Tips for the NEC!

[Mrs_Waddington]

Hiya my tickets have just arrived for the NEC Christmas craft thingy and I wondered if anyone could give me any tips and advice pls? What should I expect? Is it worth taking my wheeled tote or will it just get in the way? Is it all crafty related stuff or are there gifty things to buy too? Would really appreciate any ideas and advice so I get the most out of it!

Thanks in advance!!!

[deborahj]

Hi i have been the last few years, lots of people take wheeled totes/ cases etc so i wouldnt worry about getting in the way, they certainly dont lol.
Flat shoes, plenty of water to drink while going around, lightweight clothing, if you can leave your jacket/ coat in the car then i would. I use a cross body bag, easier to keep my eye on and leaves you hands free when shopping:lolI also take my lunch with me, i usually go out of the hall where it is cooler and find a seat to eat, and PLENTY of money lol.
I am going on the Saturday, usually go on a Sunday, but my o/h is fishing on that day so i have to have dd,s and the NEC is my day without the little darlings.
Most of all have FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Craft for Fun]

Also try and get to the back and work your way to the front, it means you get a little break from the mad rush!! Lots of light weight layers of clothes, and comfy shoes. Also as an ex exhibitor at show can i ask you all to remember one thing..... Manners! I know it gets hot and busy but it is much nicer for everyone if we all remember our P's and Q's. Exhibitors put a huge amount of work into setting up for the shows. If you don't like something, or you think something is expensive then try and remember that they have all worked hard and the exhibitions are VERY VERY expensive to do(Thousands of Pounds at the NEC), so try and keep your comments to yourself until you are away from the stand. They are there to make money and to make your show a success to. So go and enjoy it and have a great time and smile when you go round, you will all enjoy it more if you do!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have a fab time, and i hope to try and get there myself.

Amanda

[Craft Superstore]

Hi,

Craft Superstore will have a stand at the NEC & we're taking a few wheeled totes (the Papermania ones). So for anyone who doesn't already have a tote & would like to buy one on the day, be sure to pay us a visit!

A word of warning, though: we're only taking limited stocks as there is only so much room on the van, and it's not unheard of for us to sell out of totes on the first morning of a show! We'll have lots of other goodies and special show offers so do please stop by and say hello to Martin & the team.

Enjoy the show!

Samantha
x x

[Kron]

Don't eat garlic the night before! Sorry there is nothing worse (other than b.o.) than someone breathing there "fumes" all over when in confined spaces! lol, why is it these to these people always manage to be following me??

I try to take those carrier handles as it's easier when they get a little heavier to just stick them on there.

If there is something specific that you intend to get, price it before you go, so you know whether it's a bargain or not.

Headache tablets, plenty to drink, comfy shoes/clothes, packed lunch are a must.

I usually go Saturday and it is usually extremely busy, I'm hoping to go Sunday this year.

[Pooch]

My tip is don't take wheeled totes or children! And rucksacks can be quite annoying when people turn round and whack you without realising!

Make a list of your essentials that you need then you won't forget anything. It can be quite like a rugby scrum and people do tend to forget their manners at these things.

Hope you get lots of goodies!

[mjm]

Packed lunch a must, extra cah for stash and I take a small coffee flask caffeine addict that I am, cued over an hour first time I went!!! Like every one says light clothes it gets hot and comfy shoes!!! I always try to head to the back it's quieter and tends to be cheaper!!! Don't panic you will get round everything!! and note where you see things if you want to go back for something or shop around before you buy. I tend to do a reccy all the way round then do a big buy up near the end!! Also check out the arts materials, some different things and the christmas hall has gifts to buy, first time we went we actually went back a second day to see that as the ticket is free with your main hall ticket (then accidently fell back into the main hall LOL)
Enjoy!!!!!

[Anneliese]

I often take a flat lightweight storage box if I'm planning to buy papers .. otherwise they just get creased up ... I wouldn't take a wheeled tote (although it would be easier) as many stands just don;t have the room for them & you'll just get frustrated ! ... def' take a pack lunch with you & LOADS & LOADS of money :D :D :D

[Mrs Mac]

spend the best £1 and put a big bag or wheely case in the cloakroom, top it up during the day and put your coat in there too.

[AmyMackin]

first time we went we actually went back a second day to see that as the ticket is free with your main hall ticket (then accidently fell back into the main hall LOL)
Enjoy!!!!!

oops we've done that twice is that bad :P

[magicchick]

Top tip from Mrs Mac - do keep popping out with bags fill up a big bag in the cloakroom. Would suggest not to take a wheeled tote in as some stands are small and busy and you just can't get near anything at all.
Patience is key - some people are sooo rude!

[Jill]

i'd recommend a small notebook and jot down prices and stall number - if you are looking for something special otherwise you get to the end and can't remember where to buy your goodies!!

[~amanda~]

mine is 12x12 storage container is a must... i also have a wheeled shopping bag lol

wear layers

and enjoy the day

oooo i'm so excited :)

[ladybug2008]

I'm so excited about going too. I went last year for the first time and enjoyed it, but I must say definately take headache tablets and plenty of water!

I had a corker and think mine was caused by the stress of driving there in the first place and trying to park in the right entrance! The NEC site is massive, it's like Heathrow up there with all the different gates and stuff...

This year though I'm lucky as I'm going by coach which is picking me up and dropping me off virtually outside my house!!!!!!!!!!!!! I didn't realise a local firm were running trips, but it seems they do every year and it works out cheaper too.Plus I can have a snooze on the way up and back lol!

It really is a good idea to take a notebook and pen with you to jot down the stand numbers and prices/items you are interested in. Invariably there will be the same brand items on a few stands but prices do vary, and it's so big that you won't remember where you saw a particular thing (well, I forget anyway!)

