stitches and craft

what an amazment to see so much money being changed hands by so many people interested in channelling their DIY artistry into (apparent) reality through a variety of crafty products...
i observed that it would actually be more $$ to make your own coin purse than getting one from our local variety shop - it would actaully be cheaper to purchase a coin purse, dismantle it and use the components to make your own than buying individual components from the craft shop... a purse frame would set you back apporx $6-10 (and that could buy one 5+ madeinchina coin purses with koala motifs)
i would say middle / geri aged female to be the bulk of the audience at the show... 98% female... lots of free crafty ideas, lots of overpriced craft kits... but also some freebies - like the beginner sewing workshop by brother (and a freebie DIY enviornmentally friendly bag as a result)...
it took an hour plus to sew the 4 sides and handles together and made me realise how hard it would be to work a sewing machine (an why i definitely should not be buying a treadle sewing machine, since i struggled with a fully computerized automated one)
they were off loading their limited edition NS30LE for $399, pretty good value actaully as it has 70+ stitches choices but only 1 yr waranty...