Creativation Detailed Education Schedule

Education | May 15 - 16, 2026
St. Louis, MO | America's Center, St. Louis Convention Center

Education Workshops and Seminars at Creativation by NAMTA 2026 will be hosted on Friday, May 15, 2026 and Saturday, May 16, 2026 at The America's Center St. Louis Convention Center. This year you can expect an expansive list of innovative classes where you can brainstorm with peers, test new products, and have meaningful conversations surrounding relevant topics. We can't wait to see you there! 

Registration Coming This Week

Friday, May 15, 2026

Block One: 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Custom Notebook Creation with We R Makers Stack & Corner Cutter
Presented by Notions Marketing

Create a fully customized notebook from start to finish using the latest We R Makers tools. Attendees will stamp and design their own cover using the new Text Press system, trim internal pages to size and round the corners with the Stack & Corner Cutter and bind the finished book with the Cinch. Additional tools—including the Glue Squeeze and Dot Setter—may be used to add decorative or functional elements.This hands-on workshop walks participants through every step of the notebook-making process while showcasing how each tool simplifies binding, trimming, aligning, and embellishing. No experience required—just come ready to make and create.

Tavnir Carey – VP of Product DevelopmentTavnir has lead the talented We R team; launching products like Button Press, Cinch, Crop-a-Dile, Eazy Tufting Tool, Foil Quil, Jewelry Press, Mold Press, Spin It, Suds Soapmaker, Thermal Cinch, Wick Candlemaker and more!

 

Shanon Kendall – Project Design ManagerShanon Kendall has spent the last 28 years shaping the creative direction of the craft industry. Her career includes key roles at Cricut, American Crafts, We R Makers, and Nicole Craft Brands, where she has led teams of designers responsible for project creation across web, packaging, and marketing.In addition to her leadership experience, Shanon has served as on-air talent for HSN and other online shopping platforms, sharing her expertise with crafters nationwide. She has also taught classes for Michaels and at major creative events across the country.Shanon lives in Eagle Mountain, Utah with her husband and their ten children.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Sell Watercolor Paper Like a Pro: The Hahnemühle Masterclass

Presented by Hahnemühle

The secret’s out! Your complete guide to understanding and selling watercolor paper is here. We’ll break down everything from how stretching your paper impacts performance, to what surface sizing really does, to how different fiber types change the painting experience- and why that matters to your customers.Whether you’re a retailer, buyer, store manager, or distributor, this session will equip you with the product knowledge and communication skills needed to confidently guide customers to the right Hahnemühle paper based on their style, skill level, and needs.Don’t miss this hands-on class- come learn, participate in live demos that you can reference in your own sales conversations, and walk away with Hahnemühle goodies!

Alex Blasioli – a graduate of NY's School of Visual Arts, has been involved in all facets of the Art Materials industry for over 20 years—spanning Art Supply retail, College Retail, and Account Management for Art Supply distribution. Now at Hahnemühle USA, his core motivator remains the same: helping visual artists create.

Michelle Montes – My journey in the industry has taken me from serving as a Fine Artist and Art Instructor/Professor, to holding key roles in product education and territory management for leading art brands. Over the years, I have developed a comprehensive knowledge of art materials by working closely with renowned manufacturers, chemists, artists, and by organizing workshops, exhibitions, and trade shows to showcase the latest innovations in fine art products. I hold a BFA in painting, and an MFA degree with a concentration in Painting, and my artwork has been featured in several galleries and museums nationwide.  I'm excited to bring my passion for art materials and my wealth of industry experience to contribute to the creative endeavors that many of you have using Hahnemühle products.My journey in the industry has taken me from serving as a Fine Artist and Art Instructor/Professor, to holding key roles in product education and territory management for leading art brands. Over the years, I have developed a comprehensive knowledge of art materials by working closely with renowned manufacturers, chemists, artists, and by organizing workshops, exhibitions, and trade shows to showcase the latest innovations in fine art products. I hold a BFA in painting, and an MFA degree with a concentration in Painting, and my artwork has been featured in several galleries and museums nationwide.  I'm excited to bring my passion for art materials and my wealth of industry experience to contribute to the creative endeavors that many of you have using Hahnemühle products.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Online Education and Communities as Reliable Income for Your Retail Shop: Practical Revenue Diversification