Have fun everyone, (and leave some bargains for me on the Sunday, hee hee)

Karen

[Kron]

I'm going on Sunday and by coach, too, it's actually cheaper than going by train, and virtually picks me up from home too! :D

[ladybug2008]

yep Kron I agree, it's cheaper for me too this way. It's at least a two hour journey for me by car, so the petrol, parking charge (which ain't cheap) and entrance fee cost me about £35 last year compared with £21.50 by coach all in!

I loved the show but I was exhausted and had to stop at a little chef car park on the way back to have half an hour shut eye. I was so tired when I got home that I went straight to bed. I couldn't even bring myself to open my bags and look at my goodies, THAT'S how shattered I was......

But no chance of that this year, on the bus no hassle or stress AND I've booked the Monday off to play with all my stuff hee hee!!!

Just a note too for anyone who's going for the first time, check out the subscription deals with magazines. I was buying 2 particular magazines a month and there was an offer on to subscribe to both (there was a choice of four magazines) for a year only (no direct debit just a one off payment) and I had a BigShot free! They kept it there for me till I was leaving. I was so chuffed because I'd wanted one of these for ages, and now having had it for a year it's had plenty of use too. A really tidy subs gift!:D

As my subscription has just ended I'll be looking out for more deals this time round

[Kron]

Thats a good point about the subscriptions! Am looking to change magazines

[hunib]

i'm going on the saturday - i usually take a box of paracetemol as the air quality is sometimes not good and gives me a headache!.

[~amanda~]

my tickets from tesco have arrived, so many thanks for that...

My friend can't go so will be going on my own.... Just need to tell hubby now and say I will need the car as tghe coach is leaving from another town opps

;)

[Wisher]

if anyone hasn't hd chnce to get their ticket - I can't go now and I have one of the tesco ones that I would like to give to someone who is prepared to make a donation to cancer charity . PM me if you are interested

[TrishL]

Definitely take a notebook and pen to jot down ideas, prices and location of stalls. It pays to be patient and shop around, as there's nothing more annoying than seeing the item you've just bought at a reduced price!! However, if stock is low - get it!! You can guarantee it'll be sold out by the time you decide to buy!!

[noctrl]

Well we have some real treats on our stand, we are launching LOADS of new products, and I have had a little play with some and I LOVE them very much!!

[KJJC]

Well we have some real treats on our stand, we are launching LOADS of new products, and I have had a little play with some and I LOVE them very much!!

ooo wouldn't be new stamps would they?

[noctrl]

We have some new stamps plus some very different bits as well...and that is all I am saying :) No amount of arm twisting or tantrum throwing will make me tell more!!

[Jill]

What is your stand number please

[feline]

We have some new stamps plus some very different bits as well...and that is all I am saying :) No amount of arm twisting or tantrum throwing will make me tell more!!

Good job I'll be passing then...need a few things from you ;) :D

[KJJC]

We have some new stamps plus some very different bits as well...and that is all I am saying :) No amount of arm twisting or tantrum throwing will make me tell more!!

oh come on spoilsport.I was one of your very first customers at the first north fair you did(Can't remember if it was reebok or gmex)as I told your other 1/2 at Harrogate so I do think you can tell me. I won't tell anyone.:P

[jean17]

Jill. Clevercuts stand is A08, I am going on Saturday so do you mind leaving me something to buy.

[annieormerod]

I am going on friday with a fellow scrapper would love to meet up with fellow members for a quick chat annie:wub:

[noctrl]

Well don't panic too much we are travelling back to the factory each night so should be able to stock up! Errmm as for clues and secrets we have lots of fab 3d stuff, and some other great bits....If I tell you any more I will be shot by hubby!!

[KJJC]

nah he wouldn't do that.

[CarolB]

he won't know keep him busy so he can't go on ukscrappers LOL

[ladybug2008]

well....less than a week to go now! I'm so excited hee hee

here is a link to the exhibitor's list. Copy and paste into your browser.
Once page opens up, if you click on the date for the NEC at the top right, the list pops up in another window.

http://www.ichf.co.uk/hobbycrafts/#dates

I'm looking for some aluminium foil, a particular penny black stamp, some tim holtz pads (to add to those I already have) and some paper artsy stamps. Maybe some more glimmer mists...

I expect there will other things I never knew I really NEEDED till I saw them, the display boards are lethal!! ^_^

So what is everyone else hoping to get?

Karen

[SezzyH]

I'm hoping to see some of the new K&Co stuff and the new deep cut blade and stamp set for the cricut but apart from that, i don't know. You never know what might jump into my shopping bags by "accident" :lol:

[biskit]

Just popping in for a catch up. Sponsor stall numbers noted in my little book!

I'm going on Saturday...hoping the motorway will be quiet first thing as I intend to leave home early to get there as it opens. Hubby has just sent me some early birthday money to spend as well! Soooo excited about going. I've not managed one fair this year.

[craftygirl34]

Me and my friend are going on Saturday, my tickets havent arrived yet.

[Pooch]

I'm going on Friday. I'm wanting a pink 12x12 cutting mat, a new craft knife and pokey tool, Cosmo Cricket christmas papers, Some Roller Doodles, Rockablock acryic blocks and anything else that looks pretty!!

[jackie40]

I'm going on Friday. I'm wanting a pink 12x12 cutting mat, a new craft knife and pokey tool, Cosmo Cricket christmas papers, Some Roller Doodles, Rockablock acryic blocks and anything else that looks pretty!!

Just thought I'd let you know that Craft u love (a sponsor) sell the pink 12x12 cutting mat about £8.00.

[Pooch]

Just thought I'd let you know that Craft u love (a sponsor) sell the pink 12x12 cutting mat about £8.00.

