One common thread unites all of the artists who helped Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores create the latest project ideas for the spring season – passion. They love to create, and they are energized by the freshness of the season of renewal. The result – the best and brightest crafting ideas for spring are all at Jo-Ann and ready to spark some creativity.

This lacy knit ascot is a great addition to any spring wardrobe. Created by author, designer, and television host Vickie Howell, this project is just one of many created by well known members of the crafting community exclusively for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. (Photo: Business Wire)

The leading fabric and craft specialty retailer in America has teamed up with some of the most talented and trend-setting individuals in the crafting community to present exclusive, one-of-a-kind creations. This community of crafters truly exemplifies the motto that happiness is handmade. Among the talented artists who have joined Jo-Ann for this celebration of spring are:

Kathy Cano-Murillo - Better known as the Crafty Chica (CHEE-kah)®, Kathy celebrates life through art and inspires others to do the same. With glitter in hand, Kathy finds herself inspired by objects. Her motto for life is "crafts, drama and glitter."

Erica Domesek - Erica’s creative motto is “I see it, I like it, I make it.” This reflects her belief that you can find inspiration anywhere and transform what you see into something fabulous to wear or use.

Drew Emborsky - Crocheting since the age of five, Drew – The Crochet Dude® – has turned his lifelong hobby into an expanding empire.

Cathie Filian - When Cathie’s not in front of the camera, you just might find her shopping for necklaces, her favorite accessory. Cathie says, “I love necklaces! I love making them, buying them and re-crafting old ones into new designs.”

Jenny Hart - Teddy bears and bunnies may be cute, but when it comes to her personal embroidery designs, Jenny feels that robots, tattoos and pinups are more her style.

Vickie Howell - Family life, pop culture and music provide constant inspiration for Vickie, a knitting expert with an eco-aware attitude.

Jennifer Perkins - Jennifer sees decorative possibilities in almost anything. But when she sees vintage fabrics, furniture or jewelry, her creative ideas really take shape.

Margot Potter - “Eventually a crafty person just makes their own trends and doesn’t worry about what is in or out,” says Margot. It is this carefree, follow-your-heart aesthetic that makes her such a fun, fabulous and dynamic personality in the crafting community.

Susan Winget - From modest beginnings in a small art studio 25 years ago, to her widespread success and popularity today, Susan’s artwork continues to gain admiration and acclaim.

“The spring season gives us an opportunity to explore crafting with a renewed passion,” states Brent Beebe, vice president, general merchandise manager, crafts for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. “We are honored that so many of the top talents in the crafting community have joined with us as we embark on this new season of crafting.”

For more spring products, projects and inspiration, log onto www.Joann.com.

About Jo-Ann Stores, Inc.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores (NYSE: JAS) the nation’s largest fabric and craft retailer with locations in 48 states, was founded in 1943 as a single retail store. Today, more than 750 Jo-Ann stores across the country provide consumers with creative inspiration. For additional information, visit www.Joann.com.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6639538&lang=en