I studied with Bonnie in 1989 and in 1990-91 studied with Carla Mathis when she came to Germany. I've had my own studio for seven years. I do a lot of teaching to lay people. Each town in Germany has its own adult education. I teach style classes, accessories, and figure analysis with sewing classes.
Convention is necessary to staying in touch with what others are doing.
You learn more and improve yourself steadily. I have been impressed with the quality of the programs offered. There is not enough access to books related to the field. It would be nice to have a larger selection at Convention.