Presented by The Academy of Virtual Teaching

Online education and digital communities give shops a way to bring in dependable revenue while deepening customer connection. You don’t need a dedicated classroom or a complicated production setup, or additional staff.
Many retailers feel the strain of rising product costs, shrinking margins, and unpredictable sales cycles. Virtual offerings help steady that uncertainty with low-risk, high-value experiences that meet customers where they already spend their time - online. When done well, these classes and communities create a genuine sense of belonging that extends far beyond one purchase or one visit.We’ll look at examples of shops that have added virtual classes as a buffer during tight seasons, and how even a single monthly session can generate meaningful revenue. You’ll see why online communities such as private groups, monthly clubs, or themed project circles, can be just as valuable as in-person gatherings, often with less work and no space limitations. Most importantly, these digital communities help build a loyal audience that feels personally connected to your shop. When customers gather regularly to learn, share progress, or simply talk about their projects, they form real relationships with you and with each other. That sense of authenticity is what keeps people returning, buying, and recommending your store long after the initial class.

Lyric Montgomery Kinard – is an accomplished artist, author + educator who helps creative businesses use video + online education to reach more customers + grow sustainably. As the founder of the Academy for Virtual Teaching, she has supported hundreds of art + craft entrepreneurs in developing practical technical skills + building confidence with digital tools.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM

The Art of the Layered Album: A 49 and Market Workshop

Presented by 49 and Market

Join Janene Meyerowitz, founder and owner of 49 and Market, for an exclusive workshop focused on creating deeply dimensional and layered album.In this class, you'll master Janene’s signature layering techniques to build richly textured projects. We'll utilize the beautiful, coordinated papers, laser cuts, and unique embellishments that 49 and Market is famous for, giving your album a cohesive and sophisticated vintage aesthetic. Learn how to strategically combine and distress various elements to achieve complexity and visual depth without overwhelming your pages.

Janene Meyerowitz is the founder and owner of the internationally recognized paper crafting company, 49 and Market, which she launched in 2016 after operating the online scrapbooking store, thescrapbookdiaries.com, for several years. Driven by a passion for vintage aesthetic designs and frustrated by the scarcity of high-quality products matching her vision, she established 49 and Market to create the premium, innovative supplies she and fellow "next-level crafters" desired. Operating out of New York, her company is celebrated for its distinctive scrapbooking papers, albums, and embellishments that blend fresh designs with a timeless, vintage vibe, reflecting her deep-seated love for handcrafted artistry.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM

If Customers Don’t Click Anymore, How Do They Find You? How to Be Discoverable in the new world of AI search

Presented by Creativity Consulting

Search behavior in 2025–2026 is shifting faster than most small businesses realize. Zero-click searches, AI Overviews, and generative engines like ChatGPT and Perplexity now answer many customer questions before they ever visit a website. This creates new challenges—and major opportunities—for independent art & craft retailers and brands.

In this session, attendees will learn the practical differences between SEO (Search Engine Optimization), AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) in plain, non-technical language. They'll see why customer clicks have declined, how AI chooses which answers to surface, and how structured content, local optimization, and “answer-first” messaging are becoming essential. Most importantly, participants will leave with a 5-step roadmap for improving visibility across Google, AI Overviews, ChatGPT, Perplexity, and voice assistants. The approach is purpose-built for creative retailers and suppliers who rely on strong local presence, category expertise, and educational content. 

This workshop turns confusing digital changes into a clear, simple playbook any SMB can act on— without big budgets or technical resources.