OOO thanks - off to have a look - after all it's one less thing to carry and room for something else :lol:

[AmyMackin]

IRockablock acrylic blocks
are you buying these for the stamps that go with them because not all brands of stamps work with them

[Pooch]

are you buying these for the stamps that go with them because not all brands of stamps work with them

Really? Didn't know that. Will have to check.

Thanks

[ali-son]

If there is anything you know you want before you go try and check prices as sometimes the prices are dearer at the shows.

[Pooch]

If there is anything you know you want before you go try and check prices as sometimes the prices are dearer at the shows.

That's funny - I've had some great bargains at the NEC before. I roughly know how much the stuff I want it though but thanks.

[ali-son]

I have had some great bargains as well- I love going to the NEC :) @ this time of year. I went to different ICHF show this year ,bought some bits and when I checked the sellers website (after I had bought them)both items between them were nearly £5 cheaper on line.

[feline]

Just popping in for a catch up. Sponsor stall numbers noted in my little book!

I'm going on Saturday...hoping the motorway will be quiet first thing as I intend to leave home early to get there as it opens. Hubby has just sent me some early birthday money to spend as well! Soooo excited about going. I've not managed one fair this year.

Me and my friend are going on Saturday, my tickets havent arrived yet.

I'm going on Saturday too but lucky for me its just about 30 minutes up the road on a good day or 45 minutes on a terrible day :lol:

See you there, have fun xxx

[KJJC]

I have had some great bargains as well- I love going to the NEC :) @ this time of year. I went to different ICHF show this year ,bought some bits and when I checked the sellers website (after I had bought them)both items between them were nearly £5 cheaper on line.

that is naughty-you'd hope they would be the same price or less

[Gottacraft]

:) ... a bit on the excited side here :lol: ... I may be visiting too on Saturday. Although haven't bought my ticket yet, as it all depends nearer the time - but fingers crossed we can make it.

[annieormerod]

Thats a shame Sandra that you were not going on friday as would loved to meet you and could of got you a tesco CHRISTMAS CATH KIDSON BAG annie

[Gottacraft]

aarrh, what a shame. :lol: ... although I'll take my bags with me if I do go, so I can fill up on goodies :lol: Acutally, what am I talking about - I'll have hubby with me, so he can carry all the bags :lol: :lol:

[noctrl]

Well it is mega frantic here, we have stock piled EVERYWHERE!! Ready to load the truck in the morning, panicking now that I will forget something...And I am actually getting to go to this show and demo so please pop over and say hello!!

[KJJC]

only if you tell us what you're bringing.

[Jill]

I have a spare ticket as one of our group cannot come I will be there on Thursday and Sunday if anybody wants the ticket (price open to negotiation - but cheaper than buying at nec!!) - going 2 days as I'm only 10mins max away from nec and like to sort out all my stuff then go back and see what I missed- usually go in the other halls on 2nd day

[feline]

:) ... a bit on the excited side here :lol: ... I may be visiting too on Saturday. Although haven't bought my ticket yet, as it all depends nearer the time - but fingers crossed we can make it.

Aaaarrrrgggggghhhhh, runs for the hills :P :lol: :lol:

Love ya really... be cracking if you can go cos we could load Jay and Simon with bags in the corner and throw them a sweetie every now and again :lol: :lol:

[ladybug2008]

:) ... a bit on the excited side here :lol: ... I may be visiting too on Saturday. Although haven't bought my ticket yet, as it all depends nearer the time - but fingers crossed we can make it.

gottacraft you gottago!:lol:

[Gottacraft]

:lol: :lol:

If I do go, do I really need to part with my sweets :lol: :lol: ... can't they bring their own :lol:

[feline]

Well how about a banana each then...I know they say you can't feed the animals in the Zoo but surely a Craft Fair won't begrudge us feeding them something :lol:

[AmyMackin]

Really? Didn't know that. Will have to check.

Thanks

i think they've got a ridge, that should be level with your stamps so their stamps work and so do the 99p studio g ones, but not sure about the other brands because the ideas it that you rock them so if the stamps to thick it wont rock as well i think - but im not sure i dont have them

[SHARICA]

I have the rock a blocks but they have not come out of the box yet so dont know what works with it :blink:

I am going on thursday :)

[scrapadabadoo]

I am thinking of going on Thursday first thing, will it be very busy on the first day?

I presume that the weekend is the busiest?

[Gottacraft]

scrapadabadoo, I don't suppose that any date is empty :lol:

[annieormerod]

My friends went last year on Thursday and said it was really busy so we have decided to go on Friday to be on the safe side Annie:wub:

[Gottacraft]

I'm not a taking heavy coat, or bags ... especially as I'm expecting it to be busy. I would think Friday should be a good day ... heres hoping for you Annie :)

[Joanna1]

i'm going on Sunday, lets hope there are still some things left for me to buy!!

[Gottacraft]

Is that a hint Joanna :lol: :lol:

[CarolB]

we will try to leave some things for the Sunday people :) i'm going on Friday with Annie

[mjm]

I like going on a Thursday it's busy but not ridiculous, we went Staurday last year now that was busy!! This year we're trying Friday, so those of you with your photos in avitars I'll say hi! and those that don't please wave and say hi, it's nice to meet UKSers in real life!!
M x

[Pooch]

I like going on a Thursday it's busy but not ridiculous, we went Staurday last year now that was busy!! This year we're trying Friday, so those of you with your photos in avitars I'll say hi! and those that don't please wave and say hi, it's nice to meet UKSers in real life!!
M x

Hi Michelle

I'm going on the Friday and I did meet you at the May Scrapajack retreat (not sure we really spoke much though)

[jackie40]

I'm going on the Friday with 2 crafting friends, and meeting up with our local crop friends at lunchtime. So if you see a group of girls, about 1pm with too many bags giggling at the entrance please come over and say hello.

