of a back-up singer for Gladys Knight who was there to perform in a concert. She saw a felted handbag that she liked so much that she gave the person 2 concert tickets for the bag! And then she sat down for an impromptu knitting lesson from some fellow knitters!

There was a marketplace, of course, with all kinds of goodies. I managed to walk away, though, without actually buying anything. I am pretty well stocked-up for everything on my queue currently, so I was a good girl.

I thought the Hotel Murano, where we stayed, was wonderful. It's gorgeous and showcased some beautiful glass art.


And check out these rooms.



The bed and chaise are just perfect for knitting, IMO.

The hotel is well-situated. From the restaurant, you can get a great view of Mount Ranier.


There are lots of fun shops (including a cupcake store!) and museums within walking distance. These last images are from the nearby Chihuly Bridge of Glass.



Next up: actual knitting content from the convention!