Steve Robinson is a strategic consultant and founder of Creativity Consulting and Co-Founder of Retail Catalyst, where he helps small and mid-sized businesses create AI-powered transformations and AI strategies. With over four decades of experience in the art and craft supply industry, Steve specializes in making complex technologies—like AI and analytics—actionable for SMBs just like you. His frameworks have guided leaders to transform chaos into clarity, and his current focus is on helping businesses turn the promise of AI into measurable results. Learn more at creativityconsulting.co

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM

Wellness and the Arts: Why Creativity Is Essential

Presented by Willow Wolfe

Creativity and wellness are no longer separate conversations. Studies show that making arts and crafts reduces cortisol levels by up to 75 percent, increases dopamine, and significantly improves emotional regulation, confidence, and resilience. With 76 percent of adults reporting moderate to high stress and more than 40 percent seeking non pharmaceutical wellness solutions, the demand for creative outlets has never been greater. Creativity has become one of the most accessible and impactful tools for mental wellbeing, and art retailers have an extraordinary opportunity to support this movement.In this seminar, award winning educator and product strategist Willow Wolfe explores the deep connection between creativity and wellness, and how art retailers can position their stores as essential spaces for wellbeing, community, and intentional living. Attendees will learn how to integrate wellness into merchandising, classes, events, and product storytelling, and how to speak to the growing consumer who shops for emotional benefit, not just supplies.This session blends current wellness statistics, consumer behavior insights, and actionable retail strategies. Retailers will walk away with new ways to engage customers, create purpose driven programming, and become a trusted destination for creativity and care.

Willow Wolfe is an award-winning art educator, business innovator, and the founder of Willow Wolfe Inc., a global art supply and education company. With over 25 years of experience as a retail owner, product developer, and marketing leader, Willow has designed some of the industry’s bestselling brush lines, built visual merchandising programs adopted across North America, and grown her digital education platform to over 100,000 students worldwide. Her expertise in consumer psychology, brand positioning, and experiential retail has helped independent stores increase AOV, strengthen customer loyalty, and grow margins without competing on price. Willow’s unique blend of creative storytelling, business strategy, and deep industry knowledge has made her a sought-after advisor for retailers, manufacturers, and distributors alike.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

THE ACRYLIC FAMILY: An Exploration of Acrylic Color, Artist Papers and Essential Marking Tools

Presented by HK Holbein

Join Holbein, Legion and General Pencil Brand Ambassador, Shannon Meis in an exploration of the world's finest artists’ heavy body acrylic, mat acrylic, fluid acrylic, acrylic ink, acrylic gessos and BRAND NEW WATERCOLOR PENCILS from Holbein, artist papers from Legion and marking tools from General Pencil. This hands-on and all-materials-provided workshop focuses on what makes these materials indispensable to any artist and the importance of understanding the materials they use. This is a materials-based workshop with no emphasis on subject matter or technique, rather a deep dive into how these fantastic products can influence the growth of each artist's ability and creative process.

Shannon Meis is a Kansas City-based artist and illustrator. She received a Bachelor’s of Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD Savannah) and has been working in the art materials industry since 2015.Shannon has a rich background in dry mediums – pencils, pens, markers, and the like, and in the spring of 2023, decided to expand her creative endeavors outside of the world of markers and pens alone and has included many different painting mediums into her practice.Shannon’s work is greatly influenced by her love of color, composition, and detail. Although the subject matter and overall look of her art varies significantly from one medium to the next, she finds consistent inspiration from color, nature, and the people she meets. Shannon genuinely enjoys experimenting with any art supply that comes her way and teaching people of all experience levels of how to use them. 

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Discover Jesmonite® Eco-Resin: Hands-On Workshop with FTC Creative

Presented by FTC Creative

Join Jen Ross and Maddy Boespflug of FTC Creative for an exclusive, hands-on introduction to Jesmonite®. In this 90-minute workshop, participants will be guided step-by-step in creating their very own Jesmonite® project using FTC Creative’s Starter Kit. Designed to make the creative process simple and inspiring, the kit includes everything needed to bring your vision to life in under an hour, featuring Jesmonite® AC100—an eco-friendly, fast curing, water-based resin. Throughout the session, Jen and Maddy will walk participants through the step-by-step process, sharing expert tips and hands-on guidance to bring your Jesmonite® project to life. As you create, they’ll provide insights into the 40-year history of Jesmonite®, the inspiring journey of FTC Creative in bringing it to the U.S., and why this eco-friendly resin is an ideal, sustainable choice for today’s creators. Whether you're looking to stock sustainable materials or introduce an innovative product to your lineup, this workshop is the perfect introduction to the unique possibilities Jesmonite® offers.