[Gottacraft]

No ... no ... no :lol: ... please don't say Saturday is very busy :lol: - I may just not mention that to hubby :lol: :lol: Mind you, he has said we have to leave the house early Saturday morning to get there first thing ... but the sweetner was for him, anyway :lol: ... shall, we stop and have breakfast on the way :lol: ... Men!

I know what it will be like - I'll ask his opinion at the show, and I'll just get "yeah, it's lovely, buy it ... lets get something to eat" :lol: :lol:

[SHARICA]

I have been all 4 days and found thurs the best specially cos the kids are at school..
When i have been on friday i found they had ran out of some things i wanted but would not get them back til sat, and i found the weekends had too many kids running round and that drives me mad..

[Rain]

I'm going on friday with Bridget ( thanks Bridget for asking me!).

Think i'm going to take my Artbin super satchel to keep any papers flat.

[Stokie]

I always take my debit and credit card in case of emergency lol!!
Never try to shop in a rammed stall, 5 minutes later it will be empty!
Look out for multi-buy offers (last year I got loads of twinkling H20's for a bargain price)
Shop around for DS tape as prices vary dramatically!
Buy anything heavy at the end of the show (like paper and goody bags which won't sell out!)
My friend and I have varying tastes so we often split up but keep within the same aisle that way we don't waste time.
Oh, and keep any stray men out of the way! We don't want them blocking our way he he!!

[mumtrish]

My tickets arrived yesterday. Going on Sunday as it's the only day I don't work. Will no doubt be shatterd on Monday coz I got to drive

[scrapadabadoo]

well thats decided, Thursday it is. thanks for all your replies!
:)

[feline]

I always take my debit and credit card in case of emergency lol!!


Thats why my DH is going, I can use his for emergencies :lol: :lol:

[lstickels]

Im going on saturday - im so excited, went thursday last year and found it better as no kids but then Im going with my sister this year and as shes a teacher we have to go on saturday!!

bet its going to be busy, oh well only go once a year - have to enjoy it, been saving for ages to go and im hoping theres some good deals on a big shot as its part of my christmas present from DH!!! can't wait

see you all there

Lou xxxxxx

[SHARICA]

I take hubby to carry all my things round for me.. and drive me there :)
Also he is great at spotting Bargains, I just seem to walk past them ..

He spotted some a cpl of years back at the Crafts Beautiful stand.. It was a pack with 8 packs of embelishments for £1 ... lovely they were too.. hubbs picked up 3 lots..

[welsh girl]

anyone going tomorrow? was gonna go with my sister but she has to work now so am gonna be going solo :( would be lovely to meet up with any uks members for a "half time" coffee! (i think it's gonna be a loooong day!)

i can't wait!

[Judith]

Hi all I will be there sat with my friend. Taking a suitcase and leaving it in the cloakroom. Will be back and forth and filling it to the brim. Have agreat time all. x

[feline]

Looks like there's quite a few of us going on Saturday :)

Should we wear stickers :lol:

[adele]

aarrh, what a shame. :lol: ... although I'll take my bags with me if I do go, so I can fill up on goodies :lol: Acutally, what am I talking about - I'll have hubby with me, so he can carry all the bags :lol: :lol:

Hi Sandra
Hope you are doing ok , I am going friday with a friend if you want a lift - will be leaving really early from stoneleigh to grab those bargains.

Adele

[Elorac Nerge]

I'm going on Thursday, we leave really early and get there before the show opens, head to Weatherspoons for an english brekkie and a caffeine fix and that's it set up for the day apart from a few homemade choccies from the christmas hall which we savour in the afternoon...a girl has to have a little treat for doing all that shopping...doesn't she?
As for the shopping that gets dropped off at the lobby as the day goes on...have to have those hands free to stroke paper ....

[adele]

I'm going on Thursday, we leave really early and get there before the show opens, head to Weatherspoons for an english brekkie and a caffeine fix and that's it set up for the day apart from a few homemade choccies from the christmas hall which we savour in the afternoon...a girl has to have a little treat for doing all that shopping...doesn't she?
As for the shopping that gets dropped off at the lobby as the day goes on...have to have those hands free to stroke paper ....

where abouts is weatherspoons?
Adele

[~amanda~]

not going now :( cant get time off work

amanda

[welsh girl]

:( oh no! amanda.:(

[LuluUK]

where abouts is weatherspoons?
Adele

it's in the atrium - very near the entrance to the halls - you can't miss it.
Lulu

[Gottacraft]

Hi there Adele :) ... how you doing :)

Thanks so much for the offer - but I'm going on the Saturday. So excited, I can't wait :) ...ooohhh yes, it would be lovely to meet up. I'll be the one with a hubby carrying the bags :lol: :lol: .... oh yes and doing my bit for help the nutters :lol: ... yes, you guessed it, I'll be walking around with Claire (Feline) :lol: ... although after that comment, I may be limping when she sees me :lol:

[ladybug2008]

Well all you lucky people going before me (I'm going on Sunday) please report back with all your purchases! I'd love to know what buys everyone got and if you had any bargains!

