Guest Author - Carol Taller

The new conventions and stamping festival schedules for 2008 are being released. Maybe some of these dates will fit into your plans this year. Going to a convention or festival is a great way to learn new techniques, take classes, and watch demonstrations. Plus, you get to meet people who all love the same art form as you do. This is a great day or two to get out and get inspired.

Wear your most comfortable shoes, bring a tote bag and a camera, and leave plenty of time to linger and enjoy. It’s a good idea to do some research before you go. If you need to, you should verify if strollers are allowed, or if children are allowed. Sometimes children are free or at a reduced price.

Some conventions offer bonuses for buying admission tickets in advance, such as an early entry time, but many do not offer a refund if you cannot attend. Some conventions will sell out, so once you are sure that you are attending it may be worth buying your ticket in advance and begin your planning.

It is best to research everything before the day of the event to get the most out of your day. Ask permission before taking photos or videos. Confirm if food venders will be present or if you are allowed to bring your own. Individual sites usually give hotel information if you wish to stay overnight. Some sites sell tickets for evening entertainment. Some classes allow pre registration; some classes require pre registration. Some of these classes fill up early, and won’t be available the day of the event. If you definitely want to take the class—pre register!

Below is a list of web sites and their convention dates for 2008. If a convention interests you do your homework and get as much information as you can before you go. And remember to leave time to work on all of your new ideas when you get home.

Heirloom Productions – http://www.heirloompro.com
16 shows scheduled throughout the US

A Stamp In the Hand Co.- http://www.astampinthehand.com/rsc
A Stamp In the Hand sponsors The Original Rubber Stamp Convention
Five shows, all in California

Memories Scrapbooking Expo- http://www.memoriesexpo.com/
One in Ohio, New Jersey, and Florida.

http://www.stampscraparttour.com/
Almost one per month throughout US

http://www.artandsoulretreatcom/ - Hosts three conventions this year. One in Italy, one in California, and one in Virginia.

http://www.bettysstamppad.com/CP08

http://www.rubberstampevents.com/ Six events listed throughout US

http://www.adventuresinstamping.info/- Akron Ohio hosts .

http://www.rubberstampandscrapbookexpo.com/-- I counted 22 events for 2008

http://www.astampinthehand.com/- 6, all in CA

http://www.stampscrapmadison.com/- one, in Madison, Wisconson

Don’t forget to contact your local crafts and scapbooking stores. They often run events that can inspire and educate!