I had no idea what to expect when I went to the American Sewing Expo in Novi today. Let’s just say it was overwhelming to see the amount of products and information available to area sewers.

Thanks to an online tip from Steph, I was tipped off about the mega event. There was a mix of vendors and demonstrations, along with classes and even fashion shows, to enjoy during the three-day event. My mom and I picked up a lot of info on some great-looking sewing machines, but one of my favorite booths contained vintage fabric, patterns and notions. I found some old doll patterns from the late ’70s and ’80s. You might remember them: you simply snipped out the two sides of the doll, sewed the wrong sides together, flipped back out and stuffed, and, voila!, a quick toy to quiet the fussiest of ’80s babies. (I had some Care Bears, I do believe…) I found this cute Christmas angel and, this is a goldmine, Huckleberry Pie! Yes, Strawberry Shortcake’s stud of a boy toy. The same booth also provided a McCalls Christmas craft book from the ’50s.

All sorts of contests and challenges took place during the expo, and the results were displayed for everyone to look at. My favorite had to be the bra challenge for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Take a look at my favorite:

Wendy Mullins, of Built by Wendy fame, was there Friday and Saturday during the expo, so unfortunately I missed her. But I did get a chance to preview her new book, Sew U, at the Simplicity booth. Simplicity publishes some of her patterns, which were on display and catching all sorts of impressed looks from shoppers.

I did get to meet the Sew Subversive gals! (You might remember them from a recent review here.) They had some of their repurposed pieces on display while signing autographs.

Overall, I had a great time. I’m glad I went and learned that there’s more to the Rock Financial Showplace than cat shows and jewelry auctions…

Take a look at more photos from the event over at Flickr.