..Also to tell me of any fabs deals I should look out for :lol:

Thanks and have a wonderful time everyone ^_^

Karen

[feline]

Hi there Adele :) ... how you doing :)

Thanks so much for the offer - but I'm going on the Saturday. So excited, I can't wait :) ...ooohhh yes, it would be lovely to meet up. I'll be the one with a hubby carrying the bags :lol: :lol: .... oh yes and doing my bit for help the nutters :lol: ... yes, you guessed it, I'll be walking around with Claire (Feline) :lol: ... although after that comment, I may be limping when she sees me :lol:

Hey...I won't share my sweeties with you, or any chocolate or treat you to a coffee, honestly the talk of stash shopping and she takes on whole new persona :lol: :lol:

[adele]

Hi there Adele :) ... how you doing :)

Thanks so much for the offer - but I'm going on the Saturday. So excited, I can't wait :) ...ooohhh yes, it would be lovely to meet up. I'll be the one with a hubby carrying the bags :lol: :lol: .... oh yes and doing my bit for help the nutters :lol: ... yes, you guessed it, I'll be walking around with Claire (Feline) :lol: ... although after that comment, I may be limping when she sees me :lol:

Oh have a great time sandra - i wont see you saturday - i will try and leave you stuff to buy! we will have to arrange coffee soon.
Adele

[Ali M]

Mum Has just phoned from NEC..lots more scrapbooking stuff than usual there..she goes every year and says its a good one this year!!(typical its the first one Ive not gone to for about 8 years!!)

[vicky2710]

Hi
Am going tomorrow - woulod love to know from those who went today what they bought and if any good deals etc x x xx

[biskit]

Mum Has just phoned from NEC..lots more scrapbooking stuff than usual there..she goes every year and says its a good one this year!!(typical its the first one Ive not gone to for about 8 years!!)

Oh, brilliant! I really am looking forward to this.

Lucky those taking your pack-horse (or OH) with you. I'll be on my own. Suppose it helps me not spend too much...:lol:

[Gottacraft]

Hey...I won't share my sweeties with you, or any chocolate or treat you to a coffee, honestly the talk of stash shopping and she takes on whole new persona :lol: :lol:


aaaarrhhh, maybe I should have said this AFTER the event :lol: :lol: ...aww go on Claire share your chocolate ..pppplllleeeaaazzzeeee :lol:

i will try and leave you stuff to buy! we will have to arrange coffee soon.
Adele

If you could please leave some :lol: ... this is the woman that said though, when at going to Sandown ... "I'm not buying anything, I'm saving my money for holiday" ..... but I spied her, with bags :lol: ... and that was only 2 minutes into the show :lol:

Mum Has just phoned from NEC..lots more scrapbooking stuff than usual there..she goes every year and says its a good one this year

YYYYYYYYYeeeeeeeeeeeessssssssssss!!! even more excited now :) How about going at the weekend Ali? .

[Jill]

Very good deals on both the big shot and cuttlebug today Lots of good bargains if you could get near the stalls - very crowded - enormous queues at some stalls and some VERY rude people but still had a great time and spent far too much money!!!!

[bees]

Hi I did something stupid today I saw a lovely stamp didnt get it and then couldnt find it after as I had'nt written any details (name of stamp or stall down), yes I know what you are all saying. If anyone sees a lovely wooden stamp of a victorian sleigh would you mind very much taking a note of the manufacturer and shop and let me know so I can see about ordering it. My friend waited really patiently whilst I trecked around for the umpteenth time to search for it with no luck. I have learnt a valuable lesson, and will not make the same mistake again. We went into the crafts for christmas and have to say that it was a lot less crowded for sitting and having something to eat, and also had some nice little things that could be picked up for pressies. So if you get chance ladies
have a quick look. sue

[Jill]

Sue what a shame I'm going again on Sunday so if I see anything similar I'll give you a ring What did you and Barbara buy?

[jackie40]

Mum Has just phoned from NEC..lots more scrapbooking stuff than usual there..she goes every year and says its a good one this year!!(typical its the first one Ive not gone to for about 8 years!!)

Ali - what is on offer, going tomorrow with friends, was they are good bargains?

[CarolB]

can't wait until tomorrow when I go with my friend :) ladies spill the beans what did you buy? and are there many bargains?? :)

[welsh girl]

well sorry to say ladies that if you are going tomorrow heres a bit of friendly advise... i'd have a rethink. not cos it was rubbish or anything it was great. it's just that i bought everything!:P

i had a fantastic day and it was lovely to meet up with julie (juliepower123) that cup of tetley was the best tasting tea i've had in ages! and well deserved! thanks julie!

i am a bit cross that she let me loose in there on my own after tho cos i spent FAR too much. (that was totally irresponsible of you julie!) and yes, i remembered to pick up my FREE cuttlebug and am sat here stroking my shiny new bind-it-all as we speak! :wub:

just looking at all my new booty and am wondering how the hell i got it all back to the car!

i hope you all have as much fun as i did today....enjoy:rolleyes:

[reward]

i wouldnt mind going although at this late stage i think it will cost a bomb from leeds to brum! ive just got into xmas stamps so wanna go lol

[vicky2710]

how did you get your free cuttlebug x x xx x x
were the bind it alls on offer x x

[Mrs_Waddington]

Hope you all had fun today ladies! I'm not able to go until Sat so if it was busy today guess it will be eve worse on Sat!

[jackie40]

and yes, i remembered to pick up my FREE cuttlebug:

Now what did you do to get that!!!!:rolleyes:

What goodies did you get, you are all keeping things very quiet on here, I'm a need to know person.

Come on ladies, spill the beans and let us know what to get - that if there is everything left.

:lol::lol:

[annieormerod]

Can't wait till tomorrow the sooner I go to bed the sooner I will get up, refreshed and ready for the nec can't wait annie

[Pooch]

Hee hee I can't wait till tomorrow either! Just going to rewrite my list for 45th time :lol:

[welsh girl]

i got the cuttlebug by signing up for a years sub to a magazine for £59.99. they had a few titles to choose from. they keep it there for you until you leave so you don't have to lug it about with you.!
the bind it all was £35.

i also got £40 of sakura pens for signing up to another magazine.

i also bought enough paper and stamps to cover a small office block!

really enjoyed the make and take at the stamp it up stand. (i was asked to select the winning free draw ticket of the day! some lady called linda i think...!)

ummm what else? loads of cheap back issue magazines and a huge amount of die cuts to use in my new toy!!! i'm off to my twin sisters in frome tomorrow to play with them all cos she couldn't make it there. (she has demanded that they are all pristine and unused so they are all staying in the boxes till then!) i can't wait!