Jen Ross, CEO and Owner of FTC Creative Jen Ross discovered Jesmonite® eco-resin during the pandemic after spotting it on TikTok. Being a crafter herself, she was eager to experiment with the material but found it unavailable in the U.S. Drawing on her 30 years of experience in wholesale distribution, Jen connected with Jesmonite®’s manufacturers and recognized the eco-friendly and creative possibilities the product offered. This led to FTC Creative becoming the first official U.S. distributor of Jesmonite®. Jen is excited to demonstrate how easy it is to work with this innovative material and explore the endless possibilities for making Jesmonite® a household name in the U.S.

Maddy Boespflug, Social Media & Content Curator Maddy Boespflug has been an integral part of FTC Creative since its inception, serving as the lead social media creator. Her educational content has engaged a diverse audience, including home DIY enthusiasts, Etsy shop owners, and large-scale retailers seeking innovative creative methods. Maddy's efforts have fostered a vibrant community around FTC Creative's offerings. Maddy has been expertly working with Jesmonite® for years and is excited to demonstrate its ease of use, discuss its eco-friendly benefits, and answer your questions.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

The Three-Step Promotional Video System for Art Retailers: Create Effective, Easy, Efficient Videos That Attract Customers and Boost Sales

Presented by The Academy of Virtual Teaching

Independent art and craft retailers are facing a growing challenge:
your customers expect engaging video content, but you don’t have the time, staff, or technical skills to produce it. And even when videos are posted online, today’s customers are skeptical. They’re overwhelmed by ads, algorithms, and influencer-style content that doesn’t feel real.What people trust - and what actually brings them into your shop - is authentic, grounded, human video that shows your brand’s expertise, personality, and hands-on knowledge.The good news is that you can create these videos quickly and confidently using nothing more than your smartphone.In this 90-minute seminar, you will learn a simple, practical, three-step video system designed specifically for brick-and-mortar art retailers who want to connect with customers without adding hours of work each week.

Lyric Montgomery Kinard – is an accomplished artist, author, and educator who helps creative businesses use video and online education to reach more customers and grow sustainably. As the founder of the Academy for Virtual Teaching, she has supported hundreds of art and craft entrepreneurs in developing practical technical skills and building confidence with digital tools.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

The Power of Value: How to Win Customers Without Competing on Price
Presented by Willow Wolfe

Art and craft retailers face constant pressure to discount, price match, and compete with online giants. But retailers do not win by lowering prices. They win by elevating value. This is a unique time in our industry where we have the opportunity to differentiate and become THE place to be! When customers feel connected, understood, inspired, and guided, price becomes a secondary factor. They choose you because of the experience only you can offer.In this seminar, award winning educator and product strategist Willow Wolfe reveals the proven framework she has used for 30 years to help retailers and brands reposition themselves for growth, loyalty, and profit without sacrificing margin. You will learn how to move customers away from price-based decisions and toward value-driven loyalty. Attendees will discover how to create emotional product stories, design merchandising that elevates perceived value, build an in store experience that online competitors cannot replicate, and deliver extraordinary moments of service that turn casual shoppers into devoted fans.Blending retail psychology, strategic storytelling, experiential merchandising, and modern consumer insights, this session provides practical and actionable steps to increase perceived value, improve sell through, and become the store artists choose first.

Willow Wolfe – is an award-winning art educator, business innovator, and the founder of Willow Wolfe Inc., a global art supply and education company. With over 25 years of experience as a retail owner, product developer, and marketing leader, Willow has designed some of the industry’s bestselling brush lines, built visual merchandising programs adopted across North America, and grown her digital education platform to over 100,000 students worldwide. Her expertise in consumer psychology, brand positioning, and experiential retail has helped independent stores increase AOV, strengthen customer loyalty, and grow margins without competing on price. Willow’s unique blend of creative storytelling, business strategy, and deep industry knowledge has made her a sought-after advisor for retailers, manufacturers, and distributors alike.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM

WATERMEDIA: a Deep Dive into Watercolor, Watercolor Pencils, Gouache, Acrylic Gouache, Artist Papers, and Essential Marking Tools
Presented by HK Holbein

Join Holbein, Legion and General Pencil Brand Ambassador Shannon Meis in an exploration of the world's finest artists’ watercolor, gouache and acrylic gouache and BRAND NEW WATERCOLOR PENCILS from Holbein, artist papers from Legion and marking tools from General Pencil. This hands-on and all-materials-provided workshop focuses on what makes these materials indispensable to any artist and the importance of understanding the material they use. This is a materials-based workshop with no emphasis on subject matter or technique, rather a deep dive into how these fantastic products can influence the growth of each artist's ability and creative process.

Shannon Meis – is a Kansas City-based artist and illustrator. She received a Bachelor’s of Illustration from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD Savannah) and has been working in the art materials industry since 2015.Shannon has a rich background in dry mediums – pencils, pens, markers, and the like, and in the spring of 2023, decided to expand her creative endeavors outside of the world of markers and pens alone and has included many different painting mediums into her practice.Shannon’s work is greatly influenced by her love of color, composition, and detail. Although the subject matter and overall look of her art varies significantly from one medium to the next, she finds consistent inspiration from color, nature, and the people she meets. Shannon genuinely enjoys experimenting with any art supply that comes her way and teaching people of all experience levels of how to use them. 

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Junk Journal with Authentic Vintage Ephemera
Presented by Betty's Bits and Bobs

In this immersive class, participants will explore the art of upcycling authentic vintage and antique ephemera items to create one-of-a-kind items. We will create tags, pockets, tuckpoints, and transform a plain journal into a mixed media junk journal.

Jessica Badowski – is the founder of Betty’s Bits and Bobs. This company is the result of a lifelong love of crafting and vintage. As my vintage collection grew, and my crafting supplies grew, I wondered if there was an intersection between the two. In 2021, I launched Curated Curious Content, a vintage resale business. After scouring the southwest looking for the most interesting treasures, I made the decision to focus on items that can be used for crafting. In March of 2023, we launched Betty’s Bits & Bobs as a regular product line at our in-person vintage shows. We tested wholesale products in July, 2024, with stores participating in the Ohio Paper Crafting Shop Hop. We launched our products formally in June, 2025 at Craft-u-topia. I am a lifelong crafter, and avid paper crafter since 1997, and mixed media since 2018.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Panel Discussion: Irresistability factor standing up and standing out across the competition
Presented by Pyle Creative Studio

Creating an authentic and irresistible brand is more challenging than ever! Join us for a panel discussion with leading retailers and product brands across the creative products community as we explore how to use community engagement, dynamic education, and a range of experiences that will make you an irresistible and unforgettable force in your customer's creative process!

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

A Mixed Media Sketchbook Adventure with Dixon Ticonderoga
Presented by Dixon Ticonderoga

Join Sara for a playful and informative mixed media sketchbook session using Strathmore Mixed Media Art Journals, Daler-Rowney Watercolors, Lyra Permanent Ink Pens, and the newest Princeton Prism brushes. Together, we'll explore how these materials interact, learn tips for getting the best performance from each tool, and complete a vibrant nature-inspired sketchbook page. Perfect for beginners through experienced artists, this workshop focuses on experimentation, confidence-building, and understanding your supplies so you can create with ease.

Sara Prentice – Sara’s love for art began at an early age. As a child she filled sketchbooks with horses, lions and dogs. More recently she has enjoyed discovering the special nuances and techniques that come along with each individual medium. Over time, she gravitated towards watercolor as her primary focus and loves to paint illuminated subjects like fruit, flowers, animals, and landscapes.In addition to art, Sara has always had a passion for playing sports and traveling. She played collegiate soccer and studied abroad in Peru while attending UW Oshkosh, experiences that continue to influence the subjects and themes in her work.Sara lives in Wisconsin with her husband, son, and dog. For the past 14 years, she has worked for Dixon Ticonderoga, where she first began her career with Strathmore. Today, Sara channels her artistic background, product knowledge, and passion for art materials into creating educational content that helps artist use and understand their materials to get the best possible outcome for their work.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Getting Started: Jewelry Making and More
Presented by Tammy Honaman with Golden Peak Media

This fast-paced, hands-on session introduces versatile jewelry and embellishment techniques that are easy to learn, quick to execute, and highly adaptable for retail, workshops, content creation, and product development. Attendees will explore the essentials of cording, knotting, wirework, mixed-media surface design, colored pencil application on metal, and flatback rhinestone application—learning not only how each technique works, but when and why to use them.

