With them they will be taking their ribbons, laces and dyes, feeding an Australia-wide market for such products.

About three years ago, after Mr White retired from his heavy transport business and Mrs White gave up her job as a dental nurse, the Woronora Heights couple bought Starr Laces and Ribbons, a shire business that had been around for at least 30 years.

They have been on the road ever since.

``Joy wanted something different to do so we had a complete change in lifestyle,'' Mr White said.

``I had always been active so I was bored in retirement, and Joy, who is the backbone of the business, has always been creative.''

Mr White reckoned their new business had a lot of scope for improvement and development, as there was a shortage of lace and ribbons since the rag trade around Surry Hills had contracted.

While the importers and wholesalers who had supplied the trade and retail market had shut up shop, craftspeople still wanted those products.

The Whites were doing their own importing of couture laces and silk ribbons, and running workshops on new dyeing techniques involving the microwave oven.

The CraftExpo (March 11 to 14) is a perfect chance to meet the couple and dive into a world of craft.

Tickets: at the door or by visiting craftexpo.net.au.