I've done a lot of English Paper Piecing or hand-stitching my binding on a quilt while riding in the car, but I can't even imagine trying to sew on a machine in a moving vehicle. I bought a small plastic case from Jo-Ann's to carry everything I need for EPP on the go. I even take it on the plane when we travel.
Where in Northern Illinois are you from? I grew up in DuPage County and moved to Texas 24 years ago when my hubby's job transferred him down here.