Friday, May 15, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Building a Modern Craft Studio: Engaging Multiple Revenue Streams to Ensure Longevity
Presented by Makit Takit

Opening a craft studio is about more than just selling supplies; it's about building a community hub that thrives on multiple revenue streams. In this seminar, we will move beyond the traditional retail model and explore a proven framework for building a profitable and resilient business. This session will break down how to design a business that combines retail, workshops, private events, and memberships to create a robust and dynamic financial model. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of how to implement these different streams and a concrete plan for their own studio.

Christy Nelson – is the creative business owner and founder of Makit Takit, a drop-in craft studio in Lincoln, Nebraska. A true boss, Christy enjoys the strategic business planning as much as making things. This has lead to her expanding her business to include a mobile pop-up splatter unit, a yearly maker market, business mentoring/retreats, and a grown-up craft camp called Makit Together. She loves to travel and go to therapy.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Paper Crafting with Decorative Papers
Presented by AITOH

 

Decorative papers offer so many possibilities. Beth will lead a discussion on what decorative papers are, why they are different and why they are so much fun to use. Then we will use Japanese papers to create a piece that combines basic skills of adhering paper, cutting paper and folding paper. The piece we will make is not hard, and only basic skills are needed. All tools and product will be provided.

Beth Wild – Beth Wild has been leading workshops for more than 30 years. From technical workshops on various topics of art supplies, to hands on workshops for all sorts of disciplines. She has done workshops at stores, universities, for educators and art groups. Beth loves paper and all the things that can be done with paper.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

Smart Marketing Made Simple: AI Tools for Creative Retailers

Presented by Hen & Chicks Studio

AI isn’t just for techies—it’s for busy shop owners who want to save time and sell more. Discover practical, budget-friendly ways to use AI for marketing, content creation, and customer engagement. Heidi shares how using AI has amplified her impact—helping her work smarter, reach more people, and spark creativity every day.

Heidi Kaisand – is the owner of Hen & Chicks Studio in Conrad, Iowa, where creativity, community, and quilting come together. With decades of industry experience and a passion sparked by her grandmother, Heidi inspires quilters through her full-service quilt shop, two retreat centers, and engaging educational events. She’s dedicated to helping others create with confidence, find joy in the process, and build connections that last far beyond the quilt.

*9:00 AM - 10:00 AM*

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM

Automated Social Media Content Sharing by POSTfeed

Presented by Creativity Consulting

Learn how brands can achieve consistent messaging, amplified through trusted neighborhood retailers—and how to run national campaigns that convert locally. Retailers will see how brand partnerships increase conversion with local CTAs that deliver customers who already know what they want before they get to the store. In this 90-minute workshop, you’ll see how POSTfeed bridges the gap between centralized messaging and local relevance, helping your brand connect more effectively with local shoppers. POSTfeed ensures: 

• Consistent national “on-brand” messaging 
• Localized posts that feel personal, actionable, and relevant
• Real-time connection between brand, consumer, and retailer

When a brand shares on Instagram or Facebook using special hashtags, POSTfeed instantly distributes that post to participating retailers’ pages—each customized with their store name, link, and local call-to-action. You’ll see how POSTfeed delivers:

• Hands-free automation — minimal effort, maximum reach 
• AI-powered captions tailored for each retail partner 
• Dashboards for campaign control and insight 
• Deep art and craft industry expertise

Built by industry insiders for the art, craft, and sewing world, POSTfeed makes digital marketing doable. You’ll see real dashboards, real case studies, and how to launch your own campaigns in days—not months. Whether you’re a brand seeking control or a retailer aiming to drive local traffic, this session shows how automation builds alignment, visibility, and growth.

