Originally Posted by jaciqltznok
any ideas...do demos, have one small class, or just let them come and sew? Sort of boring to pay money and NOT get anything but a sewing space...
would love to hear what you all think/ideas/hints.....
I've been to both styles - sit 'n' sew w/out any classes and sit 'n' sew with optional projects. Both worked great :-D.
Definitely have a show 'n' tell. One group I go to does this after one of the meals - each person brings 1 or 2 items (either made by them or of special significance) to share. Another group had us each lay 1 item out in the lobby of the hotel near the conference area and then we all walked around and looked and asked questions if we wanted to. Another group (in a conference center that was converted from an old school - we sewed in the gym) had us lay out finished tops along the bleachers/seats to show everyone.
Block Raffle - everyone makes the same quilt block in a color theme (like a 9-patch in blues or select an easy block from Quilter's Cache or another site/block database). Or everyone makes a certain size block of their choice in a theme (12" 1930's block). For each block that you make, your name goes in the drawing. Depending on the # of blocks made, give away 2 or 3 sets at end of retreat.
FQ swap - everyone brings a FQ (can be themed or not). Have a swap so everyone takes a new one home (draw names 1 or a few @ a time to pick a FQ, or if having meals, put one at each place setting for one of the meals.)
Have a small project/class that is optional. Pick an easy pattern that someone can teach, pass out instructions to those interested (maybe have those taking the class pay $5 or $10 extra for the class), go over anything tricky about the block. @ my favorite retreat, we gather round the instructions tables for a 5 or 10 minute class to go over the pattern/instructions and see samples. Then we work on the project at our own sewing stations, so you don't have to have an actual class area set up for those doing the project. Try to keep the projects simple/small so they can be completed at the retreat if the participants choose. Make sure to have samples in various stages of progress as needed.
Mystery project - choose a small/easy project. We were told to bring some jelly roll strips in blues, reds, and creams (or about 1/4 yardage each color). The project turned out to be a cute table topper (and optional coasters) made out of 9-patches. Past mystery projects have been a sewing kit made out of ziplock bags and a potholder (supplies were provided for a small fee), fabric postcards, and a d9p table runner.