I'm still unpacking from the adventure of going to Fredericksburg Star of Texas Rug Camp. The washing machine has been humming, duties of work called, family visiting here and there and finally a chance to sit and tell you a little bit about the camp.
Pati and I had the opportunity to take a class from Frank Bielec of Mosey N' Me or better yet known for his work on Trading Spaces TV show. I just can't put into words just how outstanding Frank's class was. Not only what we learned by doing and listening but by just how simply giving Frank is. He shared a wealth of information and went above and beyond the realms of teaching. If you ever have the opportunity of taking a class from him you simply must.
This class was about oxford punch needle. Now granted I have punched up a few pieces before this class but I experienced just how many different things you can make and how to finish the punching. I made a lid cover for a paper mache box. The picture is a little brighter than what it actually should be.
We made sheep to go on a tote box. I punched a grayish one and also a off white one. We then adhered it to a wooden box that Frank had made and painted. He took the time to write a little note to each of us in the class along the bottom. It will always remain a treasure for me.
There were 16 students and Frank in a makeshift classroom that was set up in a handicap hotel room. Yes we were elbow to elbow but we had the best time....we talked, shared ideas, laughed, had pizza parties, made primitive dolls, and made so many different projects...the possibilites were endless. We had visitors from other classrooms dropping by because they had heard so much good reports from that group of ladies.
There were times we met in the hallway to see a new idea.
There were several other teachers at camp....Karen Kahle of Primitive Spirit was also a teacher. She had a trunk show and here style of hooking was unbelieveable. She really knows how to capture the look of an antique rug.
Pati and I often throughout the trip would take a walk through Fredericksburg often hitting the back streets to find the most wonderful little shops located in what once were homes. We found a most delightful Pie shop with homemade pies...cherry, pecan, coconut, oh so many more. A middle aged man that waited on us said he makes them from scratch daily....and boy were they ever good. Inside the shop were handmade quilts, signs, and little knick knack items.
Outside of the pie shop were little sitting areas under the trees if you cared to dine outside.
We truly enjoyed walking the steets looking at all the history and loving the old homes with the wide wrap around porches and the huge trees.
There was a rug show before we left and I took lots of pictures but I'll save those to share in another post....the washing machine needs another load and it's time to stop and find something for supper. I hope you have enjoyed just a little taste of Fredericksburg Star Rug Hooking Camp.
Now before I close this post I want to leave you with a word of advice straight from Frank.....Share~ Share your knowledge, share your love of crafting, share your supplies whenever you can, just simply share with someone that wants to learn.
Happy Trails.....Ginger
