| One of the most fun ways to network with other | | | | representative. You can also get information on how |
| people who enjoy a similar hobby is to attend a | | | | to start a scrapbooking business of your own. Much |
| convention. Scrapbooking is no exception. Every year, | | | | like Avon or Pampered Chef, scrapbooking companies |
| venues across the country hold state, national, and | | | | train individuals to teach classes at parties, and if you |
| international conventions for scrapbookers from | | | | have free time and want to make some extra money, |
| beginners to experts. Going to a convention can be a | | | | this might be a good idea for you. |
| great way to immerse yourself in your hobby along | | | | Another part of any large convention is classes. Here, |
| with others who also feel passionate about the art of | | | | the experts show you tricks for creating perfect |
| scrapbooking--it truly is a scrapbooker's heaven. | | | | pages and demonstrate new techniques or products. |
| A huge part of any convention is the showroom. Here, | | | | Sign up for classes or arrive early, because seating is |
| you'll find products that are old standbys as well as | | | | often limited and classes fill fast. Some classes are |
| stuff new on the market. Grab a bag and be prepared | | | | taught in workshop-style. For a small fee, you receive |
| to purchase some supplies and tools. If you're on a | | | | all the supplies you need to follow along with the |
| budget, go freebie hunting--many booths offer idea | | | | instructor and create a page of your own. |
| sheets or samples of their newest products at no | | | | Scrapbooking conventions are most useful for |
| cost. You also get to see these new products being | | | | networking purposes. You will meet many people from |
| demonstrated by representatives of the company. | | | | all walks of life who are interested in scrapbooking. By |
| Beware--this people have been trained extensively on | | | | meeting some people who live in your area, you can |
| how to use a product, so they may be making it easier | | | | create local clubs or discuss other |
| than it looks. If it's not too crowded, don't be shy. Ask | | | | scrapbooking-related issues in the community. These |
| to try the tool to see if it really is easy and effective to | | | | are good people to invite to your scrapbooking parties |
| use. | | | | where the hostess can earn free products for every |
| You can also talk to companies who sponsor | | | | person invited to the party. Keep these people in mind |
| scrapbooking parties. There are many opportunities to | | | | for carpooling to more conventions in the future or for |
| become a hostess for a party, and depending on how | | | | advice about new products or layout design. By |
| far you are from home, you may be able to book a | | | | attending conventions, you can make lifelong friends |
| party during the convention. If not, they will be able to | | | | while learning new skills and seeing cutting-edge |
| give you a phone number or website to find a local | | | | products being demonstrated. |