I have been to Houston Quilt Festival twice. Went two days each time, and if I had not been so worn out I would have gone a third day. I have never seen so many vendors under one roof. The first year I had my heart set on a Roxanne Sterling Silver thimble. I spent the $99 and never regretted it. I hand quilt and it has really increased my accuracy. Also I buy hand quilting thread in many colors because I can only find white and off white at my LQS. I bought several stencils the first year and have used all by one of them. The first year a lady who does tiny gorgeous crocheted earrings had a display. I really wanted a pair of the earrings, but I had already indulged myself with the thimble, so I didn't buy. But the following year, I needed to buy a birthday present for my step-daughter, who used to crochet, so I did buy a pair for her. Maybe this year I will get mine. Jenny Doan at Missouri Star Quilt Co had demonstrated an eye spy quilt made with blocks that looked like jars. So I found a bunch (and I do mean a bunch) of fat quarters in prints of every imaginable fruit, vegetable, nuts, etc to 'fill' the jars with. Still haven't made the quilt, but have what I need when I'm ready. It is just so much fun to look at everything, even if you don't buy a lot.