Lorton Artist Featured in Craft Show

Thanksgiving weekend is a big holiday for most people, but it is particularly special for Lorton artist Kathleen Nolen, who will appear in the in Vienna.

Nolen's first memory of artistry and crafting traces back to her childhood when she did crochet with her mother. Nolen's expression of personality and talent shine through in her crocheted shawls and other crafts, but it's her affiliation with the Northern Virginia Handcrafter's Guild that got her into the show.

The Northern Virginia Handcrafters Guild selects artists to appear in the show long before it actually takes place. A jury invites artisans to present samples of their work. and then selects artists whose work they liked to participate in the craft show. An artist for over 50 years, Nolen said she presented "a little bit of everything."

Nolen is an Army civilian employee by trade, but her passion for crochet shines through on weekends. She joined the Northern Virginia Handcrafters Guild 18 months ago and today she has her own company name—YarnChef Creations. 

The show will be held at the Vienna Community Center in on Cherry Street on Friday, November 26 through November 28, with different hours on Sunday. The event will run from 10 am to 5 pm on both Friday and Saturday. It will run from 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday. 

Nolen looks forward to displaying shawls and crocheted hats in her five by 13-foot booth.  It is here that she will display hand-crocheted shawls and crocheted Christmas ornaments. 

Of course, Nolen's booth at the show is very much about aesthetics. Presenting a nice display helps sell crafts. "I have folding screens to hang crafts, she said. 

Ranging in price from four to 80 dollars, Nolen's crafts will appeal to people both young and old. Nolen's Christmas ornaments are generally less expensive than her other items, often selling for only $4.00. In spite of her success as an artisan, Nolen remains humble when speaking about her work. The quality and character of each piece makes it unique for everyone's taste.

Even though times are tough, Nolen has managed to make a name for herself and her business has carried her beyond art shows. "I take special orders," she said.  This type of hospitality is what YarnChef Creations is all about. Even so, Nolen does not limit herself to making shawls alone. She also makes hats and market bags.

According to Jane Ernst, publicist for the show, planning for the show begins early in the year and the event is held on the same day each year.