In a message dated 30/09/2003 17:54:31 GMT Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
> > As publicity chairman for the IOL convention, I was given the info that we > have, if I recall, 1628 members. Recently Gunnel Teitel turned over to me a > hoard of clippings from all over the country about lace over the last 25 > years. > Many of them were reports of IOL Conventions. It was quite striking how the > membership numbers have stayed very static at between 1500 and 1800 members. Spiders, Actually this decline is not only in the craft but also in hobbies generally. Back in 1989 when I started lace making, we also joined a major re-enactment group who had over 20k membership. They were able to field atleast 3 - 4k each muster. This was typical of most groups. Now, most re-enactment groups only field 50 - 60 people and for major musters it is now just about 1,500. Money does play a part in this - but mainly it is the amount of time required and commitment. What I love about lacemaking is that I might not make anything for a few months because of work, but then I make something when I want to because I a learned skill. Regards Liz Beecher I'm <A HREF="http://journals.aol.com/thelacebee/thelacebee";>blogging</A> now - see what it's all about - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
