In May 2025, I took my very first trip to h+h Americas—a giant tradeshow for all things handcrafts: knitting, crochet, sewing, quilting, embroidery, and more. I spent four whirlwind days surrounded by yarn, needles, creative people, and so many good ideas—and I thought you might want a peek behind the curtain.

So what is h+h? It’s like a giant playground for shop owners, filled with hundreds of vendors, classes, demos, and even a fashion show. I was there from May 6–9, and every day was packed with learning and discovery.

What I Learned

On day one, I jumped into h+h University, where I took classes on social media advertising, writing better product pages for our online store, email marketing, and creating fun and beautiful product displays. Stay tuned for fun new ideas coming to the shop – it’ll be good!

I also got to connect with other yarn shop owners from across the country, including friends I’ve met through my business coaching group. And I got to see some of my wonderful reps, who are always a delight to talk with!

Oh, and I tried my first Mai Thai. Does that count?

What I Saw (and Loved)

I spent most of the show visiting vendors—checking out yarns, needles, hooks, notions, and bags. Some favorites I got to visit included Malabrigo, Blue Sky Fibers, Freia, della Q, and more.

One of the most exciting moments? I bumped into James Watts, one of my all-time favorite pattern designers! I knit his Mystic Square sweater for myself (the only sweater I’ve ever made just for me), so getting to say hello and grab a picture with him made my day. Okay—my whole trip.

Trends I’m Excited About

There are some fun shifts happening in the yarn world—and I’m excited to bring some of them to you soon:

• New needle technology! Look out for Quad Needles from ChiaoGoo and Flight needles from Lykke—both made with stainless steel and kink-free cords.
• American-made yarns and bags are growing—like Freia, Feederbrook Farm, and Fibres for Life.
• Alpaca is making a comeback, especially at Blue Sky Fibers.
• Eco-friendly options are expanding, with more recycled and upcycled yarns hitting the market (like Yarn Citizen—we’re watching this one!).
• And of course, vendors are doubling down on what works, with new colorways coming in old favorites like Malabrigo Rios and Blue Sky Fibers classics.

What I’m Bringing In

✨ Freia Yarn – stunning gradients, U.S. merino, dyed in the U.S.

✨ Leading Men Fiber Arts – bright, bold, and gorgeous.

✨ Eco-friendly bags from Fibres for Life and Splash Fabrics

✨ American-made bags from Bonnie Bischoff

✨ New della Q styles – bright, fun, and coming soon!

✨ Organic Cotton Sport from Blue Sky Fibers

✨ New Malabrigo Rios colors for fall

✨ More Signature 4 Ply from West Yorkshire Spinners

✨ New lines from Blue Sky Fibers – stay tuned!

✨ …and yes, I may have picked up some inspiration for a new subscription! 👀

Every single thing I bring in follows my personal rule: I have to love it. I work from a strict buying plan, so if you see something new in the shop, know that it made me smile (and I think it will make you smile too).

What It All Means

Going to h+h was a chance to step back, zoom out, and dream big. I came home full of ideas to make Tink & The Frog even better—more fun, more helpful, and more joyful. From better communication to fun new products to exciting new programs, I left re-energized and grateful.

And I can’t wait to share it all with you.

🧶 Stay tuned for what’s coming—there’s so much to look forward to!

Got questions or curiosity about something I mentioned? Stop in, send a message, or drop by for social stitching. I’m always happy to chat – and I brought home some sample skeins to squish!

— Michelle