I'm wondering if you all can help me with this. We are going on the road for 4-5 months starting the 1st of November. We'll be in one place for 2 months so DH can do some gold mining on a claim :wink: . During that time, I know I'm going to have withdrawels. We can't carry a lot of stuff including my sewing machine. I love to hand applique, so I'm making up a list of things to take with me.

My question is -- if I run out of background fabric, or go thru the stash I'll take, do you think most LQSs will be willing to cut the fabric down to 12" or so squares? I know this sounds silly but it's a difference of whether to take the cutting mat, rotary cutter, and ruler (which DH is balking about).

Thanks for your help.

A lot will depend on the store. But maybe if you explain what is going on, and are willing to wait or maybe come back and make sure the store isn't busy . I would like to think that you would find one that was willing to work with you .

The other thing is to maybe leave some with a friend and if need be have them mail to you when /if you need them ?

I would go prepared. A mat and rotary cutter won't take up much room.
that way you won't have to depend on the unknown!

I'd say take a smaller version! I've got a HUGE mat (I don't even know what size it is) and I've got one that is 18x24 or thereabouts (I think). I believe they make a smaller version that may even be square (say, 12" - 15" range). Check out your local shop and get one of those. While you're there, pick up a 6" or 12" square ruler, too. Your cutter you can store in an eyeglass case. All these supplies will fit into a canvas tote that can also house your fabrics and other things for your project. No wasted space (unless hubby is balking :evil: at this small bit of comfot for you to take :roll: ).

If he still complains, remind him that if you have your applique to work on, you'll be happy and a happy wife = a happy trip! :D

Odessa

.....also, most LQS (independent's, not big chains) have very understanding staff who would be more than likely to cut your fabric down to useable sizes if you request very nicely and explain your situation.....

You can always compromise and just take a 12" square ruler (or a piece of template plastic or cardboard if DH gets really stubborn). Then you simply mark the square on the fabric with a pencil and cut it out with scissors. Sounds ancient, I know, but that's how many of us started doing all this...cutting fabric with scissors. :D

And some of us actually still LIKE using scissors!

They don't get dull as fast as rotary blades, either... :)

Also an option, some shops I've been in will let the customer use the cutting table, of course when it's not busy. But buy and large, MOST shops are friendly and have no problem doing something a little out of the ordinary to help a fellow quilter.

But I'd suggest bringing your own rotary cutter at the very least. But that's just me.

I would take my own supplies just in case they say no.. Or maybe if you know what shops you are going to go to contact them and ask if you can use their supplies. :D :D

I have a large mat, but also have a 13" square mat, so I would take something like that. And if not that, then a pair of scissors.