Years ago in one of my classes we made a padded book with a small cutting board on one side, fine grit sandpaper on the other side and enough batting on the outside to be able to use it as a small ironing area. I have traveled a lot with that.

Ignorance here - what's the fine grit sandpaper for?

Trust me on this one, double up on the seam ripper and needle threader. Packed my box and left them behind, big mistake! My job allows me time to hand sew during my shift and I have 2 sewing boxes each packed with the same items for grab and go. When time and your budget allows, build a second box just for travel and sleep overs.

Patrice - LOVE this!! my DH tells me if there is no room after the golf clubs & accessories go in, he'll tell whomever we visit that I said HI! same for my sewing stuff - FIFO - first in & first out. Blessings. Kathy

We have a home in Ga. as well as Fl. so we are in between a lot. I like you seem to always have a project with me. This is my travel kit (I've really tried to minimize it over the years).
1. Needles (hand & machine)
2. Thread (light & dark)
3. Scissors
4. One ruler that can be use for cutting or squaring up (6 x 12)
5. Rotary cutter
6. Pins
7. Seam ripper
8. Mat with pressing board on the on the other side
9. Travel iron (if I'm going where there may not be one)
10. Marking pen (dark & light)

I keep these in a bag that hangs behind the door in my quilting room. So if someone says go all I have to put in is what project I'm working on and grab the machine. Also, another thing is clean and oil your machine before u leave and also change out the rotary blades if you plan to do a lot of quilting. Happy quilting!!!!

Nancyw,
What kind of bendable light do you have attached to your sewing machine? And where did you get it? Thanks.

Showed this one to DH and he rolled his eyes, chuckled and asked what about the DOG ? LOL

I have a small Janome and made a case for it(Lots of pockets) and the usual sewing stuff that Iwould need at home. plus a small sheet of stabalizer just in case. and the primary sewing thread colors but 2 of the tan and black. It is my grab and to to the kids or quild etc. Some of you ladies are so funny and makes my day............Love Ya lots and hugs to you all.

fine grit sandpaper to help pull your needle through the fabric if it gets stuck. also bees wax helps with thread easing through fabric. if hand sewing.

Kaelynangelfoot, I like your list. I would add marking pencils/pens, painters tape and the one item I most often forget.... a good long extension cord. I keep a basket by my sewing area with all of my day by day necessities. Three cheers for the Longaburger Market Basket Some are crammed into a zip-lock bag while others just live in the basket. I can grab it and go any time the opportunity arrives. I enjoy quilting away from home with others, so having the "basics" ready at a moments notice is important to me.

Last minute thought..... I also have a tube of good hand cream, a hair clip to keep the hair out of the way when FM and one little piece of chocolate for emergency purposes only.