[Amanda S]

Welsh girl you have a twin sister in Frome! I live in Frome, small world. Does she scrap ? the Trowbridge crop is brilliant if she does :)
Off to the nec tomorrow, so going to get an early night. So excited bet I don't sleep !

[welsh girl]

and to be honest...i didn't think it was TOO busy...i have seen it a lot worse. i really had a great day, and to think i nearly didn't go. what was i thinking?!

[welsh girl]

Welsh girl you have a twin sister in Frome! I live in Frome, small world. Does she scrap ? the Trowbridge crop is brilliant if she does :)
Off to the nec tomorrow, so going to get an early night. So excited bet I don't sleep !

yeah, she does amanda. i will mention the crop to her. (she owns a fabric shop there so v v v handy for scraps, old sample books and ribbons etc.) have a great time tmw!

[Advent Santa 08]

i also got £40 of sakura pens for signing up to another magazine.



Can I ask what magazine this was for?

[welsh girl]

again, there was a choice of three or four titles. can't remember which ones now sorry.

[feline]

Only 2 more sleeps for me then I can have a whole day of stash shopping...I'm so excited I could pop :)

[bees]

HI Jill thanks very much I am such a numpty. Didint make any major purchases, but still spent a fortune. lots of paper, stamps, a couple of sizzix dies, the new kay & co Christmas cheer, ribbon (like I need any more), what did you get. Just been down to boots for one of their event nights at ventura, and did some shopping there so am now feeling absolutely shattered.
lol sue

[annieormerod]

Good night every one off to bed because need to get up early for the nec going with carol b so look out for two mad ladies that will be us, will pop on to see if anyone else is going or if anyone would like to meet up for a drink and see what goodies they have annie

[annieormerod]

Good night every one off to bed because need to get up early for the nec going with carol b so look out for two mad ladies that will be us, will pop on in the morning to see if anyone else is going or if anyone would like to meet up for a drink and see what goodies they have annie:wub: bye

[CarolB]

Annie see you in the morning, excited now even though I was saving myself for NEW YORK :) oh well you can't take it with you :)

[Pooch]

Annie see you in the morning, excited now even though I was saving myself for NEW YORK :) oh well you can't take it with you :)

But CarolB there are virtually no scrapbook shops in New York (I went last year) so actually you do *need* to go to the NEC to counter balance that :lol:

[suzysuzy1]

well sorry to say ladies that if you are going tomorrow heres a bit of friendly advise... i'd have a rethink. not cos it was rubbish or anything it was great. it's just that i bought everything!:P

i had a fantastic day and it was lovely to meet up with julie (juliepower123) that cup of tetley was the best tasting tea i've had in ages! and well deserved! thanks julie!

i am a bit cross that she let me loose in there on my own after tho cos i spent FAR too much. (that was totally irresponsible of you julie!) and yes, i remembered to pick up my FREE cuttlebug and am sat here stroking my shiny new bind-it-all as we speak! :wub:

just looking at all my new booty and am wondering how the hell i got it all back to the car!

i hope you all have as much fun as i did today....enjoy:rolleyes:


that was so funny you got me for a minute there--I'm off on Sat can't wait

you had a great deal there on that sub

and I'll have to wait till our next crop to see what Julie got too:rolleyes:

[Joanna1]

i'll be there on Sunday and a Cuttlebug was at the top of my list so i'll definitely be popping into the magazine stalls. I'm hoping one of the titles they are offering will be Scrapbook Magazine as i just subbed to SI online :(

[suzysuzy1]

Julie told me via pm that the cuttlebug came with the crafts beautiful sub

[Sav]

Can anyone tell me what hall the show is in, many thanks.

[biskit]

Hobby Crafts - Hall 11, Crafts for Christmas - Hall 12 and Art Materials Live - Hall 10

[Sav]

Hobby Crafts - Hall 11, Crafts for Christmas - Hall 12 and Art Materials Live - Hall 10

Thank you for the info, I hate getting there and not know where I am going.

[suzysuzy1]

Thank you for the info, I hate getting there and not know where I am going.

you'll soon find your way around--I lovd the xmas room too got some great gifts but they were heavier than my craft purchases!

we always make sure we know where the loos are and the coffee shop:rolleyes:

[Pooch]

Thank you for the info, I hate getting there and not know where I am going.

It's very well signposted so you won't miss it

[Designer Bunny]

ooooh i am excited now, i am also writing my list now, was thinkin ( i am sad) of making myself a tshirt (typical girly girl here!!!, love making tshirts) with my name on just for the grin!!! so i can meet as many scrappers as possible !!!! is that sad? any tips for the list, mind has turned BLANK how dare it !!!! xxxxx

[Pooch]

It might be too busy to notice someone's t-shirt! But if you feel like making one then why not!

Not much scrapbooking stuff to be honest......

[feline]

No list for me :o

I'm more of a buy on impulse type of girl, plus if I don't make a list I won't be disappointed if I can't get it ;)

[CarolB]

Hi everyone it was great today, spent lots and really enjoyed it. Make sure you go into the Xmas hall and sit through the stampin up demo, if you fill in a sheet with your name, address and telephone number and then present it at the stand you get a brilliant free gift (we got a set of 4 lovely tag stamps).

