Published: November 18, 2007 11:14 pm      

Craft show is finale for Johanning director

Public speaking isn’t exactly Kelli Austin’s first love.

“I’d much rather be behind the scenes. It just never works out that way,” she mused.

But it comes with the territory sometimes.

Taking center stage at the Johanning Civic Center, Austin dug her hands into some flour and baking soda and got to work.

“Always make sure your hands are clean so everyone can enjoy the cookies,” she instructed a few passers-by and children stopping to listen to her presentation on cookie mix in a jar.

“I was a nervous wreck but I got in my little zone. I make these at home all the time,” Austin said.

This is the last weekend Austin will be putting on a show at the Johanning, called “Get Crafting Show.” After nearly 31/2 years of serving as the executive director of City of Firsts Automotive Heritage Museum and the Johanning Civic Center, Austin is leaving for a marketing job at Guardian Angel Hospice in January.

“This is my last show. I’m kind of weepy and kind of sad, but this is the right decision for my family,” the mother of four said.

Austin was determined to make the latest event a success and hopes to see it thrive in years to come. Saturday there were 530 attendees. Sunday was a little slower before the church crowd began to file in.

Being that its the first “Get Crafting Show,” Austin said, “We’re real pleased.”

What’s unique about this particular craft show is that several vendors sit down with the attendees and teach them how to create the crafts and allow them to take it home.

A variety of crafts were available from making 3-D Christmas cards or pictures, pillow cover cases, scrap books, centerpieces and gift jars.

Sheryl Jeffries helped Austin put the show together.

“I’m looking to make it bigger and better next year,” Jeffries said.

She said she’s hoping to bring craft classes to the Johanning next year.

They already have a market.

Judy Landrum came again on Sunday to work on 3-D Christmas cards. She busied herself making a reindeer card. “I’ve been wanting to do something like this,” she said.

Landrum said she attempted to create some cards of her own but hit a few snags. Under the tutelage of Linda Cox and Lana Cannan, Landrum was able to finish her creation.

“I like it because you can do it and take it with you,” she said.

Those are the kind of comments Austin likes to hear. While she’s shifting careers, she looks forward to the success of some of the shows she’s started and the continued growth of the Johanning Civic Center.

“I’m hoping this will be the first annual ‘Get Crafting Show,’” she said.