Replies

1. 
   carolfresia | Feb 03, 2004 09:43pm | #1

   Take a look at http://www.asg.org. I attended the annual conference in Portland last year as a Threads representative and really enjoyed it. Throughout the year chapters and neighborhood groups do all sorts of activities--I think it all depends on where you live and who's in your group. Among the benefits: Getting a discount on a Threads subscription! ASG groups can put together a group of 10 or more subscripbtions and receive a group discount on Threads (and any other Taunton magazine, by the way).

   Contact your local chapter (see "Chapter Information" on the ASG site) to see what membership offers you. If nothing else, a community of sewers to hang out with occasionally, and that's always enjoyable.

   Carol

1. 
   sueb | Feb 04, 2004 12:42am | #2

   You also get a 10% discount card for all of your purchases at Joannes fabrics when you join. 

2. 
   callie1 | Feb 04, 2004 05:09am | #3

        I joined  ASG about a year ago and the main benefit for me has been meeting other people who love to sew and seeing what they make.  Show and tell is usually the highlight of any meeting.  Usually meetings also involve some sort of lesson or demo of a certain skill or technique. 

        I live in St. Louis and it's a large enough area to have quite a few groups.  Each group has it's own character and focus.  We recently started a group that focuses on embelishment.  It's great to interact in person with other serious sewers.  You can get help and inspiration. 

        You don't need to be an expert sewers at all. All skill levels are welcome.  We like to have fun and promote sewing.  I certainly make back the $35 membership fee with my Joanne's discount.  It's definitely a great resource. 

1. 
   SisterT | Feb 04, 2004 09:13am | #4

   The Jo-Ann's discount alone makes it worthwhile financially.  I don't know how much money we spend in Jo-Ann's in a year, but any discount would more than pay for the membership fee.

   I think I was more interestd in the annual conference.  I belong to other professional societies, and the annual conferences are a great place to meet people, find out what is at the cutting edge of the field, and to learn new things.

   A couple of times I have downloaded pdf. files and looking back on them they are from the ASG...maybe that says enough?!

   ST

3. 
   boscojoni | Feb 09, 2004 05:06am | #5

   ASG a good organization to belong to. Fun neighborhood groups. Smart classes given by other members, challenges to make your sewing skills grow. A wonderful video library, discounts and most fabric stores on regular priced merchandise, Newsletter from National Headquarters and local news from your county. Recognition for prizes won and scholarships for high school seniors who sew. Community sewing for orphanages and children hospitals and tips of sewing classes at your local Adult education and local sewing stores. Mailers and coupons.. I have been a member for over 15 years! Oh and Fashion shows to show off all your skills and prizes to win. You can't loose with sewing guild but asw with any organization you have to get involved. There are many older women who would LOVE to help you.