Steve Robinson – is a strategic consultant and founder of Creativity Consulting and Co-Founder of Retail Catalyst, where he helps small and mid-sized businesses create AI-powered transformations and AI strategies. With over four decades of experience in the art and craft supply industry, Steve specializes in making complex technologies—like AI and analytics—actionable for SMBs just like you. His frameworks have guided leaders to transform chaos into clarity, and his current focus is on helping businesses turn the promise of AI into measurable results. Learn more at creativityconsulting.co

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM

Website Wins for Makers: Your 24/7 Digital Storefront
Presented by Hen & Chicks Studio

Your website should be your hardest-working employee! Learn the must-have elements of a successful creative retail site—from showcasing products beautifully to improving SEO and customer flow. Heidi breaks down easy, affordable ways to boost online sales and help your website work as smartly as you do.

Heidi Kaisand – is the owner of Hen & Chicks Studio in Conrad, Iowa, where creativity, community, and quilting come together. With decades of industry experience and a passion sparked by her grandmother, Heidi inspires quilters through her full-service quilt shop, two retreat centers, and engaging educational events. She’s dedicated to helping others create with confidence, find joy in the process, and build connections that last far beyond the quilt.

*10:45 AM - 11:45 AM*

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM

Inbox Gold: 5 Emails Every Creative Biz Should Be Sending
Presented by Quinmax Media LLC

If you’ve ever thought, “I should really send more emails…” this is the class you cannot miss. In this upbeat, hands-on session, we’ll uncover the five essential emails every creative business—retailers, brands, and influencers included—should be sending to boost sales, spark engagement, and stay top-of-mind with customers.You’ll learn what to say, how to say it, and why these emails work so well in the art and craft world. And yes—we’ll actually create parts of these emails together through quick, creative exercises you can use again and again.If you want simple, doable email marketing that sells more kits, classes, products, and creations (without eating up your time), this session is a must-attend.

Simone Collins – is a marketing strategist with 20+ years of experience and a specialty in email marketing that helps creative businesses boost sales and build loyal audiences. She’s worked closely with craft retailers, art supply brands, and influencers, bringing simple, effective strategies to an industry she genuinely understands. Known for her fun, approachable teaching style, Simone empowers creatives to market confidently and grow with ease.

*12:30 PM - 1:30 PM*

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM

What Does That Brush Do? (TM) 
Presented by SLS x Willow Wolfe

Learn what your brush can do for you. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll create beautiful, expressive strokes used to paint florals, birds, animals, trees, grass, and skies. By painting alongside the instructor, you’ll see how simple movements, pressure, and angle transform a single brush into a wide range of marks. Using Willow Wolfe brushes, the class explores how different synthetic filaments and blends affect stroke quality and performance. Led by Willow Wolfe, a brush designer with over 30 years of experience, the workshop demonstrates which brushes work best for watercolor, acrylic, and oil, and why. Participants will learn how fiber type, spring, and softness influence control, blending, and detail across mediums. Participants will create a small reference page of individual strokes, then learn how to combine those strokes into simple, beautiful flowers with ease. This workshop offers guidance on how to help customers choose the right brush for their medium and goals, and how to confidently explain why those choices matter. 

Willow Wolfe – is an award-winning art educator, business innovator, and the founder of Willow Wolfe Inc., a global art supply and education company. With over 25 years of experience as a retail owner, product developer, and marketing leader, Willow has designed some of the industry’s bestselling brush lines, built visual merchandising programs adopted across North America, and grown her digital education platform to over 100,000 students worldwide. Her expertise in consumer psychology, brand positioning, and experiential retail has helped independent stores increase AOV, strengthen customer loyalty, and grow margins without competing on price. Willow’s unique blend of creative storytelling, business strategy, and deep industry knowledge has made her a sought-after advisor for retailers, manufacturers, and distributors alike.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM

Stencil Butter Store Display Board
Presented by the Crafter's Workshop

Create your very own Stencil Butter Store Display Board. Because customers need to see what a product looks and feels like in order to fall in love with it. They also want to know what it does and how it reacts with other media. If you've made one before, you know how much people love to touch this. We'll have our newest colors to give your display area that little refresh that it needs!