Haven't had time to play yet but will hopefully tomorrow :)

[feline]

Oh thanks for sharing that CarolB...glad you had a great time, anything left :lol:

[Gottacraft]

I'm so looking forward to tomorrow .... I know hubby is going to get bored :lol: ... but I'll leave him somewhere with a coffee and cake :lol: .... and my bags :lol:

[annieormerod]

No Claire me and carol bought it all not really only joking. if you sign up for another mag you get free gel and sakura pens annie

[Mrs_Waddington]

Oooo my friend is doing the stampin up demo I think... she is one of my teamies so really looking forward to meeting her face to face!

[Gottacraft]

Hey you lot :lol: ... you better have left something for me to buy :lol:

[CarolB]

there are things to buy but some of the stands were running low, unless they had more stock somewhere near :) a really brilliant day given to me by my friend annie for my birthday last month. Got to think of something equally as lovely to do for her now :) are maybe when I go to NY there be things I can get her she might not get here for a while LOL

[Gottacraft]

I'm sure they'll bring in more stock :) ... well I hope so :lol:

That's a good friend you've got there Carol ... what a lovely thing of her to do

[Rain]

the mags for the cuttlebug were card making or knitting ones, SI were giving away a tote ( not too impresses) Scrapbook MAg were giving away the pens.


TOP TIP: go through to the xmas hall to eat lots more space.


Got some great kits from one stall for £3.99, it was the best stall there but can't remember the name !

Still managed to spend loads. Achey feet and car nearly broke down on the way home.

We parked at the train station - cheaper and easier to get out of.- there is a shuttle to the hall from there too.

[Mrs_Waddington]

Thats a good tip. Do you pay by the hour there or is there a daily rate?

[Rain]

railway parking was £6.00 for the day - other parking was £8.00 and long queue for the shuttle bus. so that's shorter queue AND £2.00 more for stash!

[Kron]

It's only costing me £13 on the bus, and they are picking me up at the top of the road, so no hassle getting there, parking etc etc

Going tomorrow so you all had better saved me some bargains!

Were there any must sees?

[bridget.william]

Morning Lorraine!

We didn't find the good scrapbooking stalls until right at the end, but there is a cluster of good ones around where Fat Freddies and Horseshoe crafts is.

There was one which had some excellent kits for a bargain - the Piggy Tales full kits for 1/3 off normal price, etc. (sorry, I can't remember the name, but if you think that the door is south, they faced east-west and the opening was to the North - if that makes sense!). They had some very good racks of pp on the corner.

We spotted one stand selling the £21 Costco kit for £35 (cheeky!)

A quick warning that the pick and mix buttons ended up very expensive - nice, but expensive. The wooden button stall had some nice things, though.

I managed to get 13 lovely things for my advent swappee, so am very pleased about that. I've gone from being very behind to right on top of things!

Have a good time if you're going.

[wedding belle]

I'm going tomorrow when mu dp is going to the custom classic car show - how long do you think I should allow until I meet up with him after? I've not been before would 3-4 hours do it?

[LuluUK]

if you want to do both halls - you'll need longer. We generally do one hall in the morning adn the other in teh afternoon. You could meet him at lunchtime after you've had time to assess if you need lnger.
Lulu

[ladybug2008]

can't wait for tomorrow now! (Hope I sleep tonight)

Have made a list of things I would like to get (and am packing my credit card, for all those must haves I never knew I needed till I saw them)

am expecting to get a few adrennaline moments (you know when you see something you HAVE to have):P

...off to make my sarnies now as have to get up early for the coach tomorrow

Karen

[Kron]

can't wait for tomorrow now! (Hope I sleep tonight)

Have made a list of things I would like to get (and am packing my credit card, for all those must haves I never knew I needed till I saw them)

am expecting to get a few adrennaline moments (you know when you see something you HAVE to have):P

...off to make my sarnies now as have to get up early for the coach tomorrow

Karen


I know how you feel, my bag is packed apart from my sarnies (that reminds me I need to take something out the freezer! lol) which I will do later, money is in, cards, list, tissues, mints etc etc

What time is your bus leaving? Mine picks me up just after 8

[feline]

I've been today and had a fab time, got loads :)

Top Tip... set off an hour earlier cos the M42 is bottlenecked for miles and miles and our 40 minute journey ended up being 90 minutes :blink:

Also come out exactly the same way you went in otherwise you'll end up completely lost :blink:

But you'll have a great time all those going tomorrow, not sure there is anything left though ^_^ :lol:

[Rain]

I did cringe at the stall with the costco sets at £15 more than Costco!

and I will use those buttons very sparingly - esp. the little ant ones!

[biskit]

Evening. I went, I saw, I shopped!

I hit the M42 (coming from the A42) and came to a standstill at 09:00am. NEC was the next junction and it took 30 mins. I was also routed off into the Car Show car park. Walked to the show but got the shuttle bus back.

Lots of lovely bead stalls.

Also got a set of Inktensence pecils 25% off.

If anyone was hoping for a cuttlebug with mag sub as I walked past at about 9:45 they were saying they were almost out, so I'm not sure any ladies going tomorrow would get one.

I did get a couple of sheets of BG's Wassail at 50p sheet - another stall was selling them about 59p I think. Better than 70p I've seen them else where. Wish I could share with you which stall it was but I was wondering around having "done" my shopping!

[biskit]

Oh and if you want embriodery threads (I use them on LO's sometimes) there was a stall selling them at 50p for normal threads.

