malemp

When packing up your sewing machine don’t forget your electric cords and foot pedal if you use that. I have seen too many times where someone has forgot theirs. I also take my own iron and iron pad, seems like there is never enough irons. Have fun.

Lena1952

Please check with Retreat sponsor before taking tables. Some retreats do not have the extra space for even small tables. Know what you can handle in a busy talkative sewing space. I need to work on simple projects that do not require lots of attention. I am easily distracted by what is going on around me. LOL Totally agree with pre-package quilt kits and labeling everything. Have fun!

Kris P

I also kit up and cut all my projects. I'm too distracted to cut at camp. Each quilt kit goes in a 1 gallon zipper bag, with its pattern. I keep all my kits, and sewing supplies in a 3 drawer rolling Iris cart, which fits neatly under the table. I use a luggage strap to bind the drawers closed while in transit, and just hold the top of the strap to help roll it along from the car to my space at retreat. I can completely move into my sewing space in one trip... Rolling tutto in one hand, rolling iris cart in the other. I also find the chairs too low for the set up, so I bring a flotation device seat cushion to sit on. It's firmer and higher than other seat cushions and helps bring me up to a better height. Many ladies bring their own chairs, but my home sewing chair is a behemoth, and there is no way I'm dragging that across the country side.

I also kit up my outfit selections for each day. As I'm packing I select the top, pants, socks and undies for each day; fold them together and slide each day's outfit into a satin drawstring bag. That way, I'm not digging through my suitcase and can just grab a drawstring bag and head to the shower without disturbing my roommates early in the morning.

Little Lulu

I really like the Sew Stack Tool Tray (Missouri Star Quilt). In fact, sometimes I take two. I put all my small notions in it, and it doesn't take up much room next to your machine. Also, don't forget to take a chair cushion. Sitting on metal chairs for hours can wear on the ole' tush. Enjoy your retreat.
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pchp

Check before bringing your iron; some places to which I've been on retreats are afraid of allowing that much power draw, so the number of irons is restricted. The retreat sponsor should be able to inform you of some "don'ts." One item I don't have, but which I've seen others bring to retreats is a quilted item with pockets that sits beneath your machine (reducing noise); the pockets hang in front of you with small items such as seam ripper, with one that can be used for thread disposal. I'm hoping to make one some day, but probably won't get to it before the next retreat. Another item that I've seen some folks bring is a collapsing rolling wagon to transport machine and projects from the car to the retreat room in one trip.

lots2do

I love this cookie sheet idea!

Watson

Be sure to take a cushion and the last time I wish I had taken my stool that I usually sit on. The chairs were just folding chairs and were way too low. I could have just whipped my stool out of my trunk and been a lot more comfortable for two days.

Watson

lots2do

I usually bring a simple knitting project too to give myself a break from my sewing projects. Something I can work on but still chat. In my experience, retreats are very social times and I can't have something I'll need to concentrate to complete.
One thing I would recommend that people don't do is play music. Not everyone likes to sew with music on and in a large group, not everyone will feel comfortable being honest when asked "Do you mind?". Bring earbuds if you need music. Be a good neighbor and use the space you've been allotted. Go with an open mind and have fun!

tranum

* Pack a long extension cord, just in case
* Have some personal items with you (dental floss, nail file/clippers, chapstick, eye drops, sweater) these things won’t help you if they’re back in your hotel room.
* I prefer sewing in my stocking feet so nice to have a pair of slip on shoes (or slippers) if I walk around.
* water bottle to keep hydrated, travel coffee cup so there’s no accidental spill
* Small bills if there’s a food charge at each meal
* personal trash container
* pens & notepad
* more than 1 sewing machine needle

patski

keep your projects easy, there is lots of talking, laughing and eating!! I use just the name part of labels that come in the mail to mark rulers,scissors, anything that can get lost with others things