Jaime Echt – is the founder and CEO of The Crafter's Workshop. As a "recovering retail store owner", she understands the challenges and time constraints of being owned by a store. It's through these in-the-trenches experiences that she's developed her series of tips and techniques to not just survive, but to thrive in this crazy retail environment.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM

Small is the New Big: The Advantages of Being an Indie Retailer
Presented by Georganne Bender

Have you noticed how many big retailers are suddenly thinking small? From Nordstrom and Macy’s to Target and Ikea, national chains are downsizing, opening neighborhood-style stores, and trying to act more local. Why? Because small is the new big – and they’re all chasing what you already have.As an independent retailer, you don’t need a corporate office or a massive team to make bold moves. The size of your space doesn’t define your impact. You can pivot quickly, take risks, and try fresh ideas without waiting for layers of approval. Want to bring in a new product line, flip a display, or test a marketing concept? You just do it. You’re the board, the decision-maker, and the creative director, all in one.In this session, retail strategist Georganne Bender will show you how to make your small size your biggest competitive edge. You’ll learn smart and practical ways to use your flexibility, creativity, and deep customer connections to outshine the big guys.You’ll leave inspired and equipped with easy-to-implement ideas to grow your business, energize your sales floor, and remind shoppers that buying local isn’t just convenient, it’s where the magic happens.

Georganne Bender – is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and retail strategist whose career began on the sales floor and advanced into senior leadership, giving her a rare blend of practical and executive insight. Since 1990, she has helped thousands of businesses in retail, healthcare, hospitality, and other service sectors achieve measurable growth. A RETHINK Retail Top Retail Expert and RetailWire BrainTrust panelist, Georganne helps shape the conversations that define the future of retail.

*2:15 PM - 3:15 PM*

Block Five: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

The Great Stamp Mash Up
Presented by Stamplistic 

We will be making 2, 6x6 Illumination adorned cards.  1 card will feature the same image, combining the normal size stamp with the mini size stamp to make a fantastic medallion/card.  The second card will combine 2 completely different stamps for a second beautiful card!  Together we will discuss what stamps are candidates for a good mash up and which are not, and more importantly, how to SELL these stamps and classes in YOUR store.  Each student will also leave with an addition class kit with an additional 3 cards to make at a later time to showcase in your store.

Saturday, May 16, 2026 | 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

The Power of the Senses: Creating a Store Experience That Sells
Presented by Georganne Bender

When customers walk into your store, their senses come alive. Sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste work together to together to create an immersive shopping experience. In this session, you’ll learn how to turn those five senses into powerful tools that drive connection, loyalty, and sales.You’ll learn how to use sight to transform your space into a visual story. We’ll talk about how layout, fixture placement, signage, and creative displays that inspire shoppers and subtly guide their buying decisions. Sound sets the tone. The right playlist doesn’t just fill the silence, it builds energy, creates emotion, and keeps customers in your store longer. Touch invites engagement. You’ll learn how product placement, texture, and interactive displays encourage exploration. Smell sparks emotion and memory. You’ll discover how scent marketing can make customers feel at ease, linger longer, and influence purchasing behavior. And then there’s taste, the unexpected sense. When used strategically, especially during demos or events, it creates moments that are memorable, personal, and impossible to duplicate online.By engaging all five senses, you’ll turn ordinary shopping trips into unforgettable experiences, the kind that keep customers coming back again and again!

Georganne Bender – is a nationally recognized speaker, author, and retail strategist whose career began on the sales floor and advanced into senior leadership, giving her a rare blend of practical and executive insight. Since 1990, she has helped thousands of businesses in retail, healthcare, hospitality, and other service sectors achieve measurable growth. A RETHINK Retail Top Retail Expert and RetailWire BrainTrust panelist, Georganne helps shape the conversations that define the future of retail.

*4:00 PM - 5:00 PM*