[Mrs_Waddington]

I had exactly the same prob with the M42. I could have cried!!! Was just so desperate to get there!!! I think they did run out of cuttlebugs today with the mag sub. I spoke to a lady at one of the demos who was most put out!!! Def go to the stampin up stand early as you can book into a lovely make and take and also make sure you visit the prima stand and stay for a stampin up demo (12:30 and 2 I think) as you get a lovely set of stamps for FREE!!! Managed to get most things I wanted but was a little disappointed with the amount of different scrapbooking stuff there was- there was an awful lot of PM stuff. I did take my tote and I am glad I did even though it was horribly busy all day. Just playing now!!!!

[amcmen]

Did anyone see a poorly blue multipla on the hard shoulder of the M40, just before the junction for the M42 early this the morning?

Well that was me. 5 miles from the NEC my car died, and I ended up having the AA tow me back the 150 miles home :(

[Gottacraft]

Also come out exactly the same way you went in otherwise you'll end up completely lost :blink:




Talking for experience then are you :lol::lol:

Another tip ... if you're meeting someone, try and both be at the same entrance and the same time :lol: :lol: :lol:

I went today, and just had the best time :). I would agree about where to eat - if you can, even go through to the arts hall ... more tables and not so busy :)

I'm one happy bunny here ... I'm the proud owner of the slice :)

[Kron]

Did anyone see a poorly blue multipla on the hard shoulder of the M40, just before the junction for the M42 early this the morning?

Well that was me. 5 miles from the NEC my car died, and I ended up having the AA tow me back the 150 miles home :(

Oh no!!!! Sorry to hear that

[Kron]

I had exactly the same prob with the M42. I could have cried!!! Was just so desperate to get there!!! I think they did run out of cuttlebugs today with the mag sub. I spoke to a lady at one of the demos who was most put out!!! Def go to the stampin up stand early as you can book into a lovely make and take and also make sure you visit the prima stand and stay for a stampin up demo (12:30 and 2 I think) as you get a lovely set of stamps for FREE!!! Managed to get most things I wanted but was a little disappointed with the amount of different scrapbooking stuff there was- there was an awful lot of PM stuff. I did take my tote and I am glad I did even though it was horribly busy all day. Just playing now!!!!

Is the prima stand in the Hobbycrafts or the Crafts for Christmas?

[Gottacraft]

I think the Prima one was at the Crafts for Christmas ... although I thought it was more gifts for christmas.

[Kron]

Thank you, will try and remember the two times!

[Gottacraft]

Have fun tomorrow karen - another thing is, if you see something you like - don't think, oh I'll come back for it later ... we did that, and missed out. So if you see it, and like it, buy it :lol: ... although saying that - I did that a couple of times, then walked a couple of stalls down and saw it cheaper :lol: ...

[Judith]

Had a fantastic day at the NEC today. It was filled to the rafters.
Yes you can sub to scrapbook mag there and you get the sakura pens for doing so.
My biggest tip and the best thing I have done for a long time was to take a wheely suitcase.
It cost me £1 to put it in the locker room. I put my coat and lunch in it and at lunch I went and put my am shopping in there and had lunch and when we finished. i took my coat out and filled it with the rest of the shopping. Boy was i glad that I did not have to carry all those heavy bags on the long long walk back to the car.
Have fun tomorrow.

I found the crafts for chritsmas disapointing as said above it was more gifts for christmas.

[wedding belle]

if you want to do both halls - you'll need longer. We generally do one hall in the morning adn the other in teh afternoon. You could meet him at lunchtime after you've had time to assess if you need lnger.
Lulu

Many thanks Lulu - will follow your advice

[LuluUK]

Many thanks Lulu - will follow your advice

can't believe that any of that made any sense to you - with all those typos! Sorry - that's what happens when you type with a 17week old baby on your lap!
Hope you had a good time,
Lulu

[wedding belle]

I really enjoyed it today Lulu. Needless to say dp had 'done' his show in half the time it took me! I was there for about 4 1/2 hours in the end but didn't see much of the Crafts for Christmas hall. Well worth the visit - hope to go again next year and will save up so I can really do it justice!

[Crafty Kacy]

I went with my sister and friend and had a great time. We bought lots of stuff between us, but particularly acrylic stamps and punches, and were there for over 6 hours. some very aching feet later, we were done! Can't wait to play with all my new stash now. Who invented work the day after a craft show?

[Gottacraft]

Glad to hear you had fun :) .... actually I didn't realise my feet where aching until I got into the car :lol:... I suppose I was too busy shopping to notice :lol:

I can't wait for next years, I just had a fab time.

[suzysuzy1]

railway parking was £6.00 for the day - other parking was £8.00 and long queue for the shuttle bus. so that's shorter queue AND £2.00 more for stash!

gosh wish I'd read that!:rolleyes:

we all had a good time but I didn't think there was so much single sheet paper as I've seen before, even so I still managed to find some good paper packs so pleased with that--gotta get on with all the xmas cards now:wacko:

(my stash is on my blog)

[KJJC]

had a great time there. Wasn't the stampin up freebie great? thought we might get rubbish but it wasn#t. What a bonus.So glad you had a good time Sandra.

[wedding belle]

I got the Stampin up freebie too and was pleasantly surprised. Many thanks for the tip off for that.

[Jill]

Wedding Belle where abouts in Bristol do you live. I grew up in the city but now live in warwickshire.

[wedding belle]

Hi Jill

I live in Coalpit Heath which is just north of Bristol - South Gloucestershire. Whereabouts did you grow up? I've lived in other parts of Bristol too.

[Jill]

I lived in Filton and went to Chipping Sodbury grammar school (as it was in my day!!) I have one sister in Frenchay and one in westbury-on-trym - nieces in Filton Mangotsfield and Downed and a nephew in Fishponds I shall be spending Christmasat Frenchay and will be having a shopping spree at the mall on the 27th!!!!!!!!

[wedding belle]

I grew up in Fishponds and then Mangotsfield. Don't forget to pop into PaperArts on your way!